Explore the best of Albania in a private full-day tour from Tirana that covers Berat, known as the “City of One Over One Windows,” and Durres, home to the largest amphitheater in the Balkans. This 7.5-hour experience offers flexible departure times, guided visits, and ample free time for personal exploration. The tour is ideal for those who want a comfortable, in-depth visit with exclusive transportation and local insights. It suits travelers looking for a well-organized day to discover UNESCO-listed sites and enjoy scenic city walks, all in a private group setting.

The tour includes two pickup options in Tirana, private transportation, air-conditioned vehicles, and guides in multiple languages. While the itinerary is packed with highlights, it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or altitude sickness. The experience offers a balance of guided tours and free time for lunch or personal exploration, making it a flexible choice for visitors eager to explore key Albanian sights in one day.

Key Points

Private full-day tour from Tirana to Berat and Durres, lasting 7.5 hours
Guided visit of Berat Castle and its Byzantine churches, with ample exploration time
Visit the Old City of Berat, including neighborhoods Mangalemi and Gorica
Free time for lunch in Berat’s local restaurants
Walk along Durres promenade and see Venetian Tower and other city sights
Transportation is private and air-conditioned, with guides in English, Greek, and Italian

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics in Tirana

The tour begins with pickup in front of your hotel or at Albania International Airport, providing convenience for all travelers. With two pickup locations in Tirana, the process is straightforward, and waiting in the hotel lobby for 10 minutes ensures smooth coordination. The private transportation ensures comfort throughout the day, and the guided tour allows for a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each stop.

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Discovering Berat’s Most Iconic Landmark: Berat Castle

Berat Castle is the centerpiece of this tour, known as one of the biggest fortifications in Albania. The guided two-hour tour of the castle covers its stone streets, Byzantine churches, and historic ruins from different eras. Inside the castle walls, visitors find highlights like the 13th-century St. Mary of Blachernae Church and the Onufri National Iconographic Museum. The Red Mosque and Holy Trinity Church from the 14th century are also part of the sights, along with ruins of an ancient acropolis and a subterranean water cistern.

After exploring the castle, the tour moves into the old city center, where the neighborhoods Mangalemi and Gorica showcase traditional stone houses and medieval architecture. The New Bridge offers perfect photo opportunities with Mangalemi as a backdrop, making it a favorite spot for capturing the city’s charm.

Uncovering Berat’s Hidden Corners and Local Life

The tour emphasizes showing travelers hidden corners and less obvious details of Berat. The guide shares insights into local history, culture, and daily life, helping visitors understand what makes Berat unique. The Medieval Center includes significant sites like the King Mosque and Halveti Tekke, along with monumental tombs.

This part of the tour offers a genuine feel of Berat beyond just its landmarks, allowing for personal exploration during free time. Travelers can stroll through the narrow stone streets, browse local shops, or relax in a traditional eatery.

Free Time and Lunch in Berat’s Historic District

After touring Berat’s main attractions, free time is provided for lunch and personal discovery. The tour recommends local restaurants where travelers can enjoy authentic Albanian cuisine. This flexibility lets visitors pause and savor Berat at their own pace, whether they choose a quick snack or a sit-down meal.

This aspect of the experience ensures that the day feels less rushed, giving guests the chance to soak in Berat’s atmosphere or revisit favorite spots before heading toward Durres.

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Exploring Durres’ Ancient Ruins and Scenic Promenade

Following Berat, the tour proceeds to Durres, notable for its ancient Roman amphitheater, which is the largest in the Balkans. The guided walk includes a visit to the Vollga promenade, a lively area perfect for strolling and taking photos. The Venetian Tower is another key attraction in Durres, providing a glimpse into its medieval harbor defenses.

The walk through Durres allows travelers to see the blend of historical layers—from Roman ruins to Venetian influences—and to enjoy the coastal atmosphere. The short visit offers a snapshot of this historic port city before the group departs back to Tirana.

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End of the Day and Return to Tirana

The tour concludes with a return transfer to Tirana, either to the airport or your hotel in the city center. The drop-off locations are designed for convenience, and the experience finishes with a clear overview of Berat and Durres with expert guidance.

This arrangement makes it easy to incorporate the tour into a broader trip or to catch a flight afterward. The balancing of guided visits and free time ensures a relaxed, enjoyable day without feeling overly rushed.

Final Thoughts on the Berat & Durres Private Tour

This private full-day tour offers an efficient and comprehensive way to see two of Albania’s most interesting sites in one day. The guided visits of Berat Castle and the old city neighborhoods, combined with free time for lunch and exploration, create an experience that balances structure with flexibility.

While the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those sensitive to altitude, it provides comfort, expert commentary, and scenic city walks that highlight Albania’s history and architecture. The private mode of transportation ensures a quiet, comfortable journey with a focus on personal attention from guides in multiple languages.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and visitors eager to experience Berat’s charm and Durres’ ancient relics in a well-organized, private setting.

Ready to Book?

From Tirana : Private Full Day Tour to Berat & Durres

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with a flexible starting time based on availability.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and guides in English, Greek, and Italian. An audio guide in English and Greek is also provided.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. Travelers should plan to have lunch during free time in Berat.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, or individuals with altitude sickness or over 95 years of age.

What landmarks will I see in Berat?
Highlights include Berat Castle, St. Mary of Blachernae Church, Onufri Museum, Red Mosque, and Holy Trinity Church.

Can I customize the timing or stops?
Since it is a private tour, modifications can be discussed with the guide or booking provider to suit personal preferences.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes with a drop-off in Tirana, either at the airport or in the city center.

Is this tour recommended for photography?
Yes, the New Bridge in Berat and the Venetian Tower in Durres are perfect for photos, especially during daylight.

What language do guides speak?
Guides are available in English, Greek, and Italian. An audio guide in English and Greek is included for self-guided commentary.