Vlorë is the most underrated city in Albania. With its great combination of beaches and city, we were surprised that it wasn’t a more popular tourist destination. Vlorë has fantastic restaurants, a small but charming old town, historic mosques and scenic lookouts. Best of all, many of Vlorë’s most popular tourist attractions are absolutely free. In this Vlorë travel guide, we’ll show you the 10 best free things to do in Vlorë Albania.
Plan your trip: Here are our Vlorë Albania top recommendations:
Activities: book your Vlorë Albania Tours with Get Your Guide.
Accommodation: we use Booking.com to find the best hotels.
Car Hire: for great value car rental in Albania we recommend Localrent.com
Flights: find cheapest flights with cashback on WayAway.
Airport Lounge Access: start your holiday the right way with Priority Pass.
Travel Medical Insurance: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is the ideal choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
Top free things to do in Vlorë Albania
We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Vlorë Albania.
- Vlora Old Town
- Lungomare
- Boulevard Ismail Qemali
- Zvernec Monastery
- Independence Monument
- Muradie Mosque
- Plazhi i Ri
- Plazhi i Vjeter
- Kuzum Baba
- War Cemetary Partisans (Varreza e Babice-Varrezat e Vlores)
Keep reading to find out more about each destination.
Charming old town of Vlorë Albania: Vlora Old Town
About Vlora Old Town Albania
Vlora Old Town is a colourful and vibrant part of Vlore Albania. It is very pedestrian friendly and has a great selection of restaurants, cafes and shops.
Why visit Vlora Old Town
Vlora Old Town is a charming area of the city that is well worth a visit. It’s full of great restaurants, bars and cafes as well as cute little shops. The streets are very pretty and make for great photographs.
How long to spend at Vlora Old Town
Vlore Old Town is quite a small old town area with one main street. You can wander around the old town in less than half an hour. However we recommend devoting a couple of hours to this area to dine at one of the restaurants or cafes and explore the shops.
Opening hours for Vlora Old Town
Vlora Old Town is open at all hours. It’s a pretty place both at night and during the day. However we recommend seeing it during the day so you can see it properly.
If you have money to spend in Vlora Old Town
There are a number of cafes, restaurants and shops throughout the old town area. We recommend Sophie Caffe.
Vlora Old Town address
Plus Code: FFCR+VWM, Rruga Justin Godar, Vlorë, Albania
Waterfront promenade in Vlorë Albania: Lungomare
About Lungomare Albania
Lungomare is a scenic waterfront walkway on the way from Vlorë city centre to Plazhi i Ri. Stretching for 5km all along the waterfront, it is the longest promenade in Vlorë. It is a nice wide space which is paved and lined with palm trees and Mediterranean plants. The area is clean, well maintained and provides a great space for enjoying a relaxing stroll while admiring the beautiful water views. There are also statues and artwork along the boardwalk. In the evenings the area lights up and the area becomes an open air venue with rides, games and vibrant nightlife.
Why visit Lungomare
Lungomare is a beautiful place to walk along while enjoy the sea views. It is particularly beautiful at sunset. There are also a lot of restaurants and cafes along here to enjoy a drink or a meal. Lungomare is also a popular place in the evenings with great atmosphere and lots of entertainment options.
How long to spend at Lungomare
It takes around an hour to walk the full length of the promenade. However if you wish to only walk a small section of the path to get to the beach you can spend as little as 10 minutes on the Vlorë beach side walk. Conversely, Lungomare is also a great place to enjoy an evening soaking up the atmosphere and savouring the lively nightlife.
Opening hours for Lungomare
Lungomare is open at all hours. However it is particularly popular at sunset as well as during the evening for its vibrant nightlight.
If you have money to spend in Lungomare
There are plenty of great cafes and restaurants all along the promenade. At night there are lots of activities for you to spend your money on.
Lungomare address
Plus Code: FF2Q+6H8, Vlorë, Albania
Main street in Vlorë Albania: Boulevard Ismail Qemali
About Boulevard Ismail Qemali Albania
Boulevard Ismail Qemali, also known as Rruga Sadik Zotaj in Albanian, is the main boulevard in Vlorë Albania. It is a well-designed leafy street with wide pedestrian walkways, shops, shopping centres and restaurants. The area is beautifully maintained and there are also a number of attractions on this street.
Why visit Boulevard Ismail Qemali
Boulevard Ismail Qemali is a pretty street with plenty of shops and restaurants and excellent pedestrian infrastructure. It is a pleasant street to stroll down and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city.
How long to spend at Boulevard Ismail Qemali
It takes around 20 minutes walk from one end of the boulevard to the other. However we recommend taking an hour or two to explore the shops and attractions along the way and perhaps stop at a restaurant for a drink or a meal.
Opening hours for Boulevard Ismail Qemali
Boulevard Ismail Qemali is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day when most of the shops are open.
If you have money to spend in Boulevard Ismail Qemali
There are plenty of great shops, cafes and restaurants all along the boulevard.
