Vlore Old Town – Guide to the Historic Centre of Vlore
Vlore Old Town is in the historic centre of Vlore, where Albania’s independence from Ottoman rule was declared in 1912. After the beaches and seafront promenade, Old Town is Vlore’s most popular site.
Don’t expect a historic area like the walled old towns in some other Balkan countries – Vlore Old Town is much newer. Most of the buildings are from the 19th and 20th centuries, but it’s still charming and worth seeing.
I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Vlore, and visited the Old Town several times. This is what I know about visiting the Old Town.
Guide to Visiting Vlore’s Old Town
Old Town has a lot of restored 19th and 20th century Venetian style buildings. But, if you walk down the quieter side streets away from the pedestrian zone, you can still see the remains of much older stone houses.
It’s possible to see these older homes in Lungomare too if you explore the smaller streets.
I first visited Old Town in 2024, before it was a tourist hot spot. My dog’s Vlore vet is there and we walked through it several times. Even then it was quaint and different from the rest of the city. Today it’s more lively with galleries, guest houses, restaurants and a cute square lined with cafes.
Where is Vlore Old Town & How to Get There
Vlore Old Town is in the north end of the centre, about 2.5 km from the Lungomare promenade. To get there, just walk straight up Boulevard Ismail Qemali.
It’s a pleasant walk and you’ll go past several of Vlore’s sites, like the Muradie Mosque (Lead Mosque), Kuzum Baba, Flag Square and the Independence Monument.
One of my favourite bakeries with great gelato is just off Boulevard Ismail Qemamli, Karbash, about halfway up. It would make a good pit stop!
History of Vlore
Vlore is one of the oldest cities in Albania. Originally settled by the Illyrians in the 11th century BC, the Greeks later founded a colony here called Aulon.
Because of its sheltered bay and strategic position, Aulon became an important port for the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Ottomans. The Italian influence can be seen in the architecture of Vlore Old Town.
Finally, on November 28, 1912 in Vlore, Albania’s independence was declared by Ismail Qemal.
What to See in Vlore Old Town
Vlore Old Town isn’t big – it’s just a few streets. Even though it’s small, it is a charming pedestrian zone with colourful cafes, galleries and restaurants.
Cute cafe tables line cobblestone streets, flower boxes adorn the facades of 19th and 20th century buildings, and there’s a hidden square with Italian style fountains.
These are things you can do in Vlore Old Town:
- Visit the Galeria Art Cafe: A quirky cafe/art gallery.
- Look for hidden squares: There’s several small squares tucked away down laneways in Vlore Old Town. I like the one next to Foleza.
- Walk down Jewish Street: The historic street where Jewish families resided – Albania offered shelter to Jews during WWII.
- See the Clock Tower: Originally built in 1918 over the market building, it was restored in 2006.
- Have a coffee or drink at Komiteti Bar: A cozy boho-traditional style bar/cafe. Skip the food, though (I’ve heard mixed reviews) and stick to drinks.
These sites are just outside Old Town, but still in Vlore’s historic centre:
- Muradie Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Albania, built in 1537.
- House of Eqerem Bey: Historic home originally owned by one of Vlore’s most prominent families. Not open to the public, but you can see it from the street.
- Independence Monument: Monument commemorating Albania’s independence, built in 1972.
- Old City Walls: Very modest ruins from the Byzantine period. They are directly behind the Independence Monument in the park. These are the oldest ruins in Vlore.
Where to Stay in Vlore
There are many small guest houses in Vlore Old Town, but it’s not the most convenient area to stay in. Vlore Old Town is 2.5 km from the seafront and Lungomare Promenade, where most of the action is.
It’s better to stay closer to the seafront and walk up to the historic centre.
- The Cosy Inn Vlore: If you have your heart set on the Old Town, this guest house is a good choice. It’s on the main square with views of the Clock Tower. Rooms are simple, but updated and clean. Doubles from $26 USD.
- Sasso Hotel: This hotel has a great location close to everything. It’s on the main shopping street, within walking distance of Vlore Old Town and the seafront. They have a nice rooftop terrace for breakfast. Rooms start at $65 USD, including breakfast.
- Hotel Brooklyn Vlore: Very nice, small hotel on the Lungomare promenade. There’s no elevator, guests have to go up one flight of stairs. Doubles from $75 USD, including breakfast and parking.
Here’s more information on the best areas and hotels in Vlore.
Where to Eat in Vlore Old Town
There are several restaurants in Vlore Old Town, but you’ll find better food and prices at Restorant 4 Stinet. It’s a neighbourhood restaurant well known for seafood (they also serve breakfast), and it’s just a 2 minute walk from Old Town. This was one of my favourite restaurants in Vlore.
If you want to stick to Vlore Old Town, Pizza il Sole and Lab by Agora have good reviews and charming courtyards.
Last Words on Vlore Old Town – Guide to the Historic Centre of Vlore
Old Town is definitely worth visiting while you’re exploring the sites of Vlore. Instead of thinking of it like another Balkan old town, think of it as a cute pedestrian zone with charming architecture. It’s a great spot for a coffee break and relaxed stroll.
