How to Choose the Best Berat Hotels & Hostels for any Budget! - Sofia Adventures (2024)

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Berat is an idyllic town of historic Ottoman houses and mosques nestled beside a river with a castle to watch over it. While you’re here, you might feel like you’ve been dropped right into the middle of an Albanian fairy tale. Because of the geography of the city, however, it’s important that you select where to stay in Berat carefully!

Berat hotels run from modern, typically European-style hotels to beautiful guest houses and hostels located within the city’s famous historic streets. There are lots of hills and the town is very spread out over two sides of the river, so you want to pay attention to where you will be located within the city before you make a final decision. You don’t want to end up like me and be surprised at how steep a hill I needed to lug my suitcase up!

Here are our top picks for the best Berat hostels and hotels. We’ve outlined choices for every budget, from great hostels to the city’s 5-star hotel!

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Where to Stay in Berat on a Budget ($50 USD or Less a Night)

If you are trying to keep down your overall trip costs, these are our favorite Berat accommodations that won’t break the bank.

Hotel Residenca Desaret

The entire hotel looks like a mini-mansion with fine details and décor done with style and aesthetics in mind. It even has a relaxing garden that’s overflowing with green, flowering plants so you can feel truly at peace when you come home after a day of sightseeing.

The recent renovation of the hotel has made it even more beautiful and added a touch of modern features. The rooms are perfect for couples traveling together, and they have extremely comfortable beds with quilted headboards (you know, for your ‘gram). The WiFi connection is strong throughout the hotel, which is a huge bonus.

Some units have a balcony and some sitting areas so you can just relax in your room or check out the charming and dreamy views of the town and the river.

There is parking in front of the hotel if you have rented or brought a car with you. Do note that travelers complain about a lack of electrical outlets in the rooms (which is common in older Albanian properties). To remedy this, bring a surge protector with you.

Overall, this hotel gives you luxury service and features for a budget-friendly price!

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here««

Hotel Onufri

This is one of the best hotels you can stay that is close to the Osum River and the Berat Castle. The prices of the rooms cannot be beaten – though this is something generally true about accommodations in Albania (and one of the reasons we love visiting here)!

Most of the rooms are doubles or twins with deluxe options, but they also have a budget option – though all of the rooms are already very budget-friendly for two. A sumptuous breakfast is included with your stay, and they serve it on the terrace that has a truly lovely view.

The rooms are all soundproof with wooden floors and ceilings. Though Berat is not a party destination, it is nice to relax and not worry about being bothered by the outside world!

Instagrammers will appreciate the rooms that come with beautiful, picturesque chandeliers. Colorful woven rugs are also on the floors and wooden bed frames hold thick and cozy beds.

The ensuite bathroom’s size is just right and it has a separate wet and dry area (trust us, if you spend a lot of time in the Balkans, this is something you will learn to appreciate). Toiletries and towels are provided for your disposal.

If you want a hassle-free trip to the airport, the service desk can assist you in booking an airport shuttle.

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here««

Blen Grand

Blen Grand is a family-run hotel offering economic prices for simple and chic rooms that are fully furnished. Most of the rooms have a balcony or access to the patio and from here you will see fabulous views of the town, the mountains, or the garden.

You can also hang out in the garden where you can read a book or scroll through Facebook under the shade of the orange trees (the smell of orange blossom is truly relaxing, too).

Their room prices can be as low as $30 or $40 USD, and they feature an ensuite bathroom complete with bath and shower amenities.

The wooden bed frames and cozy mattresses make for a great place to relax after a long day walking up and down Berat’s hills. Mornings are pleasant since the rooms come with big windows that allow in natural light (although you may shut it with the blackout curtains if you’ve enjoyed a bit too much rakia).

Past guests have loved the delicious breakfast in the morning which is also served in the garden – they even said it is a contender for the best in the area! They even serve freshly picked fruit from the garden. You can also order a la carte dishes here – just ask for their yummy menu list (which are mostly fresh).

There’s also ample parking for those who have brought their car.

