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Guide
Berati, Albania π¦π±
#1625
,
Nomad Score:
60%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Berati, known as the 'City of a Thousand Windows,' is a historic city in Albania characterized by its unique architecture and divided into neighborhoods on different hills. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 60,000 |
π» Internet Speed | Average speed is about 30 Mbps |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 EUR β 120 Albanian Lek (ALL). Major banks include Raiffeisen Bank and Intesa Sanpaolo. |
π° Tap Water | Not potable; bottled water recommended |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type F sockets |
πΆ SIM Card | Vodafone and ALBtelecom offer good coverage and prepaid options. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted; Revolut can be used for online transactions. |
π Accommodation | Options range from hostels to private rentals on platforms like Airbnb. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Partially cashless; many establishments accept cards. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental agencies provide numerous options. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Berat and Hotel Mangalemi offer affordable stays. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The Mangalem neighborhood is recommended for its historical significance and close proximity to attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Kalivo district is quieter and offers more long-term rental options with good views. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | There are currently no dedicated coworking spaces. Many cafes and libraries serve as informal workspaces. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafe 'Nene Tereza' offers a comfortable atmosphere with free Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Local meetups are organized through Facebook groups and community centers. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | The Expats in Albania Facebook group is a good resource for meeting other international residents. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Blerim Taxi is a popular local taxi service. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bikeshare options are limited; renting a bicycle locally is recommended. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | The nearest beach is Dhermi, about 2 hours away by car. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | None direct; travel by bus or car is recommended for regional travel. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Tirana International Airport is the main international gateway, about 2 hours from Berati. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Access to the A1 highway connects to Tirana and the south coast. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Berat doesnβt have a train station, bus services are the primary means of transit. |
π Public Transport Passes | Local buses are available; a single ride costs around 100 ALL. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses to Tirana and other cities leave frequently; prices are around 500-700 ALL. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | The Regional Hospital of Berat provides basic healthcare services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes are available at 'Sally's Yoga Studio.' |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness Center 'Top Gym' offers various workout options. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Lavanderi 24 is a localized laundry service in the city. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Zomato and local calls for delivery are preferred. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Byrek,' a savory pastry filled with cheese or meat. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Koran Fish Restaurant offers vegan dishes upon request. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Pasticeri 'Biskot' is renowned for its delightful baklava. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Visit the local markets, like Pazari i VjetΓ«r, for fresh produce and local goods. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Local e-commerce platforms like https://trego.al offer various products. |
π Grocery Delivery | Supermarkets offer delivery services; contact local stores for details. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The old town is vibrant with bars like 'Panorama,' offering traditional ambiance. |
π» Local Brewery | Birra KorΓ§a is a popular local brewery with tours available. |
π· Wine Bars | Vila Perast is a scenic wine bar featuring local selections. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Check out the vendors in the Old Bazaar for street food delights. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and pasta are widely available, with places like 'Bajrami's Pizzeria' being local favorites. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Berat Castle and the Onufri National Museum are must-visit attractions. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Ethnographic Museum is housed in a historic home and showcases local culture. |
π° Historical Sites | The ancient city walls and Ottoman architecture are prevalent throughout Berat. |
π Religious Sites | The Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods feature many historic churches and mosques. |
π Annual Events | Berat Festival is held annually, celebrating local art and culture. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Mangalem is known for its historical significance and traditional houses. |
π Theater Venues | Theater 'Aleksander Moisiu' hosts various performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Old Bazaar offers a rich selection of handmade crafts and local products. |
πΌ Music Scene | Watch for local folk music events at historical venues around the city. |
π¨ Street Art | Various murals and installations can be found throughout the old city. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Local chefs offer cooking classes focusing on traditional Albanian cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Contemporary art is showcased in local venues like Art Gallery Berat. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Numerous Ottoman-era buildings enhance the cityβs charm. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Berat's historical architecture has UNESCO World Heritage status. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | The Tomorr Mountain National Park offers hiking opportunities. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | The Dajti National Park is a great nearby escape for nature lovers. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Paths along the Osum River are perfect for cycling and walking. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Viewing platforms in Berat Castle provide stunning views of the city. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Lake Shkodra is excellent for birdwatching, just a couple of hours away. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain areas in the outskirts allow for bonfires, but always check local guidelines. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local postal services available. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops provide repair services for electronic devices. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers often have table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language schools offer Albanian and English classes. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The Municipal Library provides study areas and resources. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Cultural community centers host various activities and events. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Local cafes sometimes host gaming nights for locals. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Berat; the nearest are in Tirana. |
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¬800 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¬32,000) |
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¬1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¬60,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬1,700 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¬136,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¬96,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 15% |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% |
π¦ Tax System | Progressive tax system based on residency. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 23% |
π§Ύ VAT | 20% |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, CFC rules apply. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax based on value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Approximately 5% on transactions. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Albania has relaxed tax obligations for remote workers. |