Embark on a fascinating day trip from Tirana to Berat, one of Albania’s most iconic cities, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” due to its stunning Ottoman-era architecture. This tour offers a glimpse into Albania’s rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and well-preserved history.
Tirana (Google Map)
9 AM
Embark on a fascinating day trip from Tirana to Berat, one of Albania’s most iconic cities, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” due to its stunning Ottoman-era architecture. This tour offers a glimpse into Albania’s rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and well-preserved history.
Begin your day with a comfortable drive from Tirana, taking you through picturesque Albanian countryside. As you journey south, enjoy views of rolling hills, olive groves, and small villages, making your way to Berat, which is located about 2 hours away from the capital.
Once you arrive in Berat, you’ll be greeted by its stunning landscape, with the city nestled between the Shpirag Mountains and the beautiful Osum River. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its three distinct neighborhoods: Mangalem, Gorica, and the hilltop castle area.
Your first stop will be the Berat Castle (also known as Kalivo), a massive fortress that dates back to the 4th century BC. Wander through its cobblestone streets and explore the old churches, mosques, and ancient houses still inhabited by locals. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the town, the river, and the surrounding mountains.
After exploring the castle, take a walk through the Mangalem Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its white Ottoman-style houses with large windows. Cross the Osum River via the old Gorica Bridge to the Gorica Quarter, where you’ll find more picturesque streets and charming, well-preserved homes that reflect the city’s history.
Visit the Onufri National Museum, housed in the stunning Holy Trinity Church inside the castle. The museum is dedicated to Onufri, Albania’s most famous icon painter. Admire his exquisite religious artworks, along with other valuable artifacts that tell the story of Berat’s cultural and religious history.
Enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample regional specialties such as Tave Kosi (a lamb and yogurt dish), Byrek (savory pie), or Fërgesë (a dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese). Savor your meal while taking in the beautiful views of the Osum River.
After lunch, continue your exploration with a visit to the Ethnological Museum of Berat, housed in a 19th-century house. Here, you’ll learn about the daily life of Beratians through exhibits that showcase traditional clothing, household items, and tools from the past.
In the afternoon, after a leisurely exploration of Berat, begin your journey back to Tirana. As you drive through the picturesque landscapes, reflect on the day’s discoveries and the unique charm of Berat.
