Photo of Berat

About Berat

Berat, in Albania, is one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities. It is also known as the ‘town of one thousand windows’ and is a beautiful example of a well preserved Ottoman town. The best places to stay in Berat are a stones throw from the town centre allowing you to soak in the magical atmosphere of this special city.

Berat sits on the right bank of the river Osum and divides into three parts; Kalaja - on the castle hill, Mangalam - at the foot of castle hill and Korica - on the left bank of the river. The city was given World Heritage Status in 2008 partly due to its wealth of beautiful buildings of architectural and historical interest. The topography is equally impressive with the Timorri mountains providing a suitably grand backdrop.

There is much to see and do with many byzantine churches, mosques dating from 1417, the ancient castle whose origins go back to the fourth century BC!, museums etc. For more active types there are great river walks, horse riding on Korica hill and river rafting on the Osum.

What not to miss

  • Berat Castle, the remains of a grand 13th-century fortress.
  • Have a look around the stunning Saint Demetrius Orthodox Cathedral
  • Berat is home to many Mosques, including the very interesting Kings Mosque
  • Take in the culture and sights of the Berats ancient centre

The Gurus pick for the best place to stay in Berat is a charming townhouse hotel just ten minutes walk from the old fortress.

For fantastic value

  • Hotel Vila Aleksander is an authentic Albanian hideaway which is a ten minute walk from the old fortress. A nineteenth century townhouse, it has been lovingly restored - all original features and traditional furnishings. It has two terraces with magnificent views and represents great value for money - doubles start from as little as €35 per night including breakfast!

Travel Information

  • The closest airport to Berat is Tirana international airport, approximately 120 km away, approx 2 hour car journey
  • From April through till October Berat averages between 22-32 degrees celsius, with the temperature at its highest in July and August
  • For car hire, we recommend you book with our online partners Rentalcars

For an apartment or villa

  • If you've decided that a self-catering property would be suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partners Booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets

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Weather

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Best Hotels in Berat

  • Hotel Vila Aleksander Berat 7 rooms from €35

    Local exploring  -  Situated in the centre of historic Berat, and surrounded by stunning countryside, there is no shortage of things to see and do
    Less £  -  With rooms from just €35 per night including breakfast, it offers fantastic value for money.
    Views  -  The property's two terraces have superb far reaching views over the surrounding area
    Kayaking  -  The Osumi river and its canyons offer fantastic kayaking and canoeing opportunities
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsNo pets

    An authentic Albanian hideaway situated 10 minutes walk from the old fortress of Berat. This attractive 19th century townhouse has been carefully restored and rooms boast plenty of original features and traditional furnshings. The perfect base for experiencing local culture, and superb value. See More

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  • Amalia Hotel Berat 4 rooms from €48

    Local exploring  -  Immerse in local culture, with the Ethnographic Museum and Solomon Jewish Museum nearby for explorative travelers
    City Style  -  Sharp modern minimalist styling alongside beautiful period features
    Great walks  -  Stroll along the Bulevardi Republika, lined with charming cafes, offering views of Tomorr Mountain and the citadel
    Cooking classes  -  Embark on a gastronomic adventure with a traditional Berati cooking class in the nearby Hotel Castle Park
    No pets

    A beautifully restored property in the centre of town. The rooms have been expertly designed maximising the impact of the original exposed stonework and beams alongside minimalist modern styling and smart bathrooms. No restaurant, but plenty a short stroll away. Great value too. See More

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  • Anhel Hotel Berat 8 rooms from €50

    Groups  -  Anhel is ideal for groups, offering a a variety of rooms, and proximity to Berat's vibrant attractions
    Less £  -  A comfortable and traditional style hotel in the centre of Berat with very reasonable room rates
    Great walks  -  Immerse in Berat's history with a walk to the majestic Berat Castle, just 20 minutes from Anhel Hotel
    Views  -  There are lovely views across town from the roof terrace
    Air conditioningGardenViews

    A comfortable, traditional hotel with lovely views of the city. You will find rooms with rustic decor that mirrors the area's rich culture and modern bathrooms. Expect plenty of exposed stone work and wooden features and character galore. No restaurant, but breakfast is included. See More

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  • Berat Castle Hotel Berat 10 rooms from €50

    Local exploring  -  Situated in the heart of Berat, right next to its historic castle, you're in pole position for local exploring
    Groups  -  Group-friendly with a variety of room sizes, and plenty of local dining spots nearby
    Restaurant  -  The restaurant serves both Mediterranean and authentic local cuisine, and boasts a lovely terrace for alfresco dining
    Sights nearby  -  Feel the pulse of Berat's ancient past with a stroll through the storied lanes of the Mangalem and Gorica Quarters
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViews

    A traditional hotel right next to Berat Castle. Comfortable rooms have been upgraded just enough without losing the period vibes; think plenty of exposed stone walls and beamed ceilings alongside modern bathrooms. The restaurant serves Mediterranean fare and there's a lovely terrace. See More

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