

Price From: 999€
Duration: 12 Hours
Departure Time: 08:00
Minimum Age: 12
Language: English
Category: Cultural Discovery
Tour ID: P-BR-CU-02
– Explore Apollonia, a site often called “The Pompeii of Albania”
– Savor local wine and farm-fresh cuisine during a relaxed lunch at a family-run vineyard near Berat
– Discover Berat’s castle and UNESCO-listed old town, where medieval churches and Ottoman homes still live
– Enjoy seamless transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
– Experience Berat and Apollonia accompanied by a professional guide
Transfer to Apollonia
The guide will pick you up to start the journey to our first destination for the day, Apollonia.
Visit of Apollonia
For almost a thousand years, Apollonia was an important urban centre in the Epirus region of the south-western Balkans. It lied on the shores of Vjosa River, that in ancient times was navigable up to the city, making it a major sea trade port and city linking Byzantium with Italy and Rome by way of the Via Egnatia.
Today, Apollonia is situated a few kilometres inland. So far, only a tenth of the city has been discovered and archaeologists call it “The Pompey of Albania”.
Transfer to the farm
After the visit of Apollonia, we will board the vehicle for the transfer to a farm and winery that lies only few kilometres from the city of Berat.
Wine tasting
The entire region of Berati is well-known for its vineyards and the production of wine. You will taste some of the best wines of the region before and during your lunch.
Lunch
The farm is known for the fresh farm to table products as well. You will have a traditional, fresh and home cooked lunch in a special atmosphere.
Transfer to Berat
The journey continues towards Berat. It is one of Albania’s most treasured destinations, offering over 2400 years of layered history and a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western influences. Originally founded as an Illyrian settlement, it later became the fortified city of Antipatrea in the 3rd century B.C. During the medieval period, remarkable churches were built within its castle, adorned with frescoes and icons that remain to this day. Uniquely, the castle is still inhabited, preserving its living heritage. In recognition of its cultural significance, Berat’s historic centre was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
Guided visit of Berati Castle
The guided tour begins at the Castle of Berat, a living fortress where many families still reside. Inside its walls, we’ll explore a network of narrow lanes, medieval churches, and a well-preserved Roman cistern that was used until the 19th century.
Visit of the Onufri Museum
A highlight of the visit is the Onufri Museum, located in the Church of the Dormition of St. Mary, which houses vivid icons painted by Onufri, Albania’s most celebrated iconographer.
Visit of the Mangalem and Gorica districts
The next stop is the Mangalemi district, known for its traditional white Ottoman houses stacked along the hillside. Crossing the Gorica Bridge, an elegant Ottoman-era stone structure, you’ll continue into the Gorica district, offering a different perspective on the city and its architecture.
Return transfer to Tirana
After the visit the return journey to Tirana begins. On the way back, we will travel through the rural areas of the Dumrea plateau. This area of karstic origin is known for its lakes and the beautifully harmonious landscapes. Especially during Spring, it is decked by a wonderful tapestry of colours, created mostly by a beautiful combination of yellow and white flowers.
Arrival in Tirana is planned in the evening.
The price includes:
The price does not include:
This is a private tour. Pickup is available from your hotel or another address of your choice, provided it lies no more than 3 km from Tirana city centre. You will be dropped off at the same point when the tour ends.
General Information:
Enjoy flexibility! Cancel for free up to 72 hours before departure. Read our full cancellation policy here.