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here««

Hotel Kalaja

Hotel Kalaja perfectly embodies the traditional Ottoman-Albanian architecture (cobblestone and wood) mixed with superb hospitality, making it a local favorite. Due to its proximity to several tourist spots, it also gives guests excellent views that are worth every penny.

They have twin, triple and quad rooms to offer guests, and all rooms are equipped with the basics of what you’ll need for a great stay.

What’s so unique about the rooms is the addition of a closet – this is not that common with budget rooms and you can easily organize your clothes so it’s not all over your bed or tables. If you’re a long term traveler or you plan on staying there for more than a few nights, you’ll love being able to get organized!

The rooms also have an ensuite bathroom with toiletries, towels, and a hairdryer. You won’t have to end up like me buying an Albanian travel hair dryer when you realize your hotel didn’t have one!

A home-made breakfast awaits in you the morning, but you can also check the nearby mini-market for some goodies and local snacks. If you are someone who has dietary requirements, make sure to inform them so they can prepare you something suited for your nutritional needs.

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here««

Mid-Range Places to Stay in Berat ($50-100 USD a Night)

If you want something a little more upscale, check out our recommendations for the best mid-range accommodations in Berat.

The Ottoman White House of Omer in Berat

Set in the historic area of Berat, the Ottoman White House of Omer is a traditional Ottoman house made out of wood and rocks with a little touch of modern features to cater to the convenience of guests. You will see vintage décor and furniture in the house, and the owner can talk to you for hours about the history of the house itself.

Some of the new pieces of furniture were made by the owner himself – that’s one reason why they all fit perfectly like a glove. The entire property is very clean and you can enjoy free parking on-site.

The rooms showcase furniture made by the owner and they are mostly made out of wood to complement the scarlet-colored tile floors. Sitting areas and wooden desks are available to help you if you need to drink some coffee or check your laptop.

There are also safety storages where you can keep your valuables secured. A mini-fridge is provided so you can keep and store drinks if ever you shop in the markets nearby. The private bathroom also features a shower and a tub with all the bath and body products you will need.

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here.««

Portik Hotel

The hotel has modern architecture beautiful, huge arched windows. At night, they light up the exterior walls of the hotel with a dreamy gradient color that makes it look like someone splashed purple and blue watercolor.

They offer suites and rooms for families and couples to enjoy. Most of the rooms come in a modern contemporary style complete with hardwood floors. The rooms are spacious and a large comfortable bed with a quilted headboard awaits you after a long day of exploring the town.

Sitting areas and a work desk are also available for you to enjoy the views or if you need to work on something.

Most of the past guests loved the bathrooms – it is just so hypnotic due to the all-white tiles from the floors to the walls, plus it is also sparkling clean! Everything is already included from bath amenities to shower products.

For bigger families, since there is a maximum number of guests allowed per room, you can get interconnected rooms. They are also the only hotel in the area that has an elevator – quite tough to find one here!

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here««

Boutique Hotel Muzaka

There are two words that best describe this hotel: stylish and traditional. It perfectly combines the best of both worlds too – from modern to antique furniture.

They have different rooms to offer and the most interesting would be the room with a view of the Berat Castle. Their rooms are best for solo travelers, couples, and those who love taking snaps while at their hotel. The hotel is also located in the center of the historic town.

Upon entering your room, you will notice fine details from the ceiling to the décor. Everything is made out of wood from the furniture to the simple furnishings of the room. It also features a minibar, a work desk, a wooden closet, and a flat-screen TV.

Their ensuite bathrooms are also stylish because of the mosaic tiles they used. You can enjoy the free toiletries, slippers, and towels for your disposal.

You get the free breakfast buffet at their restaurant which also serves an a la carte menu. Past guests have loved the menu offerings and they also liked that it was located on the terrace. Nothing pairs better with delicious food than a fabulous view!

If you want to make the most out of your stay in Berat, then this hotel is your best choice for a traditional Berati house!

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here.««

Han I Xheblatit

Han I Xheblatit is another hotel with traditional and classic Berati architecture and décor. The lovely views and stylish decor add an extra touch of hominess which will make you wish you could simply stay here indefinitely!

