Beaches
The city beaches are located along Lungomare and south towards Uji i Ftohtë and Radhimë, where the water becomes clearer and the beaches smaller. For truly pristine coves, take a boat from the harbor to the Karaburun Peninsula.
Albanian Riviera
Vlorë
The northern gateway to the Riviera – where Albania declared independence
Vlorë is Albania's second-largest port city and the gateway to the entire Albanian Riviera. Here, the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian Sea, and from here, the coastal road winds south over the Llogara Pass towards Dhërmi, Himarë, and Sarandë.
The city holds a special place in the country's history – it was in Vlorë that Albania's independence was declared on November 28, 1912. Today, it is a vibrant coastal city with a long promenade, seafood restaurants, and quick access to both lagoon landscapes and pristine peninsulas.
Highlights
01
Lungomare
The wide, palm-lined promenade along the bay – the city's living room, especially at sunset.
02
Independence Square
The monument and Independence Museum recount the history of 1912 and the Albanian nation.
03
Zvërnec Monastery
A small medieval monastery on an island in the Narta Lagoon, reached via a long wooden bridge through a pine forest.
04
Karaburun & Sazan
Albania's first marine national park – caves, clear waters, and coves accessible only by boat.
Things to See and Do
Stroll through the old town center around the Muradie Mosque, visit Kaninë Castle on the mountain above the city for views of the bay, and drive out to the Narta Lagoon, one of the country's most important bird areas, home to flamingos part of the year.
South of the city begins Llogara National Park, where the road ascends over 1,000 meters before plunging towards the Ionian coast.
Food and Nightlife
Vlorë is renowned for fresh fish and seafood. Restaurants along the promenade and at Uji i Ftohtë serve the day's catch, and in summer, nightlife moves outdoors to bars and cafes by the water.
FAQ
Is Vlorë a good base for the Albanian Riviera?+
Yes, especially for the northern part. From here, you can reach Llogara Pass, Dhërmi, and Karaburun on day trips, and the city offers a wider range of accommodation and restaurants year-round than the villages further south.
Can you swim in Vlorë?+
Yes. There are city beaches along Lungomare, but for clearer waters, beaches south towards Radhimë or a boat trip to Karaburun are recommended.
More Riviera destinations
All destinations →
Dhërmi
White beaches, turquoise waters, and a village on the hillside
Read the guide
Himarë
Relaxed coastal town with a castle, olive groves, and hidden coves
Read the guide
Porto Palermo
Ali Pasha's fortress in a protected turquoise bay
Read the guide
Sarandë
The lively center of the southern Riviera, with a ferry to Corfu
Read the guide
Ksamil
Clear water and small islands – the Riviera's most famous view
Read the guide
Butrint
UNESCO-listed ancient city by a lagoon near the Greek border
Read the guide