Berat, Albania: A City of Thousand Windows

Berat is located in Southwest Albania. Visiting Berat feels like stepping into a living museum, where Ottoman-era houses tumble down the hillsides toward the Osum River. The city is famously known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” because of the many large windows that seem to layer the facades of its whitewashed homes. Strolling through the old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, visitors can admire the charming architecture, narrow stone streets, and peaceful atmosphere. The Gorica Bridge, connecting the two sides of the town, offers beautiful views and a perfect introduction to Berat’s unique charm.
Berat is also a city rich in religious heritage, with churches, mosques, and monasteries found throughout. The Berat Castle, still inhabited today, is one of the highlights of any visit. Within its ancient walls, there are Byzantine churches, ruins, and small homes where people continue to live. Walking through the castle grounds gives visitors a sense of timelessness, with breathtaking views over the city and the surrounding countryside. Several small museums and artisan shops are also found inside, adding depth to the experience.
Food and hospitality are another memorable part of visiting Berat. Local restaurants serve hearty Albanian dishes such as tave kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) and freshly caught river fish. Many guesthouses are family-run, offering visitors a warm and authentic glimpse into local life. Whether enjoying a leisurely meal on a terrace overlooking the river, exploring cobbled alleys, or simply taking in the serene beauty of the landscape, Berat leaves a lasting impression of grace and quiet strength.
Table of Contents
- History of Berat
- Berat in Ancient Times
- Berat during the Byzantine and Medieval Periods
- Berat from Ottoman Rule to Modern Times
- 8 Best places to See in Berat
- Berat Castle
- Onufri Iconography Museum
- Mangalem Quarter
- Gorica Quarter and Gorica Bridge
- Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit)
- Holy Trinity Church
- Ethnographic Museum of Berat
- Osum Canyon Day Trip
- Berat’s Promenade (Bulevardi Republika)
- Winery Visits near Berat
- Berat Iconography Museum
- Holy Trinity Church
- Berat Castle
- Berat National Ethnographic Museum
- Mangalemi quarter
- Gorica Quarter
- King's Mosque Berat
- Bachelors' Mosque Berat
- 13 Best Day Trips from Berat
- Tomorr Mountain & National Park
- Bogove Waterfall
- Gramsh
- Fier
- Lushnjë
- Çorovodë
- Osumi River Gorge
- Vlorë
- Elbasan
- Tepelenë
- Librazhd
- Përmet
- Pogradec
- Where to Stay in Berat
- Best Time to Visit Berat
- How to get to Berat
History of Berat
Berat in Ancient Times
Berat’s origins date back to the 6th century BC when it was founded by the ancient Illyrians. It developed into an important settlement known as Antipatrea under the rule of King Cassander of Macedon in the 4th century BC. Positioned along important trade routes and surrounded by natural defenses, Berat became a significant stronghold. Its early prosperity came from trade, agriculture, and its strategic role in regional conflicts between Illyrian, Greek, and later Roman forces. When the Romans expanded into the Balkans, Berat was incorporated into their empire, maintaining its local importance as a fortified town.
Berat during the Byzantine and Medieval Periods
In the Byzantine era, Berat grew into a religious and administrative center. The Byzantines fortified the city further, constructing many of the walls and towers that are still visible today. Throughout the medieval period, Berat changed hands several times, caught between the ambitions of the Bulgarians, Normans, and local Albanian rulers. It became a vital part of the Despotate of Epirus during the 13th century. Religious life flourished, with the building of notable churches and monasteries, many decorated with rich frescoes that later cemented Berat’s reputation as a center of Orthodox art and culture.
Berat from Ottoman Rule to Modern Times
The Ottomans captured Berat in the 15th century, integrating it into their empire while allowing it to retain much of its distinct local character. Under Ottoman rule, Berat experienced a cultural blossoming, with the construction of mosques, theological schools, and the harmonious blending of Islamic and Christian architecture. The old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, filled with tightly packed Ottoman houses, began to take their current form. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Berat played a role in the Albanian National Awakening, contributing to cultural and political movements that eventually led to Albania’s independence. Today, Berat is celebrated for its preservation, earning UNESCO World Heritage status as a symbol of Albania’s layered history and architectural harmony.
Visiting Berat for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Berat on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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8 Best places to See in Berat
This complete guide to Berat not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Berat and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Berat Iconography Museum

