Day Trip to Berat 1001 Windows

Berat, one of Albania’s oldest cities, stands as a proud symbol of the country’s architectural and cultural heritage. The city is divided into three historic neighborhoods—Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kala—each with its own unique character and charm. The tour begins with the Kala district, home to the impressive hilltop castle that offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Though the climb up the cobbled path is steep, it is richly rewarded with sweeping vistas and a glimpse into centuries of history. Within the castle grounds, you have the option to visit the Museum of Iconography "Onufri," named after the famous 16th-century icon painter Onufri, whose vivid works remain an important part of Orthodox art. The museum is housed in the Cathedral of the Assumption of St. Mary, adding to its historical ambiance. Other highlights in the castle area include the Red Mosque, notable for its solitary minaret, and the beautifully preserved St. Trinity Church. After exploring the fortress, there's an option to enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch in a local restaurant for an extra cost.

The tour continues in the Mangalemi neighborhood, known for its white Ottoman-era houses stacked along the hillside. Here, you can opt to visit the National Ethnographic Museum, housed in one of Berat’s most beautiful historic homes. The museum features over a thousand traditional artifacts, offering an intimate look at life in centuries past. Across the Osumi River lies the Gorica neighborhood, where the houses face those of Mangalemi in a mirror-like layout, contributing to Berat’s nickname “the town of a thousand windows.” The neighborhoods are connected by the graceful Gorica Bridge, an 18th-century stone structure and a masterpiece of local architecture. Take some time to stroll the bridge, take in the river views, and capture the essence of Berat’s timeless charm before returning to Tirana.