Vlorë

Written by Alexander Kopp, Chloe Davies
17/09/2025
Beautiful coastal path in Vlorë, Albania with stunning sea views through lush greenery.
Abstracts photo, Pexels

Vlorë is a captivating coastal city in Albania where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet, offering a diverse experience with its beautiful beaches, rich history, and natural attractions. It serves as a gateway to the Albanian Riviera, attracting travelers with opportunities for relaxation, cultural exploration, and outdoor adventures.

The Lungomare promenade is a lively area with numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars, providing a popular setting to socialize and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. The Old Town also offers cozy cafes and local eateries, while certain beaches, particularly in summer, feature vibrant beach clubs and bars for evening entertainment.

Top 5 Things to do in Vlorë

Visitors can engage in diverse activities, from exploring historical landmarks and enjoying panoramic viewpoints to relaxing on scenic beaches and discovering unique natural reserves.

1. Stroll Along the Lungomare

The Lungomare is Vlorë's modern seaside promenade, offering a vibrant atmosphere ideal for leisurely walks. Lined with numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars, it is perfect for enjoying a coffee, a meal with fresh seafood, or evening entertainment. Observing the sunset over the sea from here is a particularly pleasant experience. This area provides a great way to experience the city's lively social scene and coastal charm.

Cost: Free to walk and enjoy. Food and drinks at cafes and restaurants vary but are generally affordable.

Transport: The Lungomare is easily accessible by walking from most central accommodations. Local city buses, costing approximately 40-50 ALL (around 0.40-0.50 EUR) per ride, run along this area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city.

2. Visit the Independence Monument and Flag Square

Standing proudly in the city's central Flag Square (Sheshi i Flamurit), the Independence Monument commemorates Albania's declaration of independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. The monumental sculpture features Ismail Qemali, the leader of the independence movement. The square itself is a lively gathering place where both locals and tourists can soak in the city's history and observe daily life. It provides a significant historical context to Vlorë's role in the nation's formation.

Cost: Entry to the Independence Monument and Flag Square is free.

Transport: The monument is within easy walking distance from the city center. Local buses pass through or near Flag Square, costing around 40-50 ALL (around 0.40-0.50 EUR).

3. Explore Muradie Mosque

The Muradie Mosque, a 16th-century Ottoman masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Mimar Sinan, offers a glimpse into Vlorë's rich past. Its distinctive architecture, with layers of two different brick colors and a supporting polygon-raised dome base, makes it a notable cultural monument. Located centrally, it provides a tranquil space for reflection and an opportunity to appreciate historical craftsmanship.

Cost: There is no entrance fee to visit Muradie Mosque, though donations are appreciated for its maintenance.

Transport: The mosque is centrally located and easily reachable on foot from Flag Square. Local city buses also serve the area.

4. Ascend Kuzum Baba Hill for Panoramic Views

Kuzum Baba is the highest point in Vlorë, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Vlorë Bay, and the meeting point of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. It is home to a historic Bektashi tekke (shrine), a significant religious center, and features a restaurant where visitors can relax while enjoying the scenery. The viewpoint is especially captivating at sunset or night when the city lights illuminate the bay.

Cost: Visiting Kuzum Baba Hill is free of charge. Meals at the restaurant would be an additional cost.

Transport: Kuzum Baba is located on a hill directly above Flag Square. It is walkable from the city center, though the path is steep. A taxi from the city center would be a short ride, likely costing a few Euros (e.g., a 5km taxi ride in Vlorë is about 1800 ALL, or approximately 18 EUR, so a shorter trip would be less).

5. Discover Zvernec Monastery and Narta Lagoon

Just a short drive from Vlorë, Zvernec Monastery is a beautifully preserved 13th to 14th-century Byzantine monastery situated on a small, pine-covered island within the serene Narta Lagoon. It is accessible via a picturesque 270-meter wooden boardwalk, offering a unique and peaceful escape. The Narta Lagoon is also an important wetland, known for hosting diverse bird species, including flamingos and pelicans, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and nature photography.

Cost: There is no entrance fee for Zvernec Monastery or the island. Guided tours that include Zvernec can vary in price (e.g., a day trip from Vlora including Zvernec, Apollonia, and Berat is around 102 USD).

Transport: Zvërnec Monastery is approximately 13 kilometers northwest of Vlorë. A taxi from Vlorë city center costs approximately 15-20 EUR for a one-way trip, taking about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, one can take a local bus from Vlorë towards Saranda, requesting to be dropped off at the Zvërnec stop, which costs around 1-2 EUR. From this stop, it is about a 20-minute walk (1.5 km) to the monastery.

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