Berat Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Albania and honestly feels more like a small village inside fortress walls than a traditional “museum castle”. It sits high above the city, and the climb up already gives you amazing views over Berat and the surrounding valley.
What makes it special is that it’s still alive - people actually live inside the castle walls. You’ll find narrow stone streets, small homes, cafés and several Byzantine churches scattered throughout the complex. It’s a mix of history and everyday life in a very unique way.
Inside the castle area, you can explore ruins, viewpoints, and the old neighborhoods that reflect Berat’s long history across different empires and cultures. The atmosphere is especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the light hits the white Ottoman houses below.
Entrance is free.