👋 Meet Your Hosts – A True Gjirokastër Family At Villa EM, you’re not just booking a place to stay — you’re being welcomed by a local family rooted in the heart of Gjirokastër for generations. Our home has been passed down through the years and lovingly restored to share the spirit of traditional Albanian hospitality. As proud Gjirokastriots, we take great joy in introducing guests to the rich culture, slow rhythms, and warm values of our city. Every detail at Villa EM reflects our family’s care — from the homemade breakfasts using fresh, local ingredients to the handcrafted décor inspired by old Gjirokastër homes. We’re always here if you need recommendations for hidden spots in the old bazaar, local foods to try, or stories about life in the city beneath the castle. Many guests say their favorite part of staying with us isn’t just the view or the comfort, but the feeling of being welcomed like a friend, not a tourist. Whether it’s your first time in Albania or your fifth, our family is here to ensure you feel safe, relaxed, and truly connected to the spirit of the place. Hospitality is part of who we are. We look forward to sharing not just our home, but a piece of Gjirokastër’s living heritage with you.

🌿 Welcome to Villa EM – Tranquility, Tradition, and Comfort in the Heart of Gjirokastër Tucked away in the picturesque hills of Gjirokastër, Villa EM offers guests a peaceful and authentic Albanian experience just minutes from the city’s UNESCO-listed old town. Whether you're here for a short stay or a relaxing retreat, our villa combines modern comforts with traditional charm to ensure a memorable visit. 🛌 Thoughtfully Designed Rooms Each of our rooms is carefully curated for comfort and relaxation: 🛏 Bright and spacious interiors, ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers 🌄 Private balconies or terraces with stunning views of the surrounding mountains or cityscape 🚿 En-suite bathrooms, premium linens, and daily cleaning for a worry-free stay 📶 Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and modern furnishings for your convenience 🍳 Breakfast With a View Start your day with a delicious homemade breakfast, served in our charming dining area or on the outdoor terrace. Choose from: European, Vegetarian, Full English/Irish, or American-style options Fresh, local ingredients and personalized touches to make every morning special 🚗 Amenities to Enhance Your Stay We’ve thought of every detail so you can simply relax and enjoy: ✔️ Complimentary private parking on-site ✔️ 24/7 assistance to help you with local recommendations or special requests ✔️ Smoke-free environment to ensure a clean and healthy atmosphere 📍 Unbeatable Location Villa EM is ideally located for guests who want to explore Gjirokastër at their own pace: Just minutes from Gjirokastër Castle, Old Bazaar, and other historical landmarks A perfect starting point for day trips to natural wonders, like Lake Viroi or the Blue Eye Easy access to restaurants, artisan shops, and cultural experiences Guests consistently praise our warm hospitality, immaculate cleanliness, and breathtaking views. Whether you're discovering Gjirokastër for the first time or returning for another visit, Villa EM feels like home.

🏘️ Discover Palorto – The Soul of Gjirokastër Villa EM is located in Palorto, one of the oldest and most iconic neighborhoods of Gjirokastër. This area is not just a place on the map — it’s the beating heart of the city’s history, architecture, and identity. Palorto is best known as the birthplace of Ismail Kadare, Albania’s most celebrated writer and a symbol of Gjirokastër’s intellectual heritage. Walking through its stone-paved alleys, guests are transported back in time, surrounded by centuries-old Ottoman-style houses, traditional stonework, and stunning views of the valley below. From our doorstep, you are just a short walk away from the city’s main attractions: 🏰 Gjirokastër Castle – A majestic fortress with sweeping views and a military museum 🧵 The Old Bazaar – A vibrant street full of handmade crafts, local delicacies, and artisan shops 🏛 Ethnographic Museum – Located in the house where Kadare was born, offering a deep dive into the life and culture of old Gjirokastër 🌿 Zekate House & Skenduli House – Two of the finest examples of Ottoman-era tower houses in the Balkans 🌄 Obelisk of Education – A beautiful viewpoint and monument celebrating Albania's first schools Despite its quiet atmosphere, Palorto offers easy access to local cafes, restaurants, and cultural events — making it the perfect base for exploring the city on foot. Staying at Villa EM in Palorto means more than comfort — it means living in the most historic and authentic part of Gjirokastër, side by side with the spirit of the past and the warmth of local life.