Boulevard Ismail Qemali address
Plus Code: FF2Q+6H8, Vlorë, Albania
Monastery on an island near Vlorë Albania: Zvernec Monastery
About Zvernec Monastery
Zvernec Monastery, also known as St Mary’s Monastery, Monastery of Dormition of Theotokos Mary or Manastiri i Shën Mërisë in Albanian, is a Byzantine church set on a small island on the outskirts of Vlorë city. This well-preserved stone monastery dates back to the 13th or 14th Century. It was designated as a Cultural Monument of Albania in 1963. The road to get there is rough, but it’s a short drive from the city. Alternatively, cycling there takes about an hour and walking takes about an hour and a half. To get on Zvërnec Island itself there is a long curved wooden pedestrian bridge which stretches across Narta Lagoon onto the island. The lagoon is home to flamingos, pelicans, herons and other wildlife.
Why visit Zvernec Monastery
Zvernec Monastery is a historic monastery located in a peaceful and beautiful setting. The wooden bridge to get onto the island, Zvërnec bridge, is a popular photo spot and the area is a great place to enjoy nature. The lagoon surrounding the island is home to flamingos and pelicans, making it a particularly good spot for bird watching . The monastery is surrounded by lush greenery and has a rich history dating back to the 13th or 14th century. Visitors can explore the monastery’s architecture and learn about its history while enjoying the serene surroundings.
How long to spend at Zvernec Monastery
Zvernec Monastery is a great half-day trip from Vlorë. If you feel like hiking or cycling to get there you could make a whole day of it.
Opening hours for Zvernec Monastery
The Zvernec Monastery is open at all hours. However to make the most of your visit, we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend at the Zvernec Monastery
You can buy candles at the monastery for a few lek. There is also a small cafe near the parking area.
Zvernec Monastery address
Plus Code: GC82+XX3, Zvërnec, Albania
Historic monument in Vlorë Albania: Independence Monument
About Independence Monument Vlore Albania
Independence Monument is an impressive monument which commemorates the proclamation of Albanian independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. The central figure in the monument is Ismail Qemali, who was the leader of the Albanian national movement, the first prime minister of Albania and the founder of Independent Albania. In the sculpture Ismail Qemali stands tall holding a flag in his hands. Below Qemali are depictions of the different sects who led the people of Albania to independence. The monument was created by Albanian sculptors Kristaq Rama, Muntaz Dhrami and Shaban Hadëri in the heroic Communist style. This 17 metre high sculpture is made out of black stone and was completed in 1972. It holds a prominent position in Flag Plaza in the centre of Vlorë.
Why visit Independence Monument Vlore Albania
Independence Monument is a striking tribute to Albania’s independence. It is an important historical monument that is well worth visiting.
How long to spend at Independence Monument Vlore Albania
5-10 minutes is plenty of time to admire the monument and take a few photos.
Opening hours for Independence Monument Vlore Albania
Independence Monument is open at all hours. However it’s best viewed during the day.
If you have money to spend in Independence Monument Vlore Albania
Independence Monument is a short walk from Vlora Old Town, which is full of restaurants, cafes and shops.
Independence Monument Vlore Albania address
Sheshi i Flamurit, Vlorë 9401, Albania
Plus Code: FFCR+78 Vlorë, Albania
Main mosque in Vlorë Albania: Muradie Mosque
About Muradie Mosque
Muradie Mosque (Xhamia e Muradies in Albanian), also known as Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit), is a historic mosque located in downtown Vlorë. The mosque was built by famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan in 1537 CE with construction completed in 1542 CE. Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent was the ruler at the time the mosque was built. The brickwork of the mosque is very distinctive, using bricks of two different colours. The mosque consists of a prayer hall and an 18 metre tall minaret. The mosque has a dome rooftop with a polygon raised base. There was once also a portico, but it has been destroyed. This mosque is designated a Cultural Monument of Albania.
Why visit Muradie Mosque
Muradie Mosque is a striking and historic building in the heart of Vlore city. It is well worth a visit for its architecture and its cultural significance.
How long to spend at Muradie Mosque
Ten minutes is plenty of time to admire the mosque. Allow an hour if you are attending for prayers.
Opening hours for Muradie Mosque
Muradie Mosque is open at all hours. However, we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend in Muradie Mosque
There’s plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.
Muradie Mosque address
Plus Code: FF9R+J9J, Rruga Justin Godar, Vlorë, Albania
Main beach in Vlorë Albania: Plazhi i Ri
About Plazhi i Ri
Plazhi i Ri, or New Beach in English, is a sandy beach in an urban part of Vlore. It is a long wide beach with a mix of areas occupied by sunbeds as well as open areas. The water is shallow and warm and the beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the peak season.
Why visit Plazhi i Ri
Plazhi i Ri is a beautiful long stretch of sandy beach overlooking calm turquoise water. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sunshine. The beach has plenty of amenities including nearby restaurants, sun loungers and umbrellas for rent and public toilet facilities. Across the road from the beach are many apartment complexes with many holiday apartments available for rent. The water is shallow and warm and perfect for families. All of these aspects combined, makes Plazhi i Ri a great beach to visit in Vlore.
