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Free tour

Complete Tour Berat Historical Center: TOP PLACES TO VISIT

Duration: 2h
Languages: German, English, Spanish, Dutch
Guru: Lazzaro
Quality Verified Registered on July 12, 2023

I'm Lazzaro, a certified guide born and raised in Berat, Albania. Having many years of professional experience and also B2 level of english& italian language, I offer an in-depth exploration of my hometown's rich history and vibrant culture. I hold a Master of Science in Religious Tourism and am currently pursuing a Ph.D., specializing in Berat during the Byzantine era. Having grown up amidst Berat's ancient streets and historic landmarks, I bring a unique perspective and deep-rooted passion to every tour. Whether you're fascinated by Byzantine architecture, intrigued by local traditions, or eager to uncover hidden gems, my tours promise an immersive journey through centuries of Berat's heritage. Join me as we unravel the tales of Berat's past, from its medieval castle and Ottoman-era houses to its tranquil riverside promenades. Let's explore together, and I'll ensure your visit to Berat is not just informative, but an unforgettable experience filled with local insights and genuine hospitality.

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  • Free booking and cancellation
    Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free

Tour description

🚨WHATSAPP/ VIBER: +355695676904
PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, OR EVERYTHING ELSE 💬

List of top places in Berat that we’ll visit:

1. Old Town Berat
2. Gorica Old Quarter
3. Mangalemi Old Quarter
4. Medieval Center
5. St. Michael byzantine church
6. King’s Mosque
7. Tekke of Helveti
8. Ruins of Royal Palace of Pasha
9. Old Bridge
10. Panoramic viewpoint of windows
11. Heremit monk’s caves 6th century
12. Communist tunnels
13. St. Spyridon Church
14. St. Thomas Church


Berat is a city in central Albania known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance. Often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Windows" due to its distinctive Ottoman-era houses with large windows, Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city features a well-preserved castle, various Byzantine churches, and Ottoman mosques, highlighting its diverse historical influences. Nestled along the Osum River and surrounded by scenic hills, Berat offers a picturesque setting that attracts visitors interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.
In Berat, several key attractions showcase its historical and cultural significance that we’ll visit together:

Mangalem and Gorica Quarters: These two historical neighborhoods on either side of the Osum River are famous for their Ottoman-era architecture. Stroll through the narrow, cobblestone streets and admire the characteristic houses with their large windows.

Visiting these sites provides a comprehensive experience of Berat's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Don’t hesitate to contact for further information.

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Highlights

What will we visit on this tour?

  • Meeting point:
    Rruga Rilindja 5001, Berat, Albania
    Rruga Rilindja 5001, Berat, Albania
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    I wear a white t-shirt & a badge. Is very easy to recognise me in front of the cathedral.

  • 1
    Outside visit
    Mangalem

    Mangalem is a historic neighborhood in Berat, Albania, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and picturesque hillside houses. Often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Windows," it features a maze of narrow, winding streets, beautiful churches, and mosques, reflecting a blend of cultural influences. Mangalem is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Berat.

  • 2
    Outside visit
    Gorica

    Gorica is a historic neighborhood in Berat, Albania, situated on the opposite side of the Osum River from the Mangalem district. Known for its charming stone houses and cobbled streets, Gorica offers stunning views of Berat's skyline and features several important religious and cultural landmarks. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Berat, contributing to the city's rich architectural and historical tapestry.

  • 3
    Outside visit
    Bulevardi Republika

    Republika Boulevard is a prominent thoroughfare in Berat, Albania, known for its lively atmosphere and central location. Lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings, the boulevard serves as a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists. It provides easy access to key attractions in Berat, including the historic neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, and offers scenic views of the Osum River and surrounding hills.

  • 4
    Outside visit
    Teqeja e Helvetive

    Tekke Helveti is a significant religious site in Berat, Albania, associated with the Helveti Sufi order. This 18th-century tekke features intricate woodwork, vibrant frescoes, and a serene courtyard, reflecting the spiritual and architectural heritage of the region. It serves as a place of worship and gathering for followers of Sufism and offers visitors a glimpse into the mystical traditions and cultural history of Berat.

  • 5
    Outside visit
    Panoramic Viewpoint

    The Panoramic Viewpoint in Berat, Albania, offers breathtaking vistas of the city's historic districts, including Mangalem and Gorica, as well as the Osum River and surrounding hills. This vantage point is ideal for capturing the unique blend of Ottoman and Albanian architecture, and the scenic beauty of Berat's landscape. Popular with both tourists and photographers, it provides a memorable perspective on one of Albania's most picturesque cities.

  • 6
    Outside visit
    Kisha e Shën Mari Vllahernës

    St. Mary of Blachernae Church is a historic Byzantine church located within Berat Castle in Albania. Dating back to the 13th century, this church is renowned for its well-preserved frescoes and intricate architectural details. It reflects the religious and cultural heritage of Berat, serving as an important site for both worship and historical exploration. The church's serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a notable landmark within the castle complex.

  • 7
    Outside visit
    Holy Trinity Church

    The Holy Trinity Church in Berat, Albania, is a beautiful Byzantine church located within the Berat Castle complex. Dating back to the 14th century, it is known for its distinctive cross-in-square architectural design and its well-preserved frescoes. The church offers insights into the medieval religious art and architecture of the region and provides a serene spot for visitors to reflect on the historical and cultural legacy of Berat.

  • 8
    Outside visit
    Water Cistern

    The Water Cistern in Berat Castle, Albania, is an ancient structure used for collecting and storing rainwater. Built during the medieval period, this cistern is a testament to the ingenuity and engineering skills of the time, ensuring a reliable water supply for the castle's inhabitants. The well-preserved cistern highlights the practical aspects of life within the fortress and contributes to the historical understanding of Berat's development.

  • 9
    Outside visit
    Ruins of the Red Mosque

    The Red Mosque, located within Berat Castle in Albania, is one of the oldest mosques in the country, dating back to the 15th century. Though partially in ruins, the Red Mosque remains an important cultural and religious landmark, symbolizing Berat's diverse heritage.

  • 10
    Outside visit
    Bachelors' Mosque

    The Bachelors Mosque, also known as Xhamia e Beqarëve in Albanian, is a historic mosque located in the Mangalem district of Berat, Albania. Built in the 1820s, it is known for its distinctive architecture, featuring a single dome and minaret. The mosque's name originates from the tradition that it was funded by the donations of unmarried men in Berat at that time. It stands as a testament to the city's cultural and religious diversity, offering insights into Berat's rich historical tapestry.

  • 11
    Outside visit
    Saint Demetrius Cathedral

    St. Demetrius Cathedral, located in Berat, Albania, is a significant Orthodox Christian church. It is renowned for its Byzantine-style architecture. The cathedral serves as a spiritual center for the Orthodox community in Berat and is notable for its historical and cultural importance within the city's religious landscape.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

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Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Non suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group reservations.
Pets
Suitable for carrying pets.

What should you know?

Minimum of attendees
A minimum of 5 people is required for the tour.
Additional costs:
The tour does not require the payment of entrance fees or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you will not be able to attend the tour, please cancel your booking, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Only cash payment is accepted.
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