Vlore is a fantastic base for exploring some of Albania’s most stunning natural sites and protected areas. With its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and nearby mountains, it offers a variety of guided tours that showcase the region’s beauty. Whether you’re after an adrenaline rush, a scenic hike, or a cultural excursion, Vlore’s tours deliver authentic experiences that won’t disappoint. We’re particularly fond of the Speed Boat Tour to the National Park and Grama Bay, for its combination of adventure and breathtaking scenery, and the Blue Line day trip that takes you to Butrint and the Blue Eye—perfect for history and nature lovers alike.
If you’re trying to decide which tour suits your style, this guide breaks down four of the best options. From high-speed boat trips to immersive hikes, you’ll find a variety of ways to explore Albania’s natural treasures.
Quick Overview
Our list features speedboat adventures, guided hikes through Llogara National Park, a comprehensive boat tour with lunch, and an all-day cultural trip to Butrint and the Blue Eye. Each offers a unique look at what makes Vlore special:
- The Speed Boat Tour to the National Park and Grama Bay offers a high-octane way to see hidden caves and secluded beaches.
- The Llogara National Park info hike is perfect for those who love nature walks and scenic viewpoints.
- The Grand Tour of the National Park and Grama Bay combines boat travel with a hearty lunch.
- The Blue Line day trip provides a cultural and natural mix, including UNESCO heritage sites and a spectacular spring.
Now, let’s explore each in detail to help you find the best match for your trip.
1. Speed Boat Tour to National Park and Grama Bay
At number 1, this 7-hour speedboat tour is an adrenaline-fueled way to explore Vlore’s coastline. Starting from TripMe.Today, you’ll visit all the hidden caves and bays that are inaccessible by land. Highlights include stops at Haxhi Ali Cave, Dafina Bay, Gjiri i Brisanit, Gjiri i Inglezit, and Gjiri i Llovizit—each offering photo ops, guided explanations, and swimming breaks, often in crystal-clear waters.
The final destination, Grama Bay, is renowned for its pristine sands, snorkeling, and relaxing atmosphere. The tour’s small-group setting and focus on exclusive spots make it stand out. The reviews are glowing, with one reviewer giving a perfect 5/5, praising the beautiful locations, lively atmosphere, and excellent guides.
What makes this tour exceptional is its emphasis on adventure and discovery—you’ll see caves and beaches only accessible by boat, making it perfect for those craving unique sights. The 75-minute swim stop at Dafina Bay is a highlight, offering plenty of time to relax and explore underwater life.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an active, scenic day with plenty of swimming and photo opportunities, this speedboat tour is hard to beat.
2. Vlore: Llogara National Park Infocenter to Deep Neck
Number 2 on our list features a 7-hour guided hike through Llogara National Park. This tour combines a scenic walk along a trail that resembles a small jungle with visits to the Llogara National Park Infocenter and the stunning Deep Neck viewpoint.
The trail winds through lush greenery, and the guide shares insights into local flora, fauna, and the park’s ecological significance. The Deep Neck viewpoint offers panoramic views of the mountains and coastline—an Instagram-worthy moment. Past participants note the trail is well-maintained, and the scenery is stunning, with one reviewer mentioning, “The trail was beautiful, and the guide was very knowledgeable.”
This experience suits travelers who enjoy hiking and want a more intimate connection with nature. It’s a more relaxed pace than the speedboat, but still provides plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and photography. The small-group format ensures personalized attention and a more in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and hikers, this tour offers a peaceful walk through Albania’s mountain forests with spectacular views.
3. GRAND TOUR OF THE NATIONAL PARK AND GRAMA BAY
The third pick is a comprehensive 6-hour speedboat tour that takes you to the same stunning spots as the first tour but adds a lunch included in the price. Departing from Vlore, this trip covers all the bays and caves, with stops at Dafina Bay, Gjiri i Brisanit, Gjiri i Inglezit, and ends at Grama Bay for swimming and snorkeling.
What sets this tour apart is the value for money—lunch, unlimited water, and disembarkation fees are covered, making it a hassle-free experience. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and reviews highlight the beautiful locations and friendly guides.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a full-day adventure with a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and dining. It’s especially suited for those who want a stress-free experience with everything included.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded day on the water with a tasty meal included, this tour offers great value and memorable scenery.
4. Blue Line: Butrint National Park and Blue Eye Day Trip
Our final pick is a 12-hour day trip that takes you from Vlore to explore Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the stunning Blue Eye spring. The journey starts early, with a 2-hour van ride to Butrint, where a guided tour uncovers ruins dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
Afterward, the tour continues to the Blue Eye, a natural spring with crystal waters, perfect for photos and a refreshing break. The day also includes a stop at the Llogara Pass for breathtaking views and a chance to relax at Saranda’s promenade. Lunch is served at the Blue Eye, surrounded by lush greenery, and allows you to soak in the scenery.
This trip is the best choice for culture and nature enthusiasts who don’t mind a long day. The inclusion of UNESCO heritage and natural wonders makes it highly appealing. The reviews are limited but positive; it’s clear that this tour balances history, scenery, and leisure beautifully.
Bottom Line: A full-day cultural and natural exploration suited for those interested in ancient sites and scenic springs, with plenty of time for photos and relaxing.
How to Choose Your Perfect Vlore National Park Tour
When choosing between these tours, consider your interest in adventure versus culture, your physical fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring. For a fast-paced, scenic boat adventure, the Speed Boat Tour to the National Park and Grama Bay is excellent. If hiking and panoramic views are more your style, then the Llogara National Park trek might be better. Those seeking a full-day experience with food included will enjoy the Grand Tour of the National Park and Grama Bay, while history buffs or those wanting a mix of natural and archaeological sights should opt for the Blue Line day trip to Butrint and Blue Eye.
Booking early is a good idea, especially in peak season, as these tours fill quickly. Check availability and start times in advance to customize your day.
To sum it up, Vlore offers a diverse range of national park tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. For high-speed thrill-seekers, the Speed Boat Tour is unmatched. For those who prefer calm surroundings and scenic walks, the Llogara hike is a perfect choice. Those wanting a complete package with meals will find the Grand Tour ideal, and culture lovers will appreciate the long day trip to Butrint and Blue Eye. Whatever your preference, booking early ensures you’ll secure a spot on these unforgettable excursions.