Day Trips from Durres to Berat & Belshi Lake

Why a Day Trip from Durres to Berat is a must-do

Just under two hours from Durres, Berat is an easy and rewarding escape from the coast. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” this UNESCO-listed town blends Ottoman architecture, cobbled streets, and a hilltop castle with sweeping views. With transfers and guided tours included, you can experience Albania’s heritage without the stress of overnight planning.

Things to know before booking your Durres to Berat day trip

Most tours from Durresto Berat include hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip AC transport, an English-speaking guide, and entry to Berat Castle.
The trip covers the Ottoman quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, the Gorica Bridge, the medieval center with the Bachelors Mosque, and a relaxing stop at Belshi Lake.
Food and drinks are not included, so you should plan to bring your own or enjoy a meal or coffee during the lakeside break.
Entry to the Onufri Iconographic Museum is excluded and requires a separate ticket.
Children under 2 years cannot join this tour, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with little ones.
The tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible, although parking and public transport are available at the stops.
Before your trip, your guide will reach out with exact pickup details and vehicle information, so you’re fully prepared for the day.

Your day tour explained

Visitor overlooking Berat's historic old town and river.

Spend the day exploring Berat with round-trip AC transfers and hotel pickup from Durres or Golem. Tickets typically include entry to Berat Castle and guided walks through the historic quarters of Mangalem and Gorica. Most tours also stop at Lake Belshi, giving you time to enjoy a lakeside break before returning comfortably to the coast.

Recommended tour:

From Durres/Golem: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip

Highlights of your Berat Tour

Berat Castle

Step inside this hilltop fortress and wander through cobbled lanes, Byzantine churches, and homes still lived in today. The panoramic views over the Osum River and surrounding mountains are unforgettable.

Berat old town houses with traditional Ottoman architecture in Albania.

Mangalem & Gorica Quarters

Discover Berat’s UNESCO-listed Ottoman neighborhoods, nicknamed the “City of a Thousand Windows,” where whitewashed houses climb the hillsides.

Historical arched bridge spanning the Osumi River in Berat, Albania.

Gorica Bridge

Walk across this 18th-century stone bridge and capture some of the best views of Berat’s old town and riverbanks.

Old Bachelors' Mosque in Berat with hillside and traditional houses.

Bachelors Mosque & Medieval Center

Explore the heart of Berat’s Ottoman-era center, with its historic mosque, old bazaar streets, and timeless charm.

Boat on the shore of Belshi Lake with hills in the background.

Lake Belshi

Take a relaxing break by this tranquil lakeside, enjoy a short stroll, or sip coffee with peaceful countryside views on your way back.

Tips for making the most of your Durres to Berat tour

Book in advance: Reserve your spot at least a few days ahead, and if you’re traveling in peak summer, aim to book 1–2 weeks in advance as tours can sell out quickly.
Travel light: Carry only essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a power bank so you can move comfortably through Berat’s cobbled streets.
Wear comfortable shoes: Berat’s old quarters and castle involve walking on uneven stone paths, so good footwear is a must.
Plan your meals: Food and drinks are not included, so either pack your own or plan to stop for lunch or coffee during the lakeside break at Belshi.
Stay curious: Ask your guide about Berat’s Ottoman heritage and hidden stories, you’ll discover details you might miss on your own.
Capture the views: Don’t forget your camera for panoramic shots from Berat Castle and scenic photos by Lake Belshi.

Frequently asked questions about Durres to Berat day trip

How far is Berat from Durres?

Berat is about 95 km from Durres. The drive takes roughly 2 hours each way, making it an easy day trip without the need for an overnight stay.

Is Durres worth visiting?

Yes, Durres is worth visiting for its sandy beaches, lively promenade, and historic sites like the Roman amphitheatre, making it a great coastal stop in Albania.

Do we stop anywhere apart from Berat?

Yes, the tour also includes a stop at Lake Belshi, where you can take a short lakeside walk or relax with a coffee in a peaceful countryside setting.

What makes Berat a must-visit from Durres?

Berat is a UNESCO-listed city known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” You’ll explore Berat Castle, Ottoman quarters, and the iconic Gorica Bridge, giving you a taste of Albania’s history and culture in one trip.

Where does the tour start from, Durres or Golem?

You can join the tour from either Durres or Golem. Hotel pickup is included, and you’ll be contacted in advance with exact details.

Is there free time in Berat?

Yes, you’ll have time to walk through the cobbled quarters, take photos, and enjoy the city views at your own pace before continuing to Belshi Lake.

