Belsh might not be as famous as Tirana or Durrës, but it’s packed with fascinating sights and unique experiences that make it a great base for exploring central Albania. We particularly like tours that combine natural beauty, such as Belsh Lake, with cultural highlights like Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For example, a full-day trip from Durres to Berat and Belsh Lake offers a perfect blend of history, stunning scenery, and local flavor []. If a more active adventure is your style, the Belsh Bike Tour allows you to see the city’s peaceful streets and scenic spots with a relaxed ride []. For those interested in culinary experiences, the Olive Oil Tour provides a taste of local production paired with tastings and snacks [].
Throughout this guide, we cover a variety of tour styles — from cultural day trips and scenic sightseeing to active biking tours and immersive food experiences. Whether you’re after history, nature, or local flavors, Belsh offers something for every traveler. Now, let’s explore each of these top tours in detail.
1. From Durres/Golem/Qerret : Berat & Belshi Lake Full-Day Trip
This full-day adventure takes you from Durres to iconic Berat, a UNESCO site famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and its stunning castle. What makes this trip stand out is the combination of cultural exploration and scenic stops—you’ll visit Berat Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the Osum River valley, then relax at Belsh Lake, where the tranquil waters and surrounding landscapes offer perfect photo opportunities. The itinerary includes a scenic drive, a traditional Albanian lunch, and free time to explore Berat’s charming neighborhoods like Mangalem and Gorica.
The guide is knowledgeable about Berat’s history and will help you navigate the city’s highlights, including the Onufri Museum. The stop at Belsh Lake provides a peaceful break before heading back, making this a well-rounded day that balances sightseeing with relaxation. With a 5/5 rating from eight reviews, it’s clear travelers appreciate the mix of history and nature here.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for history lovers who want a full day of sightseeing combined with a relaxing lakeside stop. It’s an excellent introduction to central Albania’s highlights.
2. Tirana City Tour & Dajti Cable Car Experience
At number 2, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Tirana’s vibrant city center along with a ride on the Dajti Express cable car. The highlight is the cable car itself—the longest in the Balkans—which provides sweeping views of Tirana and the surrounding mountains. During the approximately 15-minute ride, you’ll see the city from above and get a fresh perspective on its layout.
The guided city tour includes major landmarks, while the visit to Mount Dajti National Park adds an outdoor element. You’ll have time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the mountain scenery. The tour also visits Ujevara e Shen Gjergjit, a traditional spring with a guided walk, which adds cultural depth. Since the reviews highlight the scenic experience of the cable car and the scenic drive, it’s an excellent choice for those craving city sights combined with nature.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those who want a quick yet comprehensive experience, combining Tirana’s landmarks with the thrill of the Dajti cable car.
3. Belsh Day Tour: 84 Lakes & Sacred Site of Goddess Aphrodite
This immersive day trip explores the hidden natural beauty of Belsh and Dumre, with a focus on its 84 lakes. The tour starts with visits to charming villages and family-run farms, where you can taste homemade cheese and bread, giving an authentic flavor of local life. The highlight is the chance to walk or bike along the shores of the lakes—perfect for nature lovers who want to experience serenity and stunning landscapes.
The tour also includes visits to the Amfiteatri Afërdita and the Fabrik Vaji Tafani, offering insights into local traditions and craftsmanship. The schedule involves multiple stops for photos, guided tours, and a scenic eco-park with quad biking and mountain biking options, making it suitable for active travelers. The detailed itinerary shows the tour’s commitment to offering a full day of varied experiences.
Bottom Line: This tour is highly recommended for travelers who want to combine outdoor activities, scenic lakes, and a taste of rural Albanian culture.
4. Belsh Bike Tour
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the Belsh Bike Tour is a fantastic way to see the city and its surroundings. Rent a bike for a few hours or the whole day, with helmets and locks included. The tour is flexible and allows you to visit Belsh’s best spots, like local parks, quiet streets, and scenic viewpoints, all while enjoying the fresh air.
The staff is friendly and ready to give tips on routes and safety, making this suitable for casual riders and adventure seekers alike. Since it’s a self-guided experience, it’s perfect for travelers who want independence but with the reassurance of safety equipment and local insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who enjoy cycling and want a personalized way to discover Belsh’s hidden corners.
5. Belsh: Olive Oil Tour with Tastings and Snacks
This half-day tour offers a tasty dive into Belsh’s culinary heritage. You’ll visit a local olive grove, learn about olive cultivation and oil production, and then sample fresh olive oil and local snacks. The tour includes a visit to an olive oil processing factory, where you can see exactly how the oil is made—an excellent experience for foodies and curious travelers alike.
The focus on local farm visits and tastings makes this a delicious way to understand Albanian countryside life. It’s especially appealing during the olive harvest season. Plus, the small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and connect with local producers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want a hands-on experience with Albanian olive oil and local farm flavors.
6. From Tirana: Berat Day Trip with Belshi Lake
This day trip from Tirana combines the best of Berat’s ancient charm with a peaceful stop at Belshi Lake. After a scenic drive, you visit Berat Castle, walk through its narrow streets, and explore its UNESCO-listed neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica. The stunning views from the castle are a highlight, along with visits to the Onufri Museum.
