Berat Castle: A Fortress Through Time
Explore Berat Castle: A historic fortress in Albania with stunning views, rich history, and unique architecture dating back to the 4th century BC.
Perched atop a rocky hill, Berat Castle, also known as Kala, dominates the skyline of Berat, Albania. This historic fortress, with its layered history spanning centuries, offers stunning views and a glimpse into Albania's rich past.
A brief summary to Berat Castle
- Sheshi Sallabanda 5001, Berat, AL
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the castle grounds are uneven and involve a fair amount of walking uphill.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer months.
- Take your time to explore the various churches and the Onufri Iconographic Museum within the castle.
- Don't miss the panoramic views from the castle ramparts, offering stunning vistas of Berat and the surrounding landscape.
- Engage with the local families who still live within the castle walls for a unique cultural experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Berat (e.g., Bulevardi Republika), the castle is a steep uphill walk. Follow signs towards 'Kalaja' (the Albanian word for castle). The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your fitness level. The path is mostly paved but can be uneven in places. There are no entrance fees to access the castle grounds, but individual churches and the Onufri Museum may have separate admission fees. Be prepared for a moderately challenging climb.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Berat's city center. A taxi ride to the entrance of Berat Castle from Bulevardi Republika will typically cost around 300-500 Lekë. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey. The ride takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. From the taxi drop-off point, there is still a short uphill walk to reach the main castle gate.
Discover more about Berat Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Berat
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Akropoli
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Heraklis Hotel
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St. Michael's Church
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Hotel Mangalemi
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Berat City Tours
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Church of St. Spiridon
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Church of Saint Thomas
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Lead Mosque Berat
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Saint Demetrius Cathedral
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Unmissable attractions to see
St. Theodore's Church, Berat
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Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri
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Cathedral Assumption of Saint Mary
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Sunset Spot
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Ruins of the White Mosque
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Liam Guide tours
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Holy Trinity Church
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Ruins of the Red Mosque
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Ethnographic Museum
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Berat Viewing Platform
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\ IliroThrak \ www.Ilirothrak.com
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Solomoni Jewish Museum Berat
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Kulla e Sahatit
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Essential places to dine
Onufri restaurant
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Zeri Traditional Food
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Antipatrea Traditional Restaurant & Cocktails
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Klea Restaurant
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Te Gjyshi - Hotel & Restaurant
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Taverna Lazaro
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Mbrica Restaurant Traditional Food
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Restorant Nova
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Bar Restorant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bota e Perdeve
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Ayan Khan
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Market FV
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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NoMad Bar
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Guest Bar & Pizza
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Dami Lounge
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Bar Dona
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Bar Italia
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