Berat

White Ottoman houses climbing the hillsides, a winding river, and a hilltop castle shape Berat, one of Albania's most distinctive historic cities. Known as the 'City of a Thousand Windows', it stretches along the Osum River with centuries-old neighbourhoods rising towards the citadel above. You can spend your time wandering the cobbled streets of Mangalem and Gorica, exploring the castle, or sampling Albanian food and local wine. Beyond the city, the surrounding hills and valleys offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and day trips. Berat suits you if you like history, architecture, and smaller cities with plenty to explore on foot.

1. Explore Berat Castle

Perched above the city, Berat Castle is a large fortified complex with stone walls, narrow lanes, churches, and houses still used by local residents. Wander through the citadel and visit the Onufri Iconographic Museum, housed inside the Church of the Dormition of Saint Mary, to see a collection of religious art from Albania. The elevated position also gives you views across Berat, the Osum River, and the surrounding hills.

2. Wander through the historic neighbourhoods

Head down from the castle to explore Mangalem, the hillside neighbourhood famous for its rows of Ottoman-era houses and distinctive windows. Across the river, Gorica offers a different perspective, with quieter streets and traditional stone buildings connected to Mangalem by the historic Gorica Bridge. Take your time exploring on foot, stopping at cafés and small shops along the way.

3. Taste the flavours of central Albania

Berat is surrounded by vineyards and farmland, making food and wine an important part of the local experience. Try Albanian specialities such as byrek, tavë kosi, qofte, and grilled vegetables, or sample wines from producers around the Berat region. For a change of scenery, head into the countryside towards the Osum Valley, where vineyards, olive groves, and mountain landscapes offer an easy escape from the city.