Berat & Gjirokaster – Explore Albania’s UNESCO Cities in One Day

7:00 AM – Hotel Pickup in Tirana
Your day begins early with a comfortable pickup from your hotel in Tirana. As you leave the city behind, the road winds through Albania’s lush countryside. Rolling hills, olive groves, and traditional villages unfold before you as your expert guide shares fascinating insights into the history and culture of the region.

9:00 AM – Arrival in Berat, the City of a Thousand Windows
Berat welcomes you like a living museum. This ancient town, nestled between the Osum River and the towering Tomorr Mountains, is famed for its striking Ottoman-era houses with countless windows that seem to watch over the valley. You will explore Berat Castle, a fortress that has stood for over two millennia. Unlike most castles, this one remains inhabited, giving it a unique charm and vitality.

Wandering the castle grounds, you will discover centuries-old churches and mosques, a testament to the harmonious blend of cultures that have shaped the city. The panoramic views from the hilltop are breathtaking, with the terraced houses cascading down the hillside in a mesmerizing patchwork of white facades and red roofs. You will then descend into the Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, where stone streets and traditional architecture tell stories of times gone by. A stroll across the historic Gorica Bridge offers a perfect vantage point to absorb the beauty of this timeless town.

After a scenic drive through the gentle hills and olive groves of southern Albania, you will arrive in Gjirokastra, often called the “Stone City” for its distinctive slate-roofed houses that cling to the steep hillside. This UNESCO World Heritage town captivates visitors with its striking blend of Ottoman architecture and rugged mountain landscape.

Your exploration begins with the imposing Gjirokastra Castle, one of the largest and most well-preserved fortresses in the Balkans. From the castle’s ramparts, sweeping views stretch across the Drino Valley, framed by towering peaks. Inside, the fortress reveals layers of history — from ancient fortifications to museums that recount Albania’s complex past.

After descending from the castle, you will wander the cobbled streets of the Old Bazaar, where stone buildings and traditional shops create an atmosphere steeped in history. The narrow alleys invite leisurely exploration, offering glimpses of everyday life woven into centuries-old surroundings.

After your exploration of Gjirokastra’s castle and historic old town, it’s time to begin the journey back to Tirana. As the sun starts to lower, you’ll travel through the peaceful landscapes of southern Albania, reflecting on the rich history and stunning architecture you’ve experienced throughout the day.

Your guide will share final insights and answer any questions during the comfortable drive back. Expect to arrive in Tirana around 6-7 PM, where your tour concludes with a hotel drop-off, leaving you with lasting memories of Albania’s remarkable cultural treasures.