Berat, Albania: Best Things to See and Do
Written By: Global Grit and Glam
February 2025
Mangalem Quarter (Berat, Albania)
Are you ready to head to one of the most historic and beautiful cities in Europe? Something a little off the beaten path and away from the typical tourist crowds of London, Rome, and Barcelona? If so, then we highly recommend you consider visiting the incredibly picturesque city of Berat, Albania, in the Balkans!
Nicknamed the “City of a Thousand Windows” and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, Berat is complete with ancient castles, stunning mosques, and a labyrinth of cobblestone streets that transport you back in time. For adventurers, culture vultures, and anyone who loves a photogenic view or two (like Beck!), Berat should definitely be somewhere on your bucket list.
Ready to get started?
Statue of Girl Playing Flute (Berat, Albania)
Quick Tips
Here are some quick tips to help you make the most of your visit to Berat, Albania.
Consider a minimum two- to three-day stay to fully appreciate the city.
Cash, in the form of Albanian Lek, is king. Read our section on practical information for Berat.
Explore the old city by foot (and make sure to wear comfortable shoes!).
Join a favorite Albanian tradition known as Xhiro — an evening walk along Bulevardi Republika.
Don’t miss Berat Castle and explore the thriving village inside the castle walls.
Taste local Albanian cuisine.
Follow these tips and recommendations and you’ll be ready to enjoy a fantastic visit to Berat!
Plan Your Trip
Xhiro: the Traditional Evening Walk (Berat, Albania)
Some of the links in this post might earn us a small commission if you make a purchase – but don’t worry, it won’t cost you anything extra! Supporting us this way helps us continue sharing our best travel content and tips. See our full disclosures for details. Thanks a million, and happy travels!
Planning a trip to Berat? Take advantage of the following recommended resources.
Book Your Berat Adventure Now!
-
We highly recommend the Hotel Mangalemi.
Book hotels in Berat with Trip.com
Search hotels in Berat with Booking.com
Berat VRBO apartment rentals
-
We also rely on Skyscanner and Booking.com as great flight comparison tools.
-
Car rental in Berat
Economy car rental in Berat
-
While it’s tempting to skip the extra cost, travel insurance should be considered for domestic travel, and it’s a must for international travel.
TravelInsurance.com is an excellent comparison tool.
EKTA provides affordable plans with different coverage levels.
If you're planning outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking, consider travel insurance that covers those activities.
Visit our Resources page for additional planning tips, strategies, and companies we recommend.
Berat, Albania: An Overview
Byzantine church (Berat, Albania)
Situated in central Albania where the past and present collide, Berat is not short on history. With a heritage dating back more than 2,400 years, here you’ll discover history and charm through traditional houses famous for their unique blend of Ottoman, Byzantine and Albanian architecture. Berat’s Ottoman style houses, with their large wooden windows, make up the skyline and sum up its history: together with its ancient churches and historic mosques, this city tells the story of a place where different cultures and religions have coexisted for centuries.
Best Time to Visit Berat
Pedestrian bridge over the river Osum (Berat, Albania)
We recommend visiting Berat in the Spring (March to May). At this time of year the weather is mild and the city’s surroundings are in full bloom, providing the historic sites a stunning, colorful backdrop. The narrow streets and ancient buildings are quiet during this time – right before the rush of the Summer “crowds” – providing an excellent opportunity for visitors to take their time and explore the city in depth.
Rruga Mihal Komnena friends walk (Berat, Albania)
If you’re on a school schedule like we were when we visited, you may find a trip to Berat in the Summer (June to August) works better for you. Note, however, Summer is high season in Europe, and whilst the weather is warm and you can take fabulous evening strolls and enjoy wine-tasting at nearby wineries, the crowds are much bigger than in the Spring. If you do choose to visit during the Summer, we highly recommend booking your accommodation and any tours in advance.
Seasons (Berat, Albania)
Another option is visiting in Autumn/Fall (September to November), the “other shoulder season”. Like Spring, the Fall offers visitors milder weather, fewer tourists, and a lively atmosphere due to several cultural events and festivals in the city at that time (for example, Berat’s Wine Festival, which is usually held in early October). This is also a fantastic time to visit as a photographer, as the traditional houses of Berat and the scenic views surrounding them are splashed throughout with bright Fall colors.
