Vlorë is the third most populous city of Albania and seat of Vlorë County and Vlorë Municipality. Located in southwestern Albania, Vlorë sprawls on the Bay of Vlorë and is surrounded by the foothills of the Ceraunian Mountains along the Albanian Adriatic and Ionian Sea Coasts. Wikipedia
May to September: Best for beachgoers, with hot, dry, sunny weather.
April and October: Pleasant for sightseeing, with fewer tourists and milder temperatures.
About 2.5–3 hours by car or bus from Tirana.
Direct buses run from Tirana and other major cities.
Accessible by car via scenic coastal highways or through the inland route via Fier.
Flag Square (Sheshi i Flamurit): Central point of the city and a symbol of Albanian independence.
Independence Museum: Located in the building where Albania’s independence was declared in 1912.
Muradie Mosque: A 16th-century Ottoman mosque designed by the famous architect Mimar Sinan.
Zvernec Monastery: Set on a small island in the Narta Lagoon, surrounded by pine forest and accessed by a wooden bridge.
Kaninë Castle: Overlooking Vlorë, this ancient fort offers panoramic views of the bay.
Vlorë City Beach: Easily accessible, lined with restaurants and hotels — good for a quick swim.
Uji i Ftohtë (Cold Water): Clearer waters and a quieter vibe just south of the city center.
Radhimë & Orikum: South of Vlorë, these coastal villages offer cleaner, quieter beaches with more natural beauty.
Zvërnec Beach: Calm and peaceful near the monastery and lagoon.
Swim, relax, or dine at beach clubs along the city’s Riviera.
Take boat trips to Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island — great for snorkeling and adventure.
Walk the lungomare (seafront promenade) at sunset — very popular with locals.
Explore the old town (Qyteti i Vjetër) for a quieter, more traditional side of Vlorë.
Visit the salt pans and lagoon near Narta for birdwatching and peaceful views.
Wide range from budget hotels and guesthouses to modern beachfront resorts.
South of the city (Uji i Ftohtë to Orikum) has quieter, newer resorts with great views.
Many places offer balcony sea views and walking access to the beach.
Known for fresh seafood — try mussels, grilled fish, and octopus dishes.
Tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) and stuffed peppers are popular local dishes.
Try local olives and olive oil from the surrounding hills.
Seaside taverns and modern restaurants serve a mix of Albanian, Mediterranean, and Italian cuisine.
Vlorë played a key role in Albania’s national history — it’s deeply patriotic and proud of its identity.
Locals are known for being warm and proud of their city’s natural beauty and traditions.
You’ll often find music, traditional dress, and folk dancing at festivals or national holidays.
The city blends coastal leisure with civic pride and historic awareness.
Sunsets from the promenade or Kaninë Castle are stunning — bring a camera!
Bring reef shoes for rockier beaches around Orikum and Karaburun.
Carry some cash, though most central areas accept cards.
Try local wine and raki, often homemade and offered generously.