Skip to content You’ve got to check out Vlorë when you’re in Albania! This coastal town is full of color, history, and that perfect laid-back Mediterranean vibe. Picture yourself wandering through charming little streets with cozy houses, or exploring a buzzing old town where there’s always something happening. Take a break at one of the many restaurants for some tasty local food, then head over to the palm-lined promenade for a chilled-out stroll. The vibe here is just contagious! And getting to Vlora is a breeze – it’s just a three-hour drive from Tirana’s airport.
The town is split into two parts: the seaside and the old town, which is a bit inland. The old town may be small, but it’s packed with charm, with a quaint square and just two main streets to explore. It’s been beautifully restored, and it’s definitely worth a wander. There’s also loads to see, like a nature reserve, old communist-era bunkers, and even a monastery on an island! History lovers, make sure you visit the Independence Monument and Kaninë Castle. And for those who love nature, the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island offer some amazing views and awesome underwater spots to explore.
Oh, and did we mention the Italian vibes? You’ll find everything from fresh pizza and pasta to seafood straight from the Mediterranean. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hop on a ferry to Brindisi, Italy, for a quick escape and that ultimate Mediterranean experience! With its endless sunshine, beautiful beaches, fascinating history, and some exciting new additions (like a brand-new marina in the works – we’ll tell you more about that later in this article), Vlora is shaping up to be the next big Mediterranean hotspot you won’t want to miss.
In this guide, we’re diving into everything Vlora has to offer: top things to do, the best places to stay, amazing food, nightlife and so much more!
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When it comes to staying in Vlore, you’ve got three great choices: the vibrant beachside boulevard, the new marina or the charming old town. To really soak in everything this city has to offer, we suggest staying at least two days. Sure, you can explore the town center in half a day, but that won’t give you time to enjoy the stunning beaches, sightseeings and nearby attractions. For the best of both worlds, we recommend staying along the coast or the new marina. The beachfront is lined with everything from cozy hostels to boutique hotels and it’s only a 20-minute stroll to the old town, making it easy to explore while still enjoying beachside vibes.
If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your Albanian holiday, check out the best all inclusive resorts of Albania: Looking for something a bit less fancy but still all-inclusive? Check out the best all-inclusive hotels in the country! If you would like to check both all inclusive resorts & hotels, you could also check this page with filters & search options.
Looking for things to do in Vlore? This coastal town offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Wander through the charming Vlora Old Town, explore the historic Muradi Mosque, or relax along the lively Vlora Marina and palm-lined promenade. For history lovers, the Museum of Independence and Independence Monument are must-sees. And if you’re craving a peaceful escape, visit the serene Zvernec Monastery on its own island in the Narta Lagoon. Whether you’re into culture, history, or just soaking up the seaside vibe, Vlore has it all… let’s dive into the best things to do around Vlore!
Vlora old townJust a little inland, the charming, freshly revamped Vlora old town feels like you’ve stepped into a different world. It’s small, just a cute square and a couple of streets – but it’s bursting with character. The pastel-colored buildings and lovely little details give off an almost Italian vibe, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in town. You’ll find cozy cafés, inviting restaurants and plenty of cute shops to explore.
And those outdoor terraces? Ideal for sitting back, people-watching, and soaking up the laid-back vibe… we can’t wait to go back! Even though it’s small, Vlora Old Town has plenty to keep you busy. You can easily spend a few hours strolling around, checking out the market stalls, or just enjoying the pretty surroundings. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and really enjoy the moment.
Right next to Vlore’s old town, you’ll find the Muradi Mosque, one of the oldest and most interesting buildings in the city. Built in 1537 during the Ottoman rule, it’s a lesser-known place. Don’t expect anything massive like the grand mosques in Istanbul or Mecca, but that’s what makes it charming – it’s got this authentic, down-to-earth vibe that feels frozen in time. With its brick construction and ancient minaret, the Muradi Mosque really stands out in the midst of Vlore’s modern upgrades.
It’s like a little pocket of history sitting next to the city’s new developments. You can definitely feel the blend of past and present here, as Vlore’s transforming fast, with new buildings going up everywhere. While you’re at it, take a little detour to Flag Square or head up to Kuzum Baba Hill for a fantastic view over the city. And if you’re up for more culture, the Historical Museum (more details on that later) and Ethnographic Museum are just around the corner.
