Leaving Tirana, we’ll head south to explore one of Albania’s most unique and charming cities. The journey will take about two hours, passing through the country’s fertile agricultural heartland.

The Castle of Berat and the Castle of Elbasan are the only two historical sites where life has continued uninterrupted for at least the past two centuries. The heavy stones in their foundations date back to ancient times, when the city thrived under the name of Antipatrea.

The Iconography Museum displays works by Onufri and his followers, as well as pieces from an anonymous painter of the period. These artworks testify to the city’s rich intellectual and artistic heritage.

Mangalem, which primarily developed during the Ottoman period, took its current form after an earthquake destroyed parts of the city. The architectural style changed from heavy, tower-like structures with small windows and stone to lighter buildings with more windows and materials.

One area, Gorica, developed into a merchant quarter, mainly populated by residents from Voskopoja in southeastern Albania. The neighborhood preserved its white color and unique architectural style, shaping a city with two similar faces on either side of the Osumi River, connected by the Stone Bridge of Gorica.

Durres was likely the most important city in Albania until 1920, when Tirana became the capital. Since ancient times, it has been a key port in the Mediterranean. For the Romans, it was also a crucial stop along the “Via Egnatia,” a major trade route.

After a refreshing and scenic tour, return comfortably to the port in time for your ship departure.