Pedestrian Bridge at Night (Berat, Albania)
Do you only have time to visit Berat in Winter (December to February)? No worries—there’s plenty for you here then too! Berat’s Winters are mild, but note that evenings can be cold. Winter is definitely an excellent time for budget travel and intimate exploration: the historic sites are less crowded, so you’ll find a lot more peace and tranquility during your stay.
Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
City of a Thousand Windows (Berat, Albania)
One reason most visitors head to Berat is to see the Old Town. Berat is famous for its distinctive Mangalem and Gorica Quarters, where white houses with large, tightly-spaced windows give the city its nickname of the “City of a Thousand Windows” and its prominent, oft-photographed skyline.
Gorica Bridge (Berat, Albania)
Divided by the Osum River, the Mangalem and Gorica Quarters offer two different experiences of Berat’s architecture and culture:
Mangalem is famous for its view of the white houses
Gorica is quieter and more romantic, with cobblestone streets
Streets of Gorica Neighborhood (Berat, Albania)
The Gorica Bridge, dating back to the late 18th century, is a beautiful Ottoman bridge that connects the two quarters. Beck spent hours walking along the banks of the Osum River, snapping photos of the captivating architecture on both sides – she couldn’t seem to get enough! But wandering through the quieter streets and hills of Gorica was her favorite part……..just wandering and getting lost!
Traditional Architecture (Berat, Albania)
The architectural wonder of these traditional houses makes Berat one of the top places to visit in Albania, and embodies the city’s cultural and historical identity. Don’t hesitate to walk through the hills and narrow streets of these two neighborhoods, where you’ll feel the magnetism of this ancient city that has been captivating visitors for centuries, and experience some of the most scenic views in Berat.
Berat Castle: A Living Museum
Welcome to Berat Castle (Berat, Albania)
Situated high above the city, Berat Castle (also known as the Citadel of Berat or the castle quarter) is another highlight of this ancient city. Whilst Mike groaned most of the epically steep walk to the top, he agreed wholeheartedly it was 100% worth the climb!
Road to the Castle (Berat, Albania)
Overlooking the city of Berat, and dating back to 4th century BC, Berat Castle has been a stronghold for the Byzantines, Bulgarians and Ottomans, each leaving their individual mark on this historic fortress. The castle grounds are vast and full of ancient structures, stone walls and narrow paths: in fact, Berat Castle is not just an architectural wonder, but also a living museum.
Berat Castle cannon (Berat, Albania)
Once you’re inside the castle walls, you’ll discover that this UNESCO-listed site is a thriving village, showcasing the coexistence of different religious and cultural communities over the centuries. Wander down any street or alleyway, and you’ll discover houses, museums, small shops, restaurants, cozy cafes, boutique hotels, and families still living within the castle (we thought that was pretty neat!) – so you can rest assured it’s more than simply an historic site!
Berat Castle village menu (Berat, Albania)
Key landmarks within the fortress walls include the Cathedral of the Dormition of St. Mary, a 13th century basilica that houses the Onufri Iconographic Museum (or Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri). The museum is named after Onufri, one of Albania’s most famous icon painters, and provides visitors one of Albania's most important displays of religious art. The entrance fee to the museum is 400 Lek (less than US$4.50), and for an additional 100 Lek (US$1.10), they’ll throw in an individual audio tour for you (definitely worth it for a deep dive into Albanian art history!).
Holy Trinity Church (Berat, Albania)
Another absolute must-see within the castle walls is Kisha Shen Triadha, or the Holy Trinity Church. Located in the far western courtyard (and yes, it can be a bit tricky to find at first … but don’t give up as we promise you it’s worth the visit!), this Byzantine church was built in the 14th century and is comprised of architectural elements from that time, combined with western architectural elements belonging to the same period.
Additional Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites
Ethnographic Museum
Opened in 1979, Berat’s Ethnographic Museum is a cultural institution housing a rich collection of almost 1,500 artifacts and exhibits that pay homage to the local culture, as well as rich traditions, of Albania. To gain an insight into the daily life of Berat’s residents throughout history, this museum – housed in a traditional 18th century building – is a must-visit.
