13 Best Things to Do in Vlorë, Albania (2025)

The National Museum of Independence is where Albania’s modern story begins. In this unassuming white building near the port, Ismail Qemali declared the country’s independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912, an event that reshaped the Balkans. The museum preserves this defining moment through original documents, portraits, and personal belongings of Albania’s founding fathers.

Walking through the modest rooms feels almost intimate — as though the echoes of history still linger in the walls. You’ll find period furniture, flags, and historical photographs that offer a glimpse into the courage and vision of the men who built a new nation. The museum’s simplicity is part of its charm; there’s no grandeur here, only authenticity and pride.

Outside, Flag Square (Sheshi i Flamurit) stands as a living tribute to that historic day. Locals gather in its open plaza beneath the soaring Albanian flag, while children play near the statue of Qemali. It’s a place where history and daily life meet — and where every visitor can feel the enduring spirit of Albanian independence.

Standing tall in the heart of Flag Square, the Independence Monument is one of Vlorë’s most powerful symbols. Sculpted by Kristaq Rama in 1972, this dramatic bronze ensemble depicts the patriots who fought for Albania’s freedom. The figures seem to move with purpose, their expressions fierce yet dignified — a visual story of defiance and hope.

The monument’s location adds to its impact. With the National Museum of Independence just steps away, this entire area forms the cultural core of the city. During national holidays, the square fills with celebrations, parades, and folk music — the kind of scenes that blend pride and tradition seamlessly.

Visit in the late afternoon, when the sun casts golden light across the bronze surfaces. Sit on one of the benches nearby, and you’ll see how this monument remains more than a sculpture — it’s a gathering place, a point of memory, and a quiet reminder of Albania’s long road to nationhood.

High above Vlorë’s rooftops, Kuzum Baba Hill offers one of the most breathtaking views in southern Albania. Named after a 17th-century Bektashi dervish revered for his wisdom, the site combines panoramic beauty with spiritual tranquility. The winding road to the top reveals glimpses of olive groves, red-tiled roofs, and the deep blue expanse of Vlorë Bay.

At the summit, the Teqe of Kuzum Baba, a small Bektashi shrine, welcomes visitors with calm simplicity. Pilgrims and locals alike come here to light candles, pray, or simply take in the silence. The terrace outside the shrine opens to a sweeping vista — the islands of Sazan and Karaburun glimmering on the horizon.

Many travelers come at sunset, when the city glows below and the sky turns pink and amber. There’s a café nearby where you can enjoy a glass of local wine or Turkish coffee as you watch the light fade over the sea. It’s the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and feel connected to Vlorë’s peaceful rhythm.

In the bustling heart of the city stands the Muradie Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture dating back to 1542. Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by Mimar Sinan — one of the most celebrated architects of the Ottoman Empire — this small yet striking mosque embodies both elegance and restraint.

Its square base, domed roof, and alternating layers of red brick and gray stone create a balanced, timeless beauty. Inside, light streams through arched windows, illuminating simple plaster walls and the faint scent of incense. The Muradie Mosque has remained an active place of worship for centuries, a rare constant in a city that has witnessed empires rise and fall.

Surrounded by cafés and the hum of modern life, the mosque feels like a peaceful island amid the city’s rhythm. Visitors of all faiths are welcome to admire its architecture or quietly observe prayers. It’s not just a monument of religion but a living link to Vlorë’s multicultural past — a reminder that faith and artistry have always coexisted here.

Towering above the city on a forested hill, Kaninë Castle (Kalaja e Kaninës) is one of Vlorë’s oldest and most evocative landmarks. Originally an Illyrian fortress dating back to the 3rd century BC, it was later expanded by Byzantine and medieval Albanian rulers. The castle’s vantage point once made it a strategic defense post, guarding the approach to the bay.

Today, its weathered stone walls and surviving towers offer spectacular views of both the coast and the hinterland. As you wander through the ruins, you can imagine the days when knights, merchants, and nobles passed through these gates. The soft sound of the wind through the pines and the distant glimmer of the Adriatic give the site a haunting, cinematic beauty.

Locals say the best time to visit is early morning, when the mist rises over Vlorë and the sunlight catches the ancient walls. Whether you come for history, photography, or solitude, Kaninë Castle rewards you with one of the most dramatic panoramas in southern Albania.

Floating in the tranquil Narta Lagoon, Zvernec Island is one of Albania’s most picturesque and peaceful destinations. Connected to the mainland by a 270-meter wooden bridge, the island is home to the Monastery of St. Mary, a 13th-century Byzantine gem surrounded by cypress trees.

Stepping onto the island feels like entering another world — quiet, green, and steeped in spirituality. The monastery’s stone courtyard and modest chapel contain faded frescoes and icons, echoing centuries of devotion. Even if you’re not religious, the sense of serenity here is undeniable, carried on the gentle breeze that ripples through the lagoon.

It’s especially magical at sunset, when the light turns the water gold and the monastery’s silhouette reflects perfectly on the surface. Birdwatchers will also love this area, as herons, flamingos, and pelicans often inhabit the lagoon. Zvernec is not just a sight to see — it’s a place to breathe, pause, and reconnect with nature.

