Berat Castle: A Living Fortress
Explore Berat Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient history meets vibrant culture and stunning panoramic views of Albania's 'City of a Thousand Windows'.
Perched atop a hill overlooking Berat, Albania, Berat Castle, also known as Kalaja e Beratit, is a historic fortress dating back to the 4th century BC. Still inhabited today, it offers a unique glimpse into the past with its Byzantine churches, Ottoman-era houses, and stunning views.
A brief summary to Berat Castle
- Sheshi Sallabanda 5001, Berat, AL
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the castle grounds have cobblestone streets and steep paths.
- Allow 2-3 hours to fully explore the castle grounds, including the churches, museum, and viewpoints.
- Visit the Onufri Museum to see a collection of stunning 16th-century Albanian icons.
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Berat and the Osum Valley from the castle ramparts.
- Respect the local residents by keeping noise levels down while walking through the residential areas.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Berat, such as the New Bridge, follow the road leading uphill towards the castle. The walk is approximately 1 km and takes about 15-20 minutes. The path is a steep, cobblestone road called Rruga Mihal Komnena. Comfortable shoes are recommended. There is no fee to walk to the castle, but there may be a small entrance fee (300 ALL) to enter the grounds.
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Public Transport
Local buses depart from Berat's bus terminal, located in the Kombinat suburb, to the castle entrance. The bus ticket costs around 1.5 euros. Schedules and prices may vary, so it's best to ask locals for the most up-to-date information.
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Driving
It is possible to drive to Berat Castle. From the city center, follow the road signs to the castle. The road is steep and narrow. There is a small, free parking lot near the castle entrance, but it can fill up quickly during peak season.
Discover more about Berat Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Akropoli
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Holy Trinity Church
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Berat Viewing Platform
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Heraklis Hotel
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St. Michael's Church
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Hotel Mangalemi
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Xhamia Mbret
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Ura e Goricës
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Lead Mosque Berat
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Saint Demetrius Cathedral
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Mali Partizan ( drobonik , berat)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri
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Sunset Spot
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Liam Guide tours
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Water Cistern
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Ruins of the Red Mosque
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Ethnographic Museum
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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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Rooftop View
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Berat City
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Gate of the Pasha
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Old Town Berat
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Local Guide Berat Tour
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Kantina Vila Hadaj Malinat
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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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Temi Albanian Food
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Beret family Caffe Mbrica
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Mbrica Restaurant Traditional Food
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Restorant Nova
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Bar Restorant
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Homemade Food Lili
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ELVI~Tradicional Food & Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bota e Perdeve
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Ayan Khan
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Souvenirs Shop Berat Castle
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Qendistari Berati
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Erjon
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Market FV
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Belaflor Shop
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Nelas Parfume
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Dimeljo
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mengra e Vjeter
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Traditional House / Tasting Raki and Gliko
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Elixir Cocktail Bar
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Moonlight Cocktail Bar
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Vinos Wine Bar
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Bar Shpëtimi
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Good Vibes
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Bar Café Sun
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Small Bar
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NoMad Bar
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Guest Bar & Pizza
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Dami Lounge
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Bar Te Albani
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Bar Dona
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Bar Italia
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