Why Visit Berat and Gjirokaster UNESCO Heritage Cities?
Albania is home to two of the most fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites: Berat and Gjirokaster. These historic cities are living museums, where Ottoman architecture, cobbled streets, castles, and authentic Albanian traditions create an unforgettable travel experience. If you’re planning a cultural trip to Albania in 2025, these two destinations should be at the very top of your list.
Berat UNESCO Heritage – The city of one window above another
Berat, one of Albania’s oldest cities, is known as the City of a Thousand Windows thanks to its unique Ottoman-era houses. Together with Gjirokaster, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
Top Things to See in Berat
- Berat Castle (Kala): A massive fortress still inhabited today.
- Historic Neighborhoods: Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kalaja, each with distinct charm.
- Onufri Museum: Featuring icons painted by the master Onufri, with his signature red pigment.
- Gorica Bridge & Osumi River: A postcard-perfect stone bridge connecting the old neighborhoods.
How to Get to Berat
- By car: 2 hours from Tirana via SH4.
- By bus: Regular buses from Tirana, ~2.5 hours.
- By taxi: €50–€70 one way.
Where to Eat in Berat
- Homemade Food Lili (5.0/5): Authentic home-cooked dishes & warm hospitality.
- Temi Albanian Food (4.8/5): Famous for fresh, traditional flavors.
👉 For more details, see our Top 5 Traditional Restaurants in Berat guide.
Where to Stay in Berat
- Hotel Rezidenca Desaret: Stunning hilltop views, authentic style.
- Hotel Mangalemi: Historic location with modern comfort.
👉 For more options, read our full guide on Top 5 Accommodations in Berat – Where to Stay in 2025.
Gjirokaster UNESCO Heritage – The Stone City of Albania
Nicknamed the Stone City, Gjirokaster is famed for its fortress-like houses with stone rooftops and rich heritage.
Best Things to Do in Gjirokaster
- Gjirokaster Castle: One of the Balkans’ biggest fortresses.
- Traditional Stone Houses: Iconic Ottoman-style mansions.
- Ethnographic Museum: Inside the former home of Enver Hoxha.
- Cold War Tunnel: A secret Communist-era bunker.
- Ali Pasha Bridge: A hidden gem surrounded by nature.
- National Folklore Festival: Celebrating Albania’s cultural diversity.
How to Get to Gjirokaster
- By car: 3.5 hours from Tirana.
- By bus: ~4 hours from Tirana/Durrës.
- From Saranda: Just 1.5 hours – perfect for a day trip.
- By taxi: €80–€100 from Tirana.
Where to Eat in Gjirokaster
- Taverna Kuka: Famous for qifqi (rice balls) & fërgesë.
- Restaurant Odaja: Traditional Gjirokastra recipes in a cozy setting.
👉 Don’t miss our Top 5 Accommodations in Gjirokaster guide for the best stays.
Why are Berat and Gjirokaster UNESCO World Heritage Cities?
The recognition of Berat and Gjirokaster as UNESCO sites highlights their universal cultural value:
- Preservation of Albanian identity & traditions.
- Promotion of sustainable cultural tourism.
- Unique blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Albanian heritage.
These cities are living history books where travelers can walk through centuries of stories while enjoying authentic hospitality.
Final Travel Tips
✅ Combine Berat & Gjirokaster in one cultural itinerary.
✅ Stay overnight in both cities to enjoy their magical evening atmosphere.
✅ Try traditional dishes like qifqi, fërgesë, and homemade raki.
