This two-day tour program of Berat and Gjirokastra combines two of the best sites in Southern Albania, both on the UNESCO world heritage list and both with their own charm.Berat and Gjirokaster are destinations that transcend the ordinary, inviting you to embark on a captivating journey through history and architecture. With their timeless beauty, rich heritage, and unparalleled charm, these two extraordinary cities offer an unforgettable experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.

Day 1

Tirana- Gjirokastra

Our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel in Tirana. Our main destination for today is Gjirokaster, also known as “The Stone City”, part of UNESCO World heritage sites. The Stone City is situated in Southern Albania on the eastern side of mountain “Mali i Gjere”. Gjirokastra resembles a fortified city where every single house is like a small fortress. The origin of the city starts with the castle of Gjirokastra, built in IV century A.D., and is considered as one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Balkans. Every five years Gjirokastra becomes the capital of the Albanian folklore and traditional music, where passionate folklore ensembles gather in the “stone city” and perform their traditional music, dances and show off their costumes. Right before entering the castle of Gjirokastra you would have to pass by the medieval bazar. The atmospheric old town cascading down in graceful hill crammed with beautiful narrowed stone decorated streets, where you will be amazed by the wide variety of handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. We will visit one of the best-preserved houses of Gjirokastra, where everything is totally original and authentic. Overnight in Gjirokastra.

Day 2

Gjirokastra-Berat- Tirana

Our next destination after breakfast is Berat, known as the town of 1001 windows, part of UNESCO world heritage. Walking through the narrowed stone streets offers a fantastic view of the medieval old houses, with windows that seem to stand on top of each other. The city’s life began in the 6th-5th century B.C. as an Illyrian settlement. Later, in the 3rd century B.C., it was turned into a castle city known as Antipatrea. Uniquely today, residents still live inside of the castle walls. Berat has it all; a beautiful medieval castle, ancient churches and mosques, a lively lower town consisting of grand old houses draped on steep hillsides, an old stone bridge, great museums and remains from the communist era in Albania. Berat is also known as the birthplace of Onufri, the famous painter of churches all-over the Balkans, distinguished for creating a specific reddish colour still difficult to imitate. We will continue our tour and visit the Gorica Neighbourhood. After the city tour of Berat we will drive back to Tirana. This marks the end of this amazing experience through history and culture.

Ref number: 19102303