How to Plan Your Private Day Trip from Tirana to Apollonia and Berat

Are you planning a trip to Albania and looking for an exciting day trip from Tirana? Then the private day trip from Tirana to Apollonia and Berat might be just what you need! This tour will let you explore the ancient Greek Roman and medieval ruins at the Apollonia Archaeological Park and take a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage town of Berat. In this guide, we will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Berat.

Experience

On this private day trip, you will travel back in time to the 6th Century BC at the Apollonia Archaeological Park. You will then explore the mixture of Byzantine and Ottoman styles at the Castle of Berat. With the insightful commentary of your guide, you will gain an understanding of what life was like in the past at the Ethnographic Museum. You will be able to capture photos of the terraced houses on the hill in the Mangalem neighborhood and see for yourself why Berat is known as the ‘town of a thousand windows’.

Tour Itinerary

Your private tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Tirana and drive you to the Apollonia Archaeological Park, which is roughly 130 km from Tirana. Once you arrive, you can marvel at the ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a library, the portico of the ancient agora, and a beautiful Ancient Greek temple. Then, you can visit the onsite museum, where you’ll see exhibitions of pictures, statues, and mosaics discovered during the excavation, and learn about the history of Apollonia. After exploring the Apollonia Archaeological Park, you will journey to Berat, which is only a 45-minute drive from Apollonia. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Albania with its Ottoman architecture and beautiful castle perched on a hill. You will first visit the Castle of Berat, which houses centuries of history and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. After discovering the Castle of Berat, your guide will take you on a walk through the Mangalem neighborhood, which is one of the most beautiful areas of the town. You will get a chance to see the traditional Ottoman houses with their bright facades and enjoy stunning views over the Osumi river. Your last stop in Berat will be at the Ethnographic Museum, where you’ll get a glimpse into the day-to-day life of Albanians in the 19th century. You will then conclude the tour with a leisurely drive back to Tirana, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.

Inclusions

This private day trip includes a guide who will be with you throughout the tour to give you insightful commentary and answer any questions that you may have. Hotel pickup and drop-offs are also included, making the whole trip hassle-free. Entrance fees to the Apollonia Archaeological Park and the Ethnographic Museum are also included.

Exclusions

This tour does not include food and drinks, so it’s essential to bring some water and snacks with you.

What to Bring

It is recommended that you wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat as the tour will involve a lot of walking outdoors. You may also want to bring a camera to capture the beautiful sites you’ll encounter throughout your tour.

Booking Information

If you’re interested in booking this private day trip from Tirana to Apollonia and Berat, you can book the tour here: book here. Keep in mind that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Book Your Tour Now

The private day trip from Tirana to Apollonia and Berat is a unique opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and culturally rich parts of Albania. With so much to see and do, this tour is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Albania. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Everything You Need to Know About Berat: FAQ Guide

Berat is a historic city in central Albania, known for its beautiful architecture, scenic views, and rich culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, Berat is definitely worth a visit. Here’s everything you need to know about Berat.

1. What is the history of Berat?

Berat has a long and rich history, dating back to the 4th century BC when it was founded by the ancient Illyrian tribe of Dassaretae. Throughout its history, Berat was ruled by various empires and kingdoms, including the Byzantines, the Ottoman Empire, and the Albanian Principality. Today, Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the city’s well-preserved Ottoman architecture and historic landmarks.

2. How do I get to Berat?

Berat is easily accessible by road from Tirana, the capital of Albania, with a travel time of approximately 2.5 hours. There are also several bus companies, such as Ruci Tours and Mali Tours, offering daily trips to Berat from other Albanian cities, including Saranda, Vlora, and Gjirokastra.

3. What are the must-see sights in Berat?

Berat is home to several must-see sights, including: – Berat Castle: A historic castle dating back to the 4th century BC, located on a hill overlooking the city. The castle is well-preserved and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. – Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods: Two historic neighborhoods in Berat’s Old Town, known for their beautiful Ottoman-era architecture and cobblestone streets. – Onufri Museum: A museum located inside the Dormition of St Mary’s Church, displaying a collection of 16th-century Albanian Orthodox Church icons painted by Onufri, one of Albania’s most famous artists.

4. What outdoor activities can I do in Berat?

Berat is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys, offering a range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts, including: – Hiking: Berat has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the Tomorr Mountain trail, the Osumi Canyon hike, and the Kallmet-Pashaliman trail. – Rafting: The Osumi Canyon is a popular spot for rafting, offering an adrenaline-fueled adventure down the river’s rapids and waterfalls. – Paragliding: Berat’s mountainous terrain also makes it an ideal destination for paragliding, with several companies offering paragliding tours and lessons.

