Berat
Food | Wine | ArchitectureExplore Berat: Food, Wine & Architecture
Berat is a stunning city along the Osum River in central Albania, known for its striking Ottoman architecture and UNESCO World Heritage designation.
Often called the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is one of the best-preserved Ottoman cities in the Balkans, with hillside homes that appear to stack one on top of the other.
From the imposing Berat Castle to local restaurants serving traditional dishes and nearby wineries rooted in centuries-old traditions, Berat offers a rich blend of history, culture, and hospitality.
Below is our guide to what to eat, drink, and see in Berat—plus tips for when to go, where to stay, and how to make the most of your visit.
This website contains affiliate links that may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Berat Food
Food in Berat is deeply rooted in Albanian tradition and regional ingredients. From hearty stews and savory pies to grilled meats and seasonal vegetables, the cuisine reflects centuries of culinary heritage passed down through generations.
Be sure to try dishes like Tave Kosi (baked lamb and yogurt), Byrek (flaky pie with various fillings), and Flija (layered pancake-style dish) while exploring local restaurants.
Berat Wine
The hills around Berat have long been home to vineyards that produce some of Albania’s most distinctive wines. Whether you visit a nearby winery for a tasting or enjoy a glass at a local wine bar, you’ll find bold reds and crisp whites that pair perfectly with traditional dishes.
Berat is especially known for Puls, a native white variety, and rich reds made from Shesh i Zi. Local producers like Cobo Winery and Nurellari offer memorable tasting experiences just a short drive from the city.
Berat Architecture
Berat’s charm lies in its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, layered across the city’s hills and riverside. Its historic districts—Mangalem, Gorica, and the Kala (Castle) quarter—each offer a different perspective on Albanian heritage.
Don’t miss the walk through Mangalem, with its iconic white houses and narrow alleys, or a stroll across the Gorica Bridge for stunning views of the city. Inside Berat Castle, you’ll find churches, mosques, and the Onufri Iconography Museum, all nestled within the ancient fortress walls.
Where Is Berat Located?
Berat is located in south-central Albania. It lies along the Osum River, nestled between the Tomorr Mountains to the east and the Shpirag Mountains to the west. Geographically, it’s about 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of Tirana, the capital of Albania.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Berat?
The best month to visit Berat depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want the best weather, fewer crowds, or the best value? Following are our suggestions for each.
Weather
The best weather is a personal preference. We find the best weather for exploring a city is around 55° F and sunny. The weather in Berat during the summer can be very hot, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting in July or August.
Below is a chart showing the average high and low temperatures for each month so you can decide what is best for you.
Shoulder Season
The time of the year with good weather and fewer crowds is often called the shoulder season. The shoulder season in Berat is April to early June and September to October. For many, this is the best time of the year to visit.
We spent the entire month of February in Berat. The weather was cool in the morning but warm up during the day. Importantly, some of the restaurants were closed for the season but many were still open.
Best Value
November and March are good months to visit Berat for the best value and with fewer crowds. The weather during these months is cool in Berat and similar to our preferred temperature for walking most of the day.
Best Places to Stay In Berat
Hotels in Berat
For the most immersive experience, we recommend staying in the Mangalem neighborhood or inside Berat Castle. These areas are filled with traditional guesthouses, boutique hotels, and charming restaurants, and offer walking access to the main sights.
Use the interactive map below to explore accommodations by date, budget, and amenities. Book your stay now!
Other Things to Know About Berat
Airport
Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) is Albania’s only international airport. It is commonly known as Rinas International Airport, as it is located in the village of Rinas about 4 miles (6 km) from Tirana. TIA is approximately 1 hr 45 mins from Berat.
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET; UTC+ 1:00) and Central European Summer Time (CEST; UTC+ 2:00)
Currency
The lek is the currency of Albania.
Language
Albanian is the official language of Albania. However, English is also commonly spoken in Berat, especially in the tourism sector.
Visa
Citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to visit Albania if they stay one year or less. For more information on visa-free travel in Albania, check out our article on traveling visa-free.
Electricity
Albania’s electrical outlets are Type F. Travelers from the United States will need an adapter. It’s the same adapter used for the rest of Europe.
Albania operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
We recommend a travel power strip with multiple USBs and standard plug-ins if you have many items to plug in. Using a power strip, you will only need one adapter to plug the strip into the wall.
SIM Card
Travelers will want a SIM card for Albania. You can get either a local SIM card or an eSIM card.
To get a local SIM card, you must find a local cellular service provider, often stand in line for assistance, show your passport, and complete some paperwork. The SIM cards work great, but purchasing them is somewhat inconvenient. This option is best if you need more than 5GB of data.
We use eSIMs exclusively because they can be purchased before arrival in a new country and activated when you hit a cell tower in the country. We use Airalo eSIMs. They work great, and I recommend them if you plan to use less than 5 GB of data during your stay or if you need internet immediately on arrival.
Car Rental
The lack of a train system in Albania makes rental cars necessary for most destinations. In addition to the major car rental companies found in the United States, Sixt and Europcar are common throughout Europe. For a comparison of rental car offers from large international brands and smaller regional brands, we recommend Discover Cars.
FAQs About Berat
Is Berat, Albania worth visiting?
Absolutely. Berat is one of Albania’s most beautiful and historic cities, with UNESCO-listed architecture, scenic landscapes, and excellent local food and wine.
How long should I spend in Berat?
Ideally 2–3 days. This allows time to explore the old town, visit the castle, enjoy local cuisine, and take a nearby winery tour. A day trip is possible, but an overnight stay offers a more immersive experience.
Which is better, Berat or Gjirokaster?
Both cities are UNESCO World Heritage Sites with Ottoman architecture. Berat offers riverside views and hilltop castles, while Gjirokaster features stone houses and dramatic mountain scenery. Choose based on your interests—or visit both if you can.
Berat Blog Posts
Want more details about life in Berat? Check out our in-depth blog post:
30 Pros and Cons of Living in Berat, Albania
Discover the pros and cons of living in Berat, Albania. From historic charm and affordable living to summer heat and limited transport, here’s what to expect.