Berat, often called the “City of a Thousand Windows,” offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, dramatic hillside setting, and UNESCO World Heritage designation make it a must-visit in Albania. For travelers looking to explore Berat beyond just wandering its cobbled streets, a guided tour adds depth and context—whether you’re into history, wine tasting, or outdoor adventures. We really like tours that mix cultural discovery with authentic local experiences, such as the Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Tour, which combines city highlights with a scenic lake stop. Or, if you’re after something more active, the Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall Tour offers stunning nature, hiking, and even swimming. For a hands-on cultural experience, the Berat Cooking Class lets you learn Albanian recipes directly from a local family.
Berat is teeming with options that cater to different interests and energy levels. This list covers walking tours, adventure excursions, culinary experiences, and outdoor explorations—each with their own flavor of what makes Berat special. Whether you want to walk through medieval alleyways, paddle in a canyon, or sip wine in scenic vineyards, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
1. From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Tour
With a solid 4.8 out of 5 based on over 2,400 reviews, this day trip from Tirana offers a comprehensive look at Berat’s highlights. The tour takes you through the old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, along with a guided visit to Berat Castle, one of the largest inhabited castles in Albania. The highlight is the scenic stop at Belsh Lake, perfect for photos and relaxing in nature. The tour balances cultural insights with leisurely stops, making it ideal for first-timers and those wanting a relaxed yet informative experience. For around $32, it’s excellent value, especially considering the roughly 10-hour itinerary that includes pickup, transportation, and guided city walks. Reviewers love the guide’s depth of knowledge and the scenic variety, making this tour a top choice for those wanting both UNESCO history and a touch of countryside.
Bottom Line: A great all-rounder for those wanting a full day of cultural sights and scenic stops without breaking the bank.
2. Berat: Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall Tour
This 7-hour adventure scores 4.8/5 from 180 reviews, perfect for outdoor lovers. The tour combines a visit to Osum Canyon, where you’ll walk, hike, and swim in crystal-clear waters, with a stop at Bogove Waterfall, where you can cool off in natural pools. The guided aspect ensures safety and insight, with plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the landscape. Reviewers praise the guide Soni for his flexibility and local knowledge, and many comment on how the natural scenery is “lovely” and “wonderful.” This trip is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind some walking and swimming, and it’s a good way to experience Albania’s dramatic landscapes.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a full immersion into nature, with opportunities to swim, hike, and relax in stunning outdoor settings.
3. Berat Cooking Class
For a 3-hour hands-on experience, this highly-rated class (4.9/5 from 85 reviews) offers an authentic look at Albanian cuisine. Hosted by a local family living within Berat Castle, the class is intimate and friendly. You’ll learn to cook traditional dishes like byrek, stuffed peppers, and meatballs, while chatting about local ingredients and customs. Guests consistently praise the warm hospitality and the delicious results. It’s ideal for food lovers and those wanting to connect with local culture through cooking. The class’s small size makes it personal, and the intimate setting inside Berat Castle adds a unique charm. Many say the experience is as much about the stories and conversations as the food itself.
Bottom Line: An engaging, authentic way to taste Albanian flavors and meet locals in a charming setting.
4. Osumi Canyon Swim, Float, Explore & Bogove Waterfall
This 7-hour outdoor tour is rated 4.8/5 by 79 reviews. It emphasizes active exploration—swimming in mountain pools, floating in the canyon, and possibly jumping from cliffs when conditions are safe. The visit to Bogove Waterfall is a highlight, with opportunities to swim and relax in pristine nature. The guided walk through Osum Canyon offers scenic views and photo ops, with plenty of time in the water to refresh. The tour is suitable for adventurous travelers who enjoy hiking and swimming, with safety and fun clearly prioritized. Reviewers love the guides’ knowledge and the chance to experience Albania’s scenic wild side.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers seeking a full day of outdoor fun, water adventures, and superb scenery.
5. Premium Walking Tour of Berat with Expert Guides
This 2-hour tour scores 4.9/5 from 57 reviews. It offers a focused exploration of Berat’s highlights, including Berat Castle, the Medieval Center, and the charming Mangalem and Gorica districts. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour dives into Berat’s architecture, history, and stories, making it perfect for history enthusiasts or those on a tight schedule who want a thorough overview. Reviewers note the guide’s expertise and engaging storytelling, which brings the city’s layers to life. The short duration makes it suitable for travelers with limited time but still wanting a meaningful experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a concise, expertly guided introduction to Berat’s top sights.
6. From Vlora: Zvernec, Apollonia & Berat Day Tour
Rated 5/5 from 27 reviews and lasting about 10 hours, this tour combines historical and cultural highlights. It begins with a peaceful visit to Zvernec Monastery on a lagoon island, then moves to the ancient city of Apollonia, a key Greek and Roman site. The final stop is Berat itself, with guided walks through its historic center. This tour offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing, mixing nature, archaeology, and city exploration. It’s ideal for travelers with a full day to spare who want a well-rounded Albanian experience. Reviewers appreciate the smooth organization and the variety of sites visited.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and culture lovers who want a full, well-organized day trip from Vlora.
7. From Berat: Guided Winery Tour with Transfers and Tastings
For around $80, this 3-hour tour offers a delightful taste of Berat’s wine culture. The guide takes you through local family-run wineries, where you’ll taste three wines and regional raki, paired with local snacks. The guide’s knowledge about Berat’s wine traditions makes this tour stand out, and many reviews praise the friendly hosts and quality wines. It’s suitable for wine lovers or those curious about Albanian spirits. The scenic countryside setting adds to the experience, making it a relaxing and flavorful outing. The tour provides good value considering the quality of tastings and the personal insight into Berat’s wine-making process.
