Berat and Belshi Lake Day Tour from Durres and Golem

Tirana , Albania

Berat and Belshi Lake Day Tour from Durres and Golem

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About this experience

What makes this tour unique is the contrast it offers in a single day — living history, UNESCO heritage, and rare inland nature, all without rushing.

You move from the inhabited citadel of Berat Castle, where people still live behind medieval walls, down into the iconic Ottoman streets of Mangalem Quarter, famous for its “thousand windows” architecture and authentic local life. This isn’t a staged old town — it’s real, layered history still in use today.

The tour then shifts completely in mood as you cross the Dumre plateau to reach Belshi Lake, a calm karst lake landscape almost unknown to international tourists. Here, nature replaces monuments, crowds disappear, and you experience a side of Albania that most visitors never see.

The uniqueness lies in this balance: culture + nature, famous + hidden, vibrant city + quiet countryside — all within a short distance, making the tour rich, diverse, and genuinely memorable rather than repetitive.

Available options

Berat and Belshi Lake Day Tour from Durres and Golem

Pickup included

What's included

Castle entrance

Entrance fee

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Berat Castle is one of the oldest and most impressive inhabited castles in the Balkans, rising above the city of Berat with panoramic views of the Osum River and the famous “city of a thousand windows.”

Unlike most castles, this one is still alive — people live inside its stone walls, in traditional houses that have stood for centuries.

Why it’s special

Origins from the 4th century BC, fortified mainly in the 13th century

Inhabited citadel with narrow stone streets and old homes

⛪ Dozens of Byzantine churches and Ottoman-era monuments
A rare example where churches and mosques coexist inside the same fortress
What you’ll see inside
The Church of St. Mary of Blachernae (famous frescoes)
Traditional houses, ruins, viewpoints, and craft shops
Best visited late afternoon for views and light

Berat Castle isn’t just a monument — it’s a living piece of history, and one of the highlights of any visit to southern Albania.

Belshi Lake is one of the most picturesque natural attractions of central Albania, located in the heart of the Dumre Plateau, a unique karst area famous for its dozens of lakes formed by geological collapse. The lake lies next to the town of Belsh and is surrounded by gentle hills, farmland, and quiet rural landscapes, creating a peaceful and authentic atmosphere far from mass tourism.

With calm waters that reflect the sky and surrounding greenery, Belshi Lake is ideal for relaxing walks, photography, and short stops during a journey between Berat and Elbasan. A scenic promenade lines part of the shoreline, where cafés and small restaurants offer local food and traditional Albanian hospitality. The area is especially beautiful in spring and autumn, when colors change and temperatures are mild.

The Mangalem Quarter is the most iconic historic neighborhood of Berat and a key reason the city is known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” Located on the left bank of the Osum River, directly below Berat Castle, Mangalem is famous for its steep rows of white Ottoman houses with large windows stacked one above another, creating a unique architectural panorama.

Dating mainly from the 18th and 19th centuries, the quarter reflects traditional Ottoman urban life, with narrow cobblestone streets, stone stairways, and closely built homes adapted to the hillside terrain. Mangalem was historically a Muslim quarter and is home to important monuments such as the King Mosque and the Helveti Tekke.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Tirana

Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, is a city where Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences blend to create a unique urban tapestry. Known for its colorful buildings, lively cafes, and rich history, Tirana offers a dynamic mix of old and new that captivates visitors.

Top Attractions

Bunk'Art 2

A Cold War-era bunker turned museum, Bunk'Art 2 offers a fascinating look into Albania's communist past. The museum features exhibits on the history of communism, the secret police, and the Cold War.

Historical 1-2 hours €5

Blloku

Blloku is Tirana's most vibrant district, known for its lively nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. Once the exclusive residential area of communist leaders, it has transformed into the city's entertainment hub.

Entertainment Evening or full day Free to explore, varies by venue

Dajti National Park

Dajti National Park offers stunning views of Tirana and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike, enjoy nature, or take the cable car for panoramic views.

Nature Half day or full day €5 for cable car, free for hiking

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb and rice, topped with a yogurt and egg sauce.

Main Dish Contains dairy and meat

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, baked until golden and flaky.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Fërgesë

A hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Dajti National Park Mountain biking in the surrounding hills Paragliding near Tirana Visiting Blloku for cafes and people-watching Enjoying a spa day at a local wellness center Relaxing at a traditional hammam (Turkish bath) Exploring Bunk'Art 2 and other museums Attending a performance at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring Tirana, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. The city is in full bloom during spring, while autumn provides a warm, pleasant climate.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Italian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tirana is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas.

Getting there

By air

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza • 20 km from city center

By bus

Tirana Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Tirana. The system is affordable and covers most major areas, though it can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: TaksiTirana, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Blloku Pazari i Ri Kamza

Day trips

Berat

120 km from Tirana • Full day

Berat, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Windows,' is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore Ottoman-era houses, churches, and the Berat Castle.

Durrës

35 km from Tirana • Half day or full day

Durrës is Albania's largest beach resort, offering a mix of relaxation and history. Visitors can enjoy the beach, explore the Roman amphitheater, and visit the Archaeological Museum.

Krujë

30 km from Tirana • Half day or full day

Krujë is a historic town known for its medieval castle, bazaar, and the Ethnographic Museum. It's a popular day trip from Tirana, offering a glimpse into Albania's medieval past.

Festivals

Tirana International Film Festival • November Tirana Jazz Festival • November Tirana Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Bunk'Art 2 for a fascinating look into Albania's communist past.
Explore the vibrant Blloku district for nightlife, dining, and shopping.
Take a day trip to Berat or Durrës for a mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation.
Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek at traditional restaurants and cafes.
Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and reduce your carbon footprint.