• Berat Castle - Explore Berat Castle
  Berat Castle, a historic fortress in Berat, Albania, majestically overlooks the Osum River. With a history spanning 2,500 years, it was first conquered by the Romans in 200 B.C. Over the centuries, the castle’s stone fortifications were gradually expanded by Byzantine rulers in the 5th, 6th, and 13th centuries. Currently, the castle is undergoing restoration, thanks to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This restoration is a welcome development for the castle’s residents, who have been somewhat overlooked as the city below has received more attention.

Inside Berat Castle, visitors will find numerous historical treasures. The “Red Mosque,” identifiable by its solitary minaret, offers a staircase leading to the top. There are over 20 Christian churches and a central museum surrounding one of the largest Orthodox churches, featuring many 16th-century paintings by “Master Onufri” and a decorative altar. (Many churches in Albania were destroyed during the Communist era when Enver Hoxha declared an “Atheist State.”) Other architectural highlights include courtyards, a large central cistern, and numerous stone houses still inhabited by the castle’s residents today. This is a unique feature in Europe, where many castles no longer have residents.

• Mangalem - Discover The Mangalemi Quarter, famously known as the “City of 1000 Windows,” which dates back to the Ottoman era. The architectural features of each home vividly reflect this period. Comparing the ancient construction of the Mangalemi Quarter to modern residential architecture reveals differences such as high-placed windows to slow intruders, staircases designed for strategic defense, and areas for animal storage.
• Bulevardi Republika - Stroll along the renowned pedestrian street of Berat
• National Iconographic Museum Onufri - Since 27 February 1986, the Onufri National Museum has been located within “Saint Mary Church” in Berat Castle. The Cathedral, rebuilt in 1797, is a prime example of post-Byzantine architecture in Berat. The museum is named “Onufri” in honor of the renowned 16th-century Albanian painter.
  The museum’s collection includes 173 objects selected from a fund of 1,500 items, originating from Albanian Churches and Monasteries, as well as Berat. It features 106 Icons and 67 Liturgical objects created by Albanian Iconographical painters from the 14th to the 20th centuries, including Onufri, his son Nikola, Cypriot Onufri, David Selenica, Kostandin Shpataraku, and the Cetirs (Gjergj, Johan, Nikola, Naum, and Gjergj junior), along with many anonymous artists.
• The King Mosque - The 16th-century Sultan’s Mosque is one of Albania’s oldest. Behind the mosque, the Helveti teqe, a place of worship for followers of the Bektashi branch of Islam, features a beautifully carved ceiling and acoustic holes designed to enhance sound quality during gatherings. The Helveti, like the Bektashi, are a dervish order, or brotherhood, of Muslim mystics.
• Belsh - In Belsh, travelers will enjoy the tranquility of its natural beauty. Upon arrival, guests are taken to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the town’s stunning lakes, offering a perfect photo opportunity with the serene lakes framed by lush greenery. Here, guides share fascinating insights about Belsh’s natural formations and the importance of these lakes to the local ecosystem and community.

Next, the tour briefly passes through the town center, allowing travelers to appreciate the local architecture and soak in the ambiance of this peaceful Albanian gem. Although time won’t allow for a deeper exploration, this quick walkthrough is designed to spark interest and perhaps inspire a return visit.

This 30-minute stop in Belsh provides a refreshing break in the Berat tour, offering travelers a glimpse of Albania’s diverse natural and cultural landscapes. It’s a promise of tranquility and beauty.

• Tour Guide
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Other

• Lunch
• Personal expenses

Discover the magic of Berat, Albania’s “city of a thousand windows,” and the serene landscapes of Belsh in a captivating day tour. Experience Berat’s rich history as you explore its ancient castle and marvel at the stunning Ottoman architecture. Learn about the city’s unique blend of religious harmony at the King Mosque and Helveti Teke. Capture the essence of Berat’s beauty at the iconic 1001 windows location, offering a perfect photo opportunity. Then, embrace the tranquility of Belsh, known for its picturesque lakes and scenic beauty. This tour combines cultural immersion, historical exploration, and natural wonders, making it an unforgettable journey through the heart of Albania.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.