Roomer

Hotel SS KEKEZI

Gjirokaster, Albania
$50-75/ night

Book this if You want to sleep inside a postcard of the Ottoman era, right in the pulse of the Old Bazaar, and don't mind a bit of stair-climbing for the privilege.

Why People Love It

  • Incredible rooftop terrace with sunset views over the slate roofs and castle
  • Homemade breakfast featuring legendary petulla (fried dough) and fig jam
  • The owner, who treats guests like long-lost cousins and acts as a personal travel agent

Quick Take: A charming, authentic stone house that nails the hospitality but struggles with soundproofing against the bazaar's nightlife.

Reviewed by @yaraschraier: I stayed here and completely fell in love! The stone rooms make you feel like royalty, and the homemade breakfast was the highlight of my entire Europe trip. It’s right in the heart of the action—just pack light because those cobblestone streets are no joke!

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Travelers adore the location and the family-run vibe, frequently calling the breakfast the best they had in Albania.

Reality check

Light sleepers consistently complain about music from nearby bars and the 'Obelisku' terrace bleeding into the rooms at night.

  • You want to step out your door directly into the Old Bazaar
  • You appreciate historic architecture (stone walls, wood ceilings)
  • You are a foodie who prioritizes a high-quality, homemade breakfast

Cleanliness & Maintenance

9.4
  • Housekeeping: Daily and diligent. Guests consistently describe rooms as 'spotless'.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Very clean, though some bathrooms are small and simple.
  • Maintenance: Well-maintained historic property, though expect creaky floorboards (part of the charm).
  • Linens & towels: Fresh and clean, though not luxury thread count.
  • Odors & scents: Generally fresh, no complaints of mustiness despite the age of the building.

Sleepability™

6MODERATE
MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Music from the rooftop bar/terrace
  • Chatter and foot traffic from the cobblestone streets below

Before you book

Good to know

  • Parking is technically 'free' but often means a public spot nearby; the underground garage costs ~400 Lek ($4)/day and is a safer bet.
  • The hotel is strictly cash-only for the room balance.
  • Breakfast is served on the terrace with a view—don't miss it.

What to pack

  • Earplugs (non-negotiable for weekends)
  • Cash (Lek) for payment and tips
  • Grippy shoes for the slippery cobblestones outside

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Triple Room with City View (top floor for best castle views)
  • Family Suite (spacious, good for groups)

Rooms to avoid

  • Economy Twin (very small, 14sqm)
  • First-floor rooms facing the street (maximum noise exposure)

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I would love to request a room on a higher floor with a view of the castle, preferably away from the direct noise of the street/bar if possible.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is there an elevator?

No. This is a traditional stone building. You will be carrying your bags up steep stairs.

Is parking actually free?

It's complicated. They advertise free parking, but it's often in a public area nearby. Budget 400 Lek/day for the secure underground garage to be safe.

Does the hotel serve alcohol?

Yes, there is a bar (Obelisku) on the terrace serving beer, wine, and raki.

How far is the castle?

Very close. It's a steep 10-15 minute uphill walk through the bazaar.

Is breakfast included?

Yes, and it's excellent. Expect eggs, local cheeses, jams, and fresh petulla.

Can I bring my dog?

No, the hotel has a strict no-pets policy.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    Ask the owner for his specific recommendations on where to buy silver; he knows the honest artisans.

  • ✨

    The 'Obelisku' bar on the roof has one of the best sunset views in town—grab a table 30 mins before sundown even if you aren't staying there.

  • ✨

    Don't trust Google Maps blindly for driving directions in the Old Town; the streets are narrow and often one-way. Park below and walk up if unsure.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The 'free parking' is often just a spot on the street if you're lucky.

  • 💡The stairs are not just high; they are uneven stone, which can be tricky in socks.

  • 💡The bathroom showers are sometimes the 'wet room' style common in Albania (no curtain/divider).

  • 💡You might hear the call to prayer from the Bazaar Mosque very clearly.

  • 💡The Wi-Fi is generally strong, but can drop in the thick-walled stone corners of the rooms.

Local Playbook

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