Day Tour From Tirana: Discover Berat and Divjaka

Planning a day trip from Tirana that combines Albania’s natural beauty with its historical charm? This guided tour promises a full 12 hours of scenic landscapes, ancient sites, and authentic local flavor. It’s a well-rounded experience for those eager to see beyond the city, appreciating both lush nature and cultural treasures.

What immediately draws us to this tour is its balance — a mix of Divjaka National Park’s stunning greenery and Berat’s UNESCO-listed old town. The inclusion of optional activities like a boat ride and a leisurely coffee stop makes it flexible and personal. However, it’s a long day with quite a bit of driving, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full schedule and some walking. If you love outdoor scenery and history, this trip could become a highlight of your Albania visit.

One thing to keep in mind: food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for lunch and any snacks. Also, since the tour involves walking through towns and parks, comfortable shoes and clothes are essential. This tour offers excellent value for a full day of discovery, especially if you enjoy a mix of nature, history, and relaxed local ambiance.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines natural landscapes with cultural exploration.
• Authentic experiences: Visit UNESCO World Heritage Berat and Divjaka’s wildlife-rich park.
• Flexible options: Boat rides and local lunch choices add a personal touch.
• Value for money: Around $102 includes transport, guided tours, and entrance fees.
• Limited mobility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues.
• Long day: Starts at 9 AM and returns around 9 PM, requiring energy and comfortable clothes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Albania’s Natural Beauty in Divjaka

Starting from Tirana, the tour kicks off early with a pickup around 9 AM. The drive to Divjaka National Park takes about 1.5 hours, and the scenery en route is an introduction to Albania’s varied landscape — gentle hills, patches of farmland, and glimpses of the coast’s outskirts.

Once at Divjaka, the lush greenery of the park beckons. The highlight here is climbing Divjaka Tower, which offers sweeping views over the treetops and distant coastline. The trails are inviting for a relaxed walk, where you might see the park’s endemic crane species, a rare sight for bird lovers. For a small extra fee (€3), you can hop on a boat cruise around the lagoon — a peaceful way to see the wildlife and enjoy the quiet waters. Reviewers note that the boat ride is brief but charming, giving a different perspective of the park’s wetlands.

While exploring, you’ll have the chance to spot various native birds and enjoy the fresh air. The optional boat ride is a budget-friendly addition, offering a chance to see Divjaka from the water. Many appreciate the opportunity to relax here, especially when combined with a walk through the park’s trails.

Lunch and Local Flavor

After working up an appetite, the tour offers an optional lunch at a local restaurant or tavern. The variety of Albanian cuisine served here is straightforward but hearty — think grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional bread. Many guests find the food satisfying, especially after a morning of outdoor activity. Remember, this is an optional part of the tour, but most find it worthwhile to recharge before heading to Berat.

The Historic Jewel: Berat

The drive from Divjaka to Berat takes about 45 minutes, and the scenery shifts from coastal wetlands to a town perched among hills. Berat’s reputation as the “City of a Thousand Windows” is no exaggeration — its architecture, with white Ottoman-style houses lining cobbled streets, is captivating.

The guided walk through Berat offers a rich look at its history. The Berat Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the centerpiece. You’ll wander through ancient ruins, visit the Onufri Museum (optional), and soak in panoramic views from fortress walls. The castle’s history as a fortified town is palpable as you stroll past churches, mosques, and narrow alleyways.

Many reviewers mention the charming neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, which flank the castle. These areas are perfect for wandering and snapping photos of the distinctive “windows” architecture. The cobbled streets and hillside setting lend a timeless feel, making Berat feel like a living outdoor museum.

Why Visit Berat?

This part of the tour allows you to experience Albania’s Ottoman-era architecture and centuries-old religious coexistence. It’s a rare chance to walk through a well-preserved old town that feels both authentic and slightly untouched by commercial tourism.

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Relaxing Break at Belsh Lake

On the return leg, there’s a stop at Belsh Lake for a quick photo session and a chance to unwind. The tranquil waters and surrounding greenery provide a perfect spot for a coffee break (included in the schedule). Reviewers appreciate this peaceful pause as a way to reflect on the day and enjoy the scenic backdrop.

It’s a brief stop but adds a touch of serenity before heading back to Tirana. The lake’s calm environment contrasts nicely with the busy city life, making it an ideal spot for a quick recharge.

Practicalities & What to Expect

The tour operates with a live guide speaking both Albanian and English, ensuring you get context and stories along the way. The group size isn’t specified but is typically small enough to allow some personal attention. Transportation is by comfortable coach, and all entrance fees to Divjaka Tower and Berat Castle are included, eliminating extra hassles.

The entire day lasts about 12 hours, which may sound long but is packed with sights and activities. Starting early and ending around 9 PM, it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy seeing a lot in one day. Be prepared for some walking, especially in Berat’s streets and at the castle.

Value and Cost

At $102, factoring in transportation, guided tours, entrance fees, and some optional activities, this tour offers good value. You’ll spend less than arranging separate day trips, and the guided aspect ensures you don’t miss the historical details. Keep in mind that food and drinks are extra, so budget accordingly for lunch and optional boat rides.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re interested in combining nature and history in a single day trip, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured, guided experience with authentic spots away from overly touristy areas. Since it involves walking and a full schedule, it suits energetic travelers comfortable with a full day on the move.

However, those with mobility issues or preferring a more relaxed pace may find the walking and long hours challenging. It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors to Albania wanting a rundown of some key locales.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Tirana offers a well-rounded taste of Albania’s scenic and historic highlights. You’ll enjoy stunning views of Divjaka’s wetlands and the chance to see the endemic cranes, paired with a walk through Berat’s UNESCO-listed old town. The optional boat ride and local lunch add a personal touch, making the experience feel genuine and flexible.

The value is solid, especially considering the transportation, guided commentary, and entrance fees included. It’s a great way to see parts of Albania that are otherwise hard to reach on your own in just one day. Perfect for adventure-minded travelers who want a taste of Albania’s natural beauty and cultural depth without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

If you’re looking for a full, authentic day out that balances outdoor scenery, history, and local flavor, this tour delivers — with enough flexibility to keep it enjoyable. Just bring your comfortable shoes and an appetite for discovery.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
It begins with a hotel pickup around 9 AM, so be ready for a full day ahead.

How long is the drive from Tirana to Divjaka?
About 1.5 hours each way, providing scenic views along the route.

What activities are included at Divjaka?
You can explore the park, climb Divjaka Tower, and optionally enjoy a boat ride for €3.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch is optional and not included, but nearby restaurants are recommended for a hearty meal.

How long do we spend in Berat?
Approximately 2.5 hours for guided walking, including visiting Berat Castle and exploring neighborhoods.

Can I visit the Onufri Museum?
Yes, it’s an optional visit after Berat Castle, with an entrance fee not included in the tour.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
No, it involves walking in town and on uneven surfaces, making it unsuitable for those with mobility challenges.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are a must; don’t forget sun protection and water.

What is the tour’s overall value?
Considering transport, guide, entrance fees, and optional activities, it offers good value for a comprehensive day trip.

This guided tour from Tirana is a solid choice for travelers eager to see a mix of Albania’s scenic landscapes and historical sites without fuss. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply curious about Albania’s lesser-known treasures, it’s a well-curated, memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: