Berat

Written by Alexander Kopp, Chloe Davies
17/09/2025
A breathtaking aerial shot of Berat Castle showcasing historic architecture and landscape.
Klidjon Gozhina, Pexels

Berat, often called the "City of a Thousand Windows," is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its distinctive Ottoman-era houses cascading down hillsides and its rich blend of historical and cultural influences. This charming Albanian destination offers visitors a relaxed pace to explore ancient castles, historic quarters, and various museums, alongside opportunities to experience stunning natural landscapes like the Osum Canyon.

For socializing, the main Boulevard Republika is a lively area for evening strolls, lined with cafes and restaurants where both locals and tourists gather. Inside Berat Castle, you will also find restaurants and bars, creating a unique atmosphere for mingling. The historic Mangalem and Gorica quarters also feature hidden cafes and dining spots, contributing to a vibrant café scene.

Top 5 Things to do in Berat

Experiences here range from exploring ancient strongholds and wandering through historic neighborhoods to delving into local art and embarking on thrilling nature excursions.

1. Explore Berat Castle

Stepping into Berat Castle feels like entering a living village, as residents still dwell within its ancient walls. From its hilltop position, you are treated to magnificent panoramic views of the city's iconic 'thousand windows' and the surrounding valleys. Wander through its cobbled lanes, discover Byzantine churches, and uncover the ruins of mosques, allowing at least two hours to properly explore the vast citadel complex.

Cost: Access to Berat Castle is generally free, as it's open 24 hours. However, an official entrance fee of approximately 300-400 ALL (around 3-4 EUR) may be requested between 9 AM and 6 PM.

Transport: The castle is a steep 15-20 minute walk from the lower town. Alternatively, a local city bus can take you directly to the castle entrance from the main bus terminal for about 30-40 ALL (0.3-0.4 EUR). Taxis are also readily available, with a 5km ride costing around 1800 ALL (approx. 18 EUR).

2. Wander through Mangalem and Gorica Quarters & Gorica Bridge

Cross the historic Gorica Bridge, an Ottoman-era stone arch bridge, to connect the two distinct old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica. Lose yourself in Mangalem's narrow, winding cobblestone streets, admiring the distinctive houses with their stacked windows that give Berat its 'City of a Thousand Windows' moniker. On the quieter Gorica side, enjoy a different perspective of Mangalem and the castle, particularly beautiful at sunset.

Cost: Exploring these historic quarters and crossing Gorica Bridge is free.

Transport: Both quarters and the bridge are centrally located and easily explored on foot from the city center.

3. Visit the Onufri Iconography Museum

Located within the historic Church of the Dormition of St. Mary inside Berat Castle, this museum is a treasure trove of Byzantine and post-Byzantine art. It is dedicated to Onufri, a renowned 16th-century Albanian icon painter, and houses an impressive collection of over 200 icons and liturgical items. Highlights include Onufri's own works and an exquisite 1807 iconostasis.

Cost: The entrance fee for the Onufri Iconography Museum is 400 ALL (approximately 4 EUR).

Transport: The museum is situated inside Berat Castle, so access involves reaching the castle first (refer to 'Explore Berat Castle' for transport details). Once inside the castle, it is a short walk to the museum.

4. Day Trip to Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall

Embark on a full-day excursion to witness Albania's dramatic natural beauty. Begin with a hike through Bogove National Park to reach the refreshing Bogove Waterfall, where you can swim in its cold, crystal-clear waters. Continue to the Osum Canyon, often called the 'Grand Canyon of Albania,' for breathtaking views. Depending on the season (July to September typically), you might even have the opportunity for canyoning or a river hike inside the canyon itself, offering a unique perspective of this majestic gorge.

Cost: Joining a guided tour is the most recommended way to experience this day trip, with prices generally ranging from 50-76 EUR per person. For those with a private vehicle, the fuel cost for driving is approximately 10-15 USD (around 9-14 EUR). A private taxi specifically for the Osum Canyon can cost 90-110 USD (around 85-100 EUR), and for Bogove Waterfall, it's about 55-70 USD (around 50-65 EUR).

Transport: There is no public transport directly to Osum Canyon or Bogove Waterfall. The best options are to join a guided tour which includes transport, hire a private taxi, or drive a rental car. The drive from Berat takes approximately one hour to Bogove Waterfall and then to Osum Canyon.

5. Visit the National Ethnographic Museum

Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century Ottoman house in the Mangalem quarter, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional life and culture of Berat and the surrounding region. Explore various rooms showcasing authentic costumes, household items, tools, and artisanal crafts, providing insight into the daily lives of Albanian families through the centuries.

Cost: The entrance fee is typically around 300 ALL (approximately 3 EUR).

Transport: The museum is located within the Mangalem quarter, making it easily accessible by foot from the city center.

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