How long to spend at Plazhi i Ri
This is a nice place to spend a couple of hours.
Opening hours for Plazhi i Ri
Plazhi i Ri is open at all hours. However it is best enjoyed during the day.
If you have money to spend in Plazhi i Ri
There are some bars and restaurants nearby. You can also rent sunbeds for 500 lek each (price as at 2023).
Plazhi i Ri address
Vlorë, Albania
Family-friendly beach in Vlorë Albania: Plazhi i Vjeter
About Plazhi i Vjeter
Plazhi i Vjeter, or Old Beach in English, is the closest beach to the city centre of Vlore. There is plenty of open space as well as sunbeds for rent.
Why visit Plazhi i Vjeter
Plazhi i Vjeter is a family-friendly beach about half an hour walk from the city centre. It has a relaxed atmosphere and calm water. It is popular with locals.
How long to spend at Plazhi i Vjeter
This is a nice place to spend a couple of hours.
Opening hours for Plazhi i Vjeter
Plazhi i Vjeter is open at all hours. However it is best enjoyed during the day.
If you have money to spend near Plazhi i Vjeter
There are some bars and restaurants nearby. You can also rent a sunbed for 500 lek (price as at 2023).
Plazhi i Vjeter address
Rr. Sazani, Vlorë, Albania
Best views in Vlorë Albania: Kuzum Baba
About Kuzum Baba
Perched on the hilltop overlooking Vlore, Kuzum Baba offers panoramic views of the city. There is a bar and restaurant at this scenic lookout point as well as a lovely garden area and terrace. The temple of the Bektashi sect is also located in this complex.
Why visit Kuzum Baba
Kuzum Baba offers the best views of Vlore. It is a steep walk to get up there, but the views are definitely worth the climb. There is also a bar and restaurant there if you want to stop for a drink or a meal while you enjoy the views.
How long to spend at Kuzum Baba
Half an hour is a good amount of time to walk around the gardens, admire the views and take plenty of photos. Allow extra time if you want to have a drink or a meal at the restaurant.
Opening hours for Kuzum Baba
Kuzum Baba is open at all hours. However it is best enjoyed during the day.
If you have money to spend near Kuzum Baba
There is a bar and restaurants with great views over the city.
Kuzum Baba address
Plus Code: FF9V+574, Vlorë, Albania
War Cemetery in Vlorë Albania: War Cemetery Partisans
About War Cemetery Partisans
War Cemetery Partisans, or Varrezat e Deshmoreve in Albanian, is a war cemetery on the hillside in Vlore. Amongst those buried here are resistance fighters from World War II. The cemetery also contains the remains of firefighters and police killed in the line of duty. There is a monument at the site and it is also a good vantage point for looking out over the city.
Why visit War Cemetery Partisans
War Cemetery Partisans is a peaceful and sombre place honouring those that sacrificed their lives for their country. There are some beautiful views of the city from the top of the stairs.
How long to spend at War Cemetery Partisans
10-20 minutes is plenty of time to look around the cemetery and also enjoy the views.
Opening hours for War Cemetery Partisans
War Cemetery Partisans is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend near War Cemetery Partisans
You could bring some flowers to honour the dead.
War Cemetery Partisans address
Plus Code: FGQ7+HC8, Unnamed Road, Vlorë, Albania
Where to stay in Vlorë Albania?
We recommend the following accommodation in Vlorë Albania:
- Best hostel in Vlorë Albania – Pinegroove Hostel is a great value hostel a short walk from the beach. This hostel has a relaxed vibe, comfortable beds and helpful staff. It also has a nice rooftop area.
- Best budget hotel in Vlorë Albania – Solea Hotel is a brand new hotel in Vlorë which is clean, comfortable and quiet. It is conveniently positioned close to the port.
- Best mid-range hotel in Vlorë Albania – Yacht Hotel is a stunning hotel just across the road from the beach in Vlorë with amazing sea views and great bars and restaurants nearby. The hotel is modern and stylish with bright airy rooms that are very comfortable. The breakfasts are also very nice and the staff are fantastic.
- Best luxury hotel in Vlorë Albania – Priam Hotel Luxury Resort is an exceptional hotel in a fantastic location overlooking the beach. This new hotel offers stunning views, excellent facilities, delicious breakfasts and first class service.
Vlorë Albania Blogs
You can find our Vlorë Albania travel blogs below.
Albania Blogs
You can find our Albania travel blogs below.
6 Best FREE Things To Do in Sarandë Albania (with map)
11 Best FREE Things To Do in Himarë Albania (with map)
10 Best FREE Things To Do in Vlorë Albania (with map)
12 Best FREE Things To Do in Durrës Albania (with map)
15 Best FREE Things To Do in Tirana Albania (with map)
10 Best FREE Things To Do in Shkodër Albania (with map)
Sarandë Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Himarë Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Vlorë Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Durrës Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Tirana Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Shkodër Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
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