Vlorë: Holiday Apartments and Holiday Homes

The Karaburun–Sazan marine ecosystem is home to 36 marine species of international importance.

Anyone looking for a holiday apartment in Vlorë has a destination in mind that offers nature, coast, urban history and local cuisine.

Nature

The Narta Lagoon is a protected natural area and an important habitat for waterfowl and wildlife. Visitors can go birdwatching, take nature walks and participate in educational activities.

The Zvërnec Forest is located in the western part of the Bashkia Vlorë next to the Narta Lagoon and is part of a protected coastal landscape. It contains natural paths for walking, picnicking and outdoor activities. The forest can be reached via the Vlorë–Soda Forest–Zvërnec route.

A wooden bridge connects the island of the Zvërnec Monastery with the mainland; the walk is considered suitable for ecotourism and nature photography.

The Orikum Lagoon is an Important Bird Area within the managed Karaburun protected area. It provides a habitat for migratory birds, eels, fish and molluscs. Visitors can observe birds there with binoculars and walk or take photographs along the shore.

Coast

The Karaburun–Sazan Marine National Park is Albania’s only marine park of its kind. It includes the Karaburun Peninsula, Sazan Island and the surrounding aquatic ecosystems. Permitted activities include diving, exploring the coast, observing wildlife and sailing without a motor.

Haxhi Ali Cave can only be reached by boat from Vlorë and is located within the Karaburun–Sazan Marine Park. Experiences associated with the cave include boat trips and swimming; at the same time, its coastal history and legends are a central focus.

Sazan Island is open to visitors and combines Mediterranean vegetation, beaches and the landscape of the Karaburun–Sazan Marine Park. The island also contains the remains of a military base, tunnels and buildings from the Cold War, allowing visitors to explore its history.

Culture

The historic centre of Vlorë contains 13 first-category cultural monuments in buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The National Independence Museum of Vlorë was founded in 1936. It displays original objects, important documents and works of art from the period of the Albanian National Awakening and independence. The museum is located south of Vlorë near the port.

The Muradie Mosque in Vlorë was built in 1542 by Mimar Sinan and is an important example of Ottoman architecture.

Kaninë Castle is a fortification of Illyrian origin that was rebuilt during the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods. It is associated with Skanderbeg’s coronation as Prince of Albania in 1451. Visitors can explore its defensive walls, towers and interior areas with archaeological remains.

Near the Orikum Lagoon lie the ruins of the ancient city of Orikum, offering a historical visit. Iso-polyphonic music accompanies weddings, funerals, local celebrations, religious festivals and national festivals.

City Life and Cuisine

Vlorë’s Old Beach and New Beach along the bay offer wide pavements, landscaped promenades, seaside restaurants and cafés, as well as calm, shallow waters.

Vlorë’s cuisine combines seafood with Albanian tradition. It includes fresh fish, squid, mussels, herb pies, lamb, local white cheese, olive oil and local wine.

Dukat Agrotourism offers an experience of Albanian rural life centred on organic wine, raki, olive oil, produce, eggs and medicinal herbs. Visitors can learn about the cultivation of organic products there and experience local hospitality.

Other destinations: Vlora, Radhimë, Orikum, Palasë, Tragjas, Upper Qeparo, Vuno, Saranda.

For the higher-level travel overview: Qark Vlora.