Why Visit Vlore for a Beach Holiday?
Located where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet, Vlore is one of Albania’s most scenic and diverse beach destinations. From secluded bays and marine parks to urban beaches, family resorts, and cultural escapes, this coastal city offers something for every traveler.
Whether you’re planning a laid-back holiday, a cultural trip, or a full-on beach-hopping adventure, visiting Vlore in Albania delivers sun, sea, and unforgettable experiences.
🏝️ Top 8 Beaches You Must Visit in Vlore
Here’s a curated list of the top 8 beaches around Vlora, complete with travel tips, what to expect, and why each one stands out.
1. Karaburun Peninsula Beaches
A protected stretch of coast within the Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park, this peninsula is only accessible by boat, making it perfect for adventure seekers.
What You’ll Find:
- Turquoise waters, sea caves, and untouched nature
- Top spots: St. John’s Beach, St. Vasil, Grama Bay, Haxhi Ali Cave
- Ideal for snorkeling and diving
How to Get There:
Daily boat tours from Vlora port (May–September)
Best For: Adventurers, couples, nature lovers
Tip: Bring snacks, water, and snorkeling gear—there are no shops here.
2. Orikum Beach
Located 20 minutes south of Vlora, Orikum Beach is a peaceful spot known for its calm waters, pebbly shore, and views of the nearby hills.
Highlights:
- Family-friendly with shallow, clear waters
- Sun loungers and small eateries nearby
- Close to Orikum Marina
Best For: Families, seniors, relaxed travelers
3. Radhime Beach
This charming coastal village is lined with beachfront resorts, trendy bars, and romantic sunsets. The waters are warm and calm, perfect for swimming all day.
What to Expect:
- Stylish beach clubs and seafood restaurants
- Paddle boarding and kayaking available
Best For: Couples, foodies, weekend getaways
Pro Tip: Book a beachfront room for sunrise swims and sunset cocktails.
4. New Beach in Vlora (Plazhi i Ri)
Located along the bustling Lungomare promenade, this beach is the heart of summer fun in Vlora. It’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
What You’ll Love:
- Energetic vibe, stone beach, and modern facilities
- Easy access to food, bars, and accommodations
- Live music and beach parties in summer
Best For: Young travelers, groups of friends
Access: Walking distance from most city hotels
5. Old Beach in Vlora (Plazhi i Vjeter)
Situated near the port and historical center, Old Beach is quieter and feels more local. It’s a favorite for morning swims and peaceful walks.
Why Visit:
- Authentic vibe, fewer tourists
- Relaxing cafés by the shore
- Ideal for early risers and solo visitors
Best For: Mature travelers, locals, quiet seekers
6. Zvernec Beach
Nestled beside the Narta Lagoon and Zvernec Monastery, this beach offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and tranquility.
Unique Features:
- Shallow waters perfect for children
- Surrounded by pine forest and nature trails
- Access to the iconic wooden bridge to the monastery
Best For: Families, cultural explorers, photographers
7. Hidrovor Beach
Located near Zvernec, Hidrovor Beach is a serene local favorite. Set beside the Narta Lagoon, it’s a peaceful escape ideal for birdwatching and slow beach days.
What Makes It Special:
- Untouched coastline
- Rare bird species visible year-round
- Close to protected nature zones
Best For: Eco-tourists, birdwatchers, solo travelers
🔗 Birdwatching in Narta and Karavasta Lagoon
8. Seman Beach
Located about an hour north of Vlora, near Fier, Seman Beach is one of Albania’s widest and quietest sandy beaches.
What You’ll Find:
- Wide, clean stretches of soft sand
- Minimal crowds, even in summer
- No commercial noise – bring your own food and drinks
Best For: Families, peace seekers, picnic lovers
Beach Comparison at a Glance
| 🌊 Beach | 👥 Best For | 🚗 Access | ⭐ Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Karaburun | Adventure & diving | Boat only | Caves, coves, snorkeling paradise |
| Orikum | Families & calm stays | Car or bus | Marina, clear waters, local food |
| Radhime | Couples & chic stays | Car or taxi | Sunset views, stylish resorts |
| New Beach | Young & social travelers | Walking | Bars, promenade, city vibe |
| Old Beach | Quiet & local experiences | Walking | Calm, central, coffee by the sea |
| Zvërnec | Culture & nature | Car or taxi | Monastery, forest, kid-friendly waters |
| Hidrovor | Birdwatching & peace | Car | Narta Lagoon, nature trails |
| Seman | Picnics & wide open space | Car | Sand dunes, peaceful setting |
Where to stay in Vlora
Whether you want comfort, views, or affordability, Vlora has it all.
Top Hotel Picks:
- Hotel Noel – Modern, cozy, and excellent service
- Seaside Hotel – Prime beach access with panoramic views
- Navy Hotel – Comfortable rooms and seafront location
🔗 Top 5 Most Rated Hotels in Vlora
What and Where to Eat in Vlora
Must-Try Local Dishes:
- Tave me peshk – Baked fish in tomato sauce
- Grilled shrimp and calamari
- Byrek me djathe – Traditional cheese pie
- Seafood risotto with local herbs
Top Restaurants:
- Maison des Chefs – Elegant, creative Albanian cuisine
- Magjia by Enrik Rrapaj – Loved by locals for seafood and sea views
- Paradise Beach Restaurant – Perfect for beachside lunch or sunset dinner
How to Get Around Vlora
- On foot: Best for the city center and Lungomare promenade
- By car: Ideal for exploring beaches like Radhime, Zvernec, Seman
- By taxi: Affordable and available everywhere
- By boat: For Karaburun and Sazan Island trips
What to Do Beyond the Beach
- 🚤 Boat trip to Sazan Island and Haxhi Ali Cave
- 🏰 Visit Kanine Castle – Epic views and medieval history
- 🏛️ Explore Vlora’s Independence Museum
- 🎶 Evening walk along Lungomare with street music and sea breeze
Nightlife in Vlora
In summer, Vlora turns into a mini festival town.
Where to Go:
- Cielo Sky Bar – Rooftop views and DJ sets
- Havana Beach Bar – Dancing by the sea
- Lime Lounge Cocktail Bar – A popular bar known for its cocktails and relaxing atmosphere.
Best Beaches Based on Traveler Type
| Traveler Type | Recommended Beaches |
|---|---|
| Families | Zvernec, Orikum, Seman |
| Couples | Radhime, Karaburun |
| Young travelers | New Beach, Lungomare |
| Solo travelers | Hidrovor, Old Beach, Orikum |
Quick Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: June–September
- Language: Albanian (English and Italian widely spoken)
- Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL) – cash is useful in remote areas
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi available in most cafes and hotels
- Safety: Vlora is very safe for all travelers
Why You Should Experience Visiting the Beaches in Vlora
From wild coastlines and hidden bays to cultural beaches and sunset spots, Vlora’s beaches offer a complete coastal experience. Whether you want to explore or relax, party or meditate, there’s a beach for you here.
Experience visiting the beaches in Vlora in Albania—you’ll leave with a tan, a full heart, and stories to tell.
