Your 2-Days Guide to Berat: Explore the UNESCO City from Hotel Castle Park
Berat, often called the “City of a Thousand Windows,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008—a recognition it earned for its exceptionally well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and harmonious Christian and Muslim quarters coexisting along the Osum River.
If you have a relaxing two-day getaway, here are 5 must‑visit experiences to include in your visit to Berat.
1. Wander the Mangalem & Gorica Quarters
These two historic neighbourhoods lie on opposite banks of the Osum River. Mangalem, with its cascading white houses and countless windows, earned Berat its iconic nickname. Across the Gorica Bridge (built in 1780 with seven graceful arches), you’ll find equally charming cobbled streets, little churches and riverside views that come alive at sunset.
Gorica bridge.
2. Climb to Berat Castle (Kalaja)
Perched high above the town, Berat Castle is one of Albania’s largest medieval fortresses. Inside its walls, you’ll discover still-inhabited houses, ancient churches, and the Onufri Iconographic Museum housing treasured Byzantine icons dating from the 14th to 20th centuries. Don’t miss the sweeping lookout platforms at golden hour for breathtaking views over the entire city.
The castle’s main gate.
3. Visit the Church of the Holy Trinity & Church of St. Michael
Within the castle grounds stands the 13th–14th century Holy Trinity Church, built with Byzantine and Western architectural styles. Reused columns and delicate ornamentation make it a photogenic highlight. A scenic stroll leads to the cliff‑perched Church of St. Michael in Gorica, offering serene views over Berat from below the citadel.
Church of Saint Michel.
4. Explore the Ethnographic Museum
Housed in an elegant 18th‑century Ottoman townhouse in Mangalem, the Ethnographic Museum immerses you in traditional Albanian life. Exhibits include historic furniture, costumes, crafts and household items set in recreated period rooms. It’s a perfect cultural dive into Berat’s heritage.
The Berat Ethnographic Museum is located in the Gorica neighbourhood.
5. Enjoy a Sunset Riverside Stroll on Bulevardi Republika
Take an unhurried walk along this leafy boulevard, which runs through the Mangalem Quarter. Line‑ups of cafés, stalls and occasional popcorn or roasted‑corn vendors make it a perfect spot to pause and people‑watch. Capture views of Tomorr Mountain to one side and the castle above—especially striking at sunset.
Boulevard Republika.
Berat’s UNESCO recognition underscores not just the beauty of its architecture, but the remarkable way its historic communities have lived side by side for centuries. With two days, you’ll feel the soul of this “Museum City”—full of light, history, and charm—ideal to feature for guests at Hotel Castle Park considering a leisurely stay nearby.