Every detail of the house is authentic. I dare anyone to come and stay here and not simply adore it!

There is a 24-hour service desk so regardless of your arrival time, someone will assist you. They can also arrange activities for you if you haven’t planned your itinerary yet.

Their rooms are all insta-worthy, with antique décor that creates a historic yet modern atmosphere. Rock clad walls and detailed furniture from the dining table, bed frames, and work desk compliment the interiors.

The ceiling also has intricate details and a chandelier to create a truly tranquil space.

It also has an ensuite bathroom complete with bath amenities and you are also provided with your own washing machine. Not all of their rooms have a balcony, so choose the double room if you want one.

Plenty of great reviews from past guests indicate that the restaurant is worthy of a meal or two during your stay. You can also take your free breakfast here, and they serve a good selection of fruits and bread with a view!

However, the hotel can be a bit difficult to reach because you need to climb up, but everything is just perfect once you’re there – all worth it! However, travelers with accessibility issues should take note.

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here ««

Hotel Borklad

If you are looking for mid-range features, but somewhere in the lower mid-range price, Hotel Borklad is a good choice. It combines modern contemporary furniture with its traditional Berati architecture and furnishings. This would be a good option if you want a traditional house and you’re a group of 5 people or less.

The location is amazing and has that cozy and homey feel that will make you feel like you are not on vacation – though you are! It also has a garden with crawling vines and flowering potted plants.

They don’t have balconies in their rooms, but you still get a great view of the mountains, the old town, or Berat Castle.

All rooms have a private bathroom and with an enclosed shower plus sturdy towel racks that you can also use for hanging your clothes. They have comfortable mattresses on top of sturdy metal bed frames. The higher the tier of the room, the more spacious and stylish it becomes.

You will love that they serve the breakfast on the terrace so you can admire the views as you fill yourself up with their yummy dishes.

Pet lovers rejoice because you can bring your pets with you on request. Free parking is also provided for all guests in the hotel.

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here««

Timo’s Guest House

Located near the river with a beautiful background from the hills and the old historic town, Timo’s Guest House has received a ton of praises from past guests. This is a family-run accommodation that has one of the best reputations for hospitality in the area.

They are extremely knowledgable about the area. Make sure to talk to them and get their advice about places to visit and a little bit of history about the location. It has fruit-bearing trees in the lovely garden and they do pick some to serve for breakfast (which is free and extremely yummy!).

From your rooms, you can see many of the area’s landmarks (the white houses from the old town look stunning) and gorgeous landscapes. Each room is fitted with a minibar, A/C, and closet. You are also provided with extra-long beds to make each night a comfortable sleep for you and your family. It has hardwood floors (with some printed rugs) and uses the traditional style for the furniture and décor.

You simply must check out the terrace because this will give you the best view on the entire property. This is where you will also take your breakfast, but just in case the weather can get a little bad, then they do have a stylish dining room for rainy days.

You can also try their a la carte offerings because they serve traditional Berati dishes freshly cooked for you. If you have kids and you’re too tired to go out, you can borrow their board games and puzzles or cook a family meal in the shared kitchen!

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here««

Best Luxury Hotels in Berat ($100+ USD a Night)

If you want luxury in Berat, there’s only one choice!

Hotel Colombo

Hotel Colombo truly gives all its guests a 5-star luxury experience in Berat. The hotel itself is a huge building with four floors and a total of 118 rooms with different tiers of rooms. It has world-class décor and furniture that’s tastefully composed for everyone’s comfort.

For an extra fee, you can get your laundry done or reserve a taxi for your trip. They also have an area where you can use computers to access the internet aside from the free WiFi connection throughout the property. There is also a huge garden outside which gives some rooms a fresh view from their windows or balconies.

The rooms are cleaned daily and they have almost everything you would need.

The rooms are spacious and modern style is used. You will also notice beautifully printed rugs on the wooden floor. A work desk and a coffee table are provided for each room.

All of the private bathrooms in each room have an enclosed shower with glass walls and come with bath amenities like a hairdryer, slippers, toiletries, and towels.

