Berat is captivating year-round, but this time of year, festive decorations across public spaces transform it into a canvas of sparkling lights and fireworks-like displays.

Bathed in festive lights, the Gorica Bridge and the Hanging Bridge have become popular spots for visitors eager to capture the city’s enchanting atmosphere on their phones.

On both sides of the bridges lie the historic neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica, whose streets bustle with local and international tourists all year round.

Multicolored projections highlight the architecture of each distinctive house, while the shadows along the streets add a sense of mystery. The Mangalem neighborhood offers a magical display of lights and colors, and the project ‘Mangalem’s Shades’ has returned this year under the new title ‘Lightwaves.’”

At the heart of the city, Teodor Muzaka Square hosts the Christmas Market 2025, with 35 charming huts where local artisans showcase their crafts. Visitors can savor traditional foods and wines from Berat’s renowned wineries, celebrated not just across Albania but beyond its borders.

“The city’s festive spirit comes alive with a series of concerts organized by the municipality, bringing together people of all ages. Marius Çepele, Director of Tourism and Activities at Berat Municipality, told ATA that more and more visitors—both local and international—are choosing Berat as their destination to celebrate the year-end holidays.”

“‘Bookings in Berat for the year-end holidays started earlier this year, and most hotels and guesthouses are already fully reserved,’ he added.

Berat attracts thousands of tourists throughout the year, the majority of whom are international visitors.

From January to November, Berat was visited by 870,000 people, 80% of whom were international tourists, mainly from Poland, France, Spain, Italy, and Germany. The Onufri Museum alone recorded over 100,000 visitors,’ Çepele said.

Berat is one of the most beautiful scenic and historic destinations in the country. Nestled among hills and along the Osum River, the city enchants visitors with its Ottoman architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes.

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