Vlorë is a vibrant coastal city of great historical significance. It is notably recognized as the place where Albania declared its independence in 1912, a pivotal event commemorated by the Independence Monument located in the city centre. The strategic location has made it a crossroads for various civilizations, evident in the archaeological finds such as Apollonia. The city’s waterfront, lined with palm trees and charming cafes, is a popular spot, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and a lively atmosphere. Vlorë is also a gateway to the stunning Albanian Riviera, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The nearby Llogara Pass provides breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Ionian Sea and the coastal landscape. Vlorë’s proximity to the Karaburun–Sazan National Marine Park, a protected marine area encompassing diverse ecosystems, attracts nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.
|
6 things not to be missed in and around Vlorë
|
In fact, the city has two centres: the new one around the port and the old one about two kilometres inland. The two urban areas are connected by two large boulevards, Gjergj Kastrioti and Ismail Qemali. Of the historic centre, essentially only the Muradia Mosque and one newly restored street (Rruga Justin Godard) in the area of the Flag Square remain. In the port district, almost the only historical building is the discreet Museum of Independence.
There are two large beaches in the city of Vlorë. Unlike those in the comparably sized Durrës, they are much cleaner and less frequented. The Old Beach (Plazhi i Vjetër) stretches northwest from the port and is partly lined with pine forest planted here years ago against coastal erosion. It is flat and sandy, perfect for evening strolls in the sunset.
The palm-lined New Beach (Plazhi i Ri) stretches several kilometres between the port and the Uji i Ftohtë (Cold Water) tunnel. The area adjacent to the beach is locally known as Lungomare. The locals often take a stroll along the long promenade, which is lined with many cafes, bars and restaurants.
History of Vlorë
Like many other Albanian cities, Vlorë has been inhabited since antiquity. It was founded by the Greeks in the 6th century BC and given the name Aulon. Its strategic location in the Gulf of Vlorë, guarding the entrance to the Adriatic Sea has caused the city to change rulers many times in its history, usually accompanied by extensive destruction. In the Middle Ages, the Byzantines, Bulgarians, Normans and later the Venetians took turns here.
In 1417, Vlorë was the first city on the Albanian coast to be conquered by the Ottoman Empire. For the Turks, it became an important trade centre with Western Europe. The community of Sephardic Jews who fled Spain in the 15th century thrived here.
The moment for Vlorë came on 28 November 1912, when representatives from all over Albania gathered here and declared an independent state from the Ottoman Empire. It took several more years before Albania was rid of the foreign troops on its territory: Italian soldiers had occupied Vlorë and the island of Sazan since 1914 and were only expelled in 1920 after an Albanian uprising.
During the Second World War, Vlorë was again occupied by Italy and later by Germany. The Axis powers established a submarine base at Sazan, which became a frequent target of Allied bombing.
In the early 1990s, Vlorë was the scene of a massive refugee crisis. In 1991, as many as 20,000 Albanians boarded a cargo ship and sailed it to Brindisi, Italy under dramatic circumstances. In 1997, Vlorë was the centre of bloody civil unrest that took place as a result of the collapse of pyramid schemes in which many Albanians lost all their savings.
Transport to Vlorë
Between Tirana and Vlorë, buses run at roughly half-hourly intervals, taking 2,5 hours. Vlorë also has direct connections with Shkodër (twice daily), Berat, Fier, Korçë (via Elbasan and Pogradec, 3 times a day), Sarandë (inland via Gjirokastër, 3 times a day).
Vlorë can also be reached from Sarandë along the coast (via Llogara Pass), which is a narrow road with a good asphalt surface. It takes more than three hours to drive through Himaru and Llogar Pass.
The bus station in Vlorë is located near the former train station in the new part of town. Minibuses heading to Radhimë and Orikum along the coast depart from the southern part of the city, opposite the Riviera shopping centre near the port.
Vlorë has direct ferry lines with Italy. From Brindisi, the ferry departs at 23:30 every day except Sundays during the low season and docks at 6:30 in Vlorë. In the opposite direction, the ship departs at 14:00 from Vlorë and arrives at 19:30 in Brindisi. A regular ticket costs about 50 euros, you can board with cars as well.
Museums in Vlorë
There are several museums in Vlorë. The most famous is the one dedicated to Albania’s independence, which was declared in this city in 1912. Lovers of older history will be pleased with the historical museum, which collects finds from numerous excavations around Vlorë. There is also an ethnographic museum that displays traditional costumes and crafts.
