There are many nice issues to do in Vlore, and it’s an ideal place to base your self to discover not solely the points of interest in Vlore however these within the pretty neighboring cities alongside the coast too.
Vlore is taken into account to be the oldest metropolis in Albania, and so the historical past right here is lengthy and wealthy. For those who’ve spent any time within the museums of Tirana, it’s seemingly that you simply’ll have heard of Vlore.
In addition to being dwelling to a captivating historical past, it’s additionally the beginning of the fantastic stretch of shoreline referred to as the Albanian Riviera; dwelling to a few of the most spectacular shorelines.
I spent nearly two months exploring the shoreline of Albania, together with Vlore, and liked exploring the area. For those who’re planning methods to spend your time in Vlore, listed here are my prime 15 suggestions:
Greatest Issues To Do in Vlore
Thought of the place to begin of the Albanian Riviera, there are some superb locations to go to in Vlore. It’s good for historical past buffs in addition to these which can be searching for boat journeys and seashores.
Listed here are a few of my prime issues to do in Vlore:
1. Take a Strolling Tour of the Outdated City
Get your bearings on this wonderful strolling tour in Vlore. You’ll be paired with an area information who will information you seamlessly by way of a very powerful areas of Vlore and allow you to achieve an actual appreciation for this metropolis.
Some of the in style vacationer points of interest in Vlore is its lovely Outdated City. It’s lately been completely renovated and gives a picture-perfect setting with some superb bars and eating places to discover. You’ll stroll the cobbled streets and study all about its fascinating historical past.
In addition to the Outdated City, you’ll additionally go to the Independence Monument and Muradie Mosque, each of which characteristic individually on this checklist.
Click on right here to study extra about this good introduction to the most well-liked Vlore points of interest.
Deal with: The Outdated City, Vlore
2. Take a Boat Journey to Sazan Marine Nationwide Park
This very good full-day boat tour is the proper solution to go to the one marine nationwide park in Albania.
The park covers an space of over 125 sq. kilometers and contains each Sazan Island and the Karaburan Peninsula. It’s been designated as a Specifically Protected Space of Mediterranean Significance because of the immense variety of hen and plant species it helps.
Discover the park by speedboat with a small group. You’ll discover Sazan Island and study its inhabited Outdated City earlier than cooling off within the extremely clear waters that encompass the island.
The boat will subsequent take you rushing off to Haxhi Ali Cave, probably the most lovely locations to go to close to Vlore, the place you’ll be able to swim and snorkel within the cave. Lastly, you’ll arrive at a surprising seaside on the Karanburan Peninsula the place you’ll be able to have lunch, some drinks, and discover the native seashores.
The marine nationwide park is among the most scenic locations to go to in Vlore. Click on right here to study extra about this nice day journey.
Deal with: Sazan Island, Vlore
3. Go to Zvernec Monastery
Zvernec Monastery is considered one of my favourite locations to go to in Vlore. It’s a Thirteenth-century monastery that’s positioned on a small island in the course of a lagoon, to the north of Vlore.
The monastery and St Mary’s Church are positioned on a tiny island surrounded by tons of of pine timber. You possibly can attain the island from the mainland over a rickety wood bridge and may head contained in the Church to marvel on the lovely work inside.
It’s a superb journey from Vlore. I employed a push-bike from Vlore and reached the monastery in round an hour earlier than (I’d counsel hiring a scooter as a substitute, relying on the warmth…). Click on right here to rent a scooter and preserve your eye out for Narta Seaside on this checklist, which might be visited on the best way again.
It’s among the best free issues to do in Vlore, though I might suggest leaving a number of Albanian Lek within the donation field on the Church when you can.
Deal with: St Mary’s Monastery, Zvernec, Vlore
4. Stroll the Vlore Promenade at Sundown
Vlore has been modernized over the current years and nowhere is that this extra apparent than on the promenade.
The promenade stretches as much as 5 kilometers alongside the Ionian Coast in Vlore. It has cycle paths and a large pedestrian path and is lined with plenty of bars, eating places, and resorts.
