Nestled between mountains and the Osum River, Berat feels like a living postcard — a blend of Ottoman architecture, stone alleys, and ancient ruins, where time moves a little slower. Known as the City of a Thousand Windows, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Albania’s most beloved destinations, and with just two days, you can fall in love with its charm, its views, and its quiet soul.
Day 1 – Old Towns, Castles & Panoramic Views
Morning: Wander Through Mangalem
Begin your trip in Mangalem, Berat’s historic core. This hillside neighborhood is instantly recognizable for its white Ottoman houses stacked one above the other, each with rows of symmetrical windows — giving the city its nickname.
Walk along the stone-paved streets, passing flower-draped balconies and welcoming locals. Here, time feels paused, and it’s not uncommon to hear the sound of roosters or smell fresh bread from a neighborhood bakery.
💡 Tip: Start at the base of the hill near the bridge and walk upward toward the castle for the full scenic effect.
Midday: Explore Berat Castle (Kalaja e Beratit)
One of the rare castles in the Balkans where people still live inside its walls, Berat Castle offers more than just ruins — it’s a neighborhood in itself. As you walk through its gates, you’ll pass children playing, grandmothers selling homemade jam, and panoramic views of the whole valley.
Inside the castle:
- Visit the Onufri Museum, located inside the Church of the Dormition of Saint Mary, to admire exquisite Orthodox icons and learn about Albania’s religious art.
- Wander the ruins of ancient churches and admire the contrast between Christian and Muslim heritage coexisting on the same hill.
- Enjoy views over both Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods and the Osum River below.
Pack water — it’s a bit of a hike, but every step is worth it.
Lunch with a View
Eat at Restaurant Onufri or Antigoni, both offering traditional Albanian cuisine and gorgeous terraces overlooking the city.
Try:
- Qifqi (Berat’s rice and herb balls)
- Tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt)
- Fresh local olives and white cheese
Afternoon: Cross to Gorica & Discover the Lesser-Known Side
Walk across the Gorica Bridge, a 18th-century Ottoman stone bridge that connects Mangalem to Gorica, Berat’s quieter side.
Wander the peaceful cobblestone streets and admire the homes facing their “mirror image” across the river. It’s the perfect spot for photographers and those seeking a slower pace.
Evening: Sunset at the Promenade
In the late afternoon, join the locals in their daily xhiro (evening stroll) along Berat’s main boulevard — Bulevardi Republika.
Grab a coffee or gelato and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.
For dinner:
- Try Homemade Food Lili for an authentic family-style meal (call ahead — it’s tiny!)
- Or go for something more modern at Ajka Restaurant on a rooftop terrace
Day 2 – Nature, Traditions & Local Flavor
Morning: Osum Canyon Day Trip (Optional)
If you’re up for a short adventure, take a half-day tour to the Osum Canyon, about 1.5 hours from Berat. Carved through limestone cliffs, it’s a stunning natural wonder where you can hike, swim, or even raft in spring.
Alternatively, stay local and visit:
- Ethnographic Museum: Housed in an 18th-century building, it gives insight into how traditional Albanian families lived, complete with original household tools and clothing.
- King Mosque (Xhamia e Mbretit): One of the oldest mosques in Albania, dating back to the 15th century, still active today.
Afternoon: Crafts, Cafés & Hidden Corners
Browse for local handicrafts — handwoven rugs, carved wood pieces, and embroidered linens are typical here. There are also a few galleries and antique shops tucked along the stone lanes.
Find a peaceful courtyard café and enjoy a glass of Albanian wine — Berat is known for its vineyards and Cobo Winery is just a short drive away if you want a tasting tour.
Evening: A Relaxed Farewell
Wrap up your stay with a dinner in the old town. The streets are softly lit at night and echo with the sounds of people enjoying their evening.
Pair your meal with Pules Berat (Berat-style roasted chicken) and toast to a city that welcomes visitors not with loud attractions, but with soul and simplicity.
Where to Stay in Berat
- Hotel Mangalemi – family-run and central in the old town
- Beratino Hotel – modern design with traditional touches
- Guesthouses in the castle – stay inside Berat Castle for a unique, quiet experience
- Budget-friendly: Lorenc Guesthouse or Green House
Practical Tips
- Berat is walkable, but wear good shoes — there are lots of cobbled hills and stone steps.
- Many locals speak basic English, but a few Albanian words go a long way (e.g., “Faleminderit” = thank you).
- Cash is king — bring enough Lek, especially for small shops and cafes.
- For transportation: minibuses (“furgon”) from Tirana run frequently and cost very little.
Berat doesn’t try to impress with flashy attractions. Instead, it charms you with authenticity, silence, history, and warmth. In just 48 hours, you’ll discover a side of Albania that feels like a timeless story still being written — and one that welcomes you to become part of it.