6 min read
Destination
Himarë Travel Guide
Quieter than Sarandë, prettier than the postcards — the Riviera's best-kept secret.
South · Riviera
BeachHimarë
The Riviera's most relaxed town — cliff-backed coves with clear water, a hilltop Greek-speaking village, and Porto Palermo's Ottoman fortress down the coast.
Best for
Quiet beaches, village life, snorkelling
Best time
June–September
Suggested stay
2–3 nights
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Himarë in pictures
South · RivieraQuiet beaches, village life, snorkelling
About this destination
Why Himarë belongs on your route
Himarë is the locals' favourite on the Albanian Riviera — a string of cliff-backed beaches (Livadhi, Llamani, Aquarium Beach, Filikuri) and a Greek-speaking hilltop village above. Water taxis from Livadhi Beach reach Filikuri and Aquarium Beach without the hike. Porto Palermo Castle, a perfectly preserved Ottoman sea fortress, is 8 km south. Quieter and more authentic than Ksamil.
Top attractions
What to see in Himarë
1
Livadhi Beach
The main beach at Himarë — a long stretch of pebbles below the old village, with calm, clear water and a handful of good beach restaurants. Water taxis depart from here to Filikuri and Aquarium Beach.
2
Porto Palermo Castle
A remarkably well-preserved Ottoman sea fortress built by Ali Pasha of Ioannina in the early 19th century, sitting on a small peninsula 8 km south of Himarë. Accessible by boat or road, entry free from the sea.
3
Filikuri Beach
A secluded cove of exceptional beauty, reachable by water taxi from Livadhi Beach or by a steep dirt track. Brilliant turquoise water, no facilities, total quiet.
4
Aquarium Beach
A sheltered snorkelling cove south of Livadhi, named for the clarity of its water. Reachable on foot or by water taxi — far less busy than the main beach and ideal for snorkellers.
5
Old Himarë Village
The original hilltop settlement above the modern town, inhabited by a Greek-speaking community for centuries. Byzantine churches, stone houses and panoramic views of the coastline.
6
Llamani Beach
A quieter cove 3 km north of Himarë, popular with campers and snorkellers. Less developed than Livadhi and easy to reach by car.
Day plan
How to spend one day in Himarë
Morning
Explore Livadhi Beach — the main town beach, calm water
Afternoon
Porto Palermo Castle — Ottoman sea fortress, 8 km south
Evening
Dinner in Himarë — save the best viewpoint for last
Local tip
Himarë has no public transport — you'll need a car or taxi. Water taxis from Livadhi Beach reach Filikuri and Aquarium Beach without the hike. Porto Palermo Castle is a 20-min drive south — well worth it.
Nearby
Where to go next from Himarë
Accommodation
Where to stay in Himarë
Verified hotel links and stays for travellers who want to be close to the highlights.
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Where to eat in Himarë
Traditional restaurants, modern Albanian dining, and local favourites with verified links where available.
Verified restaurants for Himarë are being reviewed.
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Things to do in Himarë
Verified activities for Himarë are being reviewed.
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Planning your journey? See practical transport options, approximate prices, travel times and seasonal advice.
Travel guides
Plan more around Himarë
5 min read
Practical
Vlorë to Himarë: The Riviera Coast Road (Seasonal)
How to travel the Albanian Riviera from Vlorë to Himarë over the Llogara Pass — Riviera buses, furgon, rental car or transfer. Honest, seasonