Berat and Belsh Tour: Explore Historic Fortresses

Explore Berat’s ancient fortresses and Belsh’s serene lake. Discover Ottoman architecture, historic landmarks, and local traditions on this immersive full-day tour from Tirana.

Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Berat Castle - Berat Castle, is a medieval fortress located in the town of Berat, Albania. It is situated on a hill overlooking the Osum River and is one of the oldest and largest castles in the country. The castle dates back to the 4th century BC, although most of its current structures were built during the 13th century under the Byzantine Empire and later expanded by the Ottomans. Berat Castle is characterized by its massive defensive walls, numerous towers, and winding cobblestone streets. Within the castle walls, visitors can explore ancient churches, mosques, a museum, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding town and countryside. Berat Castle was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 due to its historical significance and architectural beauty. Explore the ancient fortress perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • St. Spiridon’s Orthodox Church - The Holy Trinity Church is a medieval Byzantine church which stands on a hill in the city. Discover the serenity of this historic church, adorned with beautiful frescoes and architectural details.
  • Mangalem - Mangalemi and Gorrica are two characteristic neighborhoods of the city. Mangalem is a neighborhood within the city of Berat, situated on the left bank of the Osum River. It is known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, which includes traditional houses with white walls and red-tiled roofs, narrow streets, and small courtyards.

Gorica is another historic neighborhood in Berat, located on the right bank of the Osum River. It is renowned for its breathtaking views of the city and the river, as well as its numerous churches and mosques. Like Mangalem, Gorica boasts a number of well-preserved Ottoman-era buildings, and it is precisely these houses built one above the other that have given Berat its name: the “City of a Thousand Windows”.

  • Gorica Bridge - Cross the iconic bridge spanning the Osum River, connecting the two historic neighborhoods. It is one of the oldest and most popular Ottoman bridges in Albania which connects two parts of Berat, originally built from wood in 1780 and later rebuilt with stone in the 1920s. According to local legend, the original wooden bridge contained a dungeon where a girl would be incarcerated and starved to appease the spirits responsible for the bridge’s safety.
  • National Ethnographic Museum Berat - Dive into Berat’s cultural tapestry at this museum, showcasing traditional Albanian life and crafts. The Ethnographic Museum has a rich collection of 1,300 objects and it’s an important testimony to the culture, the interesting and rich traditions of the Berat area.
  • Bachelors’ Mosque - Admire the architectural beauty of the Bachelors’ Mosque, formerly known as the Sylejman Pasha Mosque, an emblem of Berat’s multicultural heritage. This Ottoman-era mosque has captivated visitors for centuries with its stunning design and historical significance. It became a Cultural Monument in 1961, solidifying its importance in preserving Albania’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Belshi Lake - Belsh, situated in the Dumrea area, is renowned for its abundance of lakes and captivating scenery. This region, lauded for its beauty by the esteemed figure of our national Renaissance, Sami Frashëri, was once contemplated as a potential future capital of Albania. Belsh, a quaint town, rests beside a lake sharing its name, serving as the traditional hub of the Dumrea region. Nearby, one encounters one of the oldest Illyrian settlements, evidenced by archaeological findings in Gradishte, reflecting ancient Illyrian habitation tracing back to the early Bronze Age through discovered artifacts.
    Relax by the serene shores of Lake Belsh, surrounded by picturesque vistas and natural beauty.
What's Included
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional certified guide
What's Not Included
  • Lunch, Drinks & Snacks
  • Personal spending
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

On this tour, expect to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Berat and Belsh. You’ll explore ancient fortresses, historic neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks such as Berat Castle and the Gorica Bridge. Discover the unique architectural styles of Ottoman houses and religious sites like the Orthodox Church and Bachelor’s Mosque. Learn about the local traditions and way of life at the Ethnographic Museum. Finally, unwind by the serene shores of Lake Belsh, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Throughout the journey, you’ll experience the warm hospitality and authentic charm of these Albanian towns.

  • Travel time is included in the total duration!
Location
Berat Castle
Rruga Mihal Komnena
Cancellation Policy

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

Select Date and Tickets
minimum 2 guests
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up to 8 guests
2 Adult
September 2024
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