Location: Berat, Albania | Hours: May - October, Every Day 9:00 - 18:00 November - April, Tuesday- Saturday, Sunday 9:00 - 16:00, 9:00 - 14:00 | Price: 200 ALL | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Berat Iconography Museum
Holy Trinity Church

Visiting Holy Trinity Church
Berat Castle

Location: Rruga Mihal Komnena 5001 Berat Albania | Hours: 9am - 6pm. | Price: 100 lek | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Berat Castle
Berat National Ethnographic Museum

Location: Lagja 13 Shtatori, Mangalem, Berat, Albania | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Berat National Ethnographic Museum
Mangalemi quarter

Visiting Mangalemi quarter
Gorica Quarter
Visiting Gorica Quarter
King's Mosque Berat

Visiting King's Mosque Berat
Bachelors' Mosque Berat

Location: Rruga Antipatrea, Berat, Albania | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Bachelors' Mosque Berat
Best Day Trips from Berat
A day trip from Berat offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Berat provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Tomorr Mountain & National Park

Visiting Tomorr Mountain & National Park
Bogove Waterfall

Visiting Bogove Waterfall
Gramsh
Visiting Gramsh
Fier

Visiting Fier
Lushnjë

Visiting Lushnjë
Çorovodë

Visiting Çorovodë
Osumi River Gorge

Location: Rruga e Kanioneve 5402 Çorovoda Albania | Distance: 33.4km
Visiting Osumi River Gorge
Vlorë

