Traveling from the stone city of Gjirokastër to the city of a thousand windows, Berat, is a quintessential Albanian experience. The direct bus route covers approximately 174 km and takes about 3 hours (180 minutes). With a fixed ticket price of 10.0 EUR, it is the most economical and efficient way to traverse this historic corridor. Currently, there is one daily departure at 08:30, ensuring you arrive in Berat by midday, perfect for a traditional lunch in the Mangalem quarter. Booking your seat online via Gjirafa Travel guarantees your spot, providing a digital ticket that can be saved directly to your Apple Wallet for a seamless boarding process.

The journey between these two UNESCO World Heritage sites offers more than just transportation; it is a scenic tour through the heart of Southern Albania. As you depart from Stacioni Gjirokastër, you will leave behind the imposing Drino Valley and head north. The route winds through rolling hills and agricultural landscapes, offering glimpses of authentic rural life. Traveling by bus allows you to sit back and enjoy these views without the stress of navigating winding roads yourself. Licensed transport providers like Argjiro SH.P.K ensure a professional service, making the 174-kilometer trip comfortable and safe for both local commuters and international tourists.

When planning your trip from Gjirokastër to Berat, consistency is key. The primary service is operated by Argjiro SH.P.K, departing promptly at 08:30. To ensure a smooth departure, we recommend arriving at Stacioni Gjirokastër at least 15 minutes early. Because this is a high-demand route connecting major tourist hubs, seats can fill up quickly. By using Gjirafa Travel, you bypass the uncertainty of traditional ticket windows. A digital reservation not only secures your seat but also provides clear information on the departure point and arrival at Stacioni Berat, allowing you to plan your onward local transport or hotel check-in with total confidence.

Choosing the bus over a private taxi or car rental for the Gjirokastër-Berat route offers several advantages:

• Cost-Effective: At just 10.0 EUR, the bus is significantly cheaper than a private transfer, which can cost upwards of 80 EUR.
• Eco-Friendly: Shared transport reduces the carbon footprint per passenger across the 174km distance.
• Convenience: Avoid the stress of driving on unfamiliar roads or finding parking in Berat’s narrow, historic streets.
• Digital Integration: Unlike many local services, this route supports reservable tickets and Apple Wallet integration, bringing modern convenience to traditional travel.

Upon arrival at Stacioni Berat, you are just a short distance from the historic center. Berat is famous for its white Ottoman houses climbing up the hillside toward the castle. After your 3-hour journey, you'll be ready to explore the Kala (Castle), which is still inhabited today. We recommend heading straight to the Onufri Iconographic Museum or simply getting lost in the cobbled alleys of Gorica. Since the bus from Gjirokastër arrives around 11:30 AM, you have the entire afternoon to experience the hospitality and unique architecture that makes Berat the 'City of a Thousand Windows'.