Byzantine and Ottoman Era Churches
Saint Demetrius Orthodox Cathedral (Berat, Albania)
Berat is also famous for its old churches, many showcasing Byzantine architecture, and which are important for their historical and cultural value. Notable churches include the Holy Trinity Church (housed within the walls of the Berat Castle) and St. Michael’s Church, both of which have stunning architecture and well-preserved frescoes, and are situated on rocky hills with breathtaking views over the surrounding area. You may also wish to visit the small Chapel of St Mary Blachernae, dating from the 13th century, though it is unfortunately usually kept locked, so we were unable to see the supposedly well-kept murals inside.
Mosques of Berat
Bachelors’ Mosque (Berat, Albania)
The city’s oldest mosques are a testament to Berat’s long Muslim heritage. Housed inside the walls of the Berat Castle are the ruins of the Red Mosque – the oldest of Berat’s Islamic house of prayer – whilst the Lead Mosque and Bachelors’ Mosque are within walking distance of one another and exhibit Ottoman influence. Each mosque provides the visitor an idea of Berat’s cultural heritage and add additional layers to the city’s religious tapestry.
Berat: Cannot-Miss Experiences
Bulevardi Republika (Berat, Albania)
Want to get to know the city of Berat on a deeper level? Try some of these local experiences!
Explore the old city on foot: where the traditional houses and narrow cobblestone streets offer a glimpse into the world of yesteryear.
Xhiro: the Traditional Evening Walk (Berat, Albania)
Boulevard Republika: if there’s one thing you cannot miss whilst in Berat, it’s joining the locals for their traditional evening walk – or “xhiro” – along this wide, leafy pedestrianized street. This was one of our favorite things to do each night: join the large procession of people taking a leisurely stroll along the boulevard as the sun began to set. The Albanians have perfected this long-cherished form of activity, and if you prefer, you can simply watch the evening procession from one of the many restaurants, cafes and bars along the boulevard. For Albanians – who come from far and wide for an evening walk along this very street – it’s a time to relax after a long day, to appreciate the individuals around them (family, friends, strangers), and to reflect on the day gone by. This is, without question, one of the most perfect ways to end your day, to enjoy the local culture, and to get a little closer to the Berati spirit.
Berat Castle Wall (Berta, Albania)
Viewpoints: for the best view of the city and the surrounding region, take a walk along the walls of Berat Castle.
Day Trips and Nature Excursions
Osumi Canyon: Albania’s Natural Wonder
Less than 60km (37mi) from Berat lies Osumi Canyon (or Osum Gorge), an imposing river gorge in southern Albania, and a must-visit for anyone who loves adventure: without doubt, it’s one of Albania’s most beautiful natural attractions.
With its steep, sheer cliffs, green forests and dramatic rock formations, Osumi Canyon offers visitors spectacular hiking opportunities, swimming and picnicking – all with views that will take your breath away and leave you wishing you had more memory on your phone or SD card!
Bogove Waterfall (Ujëvara e Bogovës)
For a peaceful escape from Berat, take the one-hour drive down to Bogove Waterfall.
Surrounded by green forests, this secluded spot is perfect for a day trip: from the parking lot, there’s a 20-minute uphill hike (suitable for most fitness levels) along a stream to the waterfall and swimming hole. The waterfall is beautiful and swimming in its cool, clear water, is a wonderful way to refresh yourself after spending time in the hot Albanian sun. Bogove is loved by locals and tourists alike, so grab your swimsuits and your water shoes and take the plunge!
A Taste of Berat: Traditional Albanian Cuisine
Tave Kosi: Albanian national dish (Berat, Albania)
Albanian cuisine is delicious – and Berat is one of the best places to sample some of the local fare. Many restaurants in Berat offer local food at affordable prices, and include dishes such as Fergese (a traditional Albanian dish made of a mix of roasted red peppers, tomatoes and cottage or feta cheese), stuffed peppers and meatballs. For a truly local experience, taste local delicacies at Homemade Food Lili in Mangalem, where the food is famous for both the taste and the hospitality. Note that reservations are required for this restaurant. Whilst we unfortunately didn’t make it to Lil’s (we ate all our meals either on the boulevard or in local restaurants near our hotel), I’ve heard from other travelers that the best food they had during their entire time in Albania was at Lili’s!