Zvernec MonasteryFor a change of pace, why not take a trip to St. Mary’s Monastery on Zvernec Island? Located in the Narta Lagoon, about 11 km north of Vlore, this place is as scenic as it gets! The nature reserve itself is worth the visit, with wetlands, birds galore and even the occasional flamingo. But the real highlight? That tiny monastery on its own little island. The monastery may be small and simple, but its charm comes from the setting.
To reach it, you cross a long wooden bridge that stretches out over the lagoon – definitely a walk we will remember. Once there, you’ll find a quiet, peaceful church and stunning views of the lagoon. It’s a perfect spot for some photos and a bit of quiet reflection. You can drive up easily, or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike through the lovely pine forest that leads to the island.
Vlora Marina is transforming the city’s seafront into a world-class destination. This new development will feature luxurious 5-star hotels, stylish sea-view apartments, and a lively promenade filled with restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Picture yourself strolling along floating pontoons, watching yachts sway gently in the breeze, or indulging in Italian gelato before unwinding at a luxury spa or seafront bar.
Designed by the award-winning Belgian studio XDGA, Vlora Marina offers premium living with exclusive sea-view apartments, private terraces, 24/7 security, and world-class amenities. The marina itself will house over 400 yachts, creating a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors. Located just steps from the beach and connected to natural spots like Soda Park, the marina is perfect if you are looking to explore the beauty of Vlora and the entire Balkan region.
With access to 120 beaches, UNESCO sites, and the best of Mediterranean cuisine, Vlora Marina is set to become the heart of Albania’s coastal experience. Whether you’re visiting or investing, this new development promises a unique blend of modern luxury and Albanian charm.
If you’re curious about Vlore’s key role in Albania’s quest for independence from the Ottoman Empire, a visit to the Museum of Independence is a must. It’s just a short stroll from the port, and for less than £1, you can explore a few rooms in what was once the headquarters of Ismail Qemali, the leader of the independence movement and Albania’s first head of government after 1912. Vlore holds a special place in Albanian history, being the very spot where the country declared its independence following centuries of Ottoman rule.
The Museum of Independence in Vlore The museum itself is a charming pale yellow building with a balcony and an Albanian flag proudly flying at the front. A cool fact: the Museum of Independence has been around since 1936, making it the oldest museum in Albania. It’s open daily from April to September, but during the off-season, it’s closed on Sundays and Mondays. And if you ever have trouble finding the building, just take a look at the back of the 500 Albanian lek note – it’s right there!
The Independence Monument is one of Vlore’s most iconic sights. It’s located in a spacious square, right between the pastel-colored streets of the old town and the Muradie Mosque, with the bold year “1912” proudly displayed. This was the year Albania declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire, right here in Vlore, like mentioned before.
Even though the monument’s style reflects socialist architecture, it was actually built during Albania’s communist era in 1972, not in 1912. So, it stands not only as a tribute to Albania’s independence but also as a reminder of the country’s more difficult communist past. If you’re curious to see the original declaration of independence, you can check it out at the Independence Museum we mentioned earlier.
Vlora Marina is transforming the city’s seafront into a world-class destination. This new development will feature luxurious 5-star hotels, stylish sea-view apartments, and a lively promenade filled with restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Picture yourself strolling along floating pontoons, watching yachts sway gently in the breeze, or indulging in Italian gelato before unwinding at a luxury spa or seafront bar.
Designed by the award-winning Belgian studio XDGA, Vlora Marina offers premium living with exclusive sea-view apartments, private terraces, 24/7 security, and world-class amenities. The marina itself will house over 400 yachts, creating a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors. Located just steps from the beach and connected to natural spots like Soda Park, the marina is perfect if you are looking to explore the beauty of Vlora and the entire Balkan region.
With access to 120 beaches, UNESCO sites, and the best of Mediterranean cuisine, Vlora Marina is set to become the heart of Albania’s coastal experience. Whether you’re visiting or investing, this new development promises a unique blend of modern luxury and Albanian charm.
