Located on Albania's Ionian coast, this major seaport is known for its beaches, historic sites, and the University of Vlora. It's the country's second-largest city and a key commercial hub.
Vlora sits on Albania's southwestern coast where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. This port city of about 80,000 people has a Mediterranean atmosphere and a rich history. In Flag Square, you can see the Independence Monument and visit the Museum of Independence. Along the coast, you'll find a palm-lined promenade and beaches perfect for swimming. From Vlora, you can take boat trips to nearby islands like Sazan or explore the Ceraunian Mountains in Llogara National Park.
Exploring Vlora's City Center
Flag Square is the heart of Vlora, with the tall Independence Monument at its center. You can visit the Museum of Independence in the building where Albania declared independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. Near the square, you'll see the 16th century Muradie Mosque with its large central dome, reflecting Ottoman-era design. To learn about local culture, stop by the Ethnographic Museum in a 19th century house. Here, you can see traditional costumes, crafts, and household items from the Vlora region.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
Vlora's main beach extends for several kilometers along a wide promenade with palm trees, cafes, and hotels. The calm, shallow water makes it good for swimming. For a less crowded beach, go about 3 km south to the Uji i Ftohte area. You'll find pebbly beaches backed by pine-covered hills. You can also take a boat trip to explore the rocky Karaburun Peninsula or visit the former military island of Sazan, which is now open to the public.
Day Trips from Vlora
You can easily reach several sites from Vlora. Kanina Castle, dating to the 3rd century BC, sits on a hilltop and gives you wide views over Vlora Bay. You can also visit the Byzantine-era Zvernec Monastery on a small island in Narta Lagoon, connected by a wooden footbridge. If you like hiking, head to Llogara National Park in the Ceraunian Mountains south of Vlora. The park's winding mountain road lets you see the coast from high up.
Vlora's Culinary Scene
Vlora's restaurants use fresh seafood and local produce in their dishes. You can try seafood risotto, grilled fish, or octopus salad at restaurants along the seaside promenade. The area around Vlora produces olive oil - taste local varieties with crusty bread. For dessert, try trilece, a cake soaked in three types of milk. Many cafes and bars in the city center and beach areas serve strong Turkish-style coffee.
Getting Around Vlora
You can walk to most sights in Vlora's compact center, especially around Flag Square and the waterfront. Local buses connect the city center to beach areas for about 30 lek. Taxis are easy to find. If you want to explore the wider region, you might want to rent a car. The main coastal road is in good condition, but mountain roads can be narrow and winding. In summer, you can take a ferry from Vlora to Brindisi, Italy.
