Berat, often called the “City of a Thousand Windows,” offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Its scenic old town, with Ottoman-era houses perched above the Osum River, makes it a perfect backdrop for diverse tours that cater to history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike. We particularly enjoy the From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Tour, which combines a walk through UNESCO-listed Berat with a scenic stop at Belshi Lake—it’s a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights. Berat’s combination of well-preserved architecture and stunning landscapes makes it a prime choice for memorable day trips and immersive experiences.
This guide covers the best tours in Berat, showcasing options for exploring UNESCO sites, natural wonders like Osumi Canyon and Bogove Waterfall, local culinary delights, wine tasting adventures, and even off-road fun. Whether you’re after a cultural stroll or a full-day outdoor adventure, there’s something here for every interest and travel style.
1. From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Tour
This popular day trip offers a comprehensive visit to Berat’s UNESCO-listed old town, combined with a scenic stop at Belshi Lake. The tour starts with pickup from Tirana and includes a comfortable van ride to Berat, where you’ll walk through the historic quarters of Mangalem and Gorica. The highlight is exploring Berat Castle, one of the largest inhabited castles in Albania, with a guided tour that offers insights into its architecture and history. The visit to the Icon Museum of Onufri allows you to admire stunning religious art. The tour is praised for its relaxed pace, expert guides, and seamless itinerary. At around $32, it’s a great value for a full day of cultural and scenic discovery. Reviews show a 4.8/5 rating from over 2,400 travelers, emphasizing the engaging guides and the picturesque landscape. Perfect for history lovers and those wanting a balanced mix of culture and nature.
Bottom Line: If you want an accessible, well-organized overview of Berat’s UNESCO sites with a scenic lakeside stop, this tour stands out for its value and rich content.
2. Berat: Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall Tour
For travelers craving outdoor adventure, the Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall Tour is a top pick. The tour lasts about 7 hours and begins with a scenic coach ride through the Gjirokastër District, heading toward some of Albania’s most breathtaking natural spots. The real magic happens at Osum Canyon, where you’ll take a guided hike along the edge of the canyon, with chances to swim in the crystal-clear waters or simply soak in the dramatic scenery. Then, a visit to Bogove Waterfall offers the chance to cool off with a swim and picture-perfect moments by the falls. The tour includes a local guide, who brings the landscape alive with stories of the area’s geology and wildlife. Reviewers mention how “lovely the views are” and appreciate the flexibility for swimming and photo stops.
Bottom Line: If outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and cliff jumps appeal, this tour offers a rewarding escape into Albania’s wild side with great reviews and a manageable 7-hour schedule.
3. Berat Cooking Class
Experience the flavors of Albania firsthand with the Berat Cooking Class. Hosted by a local family living within the historic Berat Castle, this 3-hour hands-on experience is a delicious dive into traditional Albanian cuisine. You’ll learn to prepare dishes like byrek, stuffed peppers, and meatballs, all while sharing stories and laughs with your hosts. The class emphasizes authentic recipes and regional ingredients, providing a true taste of Berat’s culinary heritage. Reviewers praise the warmth and hospitality of the family, with comments about how “delicious everything was” and how the experience became more than just cooking—it was a social immersion. It’s especially suitable if you want an intimate experience and to take home new skills. The price offers excellent value considering the personalized service and home-cooked meals.
Bottom Line: For food lovers wanting a genuine taste of Albanian hospitality, this class offers a meaningful, flavorful experience.
4. Premium Walking Tour of Berat with Expert Guides
This half-day walking tour explores Berat’s most iconic sites in a compact 2-hour stroll. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit Berat Castle, the old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, and the Medieval Center. The tour is praised for its depth—your guide shares stories about Berat’s architecture, the significance of its Ottoman houses, and its unique layout. Guests mention that the guide “made the city come alive,” and the tour is a great way to get oriented, especially if your time is limited. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a focused, insightful experience rather than a broad tour. The 4.9/5 rating from 57 reviews reflects this.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a concise, guided overview of Berat’s must-see sites with expert storytelling.
