Perched gracefully within the storied walls of Berat Castle, Hotel Kalaja is a rare blend of history, elegance, and warm Albanian hospitality. Though my stay was just for one night, the experience was nothing short of memorable. The setting itself is enchanting, ancient stone corridors, panoramic views of the “City of a Thousand Windows,” and the quiet charm of being embraced by centuries of history. The hotel has preserved this heritage beautifully, pairing rustic authenticity with refined comfort. My room was tastefully arranged, with thoughtful details that reflected both tradition and modern ease. The stone walls and wooden accents gave an atmosphere of timeless charm, yet all the necessary amenities were at hand. Waking up within the fortress walls, to soft light spilling across Berat’s landscape, was truly magical. Service was as gracious as the surroundings: warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. Even in a short stay, the staff ensured every need was met with effortless courtesy. For anyone wishing to immerse themselves in Berat’s history without compromising on elegance and comfort, Hotel Kalaja is a perfect choice. It is not simply accommodation, but part of the very story of the city itself.

Nothing bad or negative to say about the accommodation

Everything was perfect. All clean and great. The staff, a man that hosted us, and he also offered us the breakfast was beyond respectful! The location is perfect 10/10, cleanliness 10/10. It is a bit cold during winter because the hotel is in the castle, but the heating was ok so everything went great! Breakfast was good and they thought also for the kids to bring something especially for them! One thing I never encountered in other hotels in Albania, is that all the coffees we ordered were on the house in this hotel!

There’s not anything I didn’t like

Simple yet clean room - parking provided. The hotel is located within the castle walls, fantastic walks around the place - don't miss the sunset views. Staff friendly and helpful. Breakfast was fantastic. The journey by car through the castle gates is an adventure in itself [google maps took us through the local high-gradient cobbled streets :-| ]. The view is enchanting with cafes and viewpoints. You can stroll through the narrow streets and shop at the markets inside the castle. Restaurants serve authentic dishes at reasonable prices.

When showering, tend to likely flood the entire bathroom, esp for a tall person. Watch the windows.. as a lot of insects/mosquitoes can get in during evening times. Cash only payment on checkout.

Lovely little hotel in an amazingly location within the walls of Berat Castle complex. Stunning views over the castle walls. Breakfast was huge and plentiful with freshly cooked eggs two ways, sausage, breads, gorgeous locally made cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumber sweet pastries and a bunch of grapes plus really decent coffee. All served in the outdoor veranda overlooking the castle. The staff were very discreet but friendly, the twin room was clean and easily spacious enough for a solo traveller like me or a couple, and bathroom/shower was in good working order. Good A/C too.

I couldn't find fault with this fabulous little hotel.

The place is located inside the cattle walls and gives the opportunity to visit it when the mist of tourists are gone. The room was nice and clean and the breakfast was delicious, varied and big. The person that attends the guesthouse was very friendly and the view from the room and the terrace were really nice.

It's not negative but just two have in mind that the way from the castle to the tarn is narrow and approx. 30 minutes walking distance so it's better to use the car to move. I would choose it again without any doubt.

The staff was very nice, humble & helpful! We felt very welcomed by the owner & other staff. Rooms were good for the price, location was amazing, we felt like we were back in the past with the castle’s surroundings :) Breakfast was delicious & with fresh, local products. It wasn’t self service, so you could just sit back & relax on the nice patio. Definitely recommend staying here during your visit in Berat!

Absolutely nothing :)

Lovely rooms, air con, cracking location let's you wander around the castle area in the evening at its best. Great (and big) breakfast.

Service was without a smile, but very functional. Not a negative, but it feels a bit strange to be driving right into the castle gates past pedestrians! When you get through there, there is rough parking to the right, next to the castle walls. Then 100m walk to guest house.

The hotel is located right in the heart of Berat Castle, just next to the famous Klea Restaurant. The location is perfect for exploring the historic area. Breakfast was absolutely wonderful. We really enjoyed it. A lovely and memorable stay overall!

It would have been nice to have a kettle in the room, but overall everything went well and we had a great stay.

Well located. Our welcome was rather indifferent at first and we were given a smaller room than we had booked initially. Another staff member turned up and moved us to the correct room, which was very nice. Breakfast was good.

We had read reviews about how friendly and helpful the staff were - other than the man who changed our rooms, we found them rather cold. But they did help with things if we asked.

Excellent location - with ample parking right outside the hotel. Breakfast in the morning is very hearty (croissant, fried & boiled eggs, coffee, sausages, cucumber / tomato / feta, bread). Room itself was quite spacious for 3 of us & beds are all comfortable to sleep in

Only downside could be the pub nearby which gets crowd / plays music till late. But we were so tired after trekking all the way up from the old town that we just passed out