4 MUST-See attractions to Vlora Albania
Albania is the last up and coming coastal Balkan country and Vlora is a it’s crown and jewel. As you know Albania has an amazing riviera and lovely beaches and Vlora is one of the largest and I would say the best city on the beach in Albania. Here are the top 4 things to see in Vlora, Albania.
1. Independence Hall
If you are a history buff you can visit the Albanian Independence hall. In the early 20th century, the Ottoman Empire's grip on Albania began to loosen. Ismail Qemali, a prominent Albanian figure, rallied for independence. On November 28th, 1912, a momentous event unfolded within the walls of the Independence Hall. Here, amidst a gathering of delegates from across Albania, Qemali declared the nation's independence, marking a turning point in Albanian history.
The structure is small traditional building located just off the beach next to the park. They have just renovated the entire area and built statutes to famous Albanians. Vlora has some of the best infrastructure in the country. The cost is around $3 for a tour. The guide gave me a private tour and told me the history of the country.
2. St. Mary’s Monastery
St. Mary’s Monastery also known as Monastery of Dormition of Theotokos Mary is a cute church and monastery just a few miles outside of town. It is located on the island of Zvërnec Island you walk across the boardwalk in the Narta Lagoo to get to the medieval Byzantine church. You can go inside and see chapel and were worshipers used to live. It is more secluded and you can enjoy the peacefulness and the birds such as pecans.
3. Vlora’s Old Town
The old town is not as specular as other cities such as Gjirokastor or Berat the Vlora has a small just renovated old town with few restaurants and shops. You can enjoy the cobbled stones streets and I enjoy I usually get Akullore (ice cream) at the coffee shop Right next to the old town you can visit The 16th-century Muradie Mosque, also known as the Lead Mosque, is a cultural monument in Albania, located in Vlorë. The mosque was built in 1537 by the famous Ottoman Turkish architect Mimar Sinan during the rule of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Also there are some Roman ruins near the Mosque.
4. Beaches
Of course the main attractions are the amazing beaches you can walk around Lungomare beach . The shallow calm waters are great for wading in the water and cooling off. I really enjoy the Greek food place Ya mas as you can get falafels and a beer. You can rent an umbrella for around $5 to $10 for the entire day. You can rent jet skis and boat trips to secluded islands and cliffs.
If you decide to visit Vlora and you are a cyclist, we have a tour group that visits these sites and more. We will cycle up LLogara pass which outside of Vlora all the way down to Saranda. Check us out at www.vloracycling.com .
