Vlora Travel Guide
Travel to Vlora - Meeting Place of the Adriatic & Ionian
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Vlora is located in south-western Albania where the two seas, Adriatic and Ionian, meet. The town, with its wide boulevards decorated by huge palm trees, has a real southern Mediterranean feel to it. Where both seas meet the water becomes deeper and clearer. Beaches are sandy or rocky – typical of the Ionian coast.
Vlora was known as Aulona in ancient times and the Roman poet Martial referred to it as producing excellent quality wool and wine. The oldest traces of civilization in the area of Vlora date back to the 6th century B.C. During the 4th century A.D. Vlora was frequently mentioned as a landing port for ships bringing goods from the ports of Otranto and Brindisi, as well as being an important staging post between the prosperous ancient cities of Apollonia and Butrint.
Although an important town throughout history its claim to fame came on 28th November 1912, when the National Assembly of Albania declared the independence of Albania in Vlora, to end a five century Ottoman rule. The town was the first capital of independent Albania.
Attractions in Vlora
Vlora has three museums and is the start point of a scenic coastal road which leads to Saranda. For Albania, Vlora has seen a fair amount of development and has a good choice of hotels, bars and restaurants, though perhaps isn’t the obvious choice for travellers (summer is very busy and the beaches not too clean).
Activities in Vlora
Boat trips into the Bay of Vlora are available during summer months. Self-supported walking is possible on the Karaburun peninsula.
Relaxing
Just on the edge of the Bay of Vlora is Sazan, Albania’s only island. Throughout history this island was sought after by different powers due to it being in a strategic position from where maritime access to the Adriatic could be controlled.
Getting Around
Vlora is quite a large city and does not lend itself easily to walking. Taxis are readily available and local buses are frequent and cheap.
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