Berat, often called the “city of a thousand windows,” is renowned for its stunning Ottoman architecture and historic sites. But what many travelers overlook is that Berat is also a fantastic destination for wine lovers. Thanks to its fertile hills and traditional winemaking, this region offers authentic wine experiences that go beyond tasting a few bottles. Whether it’s a guided tour in a family-run winery or an off-road adventure through scenic vineyards, Berat’s wine scene blends history, culture, and flavor in a way that’s hard to beat. We particularly enjoyed From Berat: Guided Winery Tour with Transfers and Tastings for its friendly hosts and immersive experience.
If you’re curious about Albanian wine and want to explore in depth, you’ll find options for every taste—whether you want a half-day guided tasting or a full-day excursion that combines sightseeing and wine. Below is a quick overview of the best wine-related tours in Berat, each offering something unique.
1. From Berat: Guided Winery Tour with Transfers and Tastings
This guided tour offers a true taste of Berat’s wine culture, focusing on family-run wineries in a picturesque countryside setting. Over about three hours, you’ll enjoy tasting three handcrafted wines alongside local snacks, raki, and regional delicacies. What makes this experience stand out is the personal touch—visiting boutique wineries where you can meet local winemakers and learn their traditions firsthand.
The tour starts at the Visit Albania Tour Operator, with visits to vineyards where the guide, often described as “the professor,” shares insights into Albanian winemaking. Reviews highlight the quality of the wines and the engaging guides, with guests praising the “amazing” tasting and the friendly atmosphere. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic, intimate experience that combines wine, raki, and Albanian hospitality.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a guided, small-group experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and sample regional specialties.
2. Berat 4×4 Off-Road & Vineyard Wine Tasting
For travelers who crave adventure along with their wine, the Berat 4×4 Off-Road & Vineyard Wine Tasting is a standout. Starting from Berat, this 4.5-hour journey takes you across scenic hills and through lush landscapes, highlighting the region’s natural beauty. The highlight is a visit to Malinat village, known as the “village of vineyards,” where you stop for a wine tasting at a local winery.
What makes this tour special is the off-road drive in a 4×4 vehicle, giving you sweeping views and a sense of adventure. The hosts are described as “super sweet,” making you feel welcome in their home. The visit includes tasting local wines and enjoying panoramic vistas — perfect for those who want more than just a standard tour.
Guests note the experience as “authentic, friendly, and cozy,” with a genuine connection to Albanian winemaking traditions. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bumpy ride and want a mix of scenery and wine.
Bottom line: If you like a bit of adventure and authentic interaction, this tour offers both in a memorable package.
3. Berat: Traditional Cooking Class with Wine Tasting
Want to combine culinary skills with wine tasting? This cooking class in Berat is a fantastic way to dive into Albanian culture. Over four hours, you’ll learn to prepare traditional Albanian dishes with a local host, then enjoy a guided tasting of one regional wine and artisanal raki.
What sets this apart is the hands-on experience—learning recipes that locals have passed down through generations, all while sipping wine and hearing stories behind Albania’s spirits. The class is accessible and suitable for foodies or anyone curious about Albanian cuisine, with fresh ingredients and authentic techniques.
Guests rave about the stories shared and the delicious dishes they create. It’s a great choice if you want an immersive cultural experience that combines cooking, tasting, and storytelling.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies who want to taste and make Albanian dishes while pairing them with regional wines.
4. From Tirana/Durrës/Golem: Berat Day Trip + Wine Tasting
Looking for an in-depth day in Berat? The Berat Day Trip + Wine Tasting offers a comprehensive experience, starting early from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem. This full-day tour combines sightseeing with wine tasting, making it ideal for those wanting to see Berat’s highlights while sampling local wines.
The itinerary includes visits to Berat Castle, the old quarters of Gorica and Mangalem, and a guided tour with plenty of scenic photo stops. The highlight for wine lovers is a tasting at Belba Canteen, where 3-4 high-quality wines are served alongside regional snacks. The guide shares insights into Berat’s history and architecture, making it a well-rounded trip.
Guests say their guide offered “interesting historical insights” and that the tour was “really enjoyable,” with enough free time to explore or relax. It’s a solid option for travelers short on time but eager for a full taste of Berat.
Bottom line: A comprehensive option that combines culture, history, and wine, perfect for those who want to maximize their day.
5. Wine Tasting Experience at Alpeta Winery
For a more intimate, farm-to-table experience, the Alpeta Winery Wine Tasting is a two-hour tour that immerses you in Albanian wine production. Held at a family-run estate near Berat, it includes tasting three artisanal wines and two rakia varieties, all produced on-site.