Wine Tasting in the Berat Region
Berat is surrounded by one of Albania’s best wine regions.
For wine-lovers, consider taking a wine-tasting tour at Cobo Winery, just a short drive from the city center. Cobo offer tastings and vineyard tours where you can sample local wines and learn about more the winemaking process. We’ve heard many travelers consider this as one of the highlights of their Berat experience, adding a bit of “glam” to their Albanian adventure.
Evening in Berat
The city that rarely sleeps (Berat, Albania)
As the sun begins to set, Berat transforms into a city of enchantment, with its historic streets and buildings bathed in a warm, golden glow. The Old Town, with its cobblestone pathways and traditional houses, takes on a magical quality that is best experienced on a leisurely evening stroll.
One of the most breathtaking spots to visit during this time of day is the Berat Castle. Perched high above the city, this vantage point offers panoramic views of Berat and the surrounding countryside. As the sky is painted with hues of pink and orange, you’ll find yourself captivated by the serene beauty of the landscape.
City Grill traditional restaurant (Berat, Albania)
After soaking in the views, head down to the Old Town where a culinary adventure awaits. Local restaurants serve up mouthwatering traditional Albanian cuisine, where you can happily satisfy even the most fussy of taste buds whilst immersing yourself in more of the rich culture that Berat has to offer.
For those seeking a more spirited evening, Berat offers a selection of bars and clubs that stay open late into the night. These lively spots are perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers, enjoying a drink or two, and soaking up the energetic atmosphere.
Practical Information: Berat, Albania
Before you even begin your trip to Berat (and Albania in general), we can’t stress enough that cash is king in this country. Whether you’re paying for a local meal, transportation, museum entrance fees, or your accommodation, most establishments will request (and indeed certainly prefer) cash payment. The currency in Albania is the Albanian Lek (or Leke), and is pegged at about 90 Lek to the U.S. dollar.
With this knowledge in hand, be mindful that although there are numerous currency exchange offices spread throughout the city, none are open on Sundays – we unfortunately learnt this the hard way! Gratefully, there are plenty of working ATMs available, so you can certainly access cash this way if needed. We encourage all travelers to plan ahead to ensure you have enough of the local currency to cover your stay in Berat.
Berat: Getting There
The city of Berat is just shy of 100km (62mi) south of Tirana, Albania’s capital city, 71km (44mi) north of Gjirokastër, and 70km (43.5mi) west of Korçë, making it a fantastic base to explore other parts of southern Albania.
Visiting Berat is easy, and there are several options to get there.
From Tirana to Berat
Tirana International Airport (TIA) is the closest airport to Berat, making it the easiest entry point for international visitors. From TIA, you can get to Berat by car (there are numerous rental car agencies at the airport – we used Enterprise), bus, or private transport.
Car Rental
If you prefer a little more independence, you can rent a car from the Tirana airport. We chose this option, and it provided us a lot more flexibility and the chance to see and do more at our own pace.
The drive from Tirana to Berat via State Highway 3 (SH3) takes less than 2 hours and the road is well maintained and easy to navigate.
Minivan / Bus
For those who prefer public transport, buses from Tirana and other major cities in Albania run regularly to the Berat bus station. Indeed, for those who prefer a budget option, try joining the locals in a Furgon – an Albanian minivan and the primary form of public transport in the country. Furgons run from Tirana’s North and South bus stations to the Berat bus station. The journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes and costs 500 Lek (less than US$6) per passenger.
Once you arrive at the Berat bus station, you’ll find yourself about 3km (1.86mi) from the Old Town of Berat: a short taxi ride or a nice walk will get you to your accommodation.
Berat’s Accommodation: Where to Stay
Hotel Mangalemi (Berat, Albania)
Berat offers visitors a wide range of accommodation types: from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, most offering superb views of the city center, castle walls and surrounding landscape. For our stay, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to stay at Hotel Mangalemi – and it did not disappoint!
