Shkoder to Gjirokaster bus

Traveling from Shkod'r to Gjirokast'r involves traversing approximately 302 kilometers through the scenic heart of Albania, connecting the northern gateway to the historic southern "Stone City." The journey by bus is the most reliable and budget-friendly option, with an average trip duration of 6 hours and 20 minutes (379 minutes). With ticket prices ranging from  17.00 to  27.00, travelers can enjoy a cost-effective ride across the country. There are 5 daily departures, starting as early as 05:27 and as late as 17:47, ensuring flexibility for both early birds and those preferring afternoon travel.

When planning your trip from Shkod'r to Gjirokast'r, choosing the bus offers several advantages over driving or taking a taxi. While a private taxi can be faster, it often costs upwards of  100, whereas the average bus ticket is only  18.30. Unlike the limited rail network in Albania, the regional bus transport network is extensive and well-maintained. Booking via Gjirafa Travel provides peace of mind with reservable seats and digital tickets that can be easily stored in your Apple Wallet. This eliminates the stress of carrying cash or paper tickets, making the 302km transit sustainable, safe, and highly organized.

The route between Shkod'r and Gjirokast'r is served by a variety of professional and licensed transport providers. These include Beam Sh.P.K, Tirka 2000, Elalba 1 SH.P.K, Iridest Sh.P.K, Rozafa Ortaket, Argjiro SH.P.K, Kopliku Shpk, and Candy Tours. Each operator adheres to national safety standards, offering varying levels of amenities. Many of these lines offer reservable options through our platform, allowing you to secure your spot in advance. Whether you are departing from the historic Stacioni Shkod'r or looking for the most efficient connection, these authorized carriers ensure a professional transit experience across Albania's diverse terrain.

The 6-hour journey from the foothills of the Albanian Alps to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gjirokast'r is a visual delight. As the bus leaves Shkod'r, you'll catch final glimpses of the Rozafa Castle and the Buna river. The route typically passes through the central plains before ascending into the dramatic landscapes of the south. Travelers can witness the transition from the humid northern lake atmosphere to the rugged, limestone mountains surrounding Gjirokast'r. To ensure you don't miss any updates or live tracking, we recommend activating an eSIM before departure, providing uninterrupted high-speed data throughout the 302km journey.

Upon arrival at Stacioni Gjirokast'r, you will find yourself at the base of the steep hills leading to the historic bazaar. It is advisable to have local currency (LEK) for small expenses, though your bus ticket is already covered digitally. To maximize your visit, use your eSIM connectivity to book a local guesthouse or navigate the cobblestone streets. Gjirokast'r is famous for its unique Ottoman architecture and the imposing Gjirokast'r Fortress. Since the latest bus from Shkod'r departs at 17:47, late arrivals should ensure they have coordinated their accommodation check-in times in advance.