How to spend a weekend in Vlora, the gateway to the stunning Albanian Riviera

Tucked into a sheltered bay at the confluence of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Vlora is Albania’s third-largest city — and it's a rising star on the country's travel map. As more people wake up to the charms of the Albanian Riviera, Vlora is emerging as its stand-out attraction, with its striking blend of history and modernity, with its medieval Old Town that sits just inland from the sleek new Vlora Marina development. The city’s surroundings only add to its appeal, with forested hills, pristine beaches and crumbling castles — as well as nearby cliffs, caves and coves reachable only by boat. Here’s how to make the most of a weekend in Vlora.

Day 1: Vintage Vlora

Morning
Wander through Vlora’s Old Town at your own pace, or opt for a guided walking tour to dig deeper into the city’s layered history. A good place to start is the Muradie Mosque, a striking 16th-century building designed by the famed Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. From there, it’s a short walk north to Flag’s Square, where Albania’s independence was declared in 1912 with the raising of the national flag. Nearby, you’ll find the Monument of Independence and remnants of the old city walls. Just across the street, climb the steps to the Martyrs’ Monument and Cemetery — a quiet hilltop tribute with sweeping views over the city and sea.

Afternoon
For lunch, head into the heart of the Old Town, where narrow cobbled streets are framed by pastel-hued apartments with wrought iron-balconies. Many now house stylish cafés and restaurants serving everything from traditional Albanian dishes to modern fusion. After you’ve eaten, explore Vlora’s museums: the Muzeu Etnografik showcases traditional costumes and handicrafts, while the Muzeu Historik displays artefacts unearthed from local archaeological digs. Before sunset, take a stroll down Jews’ Alley and past the Old Clock Tower, finishing at the lively street market on Rruga Mulla Xhaferri.

Evening

Stroll seawards down the long, straight Boulevard Ismail Qemali, stopping for a sunset snack at one of the many excellent bakeries and ice cream parlours along the way. Look out for the striking Petro Marko Theatre – if you’re lucky, there may be a classical concert or opera performance scheduled. After this, spend the rest of your evening along the waterfront and don't miss trying tavë kosi, a comforting baked lamb dish with a quiche-like texture.

When it opens, the much-anticipated Vlora Marina will be Albania’s first world-class marina. This landmark mixed-use development will offer a stylish place to stay and bring fresh energy to the coast with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants and nightlife — including rooftop bars with sweeping sea views. Nearby, a revitalised promenade will be lined with elegant restaurants and cocktail lounges, perfect for a leisurely evening.

Day 2: Surrounding sights

Morning
Devote your second day to some of Vlora's lesser-known attractions on the outskirts of town. A 20-minute drive or taxi, followed by a leisurely stroll across a wooden footbridge, brings you to St Mary’s Monastery. This striking Albanian Orthodox church is believed to date back to the 11th century and showcases beautiful Byzantine architecture.

Look out for flamboyant flamingos at Narta Lagoon, a protected coastal wetland. Then, head south along the coast, walking past Zvërnec Lighthouse. This scenic route leads you along a string of beaches that culminate at the sandy shores of Narta Beach.

Afternoon
Just beyond Vlora lies the romantic Kanina Castle, dating back to the fourth century. It’s just a 10-minute drive from town — or, for those up for a challenge, a steep 90-minute hike through rugged terrain. The ruins, perched on an ancient settlement 1,250 feet above sea level, offer sweeping views of Vlora and its glittering coastline. For a similarly striking panorama with less exertion, climb the steps from Boulevard Ismail Qemali to Kuzum Baba’s terrace in the town centre.

Evening
Begin your evening at Vlora’s Old Beach, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon before strolling along the city’s western edge. Along Rruga Sazani, a lively stretch lined with restaurants, you’ll find local favourites like qofte (meatballs) and rich, creamy kaçkavall cheese. Pair your meal with a glass of Albanian wine, a shot of fiery raki, or the popular spiced yoghurt drink, dhallë.

Day 3: Ionian adventures

Morning & Afternoon
Take a speedboat trip into Vlora Bay, where licensed excursions carry small groups across clear waters to the remote Karaburun Peninsula. Here, there's time to swim and snorkel in Haxhi Ali Cave — a natural sea grotto with a long maritime history. Afterwards, spend the afternoon beach-hopping along the coastline, ending at Radhimë Beach. If you're up for more, continue south to Orikum Archaeological Park, the remains of an ancient Illyrian settlement set within a modern naval base. Be sure to bring ID and cash for entry.

Alternatively, several licensed operators offer day trips to Grama Bay — a cove known for its ancient Greek and Latin rock inscriptions — along with access to nearby caves and lesser-known beaches, including Haxhi Ali.

Evening
Return by early evening to visit the National Museum of Independence, which features an engaging exhibition on the birth of modern Albania, fittingly housed in the very building where its first government convened. End the day with a generous seafood meal overlooking the Adriatic — a satisfying close to your time in Vlora.