Where to stay in Vlorë

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Choosing where to stay is one of the most important decisions and crucial to get the most out of the attractions when visiting Vlorë, the breathtaking nature and the beautiful beaches surrounding the town. You can either stay in the city itself or on the beach, where you will find a range of accommodation from cosy apartments to beautiful boutique hotels by the sea.

During my research for my visit to Vlorë, I discovered some hidden gems in great locations that I would like to share with you. In this blog, I will present you with the best places to stay! It is also worth noting that prices in Albania are still quite affordable.

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The best areas to stay in Vlorë are Plazhi i Ri/Lungomare near the centre and Radhime Beach area. If you are travelling by car and would like to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the old town, you will find excellent accommodation right by the sea in Radhime (e.g. Mazarine Hotel Vlore).

Where is Vlorë located in Albania?

Vlorë (also known as Vlora) is located on the central coast of Albania, where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian Sea. It is part of the region often referred to as the Albanian Riviera. This section of the southern coast of Albania is lined with numerous beaches, villages and larger towns.

Vlorë boasts a beautiful location right by the beach and a number of natural attractions, archaeological parks nearby, old ruins and fantastic viewpoints that are well worth seeing.

My top picks for where to stay – Hotels in Vlorë

Brief overview – My recommended hotels and places to stay:

• The Central View Boutique Hotel $ (Rated 9.0) – This very popular modern hotel with spacious rooms is only a short walk to the New Beach (Plazhi i Ri) and offers great value for money.
• Mazarine Hotel, Vlorë $$ (Radhimë Beach) – This small family run hotel is a great choice nad my personal favorite, located right between the northern and southern beaches a little up the hill. I really liked the wooden flooring and the amazing breakfast.
• Grand Mirage $$ (Plazhi i Ri) – A newer addition to the hotel landscape in town. Service here was very good. The location is perfect, very conveniently located in central Lungomare area right by the sea.
• Yacht Hotel $$$ (Lungomare Main Beach) – If you’re looking for something fancy with a well-known restaurant and bar that is sold out every night, this is the hotel for you. The service is impeccable, and the hotel is beautiful.

Best Areas To Stay in Vlorë

To help you, I created this quick guide of the pros and cons of staying in each area, and hotel recommendations for all budgets.

If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and easy access to plenty of restaurants, I recommend staying near Plazhi i Ri (“New Beach”) or the Muradija district of Vlorë.

If you prefer a quieter beach holiday, consider the southern beach of Radhime. For those looking for a more secluded holiday surrounded by nature, look for accommodation in the area around Kanine Castle.

Vlore Old Town – Muradija district:

• Experience the trendy café culture, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the colorfully restored historic buildings.

Plazhi i Ri (New Beach) in central Vlore:

• The longest beach in Vlore, perfect to relax with plenty of restaurants to choose from.
• Use the promenade for quiet walks and scenic views of Karaburun and Sazan island.

Radhimë Beach:

• Best for a more quiet beach holiday on the Ionian Sea while close enough to town.
• The centre of Vlore and the old town with a wider range of dining options is till within easy reach by car (15-minute drive).

By focusing on these areas, you can find the perfect hotel in Vlore that suits your preferences and experience everything Vlore has to offer.

The Best Hotels in Vlorë for every budget

I recommend staying along the coast and planning your day trips to visit the old town and other places from there.

Central View Boutique Hotel – Best for budget slow travelers

Central View Boutique Hotel is a popular choice for budget travelers and one of my favoutites as well. It boasts a great location close to the beach, very comfortable spacious rooms, bed and pillows and comes with a good breakfast. ☑ Check prices and availability here.

Mazarine Hotel, Vlorë – Best for a quiet beach holiday & sea view

Mazarine Hotel is a great new hotel with modern rooms overlooking the sea towards Karaburun and Sazan Island, located about 10 min drive to the south of Vlore centre. The small family run hotel comes with an infinity pool and restaurant and is also a great choice for families. They also have a private beach bar across the road. I stayed here on my last visit in June and found it the perfect choice for a more quiet beach holiday. ☑ Check prices and availability here.

Grand Mirage Hotel – Best for easy access to the Main Beach “Plazhi i Ri”

Grand Mirage Vlore is a stylish boutique hotel right by Vlore’s city beach “Lungomare”. Its spacious rooms, decorated with modern elegance and a touch of cosiness, make it a comfortable and trendy place for visitors. It is highly praised in reviews for its excellent breakfast, warm hospitality and spacious rooms. ☑ Check prices and availability here.

Festim Villa Hotel – For the best view of Vlore

Festim Villa Hotel (Kanine Castle area) is a great choice if you wish to stay more in nature. The location is very quiet, making it ideal for relaxation and getting away from the hustle and bustle. You can take a dip in the indoor pool and enjoy spectacular vistas from the terrace. Free parking, friendly staff and a great breakfast made my stay there very comfortable. ☑ Check prices and availability here.

Yacht Hotel – Best for Luxury with superior sea view

The Yacht Hotel (luxury) is located towards the end of Vlore’s main boulevard, right by the coast, and features a restaurant, bar and private beach with snack bar directly opposite. The rooms are modern and airy, offering stunning sea views. Breakfast here was delicious and absolutely lush. ☑ Check prices and availability here.

Maritim Marina Bay Resort SPA (luxury) offers a private beach area and beachfront access. Here you can enjoy stunning sea views and a swimming pool with a view. Rooms are stylish and modern, service here was great, a good choice also for couple! ☑ Check prices and availability here.

The Palm Suites Apartments (budget) is located just south of the city centre and offers good apartments and rooms with fully equipped kitchens, private bathrooms and free private parking. The rooms are clean and spacious and are a good, affordable option well-suited for families.

FAQ about staying in Vlorë

Why stay in Vlorë, Albania?

Vlorë is one of the larger towns on the Albanian Riviera and a fantastic destination, especially for families. It is less crowded than Sarandë, but still offers plenty of variety – beaches, history in the old town and a wide range of new hotels – all in beautiful settings.

How many days in Vlore?

How many days do you need in Vlorë? I would say two days are enough to see the city and take a boat tour (e.g. a Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun Boat Tour). However, Vlorë popular is especially for a beach holiday, and you can easily spend five or more days here relaxing on the beach and enjoying delicious seafood.

What are the best beaches in Vlore?

• Sunny Beach.
• La Plaia Beach.
• Bora Bora Beach – Lively beach in the south.
• Radhimë Beach – Coarse sandy beach.
• Orikum Beach – Beautiful, quiet pebble beach near Vlora.

What to do in Vlore, Albania?

Vlorë played an instrumental role in Albanian Independence as an epicenter for the founders of modern Albania, who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1912 at the Assembly of Vlorë.

During your stay in Vlore you can explore the Narta Lagoon, take a Boat trip to the islands of Sazan and Karaburun or visit the ruins of Apollonia.

Top Attractions in Vlore

• Independence Monument.
• Vlore Old Town and the Muradie Mosque.
• Visit Kaninë Castle towering over the city.
• Day trip the ruins of Apollonia.
• St. Mary’s Monastery & Zvernec Island.
• Sazan Island & Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park
• Hidden Gem: Visit Brataj Bridge