5. Osumi Canyon Swim, Float, Explore & Bogove Waterfall
This active 7-hour adventure combines swimming, floating, and exploring in some of Albania’s most scenic water spots. Starting from Berat, the tour takes you to Bogove Waterfall for a refreshing dip, then on to Osum Canyon for a guided hike, swimming in the canyon’s deep pools and trying optional cliff jumps. The highlight is the opportunity to learn about nature, with plenty of time for photo ops and relaxing in crystal-clear waters. The reviews praise the “stunning views” and “safe environment for swimming,” making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The tour is scheduled around 7 hours, making it manageable for most travelers.
Bottom Line: For those seeking an adrenaline-filled day of canyoning and waterfall swimming, this tour offers fun, scenery, and a bit of adventure.
6. From Vlora: Zvernec, Apollonia & Berat Day Tour
Travelers interested in combining history and nature will love this day trip from Vlora. It covers three highlights: Zvernec Monastery on a peaceful lagoon, the ancient ruins of Apollonia, and the UNESCO city of Berat. The tour includes scenic drives, a visit to the castle and old town, and a generous amount of free time to explore each site. Travelers note the smooth organization and the opportunity to see both Greek-Roman and Ottoman influences in the architecture. At around $80, it offers a full day of cultural sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting an all-in-one cultural and scenic experience in one day, combining ruins, monasteries, and Ottoman architecture.
7. From Berat: Guided Winery Tour with Transfers and Tastings
If you’re a wine enthusiast, this winery tour delivers. It includes visits to Berat’s top family-run wineries, tasting three regional wines, local raki, and snacks, all in a beautiful countryside setting. The guide, known as “the Professor,” shares insights into Albanian wine-making traditions, making this both a tasting and cultural experience. Guests rave about the “high quality wines” and the friendly, educational atmosphere. The tour’s value lies in its small-group setting and authentic flavor, perfect for wine lovers or those curious about local beverages. It lasts around 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
Bottom Line: For wine connoisseurs or curious travelers, this tour offers a taste of Albanian viticulture with friendly hosts and informative guides.
8. Atv Quad Adventure Berat
For those craving a little adrenaline, the ATV Quad Adventure offers a 2.5-hour ride through Berat’s countryside. You’ll explore Velabisht River, Gjoroven Lake, and the Hills of Olives, suited for beginners and experienced riders alike. The adventure begins with a safety briefing, then you’re off on your own quad bike with guidance from a friendly instructor. Reviewers praise the “great guide” and the “awesome adventure,” especially noting how the ride offers a different perspective of Berat’s scenic landscapes. Note that the tour doesn’t include pickup, so plan your arrival accordingly.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers wanting to combine sightseeing with outdoor fun in Berat’s scenic hills.
9. Bogova Waterfall & Osumi Canyon Exploration with Equipment
For a more immersive experience, this full gear exploration offers professional equipment to explore Osum Canyon and Bogova Waterfall from inside the pools and along the river. It’s ideal for those comfortable with guided adventure activities, including swimming in deep waters and handling outdoor gear. The 4-8 hour tour provides a full day of nature, with plenty of opportunities to swim, jump, and take photos in pristine surroundings. The reviews laude the “professional guides” and the “exciting experience outside conventional tours.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers comfortable with guided water-based adventures and outdoor gear.
10. Osumi Canyon and Bogova Waterfall from Berat – by 1001AA
This full-day adventure combines Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall with scenic drives and outdoor exploration. It’s ideal for eco-minded travelers wanting to see two of Albania’s natural wonders in one trip. The itinerary includes hiking, swimming, and photo stops, with “Genti” the guide praised for his attentive storytelling. The tour emphasizes eco-tourism and outdoor activity, making it a great choice for nature lovers. The 4.9/5 rating is well-earned.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive natural experience combining canyoning and waterfall adventures, this full-day trip is a must.