Flag’s Square in Vlorë
Flag’s Square is a prominent location in Vlorë honouring the 1912 declaration of Albanian independence. The massive Independence Monument honours this event, which occurred here and marked the formal raising of the Albanian red flag with a black double-headed eagle. The most significant historical building of Vlorë, the Muradie Mosque, also stands here.
The hills above Vlorë
The majority of Vlorë is on the coastal plain, while the eastern portion of the city rises sharply into hills. One such hill is located directly above Flag’s Square, locals call it Kuzum Baba. But you’ll get an even better view from Kanina Castle high above the city.
Shushica Valley
The picturesque Shushica Valley is separated from the Albanian Riviera by the Ceraunian Mountains. In contrast to the busy coastline, this region is an oasis of calm and a perfect place for hiking and spending time in nature. The Brataj Bridge is one of the most beautiful in Albania.
Llogara National Park
Llogara is unique among Albania’s national parks. Not because of its size, but rather due to its unusual blend of rugged mountainous terrain and the picturesque Ionian shore of the Albanian Riviera. The mountains do not rise more than two kilometres from the coast anywhere else in the country. The Llogara Pass is one of Europe’s top paragliding sites.
Karaburun Peninsula
Albania’s largest peninsula, Karaburun, marks the border between the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Under communism, it was completely closed to the public as a military area. Now, tourists can explore its coves and beautiful deserted beaches. Along with the island of Sazan, the coast of Karaburun has been declared a marine national park.
Orikum
Known for its picturesque setting on the shore of Vlora Bay, Orikum combines a charming seaside atmosphere with historical significance. Visitors can explore archaeological remains, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich history. The town is also appreciated for its beaches and serves as a gateway to the Karaburun Peninsula.
Radhimë
The shore south of Vlorë rises sharply into hills, creating a large number of coves with small beaches. A narrow road heading to the Albanian Riviera can just about fit between the steep slopes and the sea, yet development is rampant and hotels have sprung up on every available plot. Radhimë is the main resort in this area.
Amantia
Amantia is an ancient archaeological site located about 30 kilometres east of Vlorë. It receives far less attention than Butrint or Apollonia, yet it has all the makings of a regional tourist attraction. There is no other such a well-preserved ancient stadium in Albania.
Zvërnec Island and Narta Lagoon
The island of Zvërnec is a popular tourist attraction in the vicinity of Vlorë not only for its magical location in the middle of the Narta Lagoon, but also for the presence of the Byzantine monastery. The island is connected to the mainland by a 250-meter-long wooden causeway.
Sazan Island
Sazan is the largest Albanian island. Due to the important naval base at the entrance to the Vlora Bay, it was completely closed for many years. A couple of years ago, as part of the newly established Karaburun National Marine Park, Sazan was open to the public and has become a popular destination for boat trips from Vlorë.
Rasal Waterfall
The breathtaking Rasal waterfall (Ujëvara e Rasalit) is a newly discovered gem on Albania’s tourist map, having only recently gained attention from the public. It makes for a perfect day trip from Vlorë, and can also be visited on your way to the sea via the Shushica valley.
Beaches in Vlorë
Vlorë lies on the border of the Albanian coast: To the north, long, sandy beaches stretch out along the vast coastal plain, while to the south the shore is steeper, rugged and the sea is clearer. The most beautiful beaches are on the Karaburun Peninsula, which you can visit on a boat trip. Apart from Vlorë, the biggest resorts in the area are Radhimë and Orikum.
Day trips from and to Vlorë
Vlorë has an ideal location for various types of day trips. A must is a boat excursion to the beaches and caves of Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island. Try tandem paragliding from Llogara Pass, one of the best spots for this type of activity in Europe. There is also an option for a guided tour through the city where you learn about the history and get to know modern-day Vlorë.
Useful Links
Accommodation
Use Booking.com to find the best places to stay in Vlorë.
Flights
Find the cheapest flight to Albania on Kiwi.com. It combines various airlines into a single itinerary.
Car Rental
Discover Albania with cheap car rentals through local companies or Rentalcars.com‘s extensive network.
Mobile Data
Airalo provides affordable and convenient mobile data to keep you connected wherever you travel. Forget local SIM or roaming charges.
Experiences
Book a day trip from or to Vlorë on Viator.com.