The journey includes a scenic stop at Belshi Lake for photos and relaxation before returning to Tirana. With a flexible itinerary, it’s well-suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of cultural exploration and natural scenery in one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive day trip that balances history, scenic views, and some downtime by the lake.
7. From Tirana: Berat Day Trip with Castle Entry
This tour offers an up-close exploration of Berat Castle, where you can walk its stone pathways and admire the 16th-century Byzantine icons painted by Onufri. The guided tour covers the castle’s historic quarters and offers stunning vistas of Berat and the Osum River. You’ll also visit the Muzeu Ikonografik Onufri to see remarkable religious art.
The trip includes a scenic drive through the countryside, and the guides are well-versed in Berat’s history, making this a rich experience for history and architecture enthusiasts. The detailed itinerary ensures you see the main highlights, with enough free time for photos and wandering.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a focused experience inside Berat Castle with expert insights.
8. From Tirana: Berat Day Trip with Free Time and Lunch
For a longer, more relaxed exploration of Berat, this tour extends the visit with ample free time and a traditional Albanian lunch. The itinerary includes a visit to Belshi Lake and the Berat Castle, with guided tours and time to wander on your own. The flexible schedule lets you explore neighborhoods like Mangalem and Gorica at your leisure.
Travelers appreciate the balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free time. The inclusion of lunch in a local restaurant adds to the authentic experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a leisurely day in Berat with lots of personal exploration.
9. Berat & Durrës city and Belsh Lake Day Tour
This full-day tour covers both Berat and Durrës, giving you a taste of Albania’s diverse attractions. In Durrës, you’ll visit the amphitheatre and enjoy seaside views, then move on to Berat’s castle and old neighborhoods. The stop at Gorica Bridge offers a scenic spot for photos, and the day concludes with a peaceful visit to Belsh Lake.
The variety makes this tour suitable for travelers who want a broad overview of Albania’s history, culture, and coastal scenery all in one day. The reviews suggest a well-organized itinerary that balances city sights and lakeside serenity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing time across multiple highlights.
10. Full Day Tour from Tirana- Berat with Optional Winery Visit
This shorter, 4-hour tour focuses on Berat’s Ottoman architecture and the Onufri Museum. It’s designed for travelers with limited time but still wanting a meaningful experience. The highlight is the Winery Tasting included in the itinerary, which adds a distinctive flavor and cultural touch.
The tour is praised for its flexibility and the ability to enjoy Berat’s key sights without a long day’s commitment. It’s suited for travelers interested in local wine and shorter sightseeing.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for those pressed for time but eager to experience Berat’s charm and local wine.
11. Discover the Magic of Albania: 84 Lakes Scenic 2-Day Tour
For the dedicated explorer, this two-day tour immerses you in Belsh’s 84 lakes, Illyrian ruins, and local culture. It’s designed for travelers wanting an in-depth experience, combining scenic landscapes with cultural sites and authentic hospitality. Expect visits to ancient ruins, cultural landmarks, and plenty of time to relax in nature.
Reviews note that this is a “unique tour experience to be remembered,” making it ideal for travelers seeking a longer, more comprehensive adventure. It’s suitable for those able to dedicate time and want a deep dive into what makes Belsh special.
Bottom Line: Perfect for intrepid travelers who want an immersive two-day experience with scenic lakes and cultural landmarks.
12. From Tirana: Berat and Belshi Lake Day Trip
This full-day trip from Tirana combines the historic Berat with the peaceful Belshi Lake. It includes guided tours of Berat’s castle and neighborhoods, plus an optional boat ride at the lake. The itinerary is flexible, allowing time for sightseeing, relaxing, and enjoying local food.
It’s a good choice for travelers who want a balanced day with cultural sightseeing and leisure by the lake, all with hassle-free pickup from Tirana. The combination of UNESCO heritage and natural beauty makes it a popular pick.
Bottom Line: An all-around great day for those wanting cultural and scenic highlights in one trip.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your interests, budget, and time. For history and architecture lovers, a tour with castle entry (Tour 7) offers detailed insights, while active travelers might prefer the Belsh Bike Tour or 84 Lakes Eco-Adventure. Foodies should look at the Olive Oil Tour for tastings, and those with limited time can opt for shorter, focused trips like the Berat Day Trip with Free Time.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and guide. Consider weather and physical activity levels—walking tours require comfortable shoes, while biking or eco-tours demand a bit more stamina.
Final Thoughts
Belsh offers a surprising mix of cultural sights, natural beauty, and active experiences. Our top picks include the From Durres Berat & Belshi Lake Trip for a classic introduction, and the 84 Lakes Scenic Tour if you’re craving an immersive two-day escape. For a relaxed, city-oriented experience, the Tirana City & Dajti Cable Car Tour hits the spot.
Whatever your style, these tours can give you an authentic taste of central Albania’s charm. To ensure a smooth trip, book early and pick a tour that matches both your interests and energy level. Belsh’s treasures are waiting for you—happy exploring!
