Berat Castle: A Citadel Through Time
Explore Berat Castle, a historic Albanian fortress with stunning views, Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and a vibrant community within its walls.
Perched atop a hill overlooking Berat, Albania, Berat Castle, or Kalaja e Beratit, is a historic fortress dating back to the 4th century BC. Still inhabited, it offers a unique blend of history, culture, 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.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat, especially during summer.
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Berat and the Osum River valley.
- Explore the Onufri Iconographic Museum to see a collection of Albanian icons.
- Respect the local residents by keeping noise levels down while exploring the residential areas.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Berat, begin your final approach to Berat Castle from Rruga Mihal Komnena. This is a steep, cobbled road leading directly to the castle entrance. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Be prepared for an uphill climb. There are no costs associated with walking to the castle.
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Taxi
From the center of Berat, taxis are readily available to take you to the entrance of Berat Castle. The ride is short but steep. A typical taxi fare for this short trip is estimated to be between 300-500 Lek.
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Driving
If driving, follow the road signs from the center of Berat towards Berat Castle. The road is narrow and winding as you ascend the hill. There is a small, free parking lot near the castle entrance, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Local buses run from the bus terminal in Berat to the entrance of the castle. Ask locals for the bus schedule and specific stops. A bus ticket costs approximately 1.5 EUR.
Discover more about Berat Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Mary of Blachernae Church
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Explore St. Mary of Blachernae Church in Berat Castle, a Byzantine-era treasure with stunning frescoes and rich history dating back to the 13th century.
Berat
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Discover Berat, Albania: a UNESCO World Heritage city famed for its Ottoman architecture and the iconic 'City of a Thousand Windows'.
Albania
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Discover Berat, Albania: A UNESCO gem with stunning Ottoman architecture, rich history, and the famed 'City of a Thousand Windows'.
Akropoli
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Explore the ancient Berat Acropolis, a historic castle offering stunning views and a glimpse into Albania's rich past.
Heraklis Hotel
0.6 km
Experience Berat's charm at Heraklis Hotel: comfortable rooms, a central location, and traditional Albanian hospitality await!
St. Michael's Church
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Discover a medieval Byzantine church with breathtaking views in Berat, Albania. A rewarding climb to a cliffside sanctuary.
Hotel Mangalemi
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Experience Berat's history and charm at Hotel Mangalemi, nestled in the heart of the historic Mangalem Quarter.
Berat City Tours
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Explore Berat's rich history and culture with guided tours that unveil the charm of Albania's 'City of a Thousand Windows.'
Visit Albania Tour Operator (VATO)
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Experience Albania like never before with VATO - your ultimate tour operator for unforgettable adventures in Berat and beyond.
Ura e Goricës
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Cross the historic Ura e Gorices in Berat, Albania, and connect with centuries of Ottoman heritage and stunning river views.
Church of St. Spiridon
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of the Church of St. Spiridon, an Orthodox gem in the heart of Berat, Albania.
Church of Saint Thomas
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Discover the serene Church of Saint Thomas in Berat, a Byzantine-era gem offering a glimpse into Albania's rich Orthodox Christian heritage.
Lead Mosque Berat
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Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of the Lead Mosque, an Ottoman treasure in the heart of Berat, Albania.
Guide Berat: History, Art & Culture
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Explore Berat, Albania: Discover history, art, and culture in the 'City of a Thousand Windows,' a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Ottoman architecture.
Saint Demetrius Cathedral
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Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Saint Demetrius Cathedral, a symbol of faith and resilience in the heart of Berat, Albania.
Unmissable attractions to see
St. Theodore's Church, Berat
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Discover the enchanting St. Theodore's Church in Berat, Albania—a masterpiece of Eastern Orthodox architecture surrounded by history and beauty.
Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri
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Explore the artistic heritage of Albania at Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri, home to exquisite Byzantine and post-Byzantine art.
Cathedral Assumption of Saint Mary
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Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Assumption of Saint Mary in Berat, a jewel of Eastern Orthodox heritage.
Sunset Spot
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Experience breathtaking sunset views over the historic 'City of a Thousand Windows' at Berat's must-see Sunset Spot, perfect for photographers and romantics.
Ruins of the White Mosque
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Explore the historic Ruins of the White Mosque in Berat, Albania, where rich Islamic heritage meets stunning landscapes.
Liam Guide tours
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Experience Berat's history and culture with immersive tours led by local experts. Discover the 'City of a Thousand Windows' in Albania.
Holy Trinity Church
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Explore the stunning Holy Trinity Church in Berat, a serene monument of Orthodox heritage surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Water Cistern
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Explore the historical Water Cistern within Berat Castle, a testament to ancient engineering and the city's enduring legacy. A unique glimpse into the past.
Shortcut to the Berat Castle
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Explore Berat Castle: A captivating blend of history and nature awaits in Albania's breathtaking hiking area, perfect for every adventurer and history lover.
Ruins of the Red Mosque
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Discover the historical charm of the Ruins of the Red Mosque in Berat, a captivating site that showcases Albania's rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Ethnographic Museum
0.5 km
Explore the rich culture and heritage of Berat at the Ethnographic Museum, a must-visit destination in Albania showcasing traditional artifacts and history.
Berat Viewing Platform
0.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Berat Viewing Platform, where the beauty of Albania unfolds before your eyes.
\ IliroThrak \ www.Ilirothrak.com
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Explore Albania's past at IliroThrak National Museum in Berat, a city of Ottoman architecture and UNESCO recognition.
