Where to stay in Berat

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Berat has a wide range of excellent accommodation, many of which have been recently renovated and are housed in historic buildings with breathtaking views. Bear in mind that travelling through the steep and narrow streets of the old town can be difficult. Inquire in advance about the best way to get to your hotel, as some hotels will be happy to pick you up and drive you up.

The best places to stay in Berat are just a stone’s throw from the city centre, allowing you to fully enjoy the magical atmosphere of this special town.

When it comes to accommodations in Berat, you can choose from one of three centrally located neighbourhoods, each offering charming, small hotels set in beautifully restored old stone houses. 

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Where to stay in Berat

In this post, I will introduce you to the best hotels and guest houses in Berat, Albania. I will provide you with my top recommendations for your accommodation options for every budget, and give you some useful tips at the end of the post that will help you get the most out of your stay in Berat.

Where to stay in Berat – Overview

Are you in a hurry? Here is a brief and concise list of places to stay in Berat so you can book easily. If you don’t have time to read the whole article or need a hotel in Berat for tonight, you’ll find everything you need to know here.

Summary of the best hotels and guesthouses in Berat:

• The best boutique hotel in Berat – Tradita e Beratit – Hotel & Restaurant
• The best budget hotel in Berat – Hotel Orestiada
• The most centrally located hotel in Berat – Hotel Onufri
• The most unique accommodation in Berat – Berati Castle Hotel
• Best hotel in Berat for a great view – Boutique Hotel Muzaka
• The most luxurious accommodation in Berat – Hotel Colombo

Where is Berat located?

The city of Berat is located about 70 km south of the capital, Tirana, in the mountainous region of Central Albania. It is not only the picturesque landscape, characterised by steep slopes and the river Osum, but also its unique architecture that makes the town one of the most beautiful in Albania. The excellently preserved buildings in the old town, which look down onto the river valley, have also earned it the nickname ‘City of a Thousand Windows’.

How many days do I need for Berat?

The city is quite compact. I recommend you to spend 3 days in Berat. This way you will have 2 days to explore all the highlights in the city and one day for a trip to the Osum Canyon south of Berat.

In addition, you will have enough time to also enjoy the culinary side of the city and take a relaxing stroll through Gorica and Mangalem. The city is home to numerous historical churches and mosques worth exploring. Start your visit with a walk up to the castle and admire the ancient ruins and the scenic views of the Osum river valley.

When is the best time to visit Berat? The best time to visit is in spring or autumn. Temperatures are pleasant during these months, and you can enjoy the sights without the summer heat.

The best hotels in Berat

Berat is divided in 3 main neighborhoods: Mangalem, Gorica & Kalaja. Mangalem being the most central district at the foothills of the castle, Gorica being the more quiet area opposite with the arguable best views of the stone roofed houses of Mangalem. And Kalaja, the district right inside the castle walls up the hill.

Tradita e Beratit (Gorica Quarter)

A boutique hotel in the heart of historic Gorica in Berat. Rustic stone walls, wooden beams and traditional Albanian touches combine with a welcoming restaurant, cosy bar and warm hospitality to blend tradition with comfort. A perfect retreat for history lovers and foodies alike. The place is run by Antonelli and his sister – two young Albanians that are eager to shape the hospitality and culinary scene in Berat. ☑ Click here to book Tradita e Beratit.

• Historic – Sleep among history with timeless stone walls, exposed wooden beams and authentic Albanian décor inspired by tradition
• Nearby attractions – Feel the pulse of Berat’s ancient past with a stroll through the history-laden alleys of the Mangalem and Gorica districts
• Great walks – Hike up to Berat Castle for views over the city’s rooftops, lush valleys and meandering Osumi River.

Hotel Vila Aleksander (Mangalem Area)

An authentic Albanian retreat, a 10-minute walk from the old fortress of Berat. This attractive 19th-century town house has been carefully restored, and rooms retain many original features and traditional furnishings. It is the perfect base from which to experience the local culture and offers excellent value for money. ☑ Click here to book Vila Alexander.

