20 Things to do in Berat Albania

Berat is a small city in Albania that is full of culture and history. It is located on the Osumi River and is known for its castle, old town and wine.

The city has many things to do, including museums and sites that show off its rich history. The city is known for its distinctive architecture and has many historical buildings.

Berat city is a great place to visit if you are looking for a cheap holiday as it has lots of affordable things to do.

If you are looking for an adventurous trip with lots of things to do, then Berat is the place for you!

Things to do in Berat

Berat is a beautiful city in Albania that has lots to offer. The city has many museums, churches, and other attractions that you can visit while you are there.

This Albania travel guide will help to pinpoint the main areas to see when you are visiting Berat, Albania. Must-see attractions include Tomorr National Park, Berat Castle and National Ethnographic Museum.

Enjoy exploring the city of Berat and the different quarters including the Gorica Quarter and the Mangalem Quarter.

1. Holy Trinity Church

The Holy Trinity Church, also known as Kisha Shen Triadha, is a medieval Byzantine church built in the 13th century on top of Berat Castle Hill.

The hilltop castle was added as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 and is shaped like a cross with a dome. The ancient church is free to visit and gives a fantastic historical experience.

2. National Ethnographic Museum

One of the most interesting museums in Berat is the National Ethnographic Museum. Located in the centre of town, this museum opened back in 1979.

It showcases traditional costumes, jewellery, original furniture and household objects, such as wooden bookcases, wall closets and chimneys from different regions of Albania. The total number of objects has reached a large 1,300!

People who enjoy learning about different cultures will find this museum very interesting as it provides an opportunity to learn about how people lived throughout history in Albania. The price to enter is 300 lekë.

3. Tomorr National Park

The Tomorr National Park is one of the largest national parks in Albania. It is located east of Berat, was established in 1956 and covers an area of 64,000 acres.

There are many things to do and see here such as hiking trails and camping. There are several marked walking routes where you can download maps and explore them at your own leisure.

4. Birdwatching at Tomorr National Park

Tomorr National Park is a refuge for various species of birds and therefore attracts many bird watchers.

You will also see plenty of birds flying around above your head on their way from one tree branch to another, swooping down low before climbing back up again into flight once more!

Be sure to bring your binoculars if you are planning a visit to the National Park of Berat.

5. Wildlife Photography at Tomorr National Park

Tomorr National Park is not only home to many birds but also to many different species of animals. Therefore it is a paradise for animal lovers and wildlife enthusiasts as a whole.

You will be able to find animals such as wolves, wild boars and wild goats. Will you be able to photograph them?

The park is also known for its diverse species of trees, including both deciduous and coniferous varieties creating a stunning green background.

6. Hiking around Osumi Canyon and Osumi River

The Tomorr National Park is located in a mountainous region, which makes it an ideal location for hiking and camping.

Prominent features within the national park include Mount Tomorr, a mountain 2,417 metres above sea level and the Osumi River and Osumi Canyon, which is 16 miles long and 450 m in height.

The Osumi Canyon is also one of the most popular hiking destinations in Albania. It is a great place to enjoy nature and take some incredible photos!

All of these provide the perfect setting for an adventurous holiday. It is the biggest canyon in Albania and one of the most beautiful places to visit.

The hike can be done as a day trip or an overnight trip, depending on how much time you want to spend there.

7. Canoeing at Osumi Canyon and Osumi River

If there is water, there are water sports! Delve into an unforgettable adventure and take a canoeing tour.

The Canyoning in Osumi Canyon Tour is a jam-packed adventure that includes canyoning and rappelling down cliffs and past the waterfalls!

Lunch is included as the tour is a full day out and a transfer to and from Berat city is provided too, to create a streamlined and stress-free day.

7. Bogove Waterfall

A beautiful waterfall lies within the Osumi River, surrounded by lush vegetation and steep cliffs. The water cascades down into the river which has created a beautiful natural setting that is definitely worth stopping by for.

The waterfall is a great place to relax and unwind. It is an easy hike that can be done by anyone, especially those who are new to hiking. The only thing you need is a pair of good shoes and some water.

You can take tours that will help you get to the waterfall and back. Bogove Waterfall and Osumi Canyon Tour is a great example! Visit the Albanian outdoors, including Bogove Waterfall and Osumi Canyon. The environment is relaxed with stops for coffee, lunch and swimming throughout the day.

8. Berat Castle

The Citadel of Berat, with its castle quarter overlooking the town, dates mainly from the 13th century and contains many Byzantine churches in the area as well as Ottoman mosques.

It is one of the largest and most important castles in the country. Berat Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Albania because it is well-preserved and offers visitors an authentic look into medieval life in this area.

The castle is a good place to explore and enjoy the beautiful scenery around it. It is also an interesting place to visit due to its rich history and culture.

Walking around the castle’s ramparts offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside. Berat Castle has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see when visiting Berat.

9. Berat Old Town

Berat’s old town is the historic centre of this Albanian city. It is also a UNESCO world heritage site and one of only two such sites in Albania.

The old town’s streets are lined with colourful buildings and winding alleyways that lead to ancient mosques, churches and synagogues. This city contains rare examples of Ottoman-period architecture and cobblestoned streets.

To get the best views of the town, walk to the Gorica Bridge over River Osumi. Many shops sell local crafts made from silver, gold and bronze while restaurants serve traditional food.

There are many hotels and hostels within walking distance of the old town which makes Berat a great place to stay if you are planning on visiting other parts of Albania too.

10. Wine Tasting

Berat has become a popular place for wine lovers, and there are many wineries to visit! The Albanian wine industry is still a relatively new one, but it is quickly growing.

