Berat Draws Record Tourists in Early September

Berat’s cobbled streets and castle stay busy with visitors in early September. The UNESCO World Heritage city attracts tourists year-round. From January to August, about 500,000 locals and foreigners explored Berat.
Tourists flock to Rozafa Castle, the Onufri Museum, Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, the Osum canyons, and local wineries. Many extend their stay beyond a short two-day visit.
Silvi Merdani, Tourism Director for Berat Municipality, said accommodation bookings have surged 45% this year. She expects September and October to surpass last year by 50%, with hotels and restaurants fully booked.
The Onufri Museum welcomed 61,668 visitors from January to August. Guests showed strong interest in its 196 icons and liturgical objects. Local guides, like Flutura Xhafa, lead groups through the castle, historic neighborhoods, bridges, and key cultural sites.
The municipality hosts year-round cultural events, including the Fig Festival in Roshnik, Liberation Day on September 13, Tourism Day, International Heritage Day, the Olive Festival, and the “Wine and Stories of Berat” festival in October.
Berat combines picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, making it a top destination that drives both tourism and the local economy.
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