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Want to know the best 5 places to stay in Vlora? Look no further we’ve got you covered:
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If you’re visiting Vlora, there are several places that combine history, culture, good food and the best beaches. While some of these destinations may not be very close to Vlora, they’re worth considering if you’re exploring Albania or planning to combine multiple stops during your travels. Let’s discuss them all down below in full detail!
Get ready to fall head over heels for Dhërmi! Just 50 km from Vlore, this beautiful coastal town is like something out of a postcard. With its whitewashed houses dotting the hillsides, Dhërmi is often compared to Santorini, but it’s got its own special vibe. You’ll find the perfect mix of stunning nature, rich culture and a nightlife that knows how to keep the party going. Picture a 2 km stretch of beach, an old town brimming with charm, and summer nights filled with music and dancing. Oh, and if you’re into festivals, you can’t miss the famous Kala Festival, which draws in thousands of party lovers every year!
Dhërmi feels like two worlds in one. Down by the coast, you’ve got buzzing beaches, a lively promenade full of hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs. Whether you’re into sunbathing, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or getting your adrenaline fix with water sports, you’ll find plenty to love here. But wait, there’s more! Just head uphill, and you’ll discover spots like Drymades and Jali, where the party vibe keeps going all summer long with international DJs spinning tracks. Dhërmi is easily one of the coolest spots in Albania!
Are you looking for a bit more adventure than, for example, Dhërmi offers? Consider the nearby town of Palasë! It’s a dream for thrill-seekers, especially if you’re into air sports or mountain climbing. If you prefer something a bit more luxurious, the Green Coast Resort has you covered with fancy hotels, private villas, and all the pampering you could need. Oh, and did we mention Palasë has Albania’s only Blue Flag beach? Yep, it’s as stunning as you’d imagine!
As you drive through the Llogara Pass from Vlora and emerge on the other side, Palasë is the first village to greet you on the breathtaking Albanian Riviera. And wow, the views are unreal to be honest; soaring mountains that seem to dive straight into the sparkling sea. It’s no wonder Palasë is becoming one of Albania’s top holiday destinations. With its amazing scenery, beautiful beach and top-notch places to stay, it’s a must-visit. Plus, it’s just 45 km from Vlora, making it the perfect two-for-one trip. For more insider tips on where to stay and what to do, don’t forget to check out our full guide on Palasë!
If you’re looking to escape the busier tourist hotspots, Himarë is the perfect chill coastal town for you. Located just 65 km from Vlorë, it’s a hidden gem that still retains its peaceful fishing village vibes despite gaining a little more attention lately. Think sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and quiet coves that are just made for relaxation. One of the highlights? Gjipe Beach, often ranked as one of Albania’s best-kept secrets.
The town also has a cool mix of Greek and Albanian influences, which you can see in the food, architecture, and the incredibly friendly locals. Don’t forget to visit Himara Castle for a bit of history, stroll through the charming old villages, and enjoy some fresh seafood right by the sea. Himarë’s relaxed vibe and stunning views make it the perfect pit stop as you head south the Albanian coast.
115 km from Ksamil, Sarandë is a lively coastal town that’s perfect for mixing beach days with a splash of history – and honestly, pairing it with Ksamil (more about this place later on) is a no-brainer! Stroll down the seaside promenade, Rruga Jonianet, and you’ll be greeted by a vibrant blend of bars and seafood spots, all with killer views of the Ionian Sea. This location is great for a casual promenade, especially when cruise ships are in town, adding an extra buzz to the atmosphere. We love hanging out here and along the promenade, you’ll stumble upon charming little shops selling local honey, handmade jewelry, and other cool finds. If you’re in chill mode, grab an ice cream, sit under the shade of a palm tree and enjoy the relaxed vibes of Saranda!
Want to spice things up a bit? The beachfront cafés and bars serve up amazing views (though you might pay a little extra for that prime location). For an epic meal, swing by Haxhi, a cozy hidden gem just off the promenade. The decor’s cool, the vibe’s chill and the food is seriously top-notch. Sarandë is also the perfect jump-off point to explore the ancient ruins of Butrint or check out the stunning Blue Eye spring. Whether it’s day or night, Sarandë has this special charm that’s hard to resist (trust us, we’re hooked!). Want more insider tips and must-see spots? Head over to our full blog on Saranda!