The country has a long history of producing quality wines and Berat is home to many producers. This makes it one of the best places to visit if you are interested in learning more about Albanian wine!

You can do some wine tasting at any of the local wineries or even take a tour around them!

There are many tours available such as the Wine tasting Tour in Berat Luani Winery. Kantina Luani is known to be one of the largest wineries in Albania.

It was founded during the communist time which makes it very interesting and unique. It is also a great place to visit if you are interested in learning more about Albanian wine and the country’s history.

There are many wineries in Berat, but this one is definitely the most popular!

11. Gorica Quarter

The Gorica Quarter is a must-see if you are interested in learning more about Albanian culture and history. It is located on the left bank of the River Osumi.

The area is decorated with cobbled streets, stone buildings and small orthodox churches that offer magnificent views looking back over Berat from this side—the Mangalem district included. It has many restaurants, cafés, shops and other attractions that are worth exploring near the area too.

The Gorica Quarter is a beautiful part of Berat and it is well worth exploring. Lorenc Garden Restaurant & Bar is a highly-rated restaurant here serving traditional cuisine with a great atmosphere.

12. Mangalem Quarter

Mangalem Quarter is a traditional neighbourhood in Berat that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. It is a great place to visit and explore, with many restaurants and cafes where you can eat traditional food from Albania.

Why not try some traditional cakes from the local cake shop, Pasticeri Tori. In Mangalem Quarter, you will find life and activity at every corner.

Whilst you are in the Mangalem Quarter, take a look at the grand mosques that are located here. The Sultan’s Mosque, the Lead Mosque and Bachelors’ Mosque.

Each has its own idiosyncratic design and history—it would be worth a visit to get acquainted with them all!

13. Gorica Bridge

This beautiful bridge connects the Gorica Quarter with the main city of Berat. The bridge was built in 1780 out of wood but then was rebuilt in stone in 1920.

It is said to be one of the oldest and most popular Ottoman bridges bridge in Albania. It is a very popular tourist attraction as many tourists love getting photos of themselves standing on it!

The curved arches make for that perfect Instagram photo.

14. Berat Nightlife

If you are looking for fun things to do in Berat, look no further than the bustling nightlife. Restaurants and bars are plentiful and can be found on every street corner.

You will not have any trouble finding somewhere nice to grab a bite with friends or enjoy a drink with your significant other.

The city’s nightlife is especially lively during the summer when residents find respite from the heat by heading out to restaurants and bars after work.

Some of the best places to try include 360° Terrace Lounge, situated in the Gorica Quater. The view of Berat is phenomenal and the cocktails will be flowing.

Pinocchio Bar is a five-star rated bar that serves Albanian beers and offers a relaxed evening atmosphere.

15. Best Restaurants in Berat

Berat has a lot of great restaurants to offer visitors. The city has a wide range of restaurants ranging from traditional Albanian cuisine to Italian, Greek and Japanese.

One restaurant that should be on your list is Restorant Nova. Located on top of the hill in Berat city, next to Berat Castle. It has amazing views and serves delicious food.

Antigoni is another fantastic restaurant that you should add to your list when looking for the best restaurants in Berat.

The restaurant is located in the Gorica Quarter and provides Albanian food with a Greek twist. The eatery provides views of the Ottoman-style architecture across the river.

16. The Gate of the Pasha

The Gate of the Pasha is a unique structure that was built in 1774. It is located in the city centre in the Mangalem Quarter and is made up of a stone archway.

This tourist attraction is a spot for history lovers and a quick snap for photography lovers. It is a great place to visit as you explore the city and learn about its history.

17. Berat Viewing Platform

This observation deck is located on the top of Berat hill. It overlooks the river and the Gorica Bridge and Gorica Quarter.

Gain access via a hiking trail that starts St. Michael’s Church. Enjoy a vigorous walk, followed by stunning views of the city below.

18. Take a Food Tour

On this half-day guided tour, see the best Berat has to offer and learn about its people. Arrive early at a local family’s home where they will cook you lunch!

Sample traditional Albanian cuisine and chat with the family while you enjoy their hospitality. The city & food tour of Berat is an excellent way to feel the culture of Albania and get a sense of real life in the country.

19. Visit Tirana

The capital of Albania is a bustling city with endless things to do. The city is a two-hour drive from Berat and is definitely worth visiting.

The city is full of museums, galleries and historical sites. One of the most popular things to do in Tirana is to visit the sculpture Reja – The Cloud, the main city square named Skanderbeg Square and medieval Tirana Castle.

20. Visit Fier

Fier is the seventh largest city in Albania and is known for its rich history and culture. The city is also known for its beautiful sights, including the Apollonia, Seman beach and The Bylis Archaeological Park.

Fier has a lot to offer tourists, including museums, churches and many other historical sites. Being only an hour’s car journey away, you can easily spend a whole day in Fier and tick this city off your Albanian list too.

Conclusion

Berat is a fascinating city in Albania and it has many things to do. Berat attractions are fun for all the family, such as visiting the castle, which was built back in the 13th century.

There are also many wineries where you can taste wine, which is one of the most popular things to do in Berat. If you want to see nature while you are there, do not miss visiting Tomorr National Park!

This park is very beautiful and there are many other sights nearby that will make your trip worth it. Berat nightlife is also very popular because there are many bars and clubs where you can go out with friends or meet new people.

All in all, Berat is a great place to visit and has plenty of things to do!

Recommended tours in Berat

• Bogova Waterfall and Osumi Canyon tour
• Pearls of Albania tour in eight days (3 UNESCO sites)
• Private Day Tour of Berat and Durres from Tirana
• Berat | History & Local Food
• Entertaining Cooking Class in Berat, Albania

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