The Vlore promenade actually involves alive at night time when the bars play a wide range of music to go well with all tastes. Head out for a meal early night at one of many wonderful eating places alongside its size.
Among the best issues to do in Vlore at night time is to easily stroll alongside the promenade with the remainder of the group. Cease for some meals, or a drink, or simply benefit from the get together ambiance. There’s one thing right here for everybody.
Deal with: Lungomare, Vlore
5. Dive into the Unbelievable Blue Eye
Vlore is seen because the gateway to the Albanian Riviera, and because of this, it’s a tremendous place to discover the remainder of Southern Albania. Considered one of my absolute highlights is the Blue Eye. It’s probably the most unbelievable issues to do close to Vlore.
This gorgeous, pure spring rises from not less than 50 meters beneath floor and flows into the Blue Eye Nationwide Park. It’s positioned in a jungle-like setting and is among the most lovely spots in Albania. Be part of this superb day tour of Southern Albania and tick off a few of the finest issues to do round Vlore.
Dive into the crystal clear waters of the Blue Eye, discover the gorgeous stone metropolis of Gjirokaster, and discover Porto Palermo Fortress on the best way again. This complete day journey is among the finest methods to discover this a part of the nation and is among the finest methods to see essentially the most lovely sights.
Deal with: The Blue Eye, Sarande. Click on right here for instructions to the Blue Eye.
6. Go to the Independence Monument
For those who’re trying to perform a little sightseeing in Vlore, you must positively go to the Independence Monument.
This big monument depicts the primary Prime Minister of Albania and one of many leaders of the Independence motion, Ismail Qemali, and represents Albania’s declaration of independence from the Ottomans in 1912. It’s probably the most necessary historic issues to see in Vlore.
The monument is positioned in Flag Sq., which is lined with palm and pine timber and has seats to look at the world go by. Seize a espresso and sit within the sunshine for some time, observing town. There’s a espresso store known as High Caffé simply 5 minutes away that I’d positively suggest.
Deal with: Independence Monument, Sheshi i Flamurit, Vlore
7. Go Tandem Paragliding
For those who’re an journey traveler and are searching for enjoyable issues to do in Vlore, you must positively try this paragliding expertise in Vlore.
The workforce is tremendous educated; making you are feeling fully protected all through the expertise. The views of the coast are completely unbelievable, and you’ll see the spectacularly blue water and white seashores for miles, in addition to the rugged, mountainous terrain.
For those who’re feeling daring, the pilots also can carry out some in-flight acrobatics for you which ones are recorded on a go-pro so that you can take dwelling with you. It’s positively probably the most exhilarating issues to do in Vlore. Click on right here to guide your flight.
Deal with: Vlore, Albania. Click on right here to view the assembly level for the tour.
8. Catch Some Rays at Narta Seaside
Narta Seaside is, for sure, the perfect seaside in Vlore. It’s positioned to the north of town and is accessible by automotive or bicycle (when you’re feeling lively!).
After I visited Narta Seaside, I rented a bicycle and rode up the cycle path to the shore. It’s round 9 kilometers, so it’s not a brief distance, nevertheless it’s predominantly flat, and also you comply with the shoreline up so it’s a nice journey.
The seaside itself is fantastically calm, and the sand is comfortable and golden, which is difficult to seek out alongside the Albanian coast. There’s additionally a beautiful restaurant there, Karafili Resort, which I’d suggest you strive. Total, Narta Seaside is considered one of my favourite locations to go to in Vlore.
Deal with: Plazhi i Nartes, Vlore. Click on right here for instructions to Narta Seaside.
9. Admire Muradie Mosque
Muradie Mosque is a really cute stone mosque that was inbuilt 1537 by the Ottomans. Though it’s small, it’s gorgeous and was really constructed by the identical architect who constructed the spectacular Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul.
Whereas the mosque is used as a gathering level for vacationers, it’s, in fact, a historic place of worship, however when you take your sneakers off and are dressed suitably, you’ll be able to enter the mosque to respectfully view from the within.