Solomoni Jewish Museum Berat
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Explore the rich history of the Albanian Jewish community at the Solomoni Jewish Museum in Berat, a captivating journey through time and culture.
Kulla e Sahatit
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Discover the historic Kulla e Sahatit in Berat, Albania, a stunning clock tower offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Essential places to dine
Onufri restaurant
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Experience authentic Albanian cuisine at Onufri Restaurant in beautiful Berat—where tradition meets taste amidst stunning views.
Zeri Traditional Food
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Experience authentic Albanian cuisine at Zeri Traditional Food in Berat – where tradition meets flavor in a family-friendly setting.
Antipatrea Traditional Restaurant & Cocktails
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Discover authentic Albanian cuisine at Antipatrea Traditional Restaurant & Cocktails in Berat, where every dish tells a story.
Klea Restaurant
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Experience authentic Albanian cuisine at Klea Restaurant in Berat – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Te Gjyshi - Hotel & Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover authentic Albanian flavors and warm hospitality at Te Gjyshi Hotel & Restaurant in beautiful Berat.
Taverna Lazaro
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Experience the authentic flavors of Albania at Taverna Lazaro – where tradition meets taste in scenic Berat.
Temi Albanian Food
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Experience the authentic taste of Albania at Temi Albanian Food - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.
Beret family Caffe Mbrica
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Discover authentic Albanian flavors at Beret Family Caffe Mbrica in Berat - a culinary delight surrounded by stunning views.
Mbrica Restaurant Traditional Food
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Experience authentic Albanian flavors at Mbrica Restaurant in Berat—where tradition meets taste amidst stunning scenery.
Restorant Nova
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Experience authentic Albanian flavors at Restorant Nova in Berat - where tradition meets modern culinary art amidst stunning views.
Bar Restorant
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Experience authentic Albanian flavors at Bar Restorant in Berat - where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.
EMILJANO co. Restorant
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Experience authentic Albanian cuisine at EMILJANO co., where every meal tells a story amidst Berat's enchanting atmosphere.
every day a birthday
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Experience authentic Albanian cuisine at 'Every Day a Birthday' in beautiful Berat—where every meal is a celebration of taste and tradition.
Homemade Food Lili
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Experience authentic Albanian cuisine at Homemade Food Lili in Berat – where every dish tells a story!
ELVI~Tradicional Food & Grill
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Discover authentic Albanian flavors at ELVI~Tradicional Food & Grill in Berat - where tradition meets taste.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bota e Perdeve
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Discover Bota e Perdeve, a hidden gem in Berat, offering a stunning array of curtains and home decor inspired by Albanian tradition.
Ayan Khan
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Explore Ayan Khan in Berat, a charming bookstore offering a rich selection of literature and a cozy atmosphere for all book lovers.
Souvenirs Shop Berat Castle
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Uncover the charm of Albania with unique handmade souvenirs at the Souvenirs Shop in Berat Castle, a cultural treasure trove.
Qendistari Berati
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Explore the rich tradition of Albanian handicrafts at Qendistari Berati, a must-visit store for unique souvenirs and cultural treasures.
Erjon
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Explore the essence of Albanian fashion at Erjon, a charming clothing store in the heart of Berat, perfect for unique souvenirs and stylish outfits.
Market FV
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Experience authentic Italian flavors at Market FV, the premier Italian grocery store in Berat, Albania offering a delightful selection of gourmet products.
Belaflor Shop
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Explore Belaflor Shop in Berat, Albania for unique clothing that embodies local culture and style, perfect for every tourist's wardrobe.
Mega Sport Berat
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Discover the best in athletic apparel and gear at Mega Sport Berat, your go-to sportswear store in Albania's charming city of Berat.
Nelas Parfume
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atlete_te_perdoura_orgjinale
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Dimeljo
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Argjendari Mika 2
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Kancelari NEAR
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Market Molishti
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Berati Gift Shop
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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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Discover the authentic flavors of Albania at the Traditional House in Berat, where Raki and Gliko create a unique cultural experience.
Elixir Cocktail Bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Berat at Elixir Cocktail Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Moonlight Cocktail Bar
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Experience the finest cocktails and breathtaking views at Moonlight Cocktail Bar in Berat, Albania, a true gem for nightlife enthusiasts.
Vinos Wine Bar
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Experience the exquisite flavors of local wines and the charm of Berat at Vinos Wine Bar, a cozy retreat for wine lovers.
Bar Shpëtimi
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Shpëtimi in Berat, where refreshing drinks and local charm await you in a stunning setting.
Good Vibes
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails at Good Vibes, the top cocktail bar in Berat, Albania.
Bar Café Sun
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Café Sun in Berat, where refreshing drinks and friendly faces await every visitor.
Small Bar
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Small Bar in Berat, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
NoMad Bar
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Discover the vibrant ambiance of NoMad Bar in Berat, a perfect blend of local charm and contemporary nightlife, ideal for tourists and locals alike.
Guest Bar & Pizza
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Enjoy delicious pizza and refreshing drinks at Guest Bar & Pizza, a cozy bar in Berat, Albania, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Dami Lounge
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Discover the perfect blend of modern elegance and traditional style at Dami Lounge, the ultimate cocktail bar in Berat, Albania.
Bar Te Albani
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Experience the charm of Berat at Bar Te Albani, where cozy ambiance meets affordable drinks in a vibrant cultural setting.
Bar Dona
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bar Dona in Berat, the perfect spot for relaxation and cultural immersion.
Bar Italia
1.7 km
Discover the charm of Bar Italia in Berat, offering authentic Italian coffee and a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.