5. What are the local dishes to try in Berat?

Berat is known for its traditional Albanian cuisine, with several local dishes worth trying, including: – Byrek: A savory pastry made with filo dough and filled with meat, cheese, spinach, or other ingredients. – Tavë kosi: A baked dish made with lamb or beef and yogurt, served with rice or potatoes. – Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, chopped nuts, and honey or syrup.

6. What is the best time to visit Berat?

The best time to visit Berat is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season in Berat, with high temperatures and crowded attractions, while winter (November-March) can be cold and rainy.

7. Where can I stay in Berat?

Berat offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular options include: – Hotel Mangalemi: A luxury hotel located in Berat’s Old Town, offering traditional Albanian hospitality and stunning views of the city. – White City Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Berat’s Old Town, offering comfortable accommodations and a friendly atmosphere. – Bujtina e Bardhe: A guesthouse located in the Gorica neighborhood, offering traditional Albanian-style rooms and homemade breakfasts.

Book Your Tour Now

Berat is a hidden gem of Albania, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. From the city’s well-preserved Ottoman architecture to its stunning natural landscapes, Berat has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, Berat is definitely worth a visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Berat

Berat, also known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” is a charming town in central Albania with a rich history that dates back to the 4th century BC. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture, ancient fortress, and stunning views of the Osum River. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Berat.

1. Visit the Berat Castle

One of the main attractions in Berat is the Berat Castle, also known as the Kala. The castle dates back to the 13th century and is situated on a hill overlooking the town. The castle is made up of several different areas, including the residential quarters, the mosque, the Byzantine church, and the dungeons. The castle is open to visitors and offers stunning views of Berat and the surrounding area.

2. Explore the Gorica Neighborhood

The Gorica Neighborhood is located on the other side of the river from the Castle and is known for its beautiful Ottoman-style houses, which are situated on the riverbank. These houses are unique because they were built directly above the river, with a bridge connecting them to the main road. You can take a stroll along the river and enjoy the beautiful views or stop for a coffee at one of the many cafes in the area.

3. Visit the Ethnographic Museum

The Ethnographic Museum is located in the center of Berat and is housed in an 18th-century Ottoman-style house. The museum has a collection of traditional Albanian clothing, household items, and tools that were used in daily life. The museum is open to visitors and offers a fascinating insight into Albanian culture and history.

4. Take a Hike to the Tomorr Mountain

If you’re up for a challenging hike, head to the Tomorr mountain, which is located about 20 km from Berat. The mountain is the highest peak in the region and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The hike takes about 6-8 hours round trip, and it’s recommended to hire a guide.

5. Visit the Lead Mosque

The Lead Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Mehmed Bey, is a beautiful mosque located in the center of Berat. The mosque was built in the 18th century and is famous for its lead-covered domes. The mosque is open to visitors, and you can take a tour to learn about its history and cultural significance.

6. Taste Local Cuisine

Berat is known for its delicious traditional cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include tave kosi (a lamb and yogurt casserole), flija (a layered pastry dish), and byrek (a pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables). The restaurants in Berat are known for their friendly service and relaxed atmosphere.

7. Go Rafting on the Osum River

The Osum River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Albania and offers excellent opportunities for rafting. You can book a rafting trip with one of the many companies in Berat and enjoy the beautiful scenery as you navigate the river.

8. Attend a Festival

Berat hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Berat National Folk Festival, the White Sunday Festival, and the Berat Wine Festival. These festivals are a great way to experience Albanian culture and traditions and are not to be missed.

9. Visit the Manastirliu Mosque

The Manastirliu Mosque is a beautiful mosque located in the Gorica Neighborhood. The mosque was built in the 16th century and is famous for its intricate decoration and design. The mosque is open to visitors, and you can take a tour to learn about its history and cultural significance.

10. Take a Walking Tour

Taking a walking tour is a great way to explore Berat and learn about its history and culture. There are several companies that offer guided tours, or you can explore on your own. Some of the highlights of a walking tour include the Castle, the Gorica Neighborhood, and the Lead Mosque.

Book Your Tour Now

Berat is a charming town with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in history and architecture, outdoor activities, or delicious cuisine, Berat has something to offer. We hope this guide has given you some ideas on how to spend your time as a tourist in Berat.