Berat is considered a small city in Albania with a population of under 150,000 and a total area of 147 square miles. However, many people may say that it is bigger than a small city as there are so many things to do.

Berat is known for its old part of town, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Berat is dubbed “the city of a thousand windows” due to its unique architectural design dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Combined with the hilly nature of teh town, the buildings rise above each other on the slopes, making for a fascinating impression on visitors.

There are a variety of Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques in the town reflecting the historical influences of the region and the coexistence of different religious and cultural communities.

Berat is one of Albania's oldest cities, with a long and interesting history. Early records show that Berat was first settled by Illyrian tribes in the sixth century B.C.

There are a few ways that you can get to Berat from other cities in Albania.

From Tirana’s South Bus Station, you can take a direct bus to take you to Berat bus terminal. The ticket price is around 400 LEK.

From Gjirokaster, you will need to take a bus to Tirana, then get off at Lushnje. Take another bus from Lushnje, which will bring you directly to Berat.

Saranda is the closest seaside town to Berat, but you still need to take a bus or minibuses. You can catch a direct bus to Berat at the Friendship Park in Saranda.

When you arrive in Berat, you can catch a taxi to your hotel or ride local buses that will take you to the center of Berat.

But the best is to come by car and visit as much as you can from Albania, especially the Albanian Riviera. However, if you don’t have that luxury, there are also plenty of day tours available.

The old center of town is small enough to be toured by foot with a significant climb up to the Kala area. Taking a walk on the footpaths of the old town is a must.

It’s best to visit Berat from June to September when it’s not too hot out. This way, you can experience the city without getting too exhausted from the heat.

Albania is a very safe place to travel. Health problems and crime are low even in large cities. As we mentioned above, the locals are very hospitable, and they will make sure that you feel at home.

As always when traveling, keep your wits about you. Be aware of pick pockets and theft, so don't flash around your valuables.

Albanian cuisine is fantastic! The best dishes are delicious and affordable. Be sure to try as many dishes as possible during your stay such as Fegese (slow-cooked stew made with peppers, onions, spices, tomatoes, and cottage cheese). Other traditional meals include Tave Kosi (lamb and rice baked with yogurt and egg), Byrek (phyllo flake dough stuffed with savory fillings), Speca me Gijze (pepper in cotage cheese), Baklava (sweet puff pastry covered with syrup).

And for an authentic drink, try the raki. Raki is an intense aromatic liqueur, very similar to grappa. Although its origin is Turkey, raki can be found throughout Albania and the Balkans.

The official language in Albania is Albanian. Unlike all of the languages north of Albania, the Albanian language has nothing to do with the Slavic ones. It is rather hard to learn. Many older people won't speak too much English throughout the country, but the young kids really have a great level of English. Being in a more "touristy" area in the Riviera though, you'll find that many people are able to speak English along the Albanian Riviera.

The currency used in Albanian is the Albanian Lek. Euros can actually be used pretty much everywhere, and you'll find that the exchange rate is typically better than using lek. However, it is quite rate to find Euros in Albania, so we suggest brining as many euros as you can before your arrival.

Also worth noting, many places only take cash, even in larger and fancier establishments. Cahs is key in Albania.

The tipping culture in Albania is pretty flexible. Most people tip in bars by just rounding up, while in restaurants leaving 100-200 lek (between $1-2) is common. However, if you don't receive great service, you are not obligated to tip.

In an emergency dial 112 is the general emergency services number or 114 for hearing assistance.