Hostel Mangalem in Berat

This is a lovely place at an amazing location with the best host around. Kind, friendly and homely feeling

I was here last year and had a car accident when I was on my way here. The host was worried about my well-being and kind to make sure that I was okay even though I couldn't make it in time to check in.

We slept with our door and window opened… extremely safe, clean and organized for comfort… breakfast was simple and nutritious… the perfect place… low enough to not worry about getting your suitcase up the mountain…10/10

Our magical visit to Berat was made even more magical thanks to our stay at Hostel Magalem. We booked a charming private room with an en-suite bathroom, with views of the Osum River, and it was very cozy and lovely.

Set inside one of the famous Ottoman houses of Berat, the room is furnished in a traditional way, complete with windows lined with handmade Albanian lace, stone walls and wooden floorboards. Outside, there was a nice spot to sit and enjoy the air and views.

There's everything you need for a comfortable stay too - our room had a modern bathroom with shower (good water pressure), a heater and a fan.

Plus, the location is simply perfect - steps away from restaurants, cafes and Republic Boulevard. Cross the road and you're at the bridge to Gorica Quarter. Yet the place is hidden up a small flight of stairs, so you don't feel like the busy traffic is right at your doorstep.

We managed to do so much in two days, while taking midday breaks in our room because of the great location.

Our hosts were also very hospitable, and were able to answer any questions we had about taking the bus, and greeted us with Albanian brandy and prepared chilled water and berry tea for us. They were also able to do our laundry for a small fee, which is great because there aren't any laundromats nearby as far as I can tell.

These small details help when you're a traveler in a new town and don't know the ins and outs of the place. We felt like we were in safe hands and will not hesitate to recommend this place!

Highly highly highly recommend this hostel!! The owner Kaleope is the most gorgeous host, she makes sure you have fresh icy cold water, delicious home grown grapes, and truly just has the most lovely kind energy. I felt very at home here and extended my stay I loved it so much and didn’t feel ready to leave.
The rooms are great, the beds are comfy, it has everything you need, the balcony has the most gorgeous view over the river and old town, and the location is fantastic - very safe and a very short walk from everything.
Will 100% be back at hostel Mangalem if I come back to Berat!

Hostel Mangalem in Berat offers a truly unique and cozy home atmosphere, immersing guests in an authentic Albanian ambiance. The warm welcome from the owners creates a feeling akin to visiting relatives. The hostel's affiliation with UNESCO sightseeing adds an extra layer of historical charm. If life leads me back to Berat, there's no doubt that Hostel Mangalem will be my first choice. It's a gem where comfort, genuine hospitality, and cultural richness come together seamlessly, making for an unforgettable stay.

Many thanks to the family that runs this hostel, thanks for the fact that for little money you can feel like a part of an Albanian family, see how people live and what they do. Thanks for giving ability to live in an old traditional house with good repair and air conditioning, with a big bed and with your own personal storage locker. I stayed in this hostel for 3 nights and if I had the opportunity, I would have stayed there more, since even though it is a hostel, I felt “home” comfortably. You can’t imagine a better location, since you literally live in the sight of UNESCO and there are a huge number of shops and cafes with restaurants nearby. I wish this family a prosperous business and many many wonderful guests from all over the world!

Amazing location and atmosphere. The hostel is part of the UNESCO heritage buildings in the old city center and it is gorgeous. The staff is really friendly, caring and go above and beyond to make your stay as memorable as possible. Plus one of the owners gives amazing private tours in the Berat castle. I would definitely recommend this hostel if you go to Berat and I hope to come back soon to this lovely place

This small, cosy and social hostel is located at the foot of the old town and a 5 minute walk from the local bus stop. You’ll be greeted by Berti who is a fantastic host and will go above and beyond to make your stay the best, Turkish coffee on arrival (and throughout your stay), free raki and daily breakfast (a tomato, a cucumber, a boiled egg, a piece of feta, jam, bread and a glass of warm milk). Beds are comfortable, only two toilets and showers. No lockers. Hostel is tidy and cleaned throughout the day. Free tour of the castle each day with Berti. Stay here when in a Berat.

Small hostel in prime location and lovely building. Bertie holds a castle tour which is fantastic and breakfast was very nice. He is always available and offering coffee or raki, you feel like you are a guest at his house. Holds 11 guests and had a social atmosphere.

Had the best stay here. Manager is so lovely and helpful and his family are lovely. Mother makes yummy breakfast.
Bertie offers a castle tour that I would totally recommend doing. So much info and a great time.
Accom is clean and comfortable. He is very hospitable and will make you a lovely Turkish coffee.

Absolutely delightful hostel bin Berat old town. It's up steps in a quaint street across from the river. Friendliest host imaginable who would do anything for his guests and probably anybody else too because he has a huge kind heart. Lovely dorm, clean as can be, bathroom and kitchen both lovely too. Sitting area with views of the river and old stone houses on its other side. Walking the short walk to the supermarket has some excellent views of the mountains that were dusted in snow when I was there. Don't miss this place.