Bottom Line: An outstanding choice for wine enthusiasts seeking authentic, local flavors with a scenic backdrop.
8. Atv Quad Adventure Berat
Rated 4.8/5 from 39 reviews, this 2.5-hour adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers. It takes you through the Velabisht River, Gjoroven Lake, and Olive Hills, with options suitable for beginners and experienced quad riders. The tour includes a safety briefing and a scenic ride through Berat’s countryside. Many reviewers mention how fun and exhilarating the experience is, especially if you enjoy off-road riding and panoramic views. It’s best for active travelers who want a break from city sightseeing but still want to see Berat from a different perspective. Note that no pickup is included, so plan accordingly.
Bottom Line: A lively, outdoor activity that combines scenery with adrenaline, suited for those up for some speed and dust.
9. Bogova Waterfall & Osumi Canyon Exploration with Equipment
This 4 to 8-hour tour scores 4.4/5 from 90 reviews, offering a more intensive adventure. With professional gear, you’ll explore Osum Canyon’s ecosystems and swim in deep pools or chase waterfalls like Bogova. The guided trips suit those comfortable with physical activity and looking for a more immersive experience. Reviews mention the “incredible” guide and the “beautiful” scenery, making it clear this is for active travelers who want to be in the water and on the trail. Bring swimwear, towel, and hiking shoes for full enjoyment.
Bottom Line: For travelers craving a more challenging, equipment-assisted adventure to see Albania’s wild side.
10. Berat: Discover Albania with Cooking Class w/ Drink Tastings
This 4-hour class scores a perfect 5/5 from 12 reviews. Hosted in a village home, it combines cooking, wine tasting, and raki sampling. You’ll learn to prepare dishes like byrek and stuffed peppers, then taste local wines and spirits. Many guests highlight the warm hospitality and the chance to learn about Albanian cuisine firsthand. It’s perfect for foodies or travelers who want a relaxed, hands-on cultural experience. The setting inside Berat’s countryside adds authenticity, and the social aspect is highly praised.
Bottom Line: A cozy, authentic culinary experience that combines cooking with local drinks and warm conversations.
11. Osumi Canyon and Bogova Waterfall from Berat – by 1001AA
Rated 4.9/5, this 7-hour trip takes you through Osum Canyon and Bogova Waterfall, focusing on outdoor eco-tourism. The itinerary includes hikes, swimming, and photo stops, with attentive guides like Genti. The review quotes mention the “incredible” guide and the “beautiful” scenery, making it clear this is a top pick for nature lovers. It’s best for travelers who enjoy mild physical activity and want a scenic, peaceful day immersed in nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-conscious travelers seeking a full day of scenic outdoor activities and relaxation.
12. Wander Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
This short 2-hour tour scores a perfect 5/5 for its focus on Berat’s medieval streets and panoramic views. Led by a certified local guide, you’ll walk through the Old Town and get a personal look at Berat’s architecture and history. It’s suited for those with limited time but wanting an authentic, insider’s perspective. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s engaging storytelling and the chance to see Berat’s most photogenic spots with ease.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a quick but meaningful introduction to Berat’s charm.
13. From Berat: Osumi Canyons Rafting/Kayak / River Tubing
This 4.5- to 8-hour tour offers a mix of rafting, kayaking, and river tubing in the Osum Canyon, with options depending on the season. Rated 4.2/5, it emphasizes safety and legend-filled guides. Rafting past waterfalls and cliffs provides a thrilling experience for active water sports enthusiasts. Reviewers love the “top safety standards” and the “awesome” scenery, especially during the rafting season. Be prepared for a physically demanding adventure suited for those comfortable on the water.
Bottom Line: The best choice for water adventure lovers wanting a full-day outing with expert guides.
14. From Durres/Golem: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip
This 6.5 to 8.5-hour day trip is perfect for those wanting to explore Berat’s castles, old quarters, and enjoy a lake walk at Belshi. Recent reviews highlight the informative guide and the opportunity to combine city sightseeing with natural scenery. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a balanced mix of history, culture, and nature in a single day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded option that combines the best of Berat’s city and countryside.
15. Berat 4×4 Off-Road & Vineyard Wine Tasting
For wine lovers, this 4.5-hour tour in Berat’s countryside offers a rugged 4×4 ride through hills and Malinat village, ending with tastings of local wines and spirits. The scenic drive and visits to Kantina Vila Hadaj make it distinctive. Reviewers mention the “scenic drive” and the “warm hosts”, providing a genuine local experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of adventure along with tasting regional wines.
Bottom Line: A unique, off-road wine experience for those seeking scenic vistas and authentic tastings.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Berat
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, physical fitness, interests, and how much time you have. If your main goal is to absorb Berat’s history and architecture, the Premium Walking Tour or the UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Tour are great picks. For outdoor lovers, the Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall Tour offers a full day of hiking and swimming, while adventure seekers might prefer the ATV Quad Tour or rafting excursions. Foodies should definitely check out the Cooking Classes, which combine local flavors with warm hospitality. For wine enthusiasts, the Guided Winery Tour combines scenic drives with tastings.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and avoid missing out on popular activities like the canyon trips or culinary experiences.
Final Thoughts
Berat’s diversity of tours means there’s something for every traveler. History buffs will appreciate the UNESCO heritage walks, while adventure seekers will love the Osum Canyon trips or quad biking. Foodies and wine lovers will enjoy the cooking classes and vineyard tours, adding flavor to their trip. Whether you’re short on time or planning a full-day exploration, Berat’s tours promise a memorable mix of culture, nature, and genuine Albanian hospitality. We recommend booking early, especially for the most popular experiences, and choosing a tour that fits your energy level and interests. Whatever your style, Berat is ready to welcome you with open arms and plenty of things to discover.
