Kanine Castle is a magnificent 12th century castle located in the city of Vlorë, Albania. The castle is perched atop a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea and is one of the most impressive sights in the area. The castle was built by the Venetians and was used as a fortification against the Ottomans. Today, Kanine Castle is a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of things to do and see here. Here are 10 of the best things to do when visiting Kanine Castle in Vlorë, Albania.
1. Explore the Castle Grounds: The castle grounds are open to visitors and offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Visitors can explore the castle walls and towers, which are still in excellent condition. The castle also features a number of historical artifacts, such as cannons, which are worth seeing.
2. Take in the Views: The views from the castle are simply breathtaking. From the top of the castle, visitors can see the entire city of Vlorë and the Adriatic Sea. The views are especially stunning at sunset, when the sky is lit up in beautiful shades of orange and pink.
3. Visit the Museum: The Kanine Castle Museum is located inside the castle walls and contains a number of interesting artifacts. The museum is open to the public and offers a great opportunity to learn more about the history of the castle and the city of Vlorë.
4. Take a Boat Tour: Boat tours of the Adriatic Sea are available from the castle. The tours offer a great way to get a different perspective of the castle and the city.
5. Visit the Churches: The castle is home to several churches, including the Church of St. Mary and the Church of St. Nicholas. Both churches are open to the public and offer a great opportunity to explore the religious history of the area.
6. Hike to the Top: For those who are looking for a bit of adventure, there is a hiking trail that leads to the top of the castle. The hike is not too difficult and offers spectacular views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
7. Visit the Beaches: The beaches near the castle are some of the best in the region. The beaches are clean and well-maintained, and offer a great opportunity to relax and soak up some sun.
8. Enjoy the Nightlife: Vlorë is known for its vibrant nightlife, and there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore in the area. There is something for everyone here, from traditional Albanian cuisine to international cuisine.
9. Shop at the Markets: The markets in Vlorë are a great place to pick up souvenirs and other items. The markets are filled with a variety of local crafts and produce, and offer a great opportunity to get a taste of the local culture.
10. Take a Day Trip: Vlorë is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of day trips that can be taken from the city. Popular destinations include the beaches of Sarandë, the ruins of Butrint, and the beautiful Albanian Alps.
Kanine Castle is one of the most impressive sights in the region and offers plenty of things to do and see. From exploring the castle grounds to taking a boat tour of the Adriatic Sea, there is something for everyone here. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an adventure-filled day of exploration, Kanine Castle has something for you.