What makes this experience unique is the scenic vineyard walk with guides explaining traditional methods. Paired with local finger foods, the tasting is both educational and delicious. Guests appreciate the genuine hospitality, with one saying it’s “a great opportunity to learn how traditional rakia is crafted from local fruits.”
Ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to learn about local wine and spirits while sampling fresh products, this tour offers good value for money and personal attention.
Bottom line: Great for curious wine lovers wanting an authentic, hands-on experience with local producers.
6. Berat Cıty: Lake Belshi Tour and Wine Tasting
If you’re interested in combining natural beauty with wine, the Lake Belshi Tour and Wine Tasting takes you beyond Berat to explore one of Albania’s key UNESCO sites. This full-day tour not only visits Berat Castle and its iconic sites but also offers time at Lake Belshi, one of Albania’s most scenic spots.
The highlight for wine lovers is a visit to a local winery where you’ll taste regional wines amidst lush surroundings. The tour includes walking in the old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, plus a chance to see Byzantine churches within Berat Castle. The mix of history, architecture, and wine makes for a well-rounded day.
Guests appreciate the personalized insights from guides and the opportunity to explore Berat’s architectural treasures along with regional wines. It’s perfect if you want a mix of history, nature, and tasting.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive day combining cultural sights with wine tasting.
7. Berat: Pupa Winery Tour and Tasting
At number 7, the Pupa Winery Tour and Tasting offers a relaxed, informative look into Albanian winemaking. Over three hours, you’ll tour the winery, learn about the process, and sample the region’s flavors.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to savor regional wines in a friendly setting—ideal for those interested in the winemaking process. The hosts are known for their hospitality, and reviews mention the “great flavors” and engaging guides. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to understand what makes Albanian wine special, in an intimate setting.
Guests who enjoy learning about local craft and tasting newly made wines find this tour very satisfying, especially considering its reasonable price point.
Bottom line: A good pick for those interested in the craft of winemaking and tasting high-quality regional wines.
8. Bogove’s Splendor: Waterfall Adventure & Wine Tasting
Seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and wine? The Bogove Waterfall & Wine Tasting tour is a full five-hour day out. It starts with a scenic hike to the stunning Bogove Waterfall—perfect for nature lovers who want a break from sightseeing.
After the hike, the day continues at a local winery, where you’ll sample local wines and learn about the winemaking process. The combination of a vigorous walk and wine tasting makes this suitable for active travelers. Guests mention the “beautiful hike and great wine,” noting that the experience is both refreshing and educational.
The tour includes transportation, guided walk, and time for swimming in the waterfall. It’s a memorable mix of adventure, scenery, and wine.
Bottom line: Best for energetic travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to taste regional wines afterwards.
$104 per person
9. From Durrës: Wine Tasting at Alpeta Winery in Berat
Rounding out our list is the Full-Day Berat and Alpeta Winery, a long, immersive experience ideal for wine enthusiasts. Starting from Durres, this tour combines sightseeing in UNESCO Berat with a comprehensive visit to Alpeta Winery, including tasting premium Albanian wines and aged grape raki.
It features a farm-to-table lunch and visits to Berat Castle and the old town. The guide provides insights into both history and winemaking, making it educational and delicious. The tour’s length means you get a thorough experience, good for travelers who want to indulge in local culture and wine over a full day.
Reviewers highlight the “excellent guide” and “delicious wines,” making it a worthwhile splurge. It’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule who genuinely want a deep dive into Berat’s wine scene.
Bottom line: For dedicated wine lovers and cultural explorers, this full-day tour offers a rich experience.
$154 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Berat Wine Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your interests and schedule. If you prefer an intimate, guided experience with local families, the From Berat: Guided Winery Tour is hard to beat. For those craving adventure and scenic views, the 4×4 Off-Road & Vineyard Tour offers a memorable ride through the hills. If your focus is on learning about traditional winemaking techniques, the Pupa Winery provides a relaxed, educational setting.
For travelers who want a full cultural day, the Berat Day Trip + Wine Tasting packs everything into one day, including Berat’s top sights. If combining outdoor activity and wine is your goal, the Bogove Waterfall & Wine Tour is the way to go.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, because Berat’s wine tours tend to fill up quickly. Consider your fitness level, interests, and time constraints to choose the experience that fits you best.
Final Thoughts
Berat offers a surprising variety of wine experiences that cater to different tastes. For a deep dive into local wine traditions, the guided winery tours stand out. If you prefer a rugged adventure combined with scenic vineyard visits, the off-road tour delivers. Want to combine culinary skills with wine? The cooking class is perfect. And for those seeking a full day of exploration, Berat’s cultural sights paired with wine tasting make for a memorable trip.
No matter which you pick, Berat’s wine scene promises authenticity and flavor rooted in its landscape and history. Book early to ensure your spot, and prepare for a delightful journey into Albanian wine and culture.