It’s positioned proper by Flag Sq., and Independence Monument, so I’d suggest seeing them multi function go throughout a morning or afternoon of sightseeing in Vlore.
Deal with: Rruga Justin Godar, Vlore. Click on right here to get instructions to the mosque.
10. Rent a Personal Speedboat to Karaburan Peninsula
As Vlore is positioned subsequent to the Sazan Nationwide Park, it’s probably the most in style issues to see throughout your go to, and for good cause. In addition to the choice of a ship journey to Sazan Island, you might discover the Karabarun Peninsula on this non-public speedboat tour.
It’s a non-public tour that provides you management of the place you wish to go and the way lengthy you wish to keep there earlier than shifting on. You’ll go to the attractive Sazan Island, in addition to Haxha Ali Cave, and have the possibility to make a journey to the gorgeous Grama Bay.
On the speedboat, you’ll be capable to sip contemporary drinks or beers when you benefit from the superb views of the caves and bays of the coast. It’s a very particular factor to do in Vlore as a pair. Click on right here to guide.
Deal with: Karaburun Peninsula, Vlore. Click on right here to view the placement.
11. Hike Llogara Nationwide Park
The Llogara Nationwide Park is to the south of Vlore, and simply earlier than you get to the city of Dhermi. It’s among the best locations to go to in Vlore when you love mountain climbing, with plenty of scenic, and well-marked trails on provide.
It’s open nearly all yr spherical and sees little or no rain, so that you’re more likely to have a dry hike. Individuals go mountain climbing right here for the views of the coast, and the distinction between the ocean and the forest can be a sight to behold.
The Llogara Move, which runs by way of the Nationwide Park, is an unbelievable (if not, barely terrifying) highway that winds down the aspect of the mountain to disclose lovely views of the coast. It’s positively price going to the viewpoint.
Deal with: Llogara Nationwide Park, Vlore. Click on right here for instructions to the park.
12. Go to the Museum of Nationwide Independence
This small museum is taken into account to be the primary one in Albania earlier than the 90s and the autumn of communism.
It’s stuffed to the brim with historical past and if you wish to study Albania’s battle for independence, you then’ll love this place. It’s additionally an ideal place to study all concerning the that means behind the Independence Monument, which additionally options on this checklist.
I’d suggest taking a information across the museum to essentially perceive the significance of the occasions of 1912 and the reveals on show. The museum is open Tuesday – Sunday and there’s a small entrance payment.
Deal with: Museum of Independence, Vlore 9401. Click on right here for instructions.
13. Discover Kanine Fortress
Kanine Fortress is within the village of Kanine, simply 6 kilometers from Vlore, and has superb views of the Vlore coast. Like the remainder of Albania, the citadel has seen many various rulers, from Byzantine to Serbian to Ottoman.
The citadel isn’t something spectacular and has seen its justifiable share of destruction through the years, extra lately being bombed throughout WWII. Nevertheless, the grounds and the unbelievable views greater than make up for it.
For those who take a picnic with you, it’s among the best issues to do in Vlore.
Deal with: Kanine Fortress, Vlore. Click on right here for instructions to the citadel.
14. Take a Boat to Grama Bay
Grama Bay is so lovely, it deserves an entry all to itself. This boat tour explores the attractive bay of Grama, together with different hidden bays and caves alongside the coast, all of that are untouched with good water for snorkeling.
You’ll spend three hours exploring the brilliant white, pebbly seaside of Grama Bay, a really small bay that’s surrounded by hills coated in greenery, which is the ultimate cease on the tour. Right here, you’ll be capable to take in the solar and swim within the clearest vivid blue and inexperienced water.
The Karaburun Peninsula and Grama Bay are actually particular locations as a result of, not like many different bays and seashores within the south of Albania, they largely stay untouched. Grama Bay is a must-see and is among the finest issues to do in Vlore.
Deal with: Grama Bay, Vlore. Click on right here to seek out the placement on the map.
