Where to Stay in Vlorë: A Neighbourhood Guide

Thinking of heading to Vlorë? Good choice. First things first: this is a wonderfully simple city to get around. Compact and straightforward. No need to worry about getting lost.

But where you base yourself still matters, especially if you're staying for a month or more. Here's my personal take based on my preferences. You may differ?

Orientation Is Simple

There is essentially one main road from the north (top of the main city) all the way down the Lungomare seaside, south down the coast. At the top is the intercity bus stop, near to the old town. At the bottom of this main high street past all the shops is a big roundabout. After that the Lungomare starts and you meet the sea. The Lungomare stretches south for 3 km down to the Lion Fountain.

A dedicated bike lane stretches all along this route and further down the coast. One of the best features in Vlorë.

The Geography

One of the most striking things about Vlorë is its position: nestled right between two seas, the Ionian and the Adriatic. The city stretches along the bay, with the Lungomare promenade running along the waterfront and the older parts of town climbing gently inland.

Shorter term there are four main areas to consider.

Lungomare (The Promenade)

Best for: Sea views, modern feel, walking and cycling.

This is the sparkling heart of Vlorë. A wide promenade runs along the seafront with cafés, restaurants, and newer apartment buildings.

The good: Best sea views in the city. Many modern apartments available for rent. Plenty of more tourist places to eat.

The trade-off: Prices are higher than the city centre. In summer, it gets busy and touristy. Some of the seafront restaurants charge a premium for the location rather than the food. Renting further south down the Lungomare can result in a long walk to the city, or having to use busses.

My take: I'd choose the very start of the Lungomare if available. Why? Perfect balance: quick access to all the main city shops but with the stunning seafront on your doorstep. There are some very nice places near the museum.

City Centre

Best for: Character, authenticity, local feel. Convenience, budget, access to supermarkets.

All about practicality. This is where you'll find banks, local shopping, and the real rhythm of Vlorë life.

The good: Apartments are generally cheaper here. The main supermarkets are on your doorstep for supplies. The best cafes are close. You could stay closer to the fresh market You'll feel more integrated into local life rather than tourist zones. You'll feel less like a tourist.

The trade-off: No sea views. Less scenic. Older apartments. You'll walk further to reach the Lungomare.

My take: If budget and access to city amenities is your priority, this area is worth considering.

Old Town

Best for: Pretty street, nice restaurants, close to the fresh market.

There is one small lovely main street with attractive coloured buildings and nice restaurants. The architecture has personality.

The good: The fresh market is at the northern end, close by for brilliant produce. More colourful character than the Lungomare. Good restaurants.

The trade-off: Fewer apartment options. It consists of only one main attractive street. Northwest from the old town and you're into a much more rustic authentic Albanian city. Much further from the beach.

My take: Worth exploring for tourist meals and atmosphere, but I preferred being closer to the water for a longer stay.

West Vlorë Old Beach From The Port

Best for: Walks and more authentic beach experience.

My advice? From the port side this beach area is more rundown (close to the centre) than the polish of the Lungomare. It's undergoing updates. I enjoyed the old beach walks and sunset views over Sazan island. There are quite a few places to stay along this beach but I preferred the Lungomare.

Accommodation Options

Airbnb and Direct Rental

I found my apartment by searching and contacting a local agent for €700 per month. That negotiation saved me a fair amount. If you're staying a month or longer, always ask about direct arrangements.

However, from the many agents I contacted, only one got back and offered me apartments.

What I got: 65m² one-bedroom on the Lungomare. Older building, the elevator had seen better days, but the apartment itself was well-equipped. The kitchen made cooking a pleasure rather than a chore.

Hotels for Short Stays

If you're testing the waters for a few nights before committing to an apartment:

South Inn Hotel on Rruga Cajupi runs about €40 per night. New, well-located near Ura Cafe. The surrounding streets are not the best part of the city, but it's close to the Hermes airport transfer stop. Good option for arrivals or departures.

The Realistic View

Unless you commit to at least a six-month rental, you're always going to pay more. That's the reality of short-term stays anywhere.

For context: a similar-sized apartment in a UK coastal town would cost £1,200-1,500 per month minimum. I was paying less than half that for more space in a better location.

The buildings can be older. The elevators aren't always reliable. Some apartments lack items you'd expect. But the basics are covered, and the value is real.

My Recommendation

For a first visit of a month or more, try to find a place at the start of the Lungomare, where it meets the city centre. You get the best of both: sea views and sunset walks, but quick access to the market, banks, and local shops. You're close to the port where people gather to watch the sunset.

For longer stays, many people are dealing with landlords direct through Facebook. I haven't any experience to relate on this.

Once you know the city, you might prefer the city amenities or the budget advantages of certain areas. But for me, who likes to walk everywhere, the start of the Lungomare couldn't be beat.

Taylor