A full-day guided tour from Tirana covering Berat Castle, Old Town, and scenic Belshi Lake

Day out to Berat and Belshi Lake from Tirana with round-trip transfers in an AC vehicle. Visit central Albania’s cultural and natural gems in just one day.
You’ll get an English-speaking guide throughout the day, entry to Berat Castle, visits to Mangalemi and Gorica neighborhoods, Gorica Bridge, and free time for lunch and photos. Includes pickup from your hotel or 7 locations across Tirana.
Berat Castle: Explore the hilltop fortress with panoramic views and historic churches inside its stone walls.
Berat Old Town: Stroll through the white Ottoman houses of Mangalemi and Gorica and cross the iconic Gorica Bridge.
Belshi Lake: Take a peaceful break by the lakeside and enjoy nature in the Albanian countryside.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Berat Castle, Mangalemi and Gorica neighborhoods, and Gorica Bridge
Round-trip transportation from Tirana
Hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation or 7 designated locations in Tirana
Entry ticket to Berat Castle
Visits to Mangalemi and Gorica neighborhoods
Visit to the historic Gorica Bridge
Expert English-speaking guide

Exclusions

Snacks and drinks

Onufri Museum ticket (optional at €5 per person)

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 1 year are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
Hotel transfers are applicable to all hotels in Tirana city only. Make sure to specify the name and address of your hotel.
Ensure you arrive at your hotel lobby 10–15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure on the day of the tour.
Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 30 participants for a more comfortable experience.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A guided cultural day trip from Tirana with entry to Berat Castle and Belshi Lake views

Day out to Berat and Belshi Lake from Tirana on a full-day guided tour, with round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle from the meeting point in Tirana.
You’ll get an English-speaking live guide for the entire tour, entry to Berat Castle, liability insurance, and round-trip transfers from Tirana in a comfortable AC vehicle.
Berat Castle: Step inside the hilltop fortress and explore ancient churches, cobblestone alleys, and panoramic views of the Osum River.
Berat Old Town: Wander through the UNESCO-listed “City of a Thousand Windows,” known for its white Ottoman houses and well-preserved medieval architecture.
Belshi Lake: Relax by the scenic lake in the town of Belsh, with time to enjoy nature and take in the peaceful countryside surroundings.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Berat Castle, Berat Old Town, and Belshi Lake
Round-trip AC transfers from Tirana
Entrance ticket to Berat Castle
Expert English-speaking guide
Liability insurance coverage

Exclusions

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 3 years are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
Wait times may vary at the stops depending on the group size.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Visit Berat Castle, Lake Belshi & enjoy a wine tasting at Alpeta Winery on a day trip from Tirana

Day out to: Berat on a full-day guided trip from Tirana, with AC round-trip transfers.
You’ll get: A full-day trip with transfers and an English-speaking guide, walking tours of Berat’s historic neighborhoods, entry to Berat Castle, and a wine tasting session at Alpeta Winery in Roshnik village.
Berat Castle & Old Quarters: Explore the Ottoman-era neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, cross the Gorica Bridge, and enjoy panoramic views from the still-inhabited hilltop Berat Castle
Lake Belshi: Pause at Lake Belshi to soak in its peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by hills and scenic views of the Albanian countryside.
Alpeta Winery: Enjoy a guided wine tasting at Alpeta Winery, set among lush vineyards with panoramic views of Mount Tomorri.

Inclusions

Full-day trip to Berat and Lake Belshi
Expert English-speaking guide
Entry ticket to Berat Castle
Wine tasting at Alpeta Winery
Round-trip AC transportation from Tirana

Exclusions

Meals

Entry to museums in Berat

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 2 years are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
You will be contacted in advance by the guide with exact pickup details and vehicle information.
Arrive at your chosen pickup location at least 10–15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Wine tasting is included in the tour. Lunch is not included and must be paid for separately if chosen.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Visit Berat Castle, Gorica Bridge & Belshi Lake on a day trip with hotel transfers.

Day out to Berat on a 7-hour guided tour from Durres or Golem, with hotel pickup 30 minutes before departure and AC round-trip transfers.
You’ll get an English-speaking guide throughout the tour, entry to Berat Castle, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all fees and taxes.
Berat Castle & old quarters: Walk Mangalem’s cobbled lanes, explore the still-inhabited hilltop castle, and enjoy sweeping city and mountain views.
Gorica Bridge & medieval center: Cross the Ottoman bridge for Osum River views, then visit the medieval center and the Bachelors Mosque.
Lake Belshi: Take a relaxed lakeside stroll and pause for coffee with peaceful countryside scenery.

