Vlore is a charismatic harbour city on the sun-drenched Albanian Riviera, dotted with spacious squares, palm-lined boulevards and beautiful Ottoman architecture. Venture out the city to discover sandy beaches, forested mountains and one of Albania's top national parks.

Things to do

Anchoring Vlore's central Flag Square, the Independence Monument celebrates Albania’s liberation from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. Learn more about the movement at the National Museum of Independence. It's housed in the building where the first Albanian Government was formed and showcases antiques, artwork and the original Proclamation of Independence.

Vlore’s ancient Muradie Mosque showcases the country's Ottoman past. Stroll around the grounds of the Albanian National Monument, admire the ornamental stonework and gaze up at the soaring Byzantine minaret. Visit at dawn or dusk to see the honey-coloured stones glowing in the sunlight.

Escape to Llogara National Park, a lush reserve set in the Ceraunian Mountains. Serious hikers can climb the 2,000-metre high Mount Cika, where you'll get sweeping views as far as Italy. For a relaxing day in the sun, head to Orikum, a laid-back beach resort fringed by white sand and crystalline water.

Vlore offers a tantalising taste of Albania's local cuisine. Specialties include charcoal-roasted lamb reared in mountain pastures, as well as ocean-fresh mussels, shrimp and lobster. Sample the local favourite “byrek”, a flaky filo pastry stuffed with spinach and cheese.

Getting around

Vlore is easy to get around on foot, especially around Flag Square and Rruga Ismail Qemali, the city's main boulevard. You'll also find local buses, shuttles and taxis. Tirana International Airport is a two-hour drive north. Overnight ferries sail to Brindisi from the Port of Vlore.