Day Tour From Tirana: Discover Berat and Divjaka

If you’re pondering a trip to Albania and want to pack in a bit of everything—nature, history, and good food—a day trip from Tirana to Berat and Divjaka might just be perfect. While I haven’t personally done this exact tour, I’ve looked into it carefully, and it seems like a well-rounded way to get a taste of what Albania offers beyond the usual tourist stops.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with cultural exploration. First, you’ll get to walk around Divjaka National Park, which promises lush scenery and wildlife sightings, including perhaps the endemic cranes. Then, there’s Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its stunning architecture and hilltop castle. And the cherry on top? A chance to relax at Belsh Lake and enjoy some local flavors with a tasty lunch.

One thing to keep in mind is the full-day nature of the trip—it’s around 12 hours, so it’s a bit of a commitment, especially if you’re not used to long excursions. Also, the tour involves quite a bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. This tour seems well-suited for travelers who want a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural sightseeing, particularly those interested in exploring Albania’s scenic routes and historic towns in a single day.

Key Points

• Balanced mix: Combining nature exploration with cultural and historical highlights makes this tour quite comprehensive for a day trip.
• Scenic views: Divjaka National Park offers lush landscapes and the possibility of seeing endemic cranes, with options like a tower visit and a boat ride for varied perspectives.
• Cultural immersion: Berat’s UNESCO-listed architecture and hilltop castle provide a unique glimpse into Albania’s past, complemented by visits to neighborhoods with charming cobbled streets.
• Flexible experience: Optional activities like a boat ride and museum visit allow you to tailor the day based on your interests and energy levels.
• Value for money: At $102, the price includes transportation, guides, and entry fees, making it a practical way to see a lot in one day.
• Relaxing moments: Coffee breaks at Belsh Lake and nice scenery during the drive offer some downtime amid the busy schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: The tour kicks off early, with a hotel pickup around 9 AM. This is a plus if you prefer to avoid the hassle of figuring out transport on your own. The drive from Tirana to Divjaka National Park takes about an hour and a half, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenery. The landscape on the way is promising, with rolling hills and rural views that hint at Albania’s natural charm.

Divjaka National Park: Arriving around 11 AM, the park is a highlight for nature lovers. It’s described as lush and green, with trails and a tower offering panoramic views. The optional boat ride costs just €3 per person, a small fee for what sounds like a fun perspective from the water. If you’re lucky, you might spot Divjaka’s endemic crane species, which adds an element of wildlife discovery to your walk.

Lunch Break: After exploring, the tour offers a chance to enjoy a local meal—highly recommended for those wanting to sample authentic Albanian cuisine. The restaurants here serve local dishes, and the experience is often described as delightful, adding a culinary dimension to the trip. This is a good moment to recharge before heading to Berat.

Berat: The Historic Gem: The drive to Berat takes about 45 minutes. Once there, the real magic begins. Berat is often called the “City of a Thousand Windows” due to its distinctive Ottoman-era architecture. The guided tour includes a walk to Berat Castle, where you can wander through ancient ruins and enjoy sweeping views over the town and valleys. Entry to Berat Castle and the Onufri Museum is included, giving you a chance to learn about its history and religious art.

Exploring Berat’s Neighborhoods: The tour also covers the neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica. These areas are famous for their cobblestone streets and traditional houses. Walking here, you’ll get a sense of everyday life in Berat and see how past and present blend seamlessly. Review snippets mention how charming and photogenic these areas are, making them a photographer’s dream.

Relaxation at Belsh Lake: On the return journey, a stop at Belsh Lake offers a peaceful moment to take a break, enjoy a coffee, and reflect on your day. The lake’s tranquil setting contrasts nicely with the more lively scenes of Berat and Divjaka, providing a well-rounded experience.

Drop-off in Tirana: You’ll head back late, arriving around 9 PM. While long, this schedule maximizes your sightseeing and ensures you get the most out of your day.

What Really Stands Out

Value and Practicality: For $102, this tour includes transportation, guide services, and entrance fees at key sites. While food and drinks aren’t included, the option to enjoy a local lunch makes the day feel complete. The inclusion of a live guide in English adds an educational layer, helping you understand the significance of each stop.

Authentic Experiences: From the scenic park vistas to Berat’s UNESCO charm, the tour offers genuine moments of connection with Albania’s landscape and history. Many reviewers praise the views and the relaxed pace, which makes the busy schedule feel manageable.

Smooth Organization: The company, Belbet Tours, has a top rating of 5, indicating well-organized trips with attentive guides. The flexibility to cancel 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later add to the convenience.

Possible Downsides

While the tour covers a lot of ground, it’s important to note the long duration—12 hours—including quite a bit of walking and driving. If you’re not used to long days on your feet, it might feel tiring. Also, individuals with mobility issues or wheelchair users may find parts of the tour challenging due to the walking involved in Berat and the parks.

The optional boat ride, while inexpensive, is not included in the main price and might be missed if you’re short on time or prefer not to add extras. Food and drinks are also extra, so budget accordingly if you plan to dine at local restaurants.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This adventure suits travelers eager to see a mix of Albania’s stunning landscapes and historical sites without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s a good choice for those with a day free to explore outside Tirana, especially if you enjoy natural scenery combined with cultural sightseeing. It’s also perfect for those who want a guided experience that makes navigating the logistics easier.

If you love photography, you’ll appreciate the scenic stops and picturesque neighborhoods. Foodies will enjoy tasting local Albanian cuisine during lunch, while history buffs will find Berat’s sites particularly captivating. However, if you’re seeking a more leisurely or less structured day, this might feel a bit packed.

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FAQ

How long is the trip from Tirana to Divjaka?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it a comfortable journey to start your day of exploring.

What activities are included at Divjaka National Park?
You can explore the trails, climb the Divjaka tower for panoramic views, and optionally enjoy a small boat ride. Endemic cranes may also be visible if you’re lucky.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Lunch is optional but highly recommended. It’s at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic Albanian cuisine.

Can I visit Berat Castle without a guide?
The tour includes a guided walk of Berat Castle, but you can explore on your own if you prefer. The entry fee is included.

Are there any age restrictions or suitability issues?
Since the tour involves walking and some uneven terrain, it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are essential, as you’ll be walking in parks, towns, and around historical sites.

Is the boat ride in Divjaka included?
No, the boat ride costs €3 and is an optional add-on.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Tirana offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see Albania’s natural beauty and historic charm in a single day. The combination of scenic parks, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and local flavors makes it an appealing option. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who enjoy a good mix of outdoors and culture without having to organize multiple days or complicated logistics.

While it’s a full schedule, the flexible options, friendly guides, and eye-catching scenery make it worthwhile. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and go with an open mind ready to enjoy Albania’s diverse landscape.

If you’re after a taste of the countryside, historic towns, and some beautiful views, this tour is a solid way to get that in one memorable 12-hour package.

You can check availability for your dates here: