Berat is one of the most beautiful and authentic cities in Albania. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” it offers unique Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets, panoramic views over the Osum River, and an atmosphere that takes you back in time.
If you are planning a visit and looking for accommodations in Berat or hotels in Berat, this is the most complete guide to help you choose the ideal place for your stay.
In this article you will find:
- The best areas to stay
- Boutique and traditional hotels
- Authentic villas and guesthouses
- Accommodations with castle views
- Internal links to all detailed Berat guides
Why staying in Berat is part of the experience
In many cities, a hotel is simply a place to sleep. In Berat, accommodation is part of the history.
Many hotels in Berat are located inside traditional Ottoman houses, featuring wooden ceilings, large white windows, and balconies overlooking Mangalem or the Osum River. Staying here allows you to experience the city’s characteristic architecture from the inside — not only as a visitor.
To better understand why the city holds such unique value and why it is considered one of Albania’s cultural treasures, we recommend reading our detailed article about Berat Castle and its UNESCO Heritage status, which explains its history, architectural importance, and role in Albanian identity.
Understanding this historical context will help you choose the area and type of accommodation that best fits your travel style.
Best areas to stay in Berat
1️⃣ Mangalem – The historic heart
Mangalem is the most iconic area for accommodations in Berat. If you want to wake up to the view of the famous white windows and walk along cobblestone streets just steps from your hotel, this is the ideal area.
Many of the highest-rated boutique hotels are located here, offering the perfect combination of tradition and modern comfort.
2️⃣ Gorica – Tranquility & panoramic views
Gorica lies opposite Mangalem and offers direct views of the historic city. It is a quieter area, ideal for couples or travelers seeking a more private stay.
From here, you can explore the city on foot and return to a relaxing atmosphere at the end of the day.
If you are planning what to do during your stay, our complete guide to the best things to do in Berat will help you organize your time — from visiting the Castle and museums to walking along the Osum River and enjoying cultural experiences.
This guide connects directly with your accommodation choice, as the area you stay in influences your access to the main attractions.
Types of accommodations in Berat
🏨 Boutique Hotels & Traditional Stays
Berat is well known for its small boutique hotels that preserve traditional Ottoman architecture while offering modern comfort. These are ideal for:
- Couples
- Cultural travelers
- Visitors seeking an authentic experience
For a curated and carefully analyzed selection by Love Albania, read our detailed list of Top 5 Accommodations in Berat – Where to stay in 2025, where we include different options based on style, budget, and location.
- #10 – Guest House J. Prifti
Family-run guesthouse in Mangalem, known for warm hospitality and traditional breakfast. - #9 – Amalia Hotel
Boutique hotel in Gorica offering a peaceful atmosphere and authentic local experience. - #8 – Vista Boutique Hotel
Highly rated for its panoramic terrace views and traditional ambiance. - #7 – Koroni Boutique Hotel
Restored stone house combining classic Albanian style with modern comfort. - #6 – Hotel Belagrita
Traditional hotel in the historic area, ideal for quiet stays in the city center. - #5 – Hotel Vila Aleksander
Boutique hotel in Mangalem with characteristic architecture and comfortable rooms. - #4 – Portik Hotel
Modern hotel with contemporary standards and a convenient location. - #3 – Hotel Muzaka
One of Berat’s most recognized traditional hotels with authentic architecture. - #2 – Hotel Mangalemi
Boutique hotel in the heart of the historic quarter with classic Ottoman style. - #1 – Hotel Klea
Located inside Berat Castle, offering a unique stay with panoramic city views.
This list allows you to clearly compare the alternatives and serves as a direct extension of this main guide.
🏡 Villas & Guesthouses in Berat
If you are traveling with family, a group of friends, or simply want more privacy, villas are an excellent option. Many of them feature traditional courtyards, spacious interiors, and panoramic views.
In our dedicated guide to Top 5 Villas in Berat, we analyze the best options for longer stays, small events, or family holidays.
- #5 – Villa Tabaku
Family villa just minutes from the center, known for authentic hospitality and peaceful mountain views. - #4 – VILA LILI Guest House
Highly rated family guesthouse near the center, appreciated for homemade cooking and warm Albanian atmosphere. - #3 – Villa Grigor
Modern villa near the Castle offering space, comfort, and elegant design for family or group stays. - #2 – Vila Palma
Luxury villa with panoramic pool and Castle views, ideal for couples and families seeking privacy and style. - #1 – Vila Ajdinaj
Top-rated family villa known for cleanliness, traditional breakfast, and heartfelt hospitality near the historic center.
This guide is ideal for travelers looking for a more personalized experience beyond traditional hotels.
How to complete your experience in Berat
🍽 Traditional Restaurants
A key part of the experience in Berat is gastronomy. The city offers traditional restaurants serving local recipes in authentic settings.
In our article on Top 5 Traditional Restaurants in Berat, you will find curated recommendations to perfectly combine your stay with local cuisine. Pairing a traditional hotel with an authentic restaurant makes the experience even more complete.
🗺 2–3 Day Itinerary in Berat
If you are planning a weekend or short getaway, Berat can be part of a broader itinerary.
Our article on 3-Day Trip in Albania explains how to structure a journey that includes Berat as a key stop.
If you wish to combine it with another historic city, our guide on Berat & Gjirokaster – Two UNESCO Cities in Albania explains why these two destinations are often visited together by international travelers.
This approach makes choosing accommodation in Berat part of a larger travel plan.
How many days should you stay in Berat?
✔ 1 night – for a quick visit
✔ 2 nights – for a complete experience
✔ 3 nights – for a slower pace and exploration of the surrounding area
Most visitors choose 2 nights to balance culture, relaxation, and gastronomy.
Choosing the right stay in Berat
The right choice of accommodation in Berat directly influences how you experience the city. Whether it is a boutique hotel in Mangalem, a villa with Castle views, or a traditional guesthouse in Gorica, each option offers a distinct atmosphere.
This article serves as the main starting point for all our Berat recommendations. From here, you can explore curated lists, historical guides, traditional restaurants, and complete itineraries for a well-organized and authentic stay.
