The gorgeous coastal town, at once one of the most popular summer destinations and the most patriotic attraction of the country, offers the visitor countless natural and cultural alternatives in which to enjoy its beauty free of charge.

Everyone knows that Vlora is one of the top destiantions of the summer. But, in the last few years, renovations and reconstructions have made the city even more aesthetically pleasing and a joy to visit at all times of the year. The list below gives you some ideas on how to get the best out of Vlora’s magical atmosphere and array of fascinating sites, without spending a dime.

1. Take the requisite walk around Flag Square 

When in Vlora, a visit to the city’s historic center is a must! Located at the very heart of the city, the Flag Square marks the spot in which Albania’s Independence Day is celebrated annually. Here you will come across monuments of the utmost significance for the country’s history: the Independence Monument, the Flagpole Monument and the tomb of Ismail Qemali. A short visit to the historic square will teach you much about the land of the eagles! 

2. Make the pictoresque crossing to Zvërnec Island via the wooden bridge

Located at the short distance of 12 km from the city, Zvërnec Island is one of the country’s most beautiful natural spots. Covered by spectacular, and refreshing, tall pines, the island also houses the Monastery of St. Mary. The byzantine structure is not only an important artefact of the nation’s cultural and religious heredity but beautiful. But, the best part of this trip will most definitely be the crossing of the 270-meters long bridge. A truly memorable walk!

3. Stand in awe of the beauty of “Cold Water” Beach 

Vlora marks the spot where the beautiful Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet, the second giving way to the first which continues to the southernmost border of Albania. To get there, the visitor must go through the “Cold Water” tunnel. The green of the pines and the beautiful turquoise color of the sea make this place a wonder to behold! 

4. Explore the perfect harmony between mountains and sea at Llogara National Park 

Located only 14 km away from Vlora, the Llogara National Park is one of the most visited spots in the country year-round. Rich in pine woods and oaks, the park offers breathtaking views, fresh air, a rich flora and fauna and many places in which to stop and eat delicious traditional food. The park is very close to the Ionian Sea and one’s hike or drive is accompanied by the spectacular view of it below. One landmark of this amazing park is the Flag Pine, a 100-year old tree in the shape of the double-headed eagle of the Albanian flag.

5. Be at one with nature at Narta Lagoon

A must-see! The Narta Lagoon, located close to Vlora, is considered the second largest lagoon in the country. Only 20 minutes from the city, this park is famous for the richness and diversity of its flora and fauna. Many visitors from all around the world visit the lagoon in order to see the flamingos and the sea dunes of Narta. 

6. Stroll along the lungomare, Vlora’s seaside promenade  

The 5-km long lungomare is the best walk you will have in the city! As its name suggests, the long promenade follows the spectacular Ioanin coastline. One of the liveliest parts of the town, this promenade boasts special areas for recreational and leisure activites. If you choose to walk along its entire length, you can take a break and enjoy the view of the sea or sunset in one of its many cafes and restaurants. 

7. Meet nature and history at Marmiroi Church in Orikum

The Marmiroi Church is definitely along the path less traveled, but that is part of what makes this 12^th century object unique. Located in Orikum, a small town near Vlora and the formerly ancient city of Orik, the church was named after the marble quarry located nearby ages ago. While the church, in itself, is worth visiting, use this as an excuse to enjoy the beautiful land and seascapes of Orikum!

8. Witness the harmony of Ottoman architecture at Muradije Mosque

Open for prayer service as well as to the general public, a visit to this mosque will grant you an authentic experience even if you are not a believer. This 5-century-old monument of enormous significance is conveniently located in the heart of the city. Built in 1542 by Sinan, the most famous Ottoman architect of the period, the mosque is a fascinting destination for architecture lovers.

9. See Vlora from above at the Sacred Place of Kuzum Baba

Kuzum Baba, as it is locally known, is the highest point of the city, rising 70 meters above the national road. To see Kuzum Baba, you’ll have to climb 240 stairs of a winding staircase. Once you get to the large terrace overlooking the city and its coastline, we promise you won’t regret the slight physical exhertion! For believers, this place is an especially sacred spot as it includes the Bektashi Tomb of Kuzbaba, a spiritual sanctuary for all believers.

10. Become acquainted with the multicultural history of the city in the Jewish Street

While there are traces of Jewish settlements since antiquity in Albania, it was specifically after 1850 that Jews from Greece established a community in the city of Vlora. Albania’s historic support of its Jewish community is well-known, with many locals hiding their Jewish neighbors during the Holocaust. For this reason, and because the area is even more beautiful after its recent renovations, visiting the Jewish quarter will be one of the best things you can do for free in the city!