• Local exploration – Located in the centre of the historic town of Berat and surrounded by stunning scenery, there is plenty to see and do
• Less € – With rooms starting at €35 per night including breakfast, it offers fantastic value for money.
• Views – The property’s two terraces offer magnificent views of the surrounding area.

Berati Castle Hotel (Kalaja District)

A traditional hotel right next to Berat Castle. The comfortable rooms have been modernised just enough to retain the old-world atmosphere, with lots of exposed stone walls and wood-beamed ceilings, along with modern bathrooms. The restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine, and there is a lovely terrace. ☑ Click here to book Berati Caslte Hotel.

• Local exploration – Located in the heart of Berat, right next to the historic castle, you’ll be in a prime position to explore the surrounding area.
• Activities – Admire stunning Byzantine icons and artwork at the Onufri Museum, located in a historic church on the castle hill
• Restaurant – The restaurant serves both Mediterranean and authentic local cuisine and has a lovely terrace for al fresco dining.

Amalia Hotel (Gorica)

A beautifully restored house in the city centre. Rooms have been expertly designed to maximise the effect of the original stonework and beams, while retaining minimalist, modern styling and sleek bathrooms. No restaurant, but plenty of restaurants are just a short walk away. Also very good value. ☑ Click here to book Amalia Hotel.

• Local exploration – Immerse yourself in the local culture, with the Ethnographic Museum and the Jewish Solomon Museum nearby for the more adventurous travellers
• City style – Sharp, modern, minimalist styling juxtaposed with beautiful historical elements
• Great walks – Stroll along the Bulevardi Republika, lined with charming cafés and offering views of Mount Tomorr and the Citadel.

Alpeta Agritourism and Winery Roshnik

A charming guest house tucked away in the picturesque hills of Roshnik 25-min drive from Berat. Rustic stone walls and warm wooden interiors create a cosy yet elegant retreat. Enjoy the estate’s wine, fresh Albanian cuisine and explore the stunning countryside. A stay here is all about flavour, adventure, and relaxation. ☑ Click here to book Alpeta Agroturizem.

• Great walks – Hike to the stunning Sotira Waterfall and cool off in its crystal-clear waters before enjoying a picnic lunch with spectacular views.
• Foodies – Savour farm-fresh Albanian cuisine, from homemade byrek to the estate’s wines, with dishes made from local ingredients.
• Birdwatching – Take a peaceful nature walk through the Lepija Forest and Dukova Gorge, spotting rare birds, wild herbs and ancient trees.

Berat, in Albania, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Also known as the ‘city of a thousand windows’, it is a fine example of a well-preserved Ottoman city.

Berat extends along the banks of the Osum River and is divided into three parts: Kalaja, on the castle hill; Mangalam, at the foot of the castle hill; and Gorica, on the left bank of the river. In 2008, the city was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, mainly due to its numerous architecturally and historically significant buildings. The topography is equally impressive, with the Timor mountains providing a majestic backdrop.

How to get to Berat

The easiest way to get to Berat is by car. Berat is located just under 100 kilometres from Tirana. Getting to Berat takes about 2 hours. It takes about 1½ hours from Vlora to Berat and about 1½ hours from Durrës to Berat.

What not to miss

• The Castle of Berat, the remains of a great fortress from the 13th century.
• Check out the impressive Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Demetrius.
• There are many mosques in Berat, including the very interesting King’s Mosque (Xhamia Mbret)
• Experience the culture and attractions of the old town of Berat

For me, one of the best places to visit near Berat was Osum Canyon. The Osum Canyon is the deepest gorge in Albania and there is plenty to discover and experience here.

You will find numerous viewpoints, opportunities for swimming or rafting, and a very adventurous but cool-looking bridge. Parts of the canyon are somewhat remote, and the roads are not always the best.

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