Is Sazan Island Worth Visiting? (1970)
Albania's largest island was a closed military base until recently, and tours now visit abandoned barracks, tunnels and a chemical-warfare shelter, usually combined with Karaburun.
About Sazan Island
A once-secret military island at the mouth of the Bay of Vlorë, now open for guided day trips.
Worth it as a curiosity — a former military island you can only see on a guided boat trip.
Full-day boat trip
35–60 EUR as part of a tour
June to September
Is Sazan Island worth your time?
Why Sazan Island is worth it
Albania's largest island was a closed military base until recently, and tours now visit abandoned barracks, tunnels and a chemical-warfare shelter, usually combined with Karaburun.
Who will love Sazan Island
Cold War history enthusiasts and boat-trip takers from Vlorë.
Who might skip it
Travellers expecting beaches — landing points are limited and access is controlled.
Tips to make it worth it
Choose a tour that includes both Sazan and the Karaburun sea caves; alone, Sazan is thin.
Map & nearby
FAQ — Sazan Island
- Can you visit Sazan Island?
- Yes, but only on organised boat tours from Vlorë or Orikum, and only in designated areas — parts of the island remain under military control.
- Why was Sazan Island closed?
- It served as a strategic naval and military base, including a Soviet-era submarine presence, and stayed off-limits to the public for decades.
- Is Sazan Island worth visiting?
- Yes — Sazan Island is one of Albania's rewarding stops, especially for travellers who value authentic settings, photogenic scenery and value for money compared to Western Europe.
- Who is Sazan Island best for?
- Sazan Island suits curious independent travellers, couples, photographers and small groups who enjoy a mix of nature, culture and slower-paced discovery over resort-style tourism.