Embark on an enriching journey from Tirana to explore the cultural wonders of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the serene natural beauty of Belshi Lake. This full-day tour combines history, architecture, and breathtaking landscapes, offering an unforgettable Albanian experience.

Tour Highlights

Discover Berat, the “City of a Thousand Windows,” with its rich history and unique blend of Ottoman and Albanian architecture.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Berat Castle and enjoy panoramic views over the city and surrounding mountains.
Explore the Onufri Museum, home to stunning Byzantine art and icons by Albania’s master painter.
Wander through the charming quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, and cross the historic Gorica Bridge.
Relax at the tranquil Belshi Lake, surrounded by lush hills and peaceful nature.
Enjoy optional visits to local wineries for a tasting experience that reveals the depth of Albania’s winemaking heritage.

Itinerary

08:00 AM – Pickup from Tirana
Start your adventure with a comfortable pickup from your accommodation. Enjoy scenic views of rolling hills and charming villages on your way to Berat.

Berat Exploration

Berat Castle: Tour the ancient hilltop fortress and its medieval churches.
Mangalem & Gorica: Walk through these iconic neighborhoods linked by the 18th-century Gorica Bridge.
Onufri Museum: Located within the Church of the Dormition of St. Mary. Entry fee (€5) includes an audio guide in English, Spanish, Italian, German, and French.

Lunch in Berat (Optional)
Enjoy traditional dishes like tavë kosi, byrek, and fergesë at a local restaurant (lunch not included in the tour price).

Belshi Lake Visit
Head to the Dumre region, known for its 85 natural lakes. Stroll along Belshi Lake, enjoy the serene environment, and take in the picturesque surroundings.

Optional Winery Visit
Enhance your experience with a stop at one of the region’s renowned wineries (advance request recommended). Wine tasting typically includes local varieties like Shesh i Bardhë and Shesh i Zi accompanied by snacks.

Return to Tirana
Relax on your scenic return to Tirana in the late afternoon or early evening.

Tour Information

Duration: 9–10 hours
Departure Time: 8:00 AM (flexible)
Starting Point: Hotel pickup or central meeting locations in Tirana
Group Size: Small group or private tours available

Inclusions

Round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
Professional driver
Entry to Berat Castle and Onufri Museum
Optional English-speaking guide
Audio guide for Onufri Museum
Visit to Belshi Lake

Exclusions

Meals and drinks
Personal expenses or souvenirs
Gratuities (optional)
Wine tasting (available upon request, approx. €13/person)

Meeting Points (if no hotel pickup)

New Bazaar
Ministry of Justice
Kafe Flora
Kisha Katolike Zemra e Krishtit
Taiwan Center
Pyramid of Tirana
Selman Stërmasi Stadium

Recommended Wineries Near Berat

(Optional additions for wine lovers – subject to availability)

Çobo Winery (Ura Vajgurore) – Family-run, known for Shesh i Bardhë and Kashmer. Website
Nurellari Winery (Fier-Shegan) – Offers tastings and tours of its 250m underground cellar.
Alpeta Agrotourism & Winery (Roshnik) – Combines winemaking with agrotourism and hands-on rural experiences.
Luani Winery (Berat) – One of Albania’s largest producers, with a rich selection of wines and rakia.
Vila Hadaj Malinati (Malinat) – Intimate tastings with traditional cuisine and scenic views.

Why Choose This Tour?

Cultural immersion in one of Albania’s most iconic historical cities
Natural tranquility at Belshi Lake
Local insight with optional expert guiding
Flexible options for wine lovers and culture seekers alike
Comfortable and hassle-free with hotel pickup, transportation, and tickets included

Book your Berat & Belshi Lake experience today and unlock the soul of Albania through its history, nature, and hospitality.

From Tirana: Berat City UNESCO Heritage and Belshi Lake Tour