Visiting Vlorë
Elbasan

Visiting Elbasan
Tepelenë

Visiting Tepelenë
Librazhd

Visiting Librazhd
Përmet

Visiting Përmet
Pogradec

Visiting Pogradec
Where to Stay in Berat
Berat offers a variety of accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets, each providing a unique experience of this historic city.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in Berat’s rich history, staying within the castle walls is a memorable option. Berati Castle Hotel provides guests with the opportunity to sleep in a centuries-old fortress, offering rooms that blend traditional architecture with modern comforts. Another option within the castle is Hotel Kalaja, which offers spacious rooms and renowned Albanian hospitality.
In the Mangalem Quarter, known for its Ottoman-era houses and narrow streets, Hotel Vila Aleksander stands out as a 19th-century townhouse that has been carefully restored, retaining original features and traditional furnishings. This hotel offers a cozy atmosphere and is just a short walk from the old fortress. Another notable option is Hotel Mangalemi, which provides charming accommodations with a private courtyard and balconies overlooking beautiful scenery.
Across the Osum River in the Gorica Quarter, Amalia Hotel offers stylish rooms that beautifully integrate modern amenities with historical design elements. Guests can enjoy complimentary local treats like tea, cookies, homemade wine, and raki. Another option in Gorica is Hotel Kapllani, which provides authentic details and historic architecture, along with a magical dining experience featuring views of the river and Berat’s historic sites.
For travelers seeking luxury accommodations, Hotel Colombo offers lavishly decorated interiors and spacious rooms with views of the Berat castle and fortress. Another upscale option is Hotel Plaza Berat, which boasts exceptional service, clean and comfortable rooms, and a central location within walking distance to major attractions.
Budget-conscious travelers can consider Olive B&B, which offers modern and minimalist rooms right by the waterfront at affordable rates. Another economical choice is Hotel Republika Berat, providing typical modern hotel rooms with all necessary amenities at competitive prices.
For those interested in agritourism, Alpeta Agritourism and Winery offers a rustic retreat in the scenic hills of Roshnik. Guests can enjoy estate-grown wine, farm-fresh Albanian cuisine, and explore breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal choice for flavor, adventure, and relaxation.
No matter your preference, Berat’s range of accommodations ensures a comfortable and memorable stay in this UNESCO World Heritage city.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Berat. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Berat Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Berat
Visiting Berat in Spring
Spring, from March to May, is one of the best times to visit Berat. The temperatures are mild, usually ranging between 17°C and 24°C, and the surrounding landscapes come alive with wildflowers and greenery. The cobbled streets of the Mangalem and Gorica quarters are particularly pleasant to explore in the soft spring light. This is also a wonderful time to visit Berat Castle without the heat of summer, and outdoor cafés start buzzing with life. Spring brings a calm and authentic feel to the city, ideal for sightseeing and relaxed walking tours.
Visiting Berat in Summer
Summer, from June to August, is the peak season in Berat, with temperatures often rising to between 30°C and 35°C. Despite the heat, this is when the city feels most alive, with lively evenings, open-air dining, and a full calendar of cultural events. One highlight is the Onufri Art Festival, which celebrates music and visual arts in historic venues around the city, including the castle. Visitors should plan activities early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day, and spend midday relaxing in shaded terraces or beside the Osum River.
Visiting Berat in Autumn
Autumn, from September to November, is another ideal time to visit Berat. The temperatures cool to a comfortable range of 18°C to 26°C, and the vineyards and olive groves surrounding the city take on beautiful autumn colors. Harvest season brings plenty of fresh local produce to markets and restaurants, enhancing the culinary experience. The streets are quieter compared to summer, providing a more peaceful atmosphere for exploring museums, churches, and the historic neighborhoods. The clear skies and crisp air also make it a great time for hiking in the nearby Tomorr National Park.
Visiting Berat in Winter
Winter, from December to February, is a quiet season in Berat, with daytime temperatures usually between 8°C and 14°C. Snow is rare in the city itself but can sometimes dust the surrounding mountains, adding a dramatic backdrop to the views from Berat Castle. While some outdoor cafés and seasonal activities slow down, winter is perfect for visitors seeking a peaceful and atmospheric experience. The festive season around New Year brings some local celebrations and a cozy feel to the historic quarters, ideal for those who appreciate cultural exploration without the crowds.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 11°C 55°F
- February 14°C 60°F
- March 16°C 64°F
- April 21°C 73°F
- May 24°C 79°F
- June 30°C 90°F
- July 31°C 96°F
- August 30°C 94°F
- September 29°C 87°F
- October 24°C 79°F
- November 17°C 65°F
- December 13°C 59°F
How to get to Berat
Getting to Berat by Air
The closest airport to Berat is Tirana International Airport (TIA), located about 120 kilometers north of the city. From the airport, travelers can reach Berat by car, private transfer, or bus. The drive from Tirana International Airport to Berat typically takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic. There are regular shuttle buses from the airport to Tirana city center, where you can find onward connections to Berat.
Getting to Berat by Train
Currently, there are no direct train services to Berat. Albania’s railway network is limited, and Berat does not have an active passenger train station. The closest railway connection is in Durrës or Fier, but passenger services are infrequent and not reliable for tourist travel. For more information on Albania’s rail network, you can check hekurudha.al.
Getting to Berat by Car
Driving to Berat is a convenient and scenic option. From Tirana, it takes about 2 hours via the SH4 highway, passing through lush valleys and small villages. The roads are generally in good condition, though some sections may be narrow and winding. Driving offers the flexibility to explore nearby sites such as Apollonia or Osum Canyon at your own pace. Car rental is easily available at Tirana Airport and major cities.
If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.Travelling around Berat
Travelling around Berat is straightforward and enjoyable. The old town areas of Mangalem and Gorica are best explored on foot, with their narrow streets and historic architecture. Taxis are readily available for visiting attractions outside the city center, such as the wineries and Tomorr Mountain. Local minibuses (furgons) operate between Berat and nearby towns, although schedules can be irregular. For complete independence, renting a bicycle or a scooter can also be a fun way to explore Berat’s scenic surroundings.