Hotel Mangalemi (Berat, Albania)
Berat was our first stop in Albania, after crossing the border from North Macedonia, and we fell in love with this hotel from the moment we parked our rental car outside the front door. Staff were fantastic from the second they greeted us, and right throughout our entire two-night stay.
Hotel Magalemi room (Berat, Albania)
Our room was gorgeous — airy, bright, and with a little courtyard. The shower and bathroom were also incredible – and there was so much fun décor spread throughout the hotel that it’s like a small museum in and of itself. We loved it! Our room was next to an outdoor, open square with a loud DJ on both nights, but we still slept like babies!
Hotel Mangalemi breakfast view (Berat, Albania)
Oh, and the view from the breakfast area was spectacular! Not to mention the breakfast spread itself, which was also impressive. It offered guests both hot and cold dishes and more wonderful, helpful staff.
Not sure if Hotel Mangalemi is right for you? No worries, as plenty of other options are also available to visitors!
Budget options: backpackers and other budget travelers will find plenty of hostels (for example, Maya Hostel and Berat Backpackers, both of which receive excellent reviews from guests) that offer affordable prices and a warm atmosphere
Mid-range hotels: for comfort without the price tag, Hotel Mangalemi and Hotel Ansel are your go-tos, centrally-located and offering everything the traveler could need at a fair price
Luxury hotels: if you’re seeking a bit more glamor during your time in Berat, consider staying at the Beratino Hotel or Hotel Belgrad Mangalem, both offering luxury amenities, great views and an indulgent guest experience
Traditional houses: for an authentic stay in Berat, opt for a conventional Albanian house in the Old Town; these accommodations will give you insight into the region’s history whilst building comfort with cultural immersion.
Whether you stay in the castle area (don’t forget there are options to stay within the walls of the Berat Castle – which is pretty neat!) or the historic Mangalem Quarter, both are close to main attractions and numerous local restaurants.
Suggested Itineraries
Albanian flags (Berat, Albania)
Berat is a city that invites exploration, and below are several suggested daily itineraries to help you make the most of your visit and guide your adventure:
Historic Berat: dive deep into the city’s rich past with a tour of its most significant historic sites. Start with a visit to Berat Castle, where you can wander through ancient structures and enjoy stunning views from the castle walls. Next, head to the Ethnographic Museum, housed in a traditional 18th-century building, to gain insights into the daily life and cultural heritage of Berat’s residents. Conclude your day with a stroll through the old town, where the traditional houses and narrow streets tell the story of centuries gone by.
Berat’s Hidden Gems: for those who love to venture off the beaten path (we’re looking at you, Beck!), this itinerary takes you to some of Berat’s lesser-known neighborhoods and landmarks. Explore the quieter streets of the Gorica Quarter, and visit the lesser-known churches and mosques that dot the city, each with its unique history and architectural beauty.
Berat and Beyond: Expand your horizons by visiting the city and its stunning surroundings. Begin with a morning in Berat, exploring the castle and the Old Town. In the afternoon, drive to the nearby town of Apollonia, an ancient city with impressive ruins and a fascinating history. Finally, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Albanian countryside with a visit to Osumi Canyon or Bogove Waterfall, where you can hike, swim, and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.
No matter which of these itineraries you choose — or even a combination of them all! — Berat’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty promises an unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts
City view (Berat, Albania)
Berat, Albania, is a city of contrasts, where the often harsh past meets the more glamorous nature of its culture and natural surroundings. From the majestic Berat Castle to the charming streets of the Mangalem and Gorica Quarters, this ancient city will offer unforgettable experiences. No matter the type of traveler, you’ll find peace and wonder here, with Berat offering you a quiet destination with fewer tourists.
We hope this guide has inspired you to explore Berat’s history, sample its culinary delights, and get lost in its cobblestone streets, where you’ll discover traditional ways of life.
So pack your bags, fill your cup of curiosity, and get out there and discover Berat, Albania, in 2025!
Now … it’s time to plan your trip!
