A pocket guide to Vlora
Where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea, Vlora shines as one of Albania’s most beloved coastal destinations. With a mix of crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountains, historic landmarks, and a lively promenade, Vlora is more than just a summer hotspot -it’s a city with soul. Whether you’re passing through or planning a longer stay, this pocket guide will help you make the most of your time in Vlora.
Vlora is Albania’s third-largest city and a key historical site -it was here, in 1912, that Albania declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire. In the heart of the city, the Independence Square still stands as a proud reminder of that historic day. The nearby Independence Museum, housed in the building where the declaration was signed, is worth a quiet hour of your time. Don’t forget to visit also the local food market, tregu te Kapelja. It’s a classical Balkan-style bazar where you can find almost everything, from supplies to souvenirs, from clothes to tools and, of course, food. Take a tour and then buy some local delicacies. History here lives not only in museums. It clings to the cobbled alleys of the old town, where traditional architecture still survives in crooked doorways and faded balconies near the recently renewed historic neighborhood. It whispers across the Zvernec Monastery, a 13th-century jewel sitting peacefully on an island in the Narta Lagoon, reachable only by a long, creaking wooden bridge. Behind the monastery, near the lighthouse on the top of a cliff lies four giant bunkers overlooking a scene that could be Ireland -if not for the blazing sun, a vivid reminder that this place is in the heart of the Mediterranean.
Today, Vlora is a dynamic mix of old and new, where ancient ruins coexist with modern beach bars, and fishing boats float beside sleek yachts. You can see it walking the Lungomare, a vibrant waterfront promenade that comes alive at golden hour. Street food vendors, cafes, and kids playing at sunset give it a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. Stop at a café, order a macchiato or a glass of raki, and let the sea do its slow, hypnotic work. If you’re the adventurous type, hop on a boat heading toward Sazan Island -a once-secret military base now open to curious visitors. Or explore the wild beauty of the Karaburun Peninsula, where jagged cliffs drop into turquoise waters and sea caves shimmer in the light. You can swim, snorkel, or simply let the boat rock you as you drift under the sun. Tours depart daily in the summer months. Just south of Vlora, the coastal road to Dhermi via the Llogara Pass offers jaw-dropping views. With pine-covered mountains on one side and the deep blue sea on the other, it’s one of the most beautiful drives in Europe.
WHERE TO SLEEP IN VLORA
Kick back and relax at Hana Penthouse, a calm and stylish space located in a very good area -Skele- close to the city centre of Vlora and only a few minutes away from its amazing beaches. Breathtaking views and a unique stay: Hana Penthouse is suitable for groups, big families or couples. This elegant penthouse is fully furnished with 2 kitchens, 2 bedrooms and a huge terrace with a hot tub where you can relax after a day of visits while admiring the city.
Find out more about Hana Penthouse
Instagram: @hana_penthouse_vlore
Airbnb: Hana Penthouse