For guests who have brought their car, you will be glad to know that they do have free parking on-site.

If you need any assistance, you may contact their service desk which is open 24/7. The lobby area also has plenty of comfortable sitting areas and since the hotel is still new, most of the features are in pristine condition.

The hotel also has a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch or dinner. Still under construction, they are building a spa and wellness facility inside the hotel.

»»Check out reviews, prices, and availability here««

5 Things to Pack to Travel Hassle-Free in Albania

We have acomplete packing list for Albania, but make sure you bring these five items with you!

Lonely Planet Western Balkansis a great guidebook for your visit to Albania, and it’s great if you’re also visiting any combination of the following countries: North Macedonia, Kosovo, Bosnia, Serbia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Slovenia. It can be hard (sometimes impossible) to buy a physical guidebook in English once you’re in Albania, so if you like having your guidebook in your hands you will need to bring it with you from home.

Unlocked Cell Phone:Stephanie and I both have unlocked cell phones that we bought in Europe (I use aSamsungand Allison uses aniPhone). This allows up to get SIM cards when we travel so that we always have the internet. This has gotten us out of so many jams!

If you don’t have an unlocked cell phone that can use an Albanian sim card, you can buy a cheaperunlocked phone onlineand bring it with you!

Pacsafe Citysafeor Other Anti-Theft Bag:This is the bag both Allison and I use (and they also make men’s versions). It has a pouch with RFID technology so our credit cards can’t get scanned from afar, interlocking zippers to make it harder to pickpocket, and it’s roomy enough to be a perfect sightseeing day bag.It’s also aesthetically pleasing and stylish enough to be used as an everyday bag, which is unusual for a bag with so many safety features.

A Sturdy Moneybelt:If you don’t want to get a new bag with anti-theft features as I use, you can use a money belt instead. I prefer to have these features built into my bag instead, but I know for a lot of people a money belt is a less expensive investment than a new bag.

Grayl Water Filter:While the water is safe to drink in the country’s larger cities, you need to avoid it in the small towns and villages inland and on the coast. If you don’t want to be buying millions of plastic water bottles, you can get a reusable water bottle that comes with a water filter so that you can stick to the tap water and reduce your plastic waste.

Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, TP & other Balkan transit needs.Bathrooms in the Balkans tend to be… how can we say it?… not so well-stocked. Save yourself the disappointment and bring a mini-rescue pack ofwet wipes&hand sanitizer.

Read next:

More Albania Travel Resources

First, start by reading our post onplanning a trip to Albania. It covers everything from visas to vaccinations to what to pack, so it’s a great jumping-off point for your travel plans. If you’re curious about what to do to make sure you have a safe trip, read our guide toAlbanian travel safety tips.

Next, check out ourAlbania packing listand our suggestedone, two, and three week Albania itineraries.Still looking? Check out7 Marvelous Things to See in Albania.

If you’re curious about the currency used in Albania (the lek) and how tipping works, we recommend our Albania tipping guide and our Balkan currency guideto learn all about the Albanian lek and tipping culture. We also have a post onAlbanian cuisine!

If you’re looking for even more places to add to your Albania itinerary, we have a bunch of ideas for you from us and other bloggers in this collaborative post about the15 best places to visit in Albania! If you love UNESCO sites, make sure to check outGjirokastraand Butrint!

We are working on all of our Tirana guides, but for now, we have this major post onthings to do in Tirana, as well as smaller posts on thebest restaurants in Tirana, thebest Tirana cafes, andthe best Instagram spots in Tirana,plus how to visit theTirana Christmas Market.

We add new content almost daily! We recommend you bookmarkour homepage, ourAlbania page, or our generalBalkans pageto refer to when planning your trip.

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

If you’re planning a trip to Albania, make sure to travel with a validtravel insurancepolicy. While we feel safe in Albania, it’s a good idea to be covered in case of an emergency. Travel insurance covers you in case of theft or an accident, which can save your trip if there’s an incident.

For travel insurance, Stephanie and I useWorld Nomads.I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

>>Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.<<

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