11. Berat: Discover Albania with Cooking Class w/ Drink Tastings
This cultural and culinary experience invites you into a local village home to learn traditional Albanian dishes, sample regional wines, and enjoy raki tastings. Over four hours, you’ll cook, laugh, and taste, gaining insight into Albanian hospitality and regional flavors. The hosts are praised for their warmth, and the menu includes dishes like stuffed peppers and meatballs. Reviewers mention the “delicious food” and “authentic atmosphere,” making it an intimate alternative to larger tours. It’s perfect for foodies and those wanting an authentic local experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culinary travelers seeking immersive, hands-on learning combined with cultural exchange.
12. Wander Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
This short walking tour offers a quick but rich introduction to Berat’s architecture, history, and atmosphere. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore cobbled streets, terraced houses, and panoramic viewpoints, learning about the city’s unique “thousand windows” charm. The 2-hour format is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful taste of Berat’s essence. Reviewers like the “interesting and entertaining” guide, noting it as a great orientation.
Bottom Line: Best for a brief but engaging overview of Berat’s most photogenic sights and local stories.
13. From Durres/Golem: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip
This full-day tour from Durres or Golem combines visiting Berat’s castle and old town with a relaxing stop at Belshi Lake. The trip includes a tour of Berat’s historic sites and free time to explore the markets and architecture. The lake stop offers a chance to enjoy Albania’s natural beauty away from the crowds. With a 5-star review from travelers praising the “good organization” and “friendly guide,” this trip balances culture and nature. It’s well suited for those who want a relaxed day with a mix of sightseeing and leisure.
Bottom Line: A flexible, scenic day trip ideal for travelers wanting a mix of history and outdoor serenity.
14. Berat 4×4 Off-Road & Vineyard Wine Tasting
Combine off-road fun with wine tasting in this Berat 4×4 tour. Covering Berat’s hillside vineyards and olive groves, the tour gives you spectacular views while visiting Kantina Vila Hadaj for wine tasting. The 4×4 journey adds an element of adventure—traversing scenic hill roads—and offers insight into local wine production. Raving reviews mention the “fantastic hosts” and “authentic wines,” making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to combine active travel with regional flavor. Duration is around 4.5 hours, suitable for a half-day escape.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers interested in local wines and scenic drives through Berat’s lush countryside.
15. From Tirana & Durres: Private Day Trip to Apollonia, Berat
If you prefer a private experience, this full-day private trip offers personalized visits to the Apollonia archaeological site and Berat’s historic old town. The flexible schedule allows you to spend more time in each location, enjoying personalized insights from your guide. Visitors appreciate the “friendly guide” and the ability to customize the day’s activities. Ideal for couples or small groups wanting a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, customized cultural journey through Berat and beyond.
16. From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Full-Day Tour and Belshi Lake
This full-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Berat’s UNESCO sites, combined with a scenic stop at Belshi Lake. The itinerary includes walking through Berat’s historic streets, visiting the castle and icon museum, and enjoying Albanian cuisine. The trip emphasizes a well-organized experience with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation. Rated 5/5 by travelers, it’s praised for the detailed storytelling and beautiful scenery, making it a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive day in Berat.
Bottom Line: If you want a detailed, well-organized tour that covers Berat’s highlights plus a scenic lakeside stop, this tour delivers excellent value.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Berat
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. Want to explore UNESCO sites and enjoy local cuisine? The From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Tour is ideal. For outdoor lovers, the Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall Tour offers hiking, swimming, and cliff jumps. Foodies should look at the Cooking Class, which combines hands-on cooking with local stories. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the Guided Winery Tour, and adventure seekers can opt for the ATV Quad Adventure.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and guides. Consider combining a cultural and outdoor experience for a well-rounded trip or focusing on one for a more in-depth exploration.
Final Thoughts
Berat’s range of tours makes it an easy region to enjoy for history, culture, and nature lovers. For a full culture, the UNESCO Heritage Tour or the private day trips stand out. Nature enthusiasts will find the canyon and waterfall adventures particularly invigorating, while food and wine lovers can indulge in cooking classes and vineyard visits. Whatever your interests, Berat’s authentic charm and scenic surroundings promise memorable experiences—just don’t forget to book early, especially in high season, to secure your spot on your preferred tour.