"Berat & Durres City, Belsh Lake - Day Tour from Tirana"

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Durres

  The tour begins with a meeting at your hotel in Tirana. From there, you will embark on a journey to Berat, with a stop along the way to explore the historic city of Durrës. Durrës – The Coastal Gateway A short drive takes guests to Durrës, Albania’s main port city and one of its most historic. Here, they will visit: Durrës Amphitheater – One of the largest in the Balkans, dating back to Roman times. Venetian Tower & Old City Walls – A glimpse into the city’s past defenses. You’ll also explore the Venetian Tower and the remnants of the old city walls, offering an insight and a snapshot into the city’s rich past. A walk along the lively Adriatic seafront provides stunning coastal views and a chance to soak in the local atmosphere. A chance to enjoy the coastal views and a walk along the Adriatic seafront provides stunning coastal views and a chance to soak in the local atmosphere. Before continuing to Berat, you’ll enjoy a short break at a seaside café to relax and take in the views.

  2 hours • Admission ticket free
• 2
  Berat Castle

  Your journey in Berat begins with a visit to the iconic Berat Castle, a breathtaking fortress that has stood since the 4th century BC. Unlike most castles, this one is still inhabited, offering visitors a unique experience as they walk through its charming cobblestone streets, lined with traditional houses, cafés, and artisan shops. Inside, you'll discover stunning Byzantine churches adorned with centuries-old frescoes and Ottoman-era mosques, reflecting the city's diverse heritage. As you explore, you’ll uncover the fascinating history of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with more than 2,400 years of continuous life. Known as the "City of a Thousand Windows," its white-washed Ottoman houses create a postcard-perfect panorama. Beyond its history, Berat is a living, breathing destination where you can enjoy local flavors, interact with friendly locals and soak in the romantic time This is not just a history lesson—it's a chance to immerse yourself in Albania’s most charming city.

  1 hour • Admission ticket included
• 3
  Holy Trinity Church

  You will visit this stunning Byzantine Church, built in the 13th century, perched on the steep hillside of Berat Castle, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the town. Its beautifully preserved architecture and intricate frescoes provide a glimpse into Berat’s rich religious and artistic heritage. As you step inside, you'll feel the peaceful ambiance that has welcomed worshippers and travelers for centuries. The church’s strategic location makes it a perfect spot to admire the unique blend of history and scenery that defines Berat. Don’t forget to capture the mesmerizing views from this historic treasure!

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Quarter Of Gorica

  Our next stop takes us to the charming old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, the heart of old Berat. These two historic neighborhoods, known for their iconic Ottoman-style houses, are connected by the Gorica Bridge, a stunning stone structure spanning the Osumi River. Originally built in 1780 under the rule of Ahmet Kurt Pasha, the bridge was later reconstructed with stone, preserving its timeless beauty. As you stroll through the winding streets, you'll feel transported back in time, surrounded by centuries-old architecture, traditional houses, and a peaceful riverside atmosphere. To complete the experience, you can enjoy a delicious traditional lunch, featuring homemade specialties and locally produced wine, giving you a true taste of Berat’s rich culinary heritage.

  2 hours • Admission ticket free
• 5
  The King Mosque

  Next, we will visit the King Mosque, also known as the Sultan’s Mosque or Sultan Bayezid Mosque, one of Berat’s most important religious and cultural landmarks. Built in the 15th century by Ottoman Sultan Bayezid II, this mosque stands as a symbol of Berat’s diverse heritage and religious harmony. Admire its elegant Ottoman architecture, beautifully decorated interiors, and peaceful courtyard, where centuries of history come to life. Recognized as a Cultural Monument since 1948, the mosque remains an important place of worship and a must-visit site for those seeking to explore Berat’s rich past.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 6
  Halveti Teqe

  Next, we will visit the Halveti Tekke, a hidden gem of Berat and a Cultural Monument of Albania. Built in 1782 by Ahmet Kurt Pasha, this sacred site belonged to the Khalwati order, a Sufi sect known for its mystical traditions. The tekke stands out for its remarkable architecture, featuring a uniquely painted and intricately carved ceiling, a masterpiece of craftsmanship that sets it apart from other religious structures in Albania. As you step inside, you’ll feel the spiritual tranquility that has drawn Sufi followers for centuries. This is a must-visit for those interested in art, history, and the deeper cultural layers of Berat.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 7
  National Iconographic Museum Onufri

  For those interested in art and history, an optional visit to the Iconographic Museum offers a deeper look into Berat’s rich cultural heritage. Home to an impressive collection of 1,300 objects, the museum is a treasure trove of religious art, showcasing stunning Byzantine-era icons, manuscripts, and artifacts. Housed in a historic church, the museum provides a fascinating insight into Albania’s Orthodox traditions and artistic legacy, with works by the famous Onufri, one of the country’s greatest iconographers. This visit is highly recommended for those who appreciate art, history, and the spiritual depth of Berat. In Berat, you'll have the chance to savor some of Albania's most delicious traditional dishes, reflecting the rich history and culture of the region. Here are a few local specialties you must try during your visit: Enjoying these traditional dishes will give you a true taste of Berat's rich culinary heritage and a deeper connection to the local culture!

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 8
  Belsh

  After leaving Berat, we’ll continue our journey through a scenic route filled with breathtaking views of rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, leading us to the tranquil Belsh Lake. As we arrive, you’ll be greeted by stunning vistas of the lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering the perfect opportunity to relax and capture some memorable photos of this serene spot. Take in the peaceful ambiance and beauty of the area, perfect for a short break and reflection. After around 30 minutes at the lake, we’ll make our way back to Tirana, with a 1.5-hour drive to return, concluding your unforgettable day of exploration. With breathtaking views and unforgettable moments, this tour captures the essence of Albania—a land of history, culture, and natural beauty—all in one unforgettable experience.

  2 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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