Vlore

Vlorë (Vlora) is the third most populated city in Albania. It is a buzzing beach town sitting in the Bay of Vlorë and is surrounded by the foothills of the Ceraunian Mountains. It is about two hours from Tirana (150km) by car or three and half hours by public transport. Like Durrës there are some options to leave Vlorë by ferry. Vlorë has a lovely walkable beachfront area with plenty of restaurants, condos, and hotels called Lungomare (said loon-go-mari). The main road for most locals is Ismail Qemali Boulevard (said is-mail Chim-mali). It is a pedestrian friendly street with shops and local eateries.

In Vlorë, you can walk across a long wooden footbridge to reach the 14th-century St. Mary’s Monastery, which sits peacefully on the pine-covered Zvërnec Island within the Narta Lagoon. Back in the city center, Independence Square in Old Town serves as a powerful historical anchor, featuring a towering socialist-realist monument that marks the very spot where Albania’s sovereignty was first proclaimed. For the best perspective of the coast, head up to Kuzum Baba, the highest point in the city, where a Bektashi temple offers a quiet retreat and panoramic views of the bay.

Where to live:

Vlora is a year round city with many Albanians living there all year, however it also fills in the summer with tourists looking to lay on the beach. As with most beach cities, prices go up the closer a location is to the ocean. Unlike the industrial feel of Durrës, Vlora is an ideal choice for people looking to live the beach life, but still be within a reasonable distance from Tirana. When choosing an apartment be aware of the average cost, so as not to drive up the prices unknowingly. Use trusted and vetted sources for help finding a place. See the locations for yourself and walk around the area. Know that it can be difficult to find an apartment that will allow pets:

• Near Ismail Qemali Boulevard:

  • allows quick access to groceries and restaurants for daily essentials

• Along the coast/ Lungomare:

  • A view of the ocean and access to tourist spots

Cost for a 2 bedroom apartment: 400 - 700 euros per month. For 600 euros and up the apartment would have a view of the ocean or some other exceptional feature.