Last but not least: Ksamil is absolutely worth checking out when you visit Albania, no matter where you’re staying. Once you arrive, you’ll understand why it’s called the “Maldives of Europe”. Located 130 km south of Vlorë, this spot is a dream with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches and of course the trendy beach clubs. It’s the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun, sipping cocktails, and rounding off the evening with a delicious seafood dinner at the famous Mussel House.
The vibe here is easygoing and fun, making it perfect whether you want to relax or go on an adventure. Be sure to check out nearby gems like Butrint National Park, take a day trip to the stunning Blue Eye spring, or even hop on a boat to Corfu – it’s only 20 minutes away! Ksamil is quickly climbing the ranks as Albania’s must-visit spot, giving Ibiza and Mykonos a run for their money. Whether you’re here to party, relax on dreamy beaches, or savor some authentic Albanian cuisine, Ksamil got it all. Want more tips and tricks? Click the link for our full guide on Ksamil!
Vlore offers a great mix of beaches, each with its own vibe. The city beach is conveniently located near the center. For a more tranquil spot, head northwest to Narta Beach, where you’ll find peaceful shores surrounded by pine trees and laid-back beach bars.
To the south of Vlore, the action picks up at popular spots like Vega Beach, known for its sandy shores and beachside resorts.
The further you venture from the center, the better your chances of finding a secluded stretch of beach to call your own. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or hop on a speedboat to explore the rugged coastlines and hidden caves… there are a lot of them in this region of Albania. Let’s discuss the best beaches of Vlore down below!
Orikum Beach is a good spot if you’re with family or friends. Why? It’s super quiet, with no music, and most of the beach is now taken up by paid sunbeds. Compared to other beaches in Vlora Bay, Orikum is less developed, but it’s perfect for families with kids who want a peaceful day by the sea. Free spots to put your own umbrella have become really limited, with just a small space left behind the sunbeds and close to the road. There used to be a cool bar on the dock, but unfortunately, that’s gone now.
The prices are generally reasonable, though every restaurant has its own beach section, so prices for sunbeds can vary. It’s worth checking around for the best deal — we found a spot for just 5 euros (umbrella and two loungers), but other places charged 8, 9, or even 10 euros. If you’re okay with basic services and a more laid-back atmosphere, you’ll definitely enjoy it here.
Vega Beach is a great spot for a relaxing day by the sea. The water is clear blue, the sunbeds are comfortable and the staff are friendly and helpful. The atmosphere is relaxed with good music playing in the background (Just keep in mind, the music can be a little loud at times) and the food at the restaurant is tasty too. Prices are a bit higher than some other places, but overall, Vega Beach is a solid choice.
Narta Beach
Narta Beach (a long sandy beach) is worth a visit when staying in Vlorë. It’s easy to reach by car, with parking available right by the beach along the road. The beach stretches for several kilometers and is over 100 metres wide in some areas, so there’s plenty of space to relax. The beach is quite flat, and the shallow water extends far out, making it ideal for kids to play safely.
Swimming is possible about 80 metres from the shore, so it’s great for both relaxing and enjoying the water! Good to know: there are several beach services available, as well as plenty of nearby restaurants and bars.
Vlore’s nightlife might not be as buzzing as a place like Ksamil in southern Albania, but there are still plenty of cool spots to enjoy a night out. You won’t find big nightclubs here, but there are loads of chill (shisha) bars where you can kick back and relax. We’ve handpicked a few fun bars in Vlore for you to check out:
A little further down Vlore’s strip, you’ll find Black Moon Lounge, a nice spot to grab cocktails in the evening. They offer a decent selection and there’s a DJ on weekends until midnight. If you’re into shisha, they’ve got plenty of flavors to choose from, which is a nice little extra right?
The staff here are super friendly, and the prices are affordable as well. The owner is really welcoming too — she always greets people with a big smile, which just adds to the laid-back atmosphere. The Black Moon Lounge is a decent spot to relax with a drink in Vlore!