Just south of Vlorë lies Oricum, one of the most important ancient settlements along the Albanian coast. Founded in the 6th century BC by Greek colonists, Oricum later became a Roman naval base and an important trading hub between Epirus and Italy. Today, its ruins rest quietly between the mountains and the sea, offering visitors a captivating blend of archaeology and landscape.

The site includes remnants of city walls, temples, and an amphitheater, all framed by olive trees and the scent of salt air. Though not as large as Butrint, Oricum’s coastal setting makes it unforgettable — where history meets horizon. Archaeologists believe Julius Caesar himself once landed here during his campaigns, adding a touch of legend to the ruins.

Nearby, the modern town of Orikum offers pleasant beaches, seafood tavernas, and views of the Llogara Pass rising in the distance. Visiting the ruins at golden hour, when the last light touches the stones, is an experience that beautifully ties together Albania’s ancient past and its coastal present.

The Vlorë Ethnographic Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional Albanian life. Housed in a beautifully preserved Ottoman-era building, it displays household objects, folk costumes, tools, and textiles that tell the story of how coastal families lived, worked, and celebrated across the centuries.

Each room feels like stepping into a different time. Embroidered clothing, handmade jewelry, and rustic furniture reveal the artistry and practicality of Vlorë’s people. Upstairs, exhibits highlight maritime traditions — fitting for a city whose fortunes have always been tied to the sea.

Even the building itself is part of the experience: with its wooden balconies, arched doorways, and sunlit courtyard, it’s a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. This museum doesn’t just display culture — it immerses you in it, offering a sense of continuity between old and modern Albania.

For those who love to dive deeper into the past, the Muzeu Historik i Vlorës is a treasure trove of local heritage. Located in the city center, it brings together archaeological finds, ancient coins, ethnographic items, and rare documents that trace Vlorë’s evolution over 2,000 years.

The museum’s exhibits are carefully curated to show how the city evolved through Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. Pottery shards, weapons, and decorative mosaics tell stories of trade, conflict, and creativity. One of the highlights is a display on maritime history, showing how Vlorë’s port linked Albania with the wider Mediterranean world.

Quiet and often overlooked by casual visitors, this museum rewards those who linger. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing insights about lesser-known aspects of the city’s history. It’s a perfect stop for travelers who want to understand Vlorë beyond its beaches.

The Tomb of Ismail Qemali is a place of reflection and respect, honoring the man who proclaimed Albania’s independence in 1912. Located near Flag Square, the tomb is a marble monument surrounded by flowers and the fluttering national flag.

For Albanians, this site carries deep emotional significance — Qemali is seen not only as a statesman but as the embodiment of national unity. Visitors will often find school groups, families, and travelers pausing here to pay their respects. It’s a solemn yet uplifting place, where the sense of history feels alive and immediate.

Surrounded by gardens and shaded benches, the tomb offers a quiet retreat in the city center. It’s the perfect stop after visiting the Independence Museum, allowing you to reflect on the courage and vision that shaped modern Albania.

Named after the celebrated Albanian playwright Petro Marko, this elegant theater is the beating heart of Vlorë’s cultural scene. Built during the 20th century and recently restored, Teatri Petro Marko hosts plays, concerts, and film festivals that showcase the city’s artistic spirit.

Its neoclassical façade and intimate interior create a welcoming space where tradition meets creativity. Local actors often perform Albanian classics and contemporary works, while visiting troupes bring international productions to the stage. Even if you don’t speak Albanian, the atmosphere and performances are compelling — emotion transcends language.

If you visit in summer, look out for outdoor performances and festivals, when the city comes alive with music and art. The theater stands as proof that Vlorë’s cultural identity extends far beyond its monuments — it’s a city that continues to create and celebrate.

Though about 90 kilometers inland, Byllis is one of the most rewarding day trips from Vlorë. Once an important Illyrian city, it later became a thriving Roman colony perched high above the Vjosa River valley. Today, its ruins sprawl across a hilltop with views that stretch for miles over untouched countryside.

Walking through the site, you’ll see remnants of an amphitheater, basilicas, and mosaics — silent witnesses to the grandeur of ancient life. The scale of Byllis is impressive, and yet it remains remarkably peaceful, far from crowds. The wind carries the sound of birds and rustling grass, giving the place a timeless, contemplative air.

Bring water, good shoes, and a camera — this is a place where history and landscape merge perfectly. Standing among the columns, it’s easy to imagine how civilizations once flourished here, overlooking the same horizon that now captivates travelers.

End your journey in Vlorë with a visit to the Uji i Ftohtë district — a stunning stretch of coastline just south of the city center. The name means “cold water,” referring to natural springs that bubble up beneath the sea, creating refreshing currents even on hot summer days.

Here, pebbled beaches meet clear turquoise water, and the promenade hums with cafés, restaurants, and beach clubs. It’s a place where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand. Locals gather here in the evenings for the xhiro, the traditional stroll along the waterfront.

Whether you’re staying in a luxury resort or a family-run guesthouse, Uji i Ftohtë captures the best of Vlorë — natural beauty, easy charm, and the joyful rhythm of Albanian coastal life.