Inclusions

Full-day trip to Berat and Lake Belshi
Expert English-speaking guide
Entry ticket to Berat Castle
Round-trip AC transportation from Durres or Golem
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions

Entry to Onufri Iconographic Museum

Food and drinks

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 2 years are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
Pets are allowed on this tour.
Infant seats are available on request.
You will be contacted in advance by the guide with exact pickup details and vehicle information.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A full-day guided tour from Tirana covering Berat Castle, Old Town, and scenic Belshi Lake

Day out to Berat and Belshi Lake from Tirana with round-trip transfers in an AC vehicle. Visit central Albania’s cultural and natural gems in just one day.
You’ll get an English-speaking guide throughout the day, entry to Berat Castle, visits to Mangalemi and Gorica neighborhoods, Gorica Bridge, and free time for lunch and photos. Includes pickup from your hotel or 7 locations across Tirana.
Berat Castle: Explore the hilltop fortress with panoramic views and historic churches inside its stone walls.
Berat Old Town: Stroll through the white Ottoman houses of Mangalemi and Gorica and cross the iconic Gorica Bridge.
Belshi Lake: Take a peaceful break by the lakeside and enjoy nature in the Albanian countryside.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Berat Castle, Mangalemi and Gorica neighborhoods, and Gorica Bridge
Round-trip transportation from Tirana
Hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation or 7 designated locations in Tirana
Entry ticket to Berat Castle
Visits to Mangalemi and Gorica neighborhoods
Visit to the historic Gorica Bridge
Expert English-speaking guide

Exclusions

Snacks and drinks

Onufri Museum ticket (optional at €5 per person)

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 1 year are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
Hotel transfers are applicable to all hotels in Tirana city only. Make sure to specify the name and address of your hotel.
Ensure you arrive at your hotel lobby 10–15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure on the day of the tour.
Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 30 participants for a more comfortable experience.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

A guided cultural day trip from Tirana with entry to Berat Castle and Belshi Lake views

Day out to Berat and Belshi Lake from Tirana on a full-day guided tour, with round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle from the meeting point in Tirana.
You’ll get an English-speaking live guide for the entire tour, entry to Berat Castle, liability insurance, and round-trip transfers from Tirana in a comfortable AC vehicle.
Berat Castle: Step inside the hilltop fortress and explore ancient churches, cobblestone alleys, and panoramic views of the Osum River.
Berat Old Town: Wander through the UNESCO-listed “City of a Thousand Windows,” known for its white Ottoman houses and well-preserved medieval architecture.
Belshi Lake: Relax by the scenic lake in the town of Belsh, with time to enjoy nature and take in the peaceful countryside surroundings.

Inclusions

Full-day tour of Berat Castle, Berat Old Town, and Belshi Lake
Round-trip AC transfers from Tirana
Entrance ticket to Berat Castle
Expert English-speaking guide
Liability insurance coverage

Exclusions

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Food and drinks

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 3 years are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
Wait times may vary at the stops depending on the group size.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Visit Berat Castle, Lake Belshi & enjoy a wine tasting at Alpeta Winery on a day trip from Tirana

Day out to: Berat on a full-day guided trip from Tirana, with AC round-trip transfers.
You’ll get: A full-day trip with transfers and an English-speaking guide, walking tours of Berat’s historic neighborhoods, entry to Berat Castle, and a wine tasting session at Alpeta Winery in Roshnik village.
Berat Castle & Old Quarters: Explore the Ottoman-era neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, cross the Gorica Bridge, and enjoy panoramic views from the still-inhabited hilltop Berat Castle
Lake Belshi: Pause at Lake Belshi to soak in its peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by hills and scenic views of the Albanian countryside.
Alpeta Winery: Enjoy a guided wine tasting at Alpeta Winery, set among lush vineyards with panoramic views of Mount Tomorri.

Inclusions

Full-day trip to Berat and Lake Belshi
Expert English-speaking guide
Entry ticket to Berat Castle
Wine tasting at Alpeta Winery
Round-trip AC transportation from Tirana

Exclusions

Meals

Entry to museums in Berat

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 2 years are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
You will be contacted in advance by the guide with exact pickup details and vehicle information.
Arrive at your chosen pickup location at least 10–15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Wine tasting is included in the tour. Lunch is not included and must be paid for separately if chosen.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Visit Berat Castle, Gorica Bridge & Belshi Lake on a day trip with hotel transfers.

Day out to Berat on a 7-hour guided tour from Durres or Golem, with hotel pickup 30 minutes before departure and AC round-trip transfers.
You’ll get an English-speaking guide throughout the tour, entry to Berat Castle, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all fees and taxes.
Berat Castle & old quarters: Walk Mangalem’s cobbled lanes, explore the still-inhabited hilltop castle, and enjoy sweeping city and mountain views.
Gorica Bridge & medieval center: Cross the Ottoman bridge for Osum River views, then visit the medieval center and the Bachelors Mosque.
Lake Belshi: Take a relaxed lakeside stroll and pause for coffee with peaceful countryside scenery.