We found Mangala on a Saturday night in Vlore while searching for a good cocktail and it quickly became our go-to spot that week! The cocktails were top-notch and the prices are reasonable, around 600-700 lek. The bar itself has a cool, themed decor and plays great music, though it was a bit quiet for a Saturday.
Despite that, we had a great time and the relaxed vibe made it a nice place to hang out. We even returned the next night because the cocktails were the best we had in Vlore — strong but really well-balanced. Fun fact: Mangala serves up a tasty breakfast in the mornings with an awesome sea view… so if you’re in the area and craving a solid breakfast, definitely swing by!
In Vlora, you’re in for a real Mediterranean feast! Seafood steals the show here: fresh sea bass, red mullet, calamari, and cuttlefish, all perfectly complemented with a squeeze of lemon or a dash of garlic. But that’s not all – Vlora’s food scene comes with a tasty Italian twist. With Italy’s Brindisi just across the water, it’s no surprise that pizza, pasta, and more seafood are a big hit on the menu.
And it doesn’t stop at Italian! You’ve also got some awesome Albanian and Balkan flavors to try out, like byrek (a flaky pastry stuffed with spinach, cheese, or meat), juicy grilled meat qofte (think meatballs but better), and tavë kosi (a savory lamb dish, almost like a quiche). Feeling hungry? Let’s look at some of the best restaurants you should check out!
We stumbled upon Restaurant Gaia while wandering through the charming old town of Vlora, feeling pretty hungry. What really drew us in was the cozy, inviting vibe of the place – it just felt right. The restaurant itself is beautiful, with fair prices, a great location, and such friendly service! The food was amazing, and the portions were huge! We ordered a mix of all sorts of Albanian dishes, half of which we didn’t even know what they were, but everything tasted fantastic!
The staff were really friendly, and the service was super quick. We’d definitely recommend checking it out, especially with that old town charm adding to the whole vibe. Oh, and they even gave us free ice cream at the end, which was such a nice little surprise!
Brooklyn RestaurantOn our second night, we decided to try Brooklyn Restaurant based on its solid reviews compared to other spots in Vlorë, and it definitely didn’t disappoint! The restaurant is in a great location, right by the seafront with a beautiful view of the bay. There’s a lot of competition in the area, but we went for Brooklyn because of the positive feedback. As you might guess from the name, the menu has an American twist, with a big focus on pizza.
There were around 20-25 different pizzas, some with pretty unique combinations. The pizza was fresh and made in a wood-fired oven, following an Italian recipe. We ordered a focaccia, but it turned out to be a pizza without any toppings, which was a bit unexpected! Luckily, the crust was delicious on its own. The grilled veggies were actually grilled (not just roasted), and they tasted amazing too! We would definitely recommend Brooklyn Restaurant in Vlore for a night out.
Wave RestaurantRight next to the main street and right on the beach, this cozy café and restaurant was such a great find. The bar staff really knew their stuff and gave us awesome drink recommendations based on what we liked. The drink menu had tons of options, from cocktails to beers and more. We went for the Benediktiner Hell beer, and it was so refreshing!
Also the service was top-notch at the Wave Restaurant. The team was attentive, super friendly, and you could tell they really enjoyed what they were doing. They made sure we had everything we needed without hovering too much.The bar itself was really nicely designed, with comfy seating both inside and outside, so you’re covered no matter the weather. And being right by the beach? It made the whole experience even better, especially when the sun started setting – really nice!
Albania is getting ready to level up its tourism scene with the soon-to-be-finished Vlora International Airport, the country’s third international gateway. Vlora International Airport is a key part of Albania’s plan to boost its tourism industry and improve its standing in the region. Albania’s beautiful coastlines along the Adriatic and Ionian seas are attracting more and more visitors each year, and this new airport will help keep up with the demand.
While the airport’s full construction will be done by December 2025, flights are expected to start as early as March 2025. The government is hoping the airport will handle about 1 million tourists between March and December, way above the initial projections.
If you’re looking for a great map of Vlora, the one down below is a must-have for a smooth and enjoyable trip. It highlights all the top attractions and shows the available accommodations in the area. You’ll find photos, pricing, ratings and quick links for more info – all in one spot! Just click on any accommodation marker to see more details, photos, and book your stay easily. Goodluck!
