Berat is a city that feels like walking through an open-air museum. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” its steep, cobbled streets and hillside houses create a picture-perfect setting that’s just waiting to be explored. What makes Berat so special for city tours is its blend of historic architecture, panoramic views, and lively neighborhoods. Whether you want a quick walk or an immersive day trip, Berat offers experiences that range from intimate guided strolls to full-day excursions packed with cultural highlights. One of our favorites is the Wander Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows tour, which captures the city’s charm in just two hours.
For travelers keen on seeing Berat’s most iconic sites and enjoying local flavors, there are several types of tours to choose from. Some focus on cultural walks through historic neighborhoods, while others combine sightseeing with culinary tastings or natural escapes. Below, we’ve rounded up the seven best options, each offering a unique window into Berat’s soul.
1. Wander Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
This tour is perfect for those short on time but eager to get a real feel for Berat. It lasts just two hours, but in that time, you’ll wander through the cobbled alleys of the Old Town, soaking up views that define the city’s character. Led by a certified local guide, you’ll explore key sights like the Medieval Center and the Old Town, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Berat’s most distinctive architecture—the countless windows that give the city its nickname. It’s a cultural and walking tour, ideal for first-timers who want an authentic introduction to Berat’s ambiance without feeling rushed. The price is reasonable at $33 per person, making it an accessible way to get a taste of Berat.
Bottom Line: A short, engaging tour that hits the highlights and is perfect for travelers with limited time wanting to see Berat’s iconic architecture.
2. From Durres/Golem: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip
For those looking for a full-day adventure, this day trip from Durres or Golem offers an excellent mix of history, nature, and local culture. The trip lasts around 6.5 to 8.5 hours, covering Berat’s famous castle and the charming Mangalem Quarter. The highlight is a guided tour of Berat Castle, where panoramic views and ancient walls tell stories of the city’s past.
After exploring Berat’s historic core, the tour includes a traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic cuisine. The afternoon is reserved for a nature walk around Lake Belsh, where tranquility and scenic beauty are the stars. During a recent review, one traveler praised their guide Alfred, noting how he shared rich folklore during the castle visit and made the experience personal.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, combining sightseeing with a bit of outdoor relaxation. The value is good considering the transportation, guiding, and lunch included.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one day trip perfect for those wanting to explore Berat in depth and enjoy some natural scenery afterward.
3. From Durrës: BERAT DAY TOUR – “City of a Thousand Windows”
This full-day tour from Durrës offers a comprehensive look at Berat’s most significant sights, with a focus on its UNESCO World Heritage status. Starting with a scenic drive, the journey includes a coffee break along the way for a bit of rest before hitting the cobblestone streets.
The tour covers the Berat Castle, including a guided walk through its ancient walls, as well as visits to the Bachelors’ and King Mosques and the Havleti Tekke. You’ll stroll through the Kala neighborhood, witnessing Berat’s unique hillside architecture firsthand. The highlight for many is the opportunity to sample local raki and learn about the religious diversity that shapes the city.
This tour is priced at $130 per person, reflecting its full-day scope and detailed itinerary. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a structured yet immersive experience with plenty of historical insights, especially if they appreciate guided walks and cultural commentary.
Bottom Line: A thorough, well-rounded day tour that combines history, culture, and local flavors—ideal for those hungry for a deeper understanding of Berat.
4. Berat, Albania: Castle and City Tour with Coffee Break
If you’re after a shorter, relaxed exploration, this 3-hour tour offers a great balance of highlights in a compact package. It focuses on the heart of Berat and its castle, with a friendly guide leading the way through the old town and offering detailed commentary.
What makes this tour stand out is the coffee break at a local café, giving you a chance to soak in the city’s atmosphere and observe everyday life. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the main sights without a long commitment but still get a good sense of Berat’s character and history.
The tour’s value lies in its intimate group size and personal interaction, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a more personal touch. It’s a great option if your schedule is tight but you don’t want to miss the essential sights.
Bottom Line: A short, engaging walk that captures the essence of Berat’s old town and castle, complemented by a relaxing coffee break.
5. City & Castle Tour + Wine & Raki Tasting Experience
This full-day combination offers the perfect mix of history, nature, and local flavor. It includes a guided visit to Berat Castle, a wine and raki tasting, and a trip to the nearby Bogovë Waterfall and Osumi Canyon. The tour lasts around five hours, making it a rich but manageable experience.
What sets this apart is the focus on Albanian traditions—you’ll taste local wines, enjoy a traditional lunch, and learn about the city’s culinary heritage. As part of the itinerary, there’s also a chance to swim in canyon waters if weather allows, and the guide provides a detailed narrative that makes the history come alive.
The tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those interested in food, drink, and scenic landscapes. It’s good value considering the transport, guide, and tastings included.
Bottom Line: A full-day tour that blends culture, adventure, and gastronomy for an authentic Albanian experience.
6. Durrës City Food Walking Tour with Local Tastings
For lovers of authentic local cuisine, this 3-hour walking tour is a delicious dive into Durrës’s culinary scene. You’ll visit family-run eateries and hidden spots off the usual tourist trail, tasting traditional Albanian dishes like cheeses, meats, and regional specialties.
The guide shares stories about the city’s Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage while you sample foods that reflect these cultures. This tour is a fantastic way to combine history and food in a relaxed setting, with stops for coffee, wine, and cheese.
Ideal for foodies who want an interactive experience and local insights, it’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy walking and tasting. The reviews show high satisfaction, with a 4.9/5 rating, and the tour’s focus on local flavors makes it stand out.
Bottom Line: An engaging, flavorful way to experience Durrës’s layered history through its cuisine, perfect for foodies.
7. Berat: Discover the One on One Windows City
This 2-hour tour offers a short but detailed introduction to Berat’s most iconic sites. You’ll walk across the Gorica Bridge, an Ottoman-era marvel, and visit the Onufri Museum, famed for its vibrant icons. The tour also includes a wine tasting at the Çobo Winery, giving a taste of Berat’s culinary side.
What makes this tour special is its focus on Berat’s cultural and architectural landmarks in a compact time frame. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a guided overview rather than a full day of sightseeing. The small group size ensures a more personal experience.
This tour is suited for those with limited time who still want the essence of Berat’s history and culture. It’s also a good choice for couples or small groups wanting an intimate, guided experience.
Bottom Line: A concise, yet well-rounded introduction to Berat’s highlights, perfect for a quick cultural fix.
How to Choose Your Berat Tour
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a quick overview, the Wander Berat tour or the Discover the One on One Windows City are great options. Want a full day of exploration with scenic walks and local food tastings? The City & Castle Tour + Wine & Raki tasting offers a deep dive into Berat’s traditions.
For a balanced mix of nature and culture, the Day Trip from Durres combines historic sites with outdoor scenery. If you’d rather focus on culinary delights and local life, the Durrës Food Tour is perfect.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Berat boasts a variety of tours tailored to different interests—from quick cultural walks to full-day adventures through scenic landscapes and into local kitchens. For the traveler looking to see Berat’s iconic architecture, the Wander Berat tour offers a perfect quick fix. If you’re after a more immersive experience, the City & Castle Tour + Wine & Raki Tasting will satisfy your curiosity and appetite.
For those with limited time but a strong interest in history and culture, Berat’s compact, guided walks provide rich insights without taking up your whole day. No matter which you choose, Berat’s charming streets and historic sites are waiting—so plan ahead, book early, and prepare for a memorable Albanian experience.