Visit the City of Berat

Berat is known worldwide as the "city of a thousand windows", because of the traditional houses that climb one above the other on the Mangalem hillside, creating a unique view that has made it part of the UNESCO World Heritage. A trip from Golem takes about 1.5-2 hours by car, making it suitable for a full day of exploring. Start your visit at Berat Castle, which still has residents living within its walls and houses several old Byzantine churches, including the Onufri Museum. From there, the view over the Osum River and the lower town is one of the most photographed in Albania. Head down to the Mangalem neighbourhood to walk through the narrow, cobbled streets, where small artisan shops and traditional cafés await you for a break. Don't forget to try the local cuisine at one of the restaurants with a river view. Berat is perfect for families, couples or solo travellers who want to see another side of Albania, away from the beaches, but full of history and authenticity.