Vlora Ferries

The port of Vlora plays a key role in the ferry network of Albania, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by 1 ferry companies, Vlora serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Vlora, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Brindisi - Vlora connecting Vlora with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Starlines run regular services from Vlora, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Vlora offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Vlora is easily accessible via Albania's well-maintained SH8 coastal highway, approximately 2.5 hours south of Tirana by car. Regular bus services connect Vlora to major Albanian cities, with routes from Tirana running every hour during peak season. The nearest international airport is Tirana International, from which shuttle services and taxis offer direct transfers to Vlora's ferry terminal. If arriving by car, several parking facilities are available near the port area, though it's advisable to arrive early during summer months when spaces fill quickly.

Perched where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea, Vlora blends rich history with stunning Mediterranean beauty. This vibrant coastal city serves as a crucial ferry hub connecting Albania to Italy and beyond. Visitors are greeted by a picturesque promenade, crystal-clear waters, and the perfect blend of Ottoman heritage and modern Albanian culture.

Vlora enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The prime visiting window spans May through September, when temperatures hover between 25-30°C and the azure waters are perfect for swimming. June and September offer ideal conditions with pleasant warmth and fewer crowds than the peak July-August period. The city comes alive during the Summer Festival in August, featuring open-air concerts and cultural events. Ferry services operate year-round but increase in frequency during summer, with some routes reducing to 2-3 weekly departures in winter.

From Vlora's port, travelers can sail to several enticing destinations across the Adriatic. Brindisi, Italy is just a 6-hour journey away, offering baroque architecture and authentic Pugliese cuisine. The Greek island of Corfu, with its Venetian fortresses and olive-covered landscapes, can be reached in approximately 3 hours. During summer months, connections to Bari open up additional Italian exploration opportunities with a crossing time of around 8 hours. The Vlora-Brindisi route is particularly scenic, offering stunning views of the Albanian Riviera and Strait of Otranto.

Vlora offers a wealth of experiences within easy reach of its ferry terminal. History enthusiasts should visit Independence Museum, housed in the building where Albania declared independence in 1912. Just 15 minutes south, the pristine beaches of Radhimë and Orikum feature crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports. Don't miss sampling local specialties like fresh seafood rizotto and tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) at the seaside restaurants along Lungomare promenade. The nearby Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park offers exceptional snorkeling among shipwrecks and diverse marine life for the adventurous traveler.

Vlora holds a special place in Albanian history as the site where national independence was proclaimed in 1912, ending nearly 500 years of Ottoman rule. The city's name derives from the ancient term 'Aulona,' meaning 'port' or 'valley' in Illyrian. Archaeological evidence suggests the Vlora bay has served as an important maritime trading post since the 6th century BCE. The waters around Vlora conceal over 30 shipwrecks from various historical periods, making it a fascinating destination for underwater archaeology enthusiasts.