15. Take a Boat Journey at Sundown
Among the best issues to do in Vlore for {couples} is to take this unbelievable boat journey alongside the Vlore coast at sundown.
Whilst you sip away in your drink of selection, you’ll get to see the coast of Vlore drenched in orange daylight, and the ocean mild up because the solar goes down on this good journey.
One phrase of warning, journeys could also be canceled if the ocean is simply too uneven, so don’t save this on your final day in Vlore to keep away from disappointment. You possibly can guide your boat journey right here.
Deal with: Vlore, Albania. Click on right here to view the assembly level for the tour.
Fast Journey Itineraries For Vlore
Listed here are a few advised itineraries so that you can comply with or adapt relying on how a lot time you need to spend in Vlore. These embody a few of the finest locations to go to in Vlore which can be featured on this checklist that can assist you plan an epic journey!
1 Day in Vlore Itinerary
For those who solely have someday and wish to do some sightseeing in Vlore, I’d suggest that you simply do the strolling tour of Vlore within the morning to study a bit concerning the historical past and tradition of town. This will even tick off a number of of the opposite objects on this checklist.
Within the afternoon, go and chill out on the seaside or take a sundown tour to see the great thing about the shoreline.
2-3 Days in Vlore Itinerary
You probably have a few additional days, I might nonetheless do the strolling tour on day one that can assist you perceive town and discover your manner round.
For the remaining two days, head out on a boat journey to Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula. That is the place you’ll discover essentially the most lovely water in Vlore and there are some nice snorkeling alternatives. Within the night, make sure you try the Outdated City and go for a drink at Komiteti.
On the third day, you might both do a seaside day at Narte Seaside or head out on one other boat journey to Grama Bay. Both shall be an ideal finish to your journey to Vlore.
1 Week in Vlore Itinerary
You probably have a complete week in Vlore, you’ll be capable to try all the perfect issues to do in Vlore that characteristic on this checklist. I like to recommend that you simply comply with the itinerary for 2-3 days, however perhaps unfold the boat journeys out slightly bit if you wish to.
Along with your additional few days, I might positively suggest spending a day within the Llogara Nationwide Park, significantly when you like to be in nature and hike. I’d additionally suggest paragliding tandem flights as a result of the views are unmatched. Lastly, the Blue Eye is a must-visit and is simple to get to from Vlore, significantly on this someday tour.
The place to Keep in Vlore
These are a number of of the perfect neighborhoods in Vlore for vacationers:
Outdated City – Greatest for Historical past and Tradition
The Outdated City is among the finest locations to go to in Vlore, and it’s beautiful. It’s additionally near lots of the primary historic and cultural monuments within the Metropolis, together with the Muradie Mosque and Independence Monument.
Within the night, the Outdated City is dwelling to plenty of bars, cafes, and eating places that come alive and it’s most likely my favourite place to be at night time in Vlore. It’s additionally the extra native space of city, so it feels far more genuine than on the seaside, the place it’s extra touristy.
I like to recommend Bohemian Boutique Suites because the rooms are beautiful, and it’s proper within the coronary heart of Outdated City.
Plazhi i Ri- Greatest For Nightlife
For those who’re going to Vlore to benefit from the seaside and discover the coast, I like to recommend you keep by the seaside, Plazhi i Ri, or Central Seaside. There’s tons happening right here, and also you’ll discover many bars, golf equipment, and eating places alongside the principle embankment.
I like to recommend Lungomare Lodge because it’s very near the seaside whereas being off the principle avenue, away from the noise late at night time.
Metropolis Centre – Greatest For First-Time Guests
The Metropolis Centre is a superb selection when you’re visiting Vlore for the primary time because it’s proper between the Outdated City and the seaside; only a brief stroll to each. There are loads of bars, cafes, eating places, and outlets dotted alongside the principle highway which joins the outdated city to the seaside.
This cozy one-bed residence is inside strolling distance of the Outdated City and the seaside and has nice metropolis views.