Inclusions

Full-day trip to Berat and Lake Belshi
Expert English-speaking guide
Entry ticket to Berat Castle
Round-trip AC transportation from Durres or Golem
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions

Entry to Onufri Iconographic Museum

Food and drinks

Ensure your entry tickets are on hand for a smooth experience.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 2 years are not allowed on this experience.
Wearing modest attire is recommended at religious or heritage places.
Drones, alcohol, sharp metallic tools or objects, food & beverages large bags are not permitted on this experience.
This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, accessible parking and public transportation are readily available at the stops.
Safety first! This experience is restricted to people with back issues, cardiac issues and pregnant people.
Pets are allowed on this tour.
Infant seats are available on request.
You will be contacted in advance by the guide with exact pickup details and vehicle information.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Day Trips

NaN

From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Day Trip

A full-day guided tour from Tirana covering Berat Castle, Old Town, and scenic Belshi Lake

Day out to Berat and Belshi Lake from Tirana with round-trip transfers in an AC vehicle. Visit central Albania’s cultural and natural gems in just one day.
You’ll get an English-speaking guide throughout the day, entry to Berat Castle, visits to Mangalemi and Gorica neighborhoods, Gorica Bridge, and free time for lunch and photos. Includes pickup from your hotel or 7 locations across Tirana.
Berat Castle: Explore the hilltop fortress with panoramic views and historic churches inside its stone walls.
Berat Old Town: Stroll through the white Ottoman houses of Mangalemi and Gorica and cross the iconic Gorica Bridge.
Belshi Lake: Take a peaceful break by the lakeside and enjoy nature in the Albanian countryside.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

9 hr. 30 min.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Day Trips

NEW

From Tirana: Berat Castle, Old Town, and Belshi Lake Day Trip

A guided cultural day trip from Tirana with entry to Berat Castle and Belshi Lake views

Day out to Berat and Belshi Lake from Tirana on a full-day guided tour, with round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle from the meeting point in Tirana.
You’ll get an English-speaking live guide for the entire tour, entry to Berat Castle, liability insurance, and round-trip transfers from Tirana in a comfortable AC vehicle.
Berat Castle: Step inside the hilltop fortress and explore ancient churches, cobblestone alleys, and panoramic views of the Osum River.
Berat Old Town: Wander through the UNESCO-listed “City of a Thousand Windows,” known for its white Ottoman houses and well-preserved medieval architecture.
Belshi Lake: Relax by the scenic lake in the town of Belsh, with time to enjoy nature and take in the peaceful countryside surroundings.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

9 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Day Trips

NEW

From Tirana: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip with Wine Tasting

Visit Berat Castle, Lake Belshi & enjoy a wine tasting at Alpeta Winery on a day trip from Tirana

Day out to: Berat on a full-day guided trip from Tirana, with AC round-trip transfers.
You’ll get: A full-day trip with transfers and an English-speaking guide, walking tours of Berat’s historic neighborhoods, entry to Berat Castle, and a wine tasting session at Alpeta Winery in Roshnik village.
Berat Castle & Old Quarters: Explore the Ottoman-era neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, cross the Gorica Bridge, and enjoy panoramic views from the still-inhabited hilltop Berat Castle
Lake Belshi: Pause at Lake Belshi to soak in its peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by hills and scenic views of the Albanian countryside.
Alpeta Winery: Enjoy a guided wine tasting at Alpeta Winery, set among lush vineyards with panoramic views of Mount Tomorri.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

8 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Day Trips

NEW

From Durres/Golem: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip

Visit Berat Castle, Gorica Bridge & Belshi Lake on a day trip with hotel transfers.

Day out to Berat on a 7-hour guided tour from Durres or Golem, with hotel pickup 30 minutes before departure and AC round-trip transfers.
You’ll get an English-speaking guide throughout the tour, entry to Berat Castle, hotel pickup and drop-off, and all fees and taxes.
Berat Castle & old quarters: Walk Mangalem’s cobbled lanes, explore the still-inhabited hilltop castle, and enjoy sweeping city and mountain views.
Gorica Bridge & medieval center: Cross the Ottoman bridge for Osum River views, then visit the medieval center and the Bachelors Mosque.
Lake Belshi: Take a relaxed lakeside stroll and pause for coffee with peaceful countryside scenery.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

7 hr.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

Day Trips from Durres to Berat

The Ultimate Day Trip from Durres Albania

Why a Day Trip from Durres to Berat is a must-do

Things to know before booking your Durres to Berat day trip

Your day tour explained

Highlights of your Berat Tour

Berat Castle

Mangalem & Gorica Quarters

Gorica Bridge

Bachelors Mosque & Medieval Center

Lake Belshi

Tips for making the most of your Durres to Berat tour

Frequently asked questions about Durres to Berat day trip

Get Help 24/7

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Day Trips from Durres to Berat

From Tirana: Berat UNESCO Heritage & Belshi Lake Day Trip

From Tirana: Berat Castle, Old Town, and Belshi Lake Day Trip

From Tirana: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip with Wine Tasting

From Durres/Golem: Berat City & Belshi Lake Day Trip