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Guide
Berat, Albania π¦π±
#1725
,
Nomad Score:
60%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Berat is a historical city located in central Albania, known for its unique Ottoman architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status. |
π₯ Population | Approx. 60,000 |
π» Internet Speed | Average speed of 30 Mbps (varies by provider and location) |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 EUR β 117 ALL, 1 USD β 110 ALL |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; recommend buying bottled water. |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type C/F sockets |
πΆ SIM Card | Vodafone, ALBtelecom, and One are popular mobile providers. |
π³ Banking for Expats | ATM and card usage is common; major cards accepted. |
π Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local guesthouses, and hostels. Average monthly rent for a one-bedroom is about β¬250. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Some establishments accept cards, but cash is preferred; always carry some cash. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb is widely used, with prices ranging from β¬20-β¬50 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Kolaveri offers dorm beds for about β¬10 per night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods are ideal for tourists due to historical sites. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The city center provides a mix of amenities, cafes, and close proximity to coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | The Workshop in Berat offers a conducive environment for remote work with high-speed internet. |
β Best Cafe for Work | CafΓ© Fika provides a comfortable setting with Wi-Fi and good coffee. |
πΌ Networking Events | Local meetups can be found via Facebook groups or in Coworking spaces. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | The 'Expats in Berat' Facebook group hosts regular gatherings. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Bolt is available in Berat for convenient rides. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bikes can be rented locally, but options are limited. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | DhΓ«rmi Beach is approximately 2 hours away by car. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Albawings operates flights from Tirana to various destinations. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Tirana International Airport serves most major international carriers. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Accessible via SH72 and SH3 highways connecting to Tirana and the coast. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Berat has a small bus station; most transport options are regional. |
π Public Transport Passes | Local buses offer affordable travel options within and outside the city. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses to Tirana and other cities are available regularly; tickets cost around β¬5. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Mother Teresa Hospital offers basic medical services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | A few small gyms offer yoga classes; high demand for local studios. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fit&Fun is a popular option for gym facilities. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats or guesthouses offer laundry services, approximately β¬5 per load. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Glovo is a popular food delivery option in Berat. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Qofte' (grilled meatballs) and 'FΓ«rgesΓ«' (peppers with cheese). |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurants like Dajlati provide vegetarian-friendly dishes. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | CafΓ© NβCafΓ© offers delicious local desserts like Baklava. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets such as the Berat Bazaar provide fresh produce and local goods. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Use Albanian platforms like blerja.com for local shopping. |
π Grocery Delivery | Local grocery stores may offer delivery services; inquire in-store. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The city center has various bars and cafes for evening socializing. |
π» Local Brewery | Perroni Brewery offers tours and tastings. |
π· Wine Bars | Wine Bar Berat serves local wines; a must-visit for wine lovers. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Local street vendors sell a variety of fast food, including 'Byrek' (savory pastry). |
π Popular International Cuisine | Pizzerias like Pizza Gjirokastra serve popular international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Berat Castle and the Onufri National Museum are must-see attractions. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Ethnographic Museum provides insight into local culture. |
π° Historical Sites | Historical churches like St. Mary of Blachernae are significant. |
π Religious Sites | The King Mosque and various Orthodox churches reflect the cityβs diverse beliefs. |
π Annual Events | The Berat Film Festival occurs every August. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Explore the Mangalem district for its rich history and architecture. |
π Theater Venues | Teatri KombΓ«tar is the primary theater in the region. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Berat Bazaar is vibrant with local craftsmen and products. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local venues host events showcasing Albanian music and dance. |
π¨ Street Art | Street murals can be found throughout the city, showcasing local artists. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are available locally where you can learn to make traditional dishes. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Local galleries showcase the work of emerging Albanian artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The architecture in the old town reflects Ottoman influence and unique charm. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Berat is often referred to as the 'City of a Thousand Windows' due to its architecture. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Osum River offers scenic views and outdoor activities like rafting. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | The Dajti National Park is about 1.5 hours away, excellent for hiking. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Paths along the river and through the city are popular with cyclists and walkers. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The view from Berat Castle overlooks the entire city and surrounding mountains. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Lake Pogradec nearby is known for its birdwatching opportunities. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain areas near the Osum River allow for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Local post offices offer parcel delivery services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | A few shops in town offer repairs for phones and computers. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Local parks and community centers have table tennis tables. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language centers offer Albanian language courses; inquire locally. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The city library offers quiet spaces for study. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The local community center hosts various events and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Few gaming cafes are situated throughout the city for locals and tourists. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Local casinos provide entertainment options for visitors. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¬48,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¬40,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¬90,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¬72,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¬144,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬1,400 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¬112,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 15% |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividend tax is 15%. |
π¦ Tax System | Albania operates a progressive tax system. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 23% |
π§Ύ VAT | 20% |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are CFC rules in place. |
π Property Tax | Yes, based on the property value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 10% on property transactions. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Albania offers a simplified tax system for digital nomads, with low rates. |