12 Best Things to Do in Vlora, Albania (Local Guide)

Vlora (Vlorë in Albanian) is where Albania declared its independence in 1912. It is also where the Adriatic coast meets the Albanian Riviera. It is a lively seaside city with a long promenade, good seafood and a coastline of beaches and islands. Here is our local list of the best things to do.

1. Take a boat trip to Karaburun, Haxhi Ali Cave & Sazan

The number-one experience in Vlora is a day on the water. The Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park has the clearest water in the area and it can only be reached by boat. Our full-day tour leaves the port at 10:00.

2. Walk the Lungomare at sunset

The seafront promenade (Lungomare) runs for kilometres along the bay, lined with palm trees, cafés and restaurants. Join the locals for the evening xhiro, the traditional evening stroll.

3. Visit the Independence Monument and Flag Square

The Independence Monument in Flag Square (Sheshi i Flamurit) celebrates 28 November 1912, when Ismail Qemali raised the Albanian flag in Vlora. Nearby, the Museum of Independence is in the building where the first government worked.

4. See the Muradie Mosque

This elegant 16th-century mosque, built from red and white stone, is one of the most beautiful Ottoman monuments in Albania. It is traditionally attributed to the great architect Mimar Sinan.

5. Climb up to Kanina Castle

On the hill above the city, the ruins of Kanina Castle give you a panoramic view of the whole bay, Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula. Go in the late afternoon for the best light.

6. Watch flamingos at the Narta Lagoon

North of the city, the Narta Lagoon is one of Albania's most important wetlands. In winter and spring you can often see flamingos and many other birds.

7. Visit Zvërnec Monastery

A wooden footbridge leads to a tiny island in the lagoon with the Monastery of St. Mary of Zvërnec, surrounded by pines and silence. It is one of the most peaceful places near Vlora.

8. Spend a day at the beach

From the sandy city beaches to the pebble coves of Radhimë and Orikum, there is a beach for everyone. See our guide to the best beaches near Vlora.

9. Eat fresh seafood

Order the catch of the day grilled with olive oil and lemon. Mussels from the bay and fish soup are local favourites. For a taste on the water, see our bar menu.

10. Drive the Llogara Pass

South of Vlora, the road climbs through the pine forests of Llogara National Park to a pass high above the sea, then drops down to the Albanian Riviera. The view from the top is one of the most spectacular in the Balkans.

11. Explore Orikum and the ancient city of Oricum

At Orikum, a short drive south, you can see the ruins of ancient Oricum next to the lagoon, plus a marina and calm beaches.

12. Day-trip along the Riviera

Dhërmi, Jalë, Gjipe and Himara are all within reach for a day trip. Or plan a longer route with our one-week southern Albania itinerary.