"Pros: Modern accommodation options are mushrooming up in Albania all the time, so Braja House offers a rare chance to experience a beautiful historic home. The breakfast/family room is like a living museum and a wonder to behold. The room itself looks a little like an extension that was added to what is like a rambling home. It's comfortable and beautifully decorated with a private bathroom. There are also very atmospheric views of the city from there. The hospitality is doled out by the woman of the house and her husband. There will be a quick shot of gliko and Raki on arrival with great fanfare. They have no English, but the warmth of the welcome doesn't diminish as they make themselves understood. Their fluent grandson Bjant helps coordinate the visit remotely via phone, and his mother also has good English. Breakfast is in the dream setting of their family room and is a generous mix of savory and sweet. Cons: Gjirokaster was a fortress town and wasn't built with cars in mind. Access to the house is a bit tricky given Google maps is utterly baffled by the city. Parking can be a bit tricky, so some patience and perseverance is required. The easiest way to access the house is via the new road that can be accessed from the roundabout on the SH4 road in the new town. Follow Rruga Gjin Zenebisi uphill, to find the new bypass road. Stay on this, and ignore all the stone bridege to the right until it brings you right around the castle to R.Arjiro. Turn left onto R. Evila celebi, and then at the Y fork, take the steep Jace Braja to the right. There is then shortly a VERY sharp and steep right turn onto Mufi Reso. This stretch is very tight and there a a couple of pass/yield point to be wary of. Once you cross the bridge, Braja will be on the right with a single space to park on the right. When leaving, it is easier to go a small bit beyond the house where there is more space to turn. Do not turn left uphill here because the road is closed. Bhant will send pictures and advice to orientate you, so always keep in contact" ~Raymond

"Pros: Everything amazing, breakfast is the best, very fulfilling and delicious. The family are very lovely and helpful. I recommend and would love to go back Cons: As others mentioned it is close from old bazar and castle but the way there and back is somewhat steep so that would need to be considered if someone was mobility issues." ~Melania

"Pros: Hotel Pashai is a wonderful choice for anyone visiting Gjirokaster. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well-equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning and reliable Wi-Fi. The views from the hotel are breathtaking, overlooking the historic city and its surroundings. The staff is incredibly welcoming and attentive, ensuring every guest feels at home. Breakfast is a highlight, offering a variety of delicious options, including traditional Albanian dishes. The hotel is conveniently located near major attractions like the castle and old bazaar, though the slightly elevated position may require navigating steep roads. However, the serene atmosphere and stunning views make it well worth the effort. Overall, Hotel Pashai combines comfort, hospitality, and tradition, making it a perfect place to stay in Gjirokaster. Highly recommended!" ~Alejandro

"Pros: The place had an amazing view of the mountains and the castle. Despite the language barrier the staff was really helpful and friendly. It has private parking but it is a one way garage so you may need to coordinate with other guests in order not to be able to leave. The surrounding area (Old city and the castle) is really nice and accessible on foot and if you need a place to eat we highly recommend Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI (both the food and the staff are amazing) Cons: Driving in Gjirokastër can be a bit tricky and google maps makes it worst (it is often wrong). Keep in mind that if you want to go to the newest part of town it might be better to go by car since coming back is an uphill climb." ~Filipe