Berat Albania is quite simply the most charming mountain town in Europe… The only problem is you’ve probably never heard of it! If it was located in a more popular country like Italy or France tour buses would line the streets, and people would be squeezed into every small side alley. For now that’s not the case, but might be changing soon. Berat is truly unlike any other town we’ve seen. From the buildings stacked into the mountainside to the countless windows that sparkle in the sunlight. So are you looking for the best food around, or to find out why the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site? How about a hike to the Berat Castle, or learning how to do a 4am transfer to Ohrid Macedonia? Keep on reading!

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Berat vs Gjirokaster

There is a debate going around that if you visit one of Albania’s mountains towns then you don’t have to see the other. Well we’re here to say that couldn’t be further from the truth! The towns and small villages were the biggest surprises of our trip, and some our favorite places in the whole country.

When traveling along the Albanian Riviera and talking with locals about heading to Berat or Gjirokaster we always heard the same thing: YOU HAVE TO GO THERE! They would rave about how the towns are traditional and like “real” Albania. Well best believe that if we’re coming to Albania we want to see what locals are describing as authentic!

Even though they’re both classified as “mountain towns” Berat and Gjirokaster couldn’t be more different than each other. Definitely visit both these beautifully unique places if possible on your trip to Albania.

Travelers Guide to the Mountain Town of Gjirokaster

Exploring the City of 1,000 Windows

After 5 hours and 3 buses we arrived in Berat tired, but immediately enchanted by the countless windows and buildings that filled the mountainside. Honestly, we had no idea about Berat until getting to Albania. Yet after traveling through the entire country we can say that it was one of our favorite towns!

The food is amazing and full of rich flavors, the locals are friendly, and there is an abundance of outdoor actives. Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the few in Albania with Gjirokaster and Butrint National Park.

It’s easy to see why it holds this honor with its Ottoman style architecture, sweeping river running through the center, and open blend of cultures and religions. Oh, and I think with one look up at the traditional houses you’ll understand why it’s nicknamed the city of 1,000 windows!

5 Things Not to Miss in Berat Albania

Before we get deeper let’s jump into the highlights of our time in Berat! From early mornings, to sunset walks, and jaw dropping views, your time here is sure to be filled with adventure and a deeper appreciation of Albania.

Hike up to the Berat Castle and take in the view over the city.

Go on your own self-guided Berat UNESCO architecture tour. Don’t forget your camera!

Hike the 1.5 hour loop across the river that overlooks the town and Berat Castle.

Walk along the Osum river at sunset before stopping into Antigoni Restaurant for a craft of wine.

Eat a traditional Albanian meal at Homemade Food Lili or Wildor Restaurant.

Hiking to the Berat Castle

If there’s one thing you need to make a point to do in the city (besides stuffing your face with traditional food) it should be a hike to the Berat Castle. It’s good to mention that you could also drive or take a taxi, but where’s the fun in that? If you walk straight up from the center of town you can continue on the main road to the top, or cut up the small path that winds up the hillside.

After an early morning walk on the river we hiked up to the castle around 7:30am, and it was the perfect time of day. There were no other tourists at this time, and we were free to explore when it wasn’t too hot. Inside the castle walls there are close to 200 families that still live a traditional lifestyle.

Can you imagine having a home inside the Berat UNESCO site in an actual castle? There are several lookout points that you will find while exploring the upper part of the city. We spent close to two hours wandering around, and eventually stopped at one of the several cafes for coffee and a quick breakfast.

Book a Historic City Walking Tour with Medieval Center, Berat Castle and Onufri Museum

Mini-Food Lovers Day in Berat Albania

We’ve hinted towards the food in Berat, but now it’s time to dive in head first! If you’ve read any of our other Food Lovers Day blogs then you know how serious we are about our meals. The food in Berat is known as being heartier and more traditional than what you’ll find on the touristy seaside towns of Albania. From baked eggplant to rabbit, and even .30 cent USD ice creams, get ready to eat your way though this magical mountain town!

Breakfast: Hotel Kalaja – Sit outdoor in the courtyard and have a coffee and byrek after your hike up to the top of the Berat Castle.

Lunch: Home Made Food Lili – Stuffed eggplant, fergesë, and baked lamb are a few of the best options here. Lili is also good for dinner, but it can book out days in advance during the summer months.

Drinks: Antigoni – We went for a craft of white wine to enjoy the amazing views at Antigoni. This is the best spot to relax and see what gave Berat UNESCO World Heritage status.

Dinner: Wildor – You can’t go wrong with a salad, meatballs, and baked rabbit in the oven with house wine! This place is both traditional and delicious.

Dessert: Pasticri Tori – 2 scoops of ice cream for fifty cents USD, or one for thirty? Enough said! Chocolate and caramel is a good combo if you want our professional advice.

If this got you hungry make sure to check out the 25 Best Food and Drinks we had in Albania

Traveling from Berat Albania to Ohrid Macedonia

When it came time to leave Berat we really weren’t ready to go! We had been there for two days and felt there was so much left to see, but it was time to head onward to Ohrid Macedonia. We love small towns that are filled with nature and we’re sure that two days would be more than enough for the typical traveler.

As we stood on the side of the road in the early hours of the morning we felt sad that our time in Albania had come to an end! If you’re planning on traveling from Berat to Ohrid like we did it is a little confusing. The owner of our hotel called someone to confirm that the bus would be running. After that he told us to stand outside on a street corner at 4am… Not ideal right?

Nevertheless, we packed our bags, headed down, and around 4:15am a small Furgon mini-bus came whizzing past. We ended up having a smooth travel day considering we had no idea how it would turn out. The bus driver actually arranged a taxi for us to cross the border and take us all the way to Lake Ohrid. So when we got close to the border he pulled over, told us to get off, and sure enough the driver was waiting.

Original Berat to Ohrid Plan: Leave on a bus heading for Korce and get off in Pogradec. Once there find a transfer over the border. You can read all about our experience traveling Albania by bus here!

If you have any questions about our visit or transfer from Berat to Ohrid, please let us know in the comments below.

Safe Travels,

Brigitte & Jake

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Where To Stay In Berat Albania

Fun Vacation (Mid Range) – Hotel Onufri – Beautiful hotel set in the heart of the Berat UNESCO grounds and traditional architecture. The rooms have city views and a delicious breakfast included.

Travel Couple (Longterm Travel) – Villa 97 – Right in the center of the city, Villa 97 offers very cheap and clean rooms. Basic but great for the price. Also, the owner is very nice and can help assist with onward travel from Berat to Ohrid.

Hostel Life (Budget) – Maya Hostel Berat – This fun hostel is located just over the river, but still in the middle of all the action. Featuring a large outdoor area, bar, and free continental breakfast.

For more places to stay in Berat Albania you can explore the latest prices here!

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