Greatest Eating places in Vlore
There are such a lot of eating places in Vlore to select from, listed here are a few of my favorites:
Anchor Pizzeria
If you would like pizza, the Anchor Pizzeria is the place to go. I’ve visited a number of instances and have by no means been disillusioned. It’s proper on the seaside highway and the service is mostly incredible. It does get actually busy after round 9 pm, however when you go earlier than, you’ll be capable to get a desk simply.
Novus Conventional Restaurant
Novus is a superb place to go to to pattern Albanian delicacies. I like to recommend ordering plenty of small dishes to be sure to don’t miss out on any of the completely different flavors Albanian delicacies has to supply. For those who’re ordering a primary dish, the moussaka right here is spectacular.
Pasticeri Likaj
That is really a bakery quite than a restaurant, however I needed to embody Pasticeri Likaj as a result of when you’re after a candy deal with, you have to go right here. The croissants are completely scrumptious and perhaps the perfect I’ve ever had. Additionally, the ice cream is primary on the town.
Tre Forchette
Tre Forchette is among the finest eating places in Vlore, and if you wish to eat someplace slightly extra upmarket, this restaurant is the place to go to. It’s a dearer possibility than the opposite eating places on this checklist, however the meals and repair are wonderful.
The seafood is totally unbelievable, I shared the seafood platter with a buddy and it was superb.
Gaia
Gaia is my favourite restaurant within the Outdated City, with a soothing out of doors space and a comfy inside. You need to strive the pasta when you’re consuming right here – it’s do-it-yourself and so tasty. The cheese ravioli is scrumptious.
I might say it’s fairly low cost (by UK requirements) however a mid-range restaurant in Albania. Positively price a go to.
Getting To Vlore
For those who’re touring to Vlore, it’s seemingly that you simply’ll be touring from Tirana as that is the place the principle airport is. It’s tremendous straightforward to get to Vlore from Tirana. The best manner is by bus, which can take round 3 hours, and value you round $6.
The buses depart from Tirana Airport or the Bus Station roughly each half-hour. You possibly can examine the timetable right here.
You possibly can in fact seize a taxi to Vlore, however this shall be dearer, and I discovered the bus to be straightforward and cozy.
While you arrive in Vlore, it’s good to know that the areas are fairly spaced out. For instance, it’ll take you round 50 minutes to stroll from the Outdated City to the principle seaside and vice versa.
I like to recommend that you simply hire a motorbike, or take taxis, that are very inexpensive in Vlore. You possibly can hire from Moto Lease Vlore. It’s €5 a day for a bicycle or €20 a day for a scooter.
Issues To Do in Vlore: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on visiting Vlore:
Vlore is understood for being the primary city on the Albanian Riviera. It’s additionally an necessary metropolis in Albanian tradition and historical past, because the place the place Albanian independence was declared.
I like to recommend visiting Vlore in April-June or September-October. The climate shall be good and there shall be fewer folks on the seaside.
Sure, Vlore is price visiting. It’s an ideal base for exploring a few of the finest issues to do on the coast.
I believe that 2 to three days in Vlore is an efficient period of time to expertise the perfect issues to do in Vlore earlier than heading additional south.
Sure, together with the remainder of Albania, Vlore could be very protected. I felt fully relaxed wandering town always of the day.
Paragliding is a well-liked exercise in Vlore as a result of the views are spectacular right here. Individuals additionally go to Vlore as a base for exploring the south coast of Albania.
The very best seaside in Vlore is Narta Seaside. It is best to positively spend a day right here, it’s among the best locations to go to in Vlore.
It is best to positively go to a bakery in Vlore, they actually know easy methods to bake! When it comes to savory meals, the seafood is superb.
In Closing
Vlore is commonly a spot that’s missed by vacationers, who choose to remain in Saranda or Ksamil. Nevertheless, there are some incredible issues to do in Vlore, and it’s an ideal base to discover the coast. The seashores, coves, and bays are comparatively untouched too, which is difficult to seek out as you journey additional south.
I hope this weblog put up helps you propose your journey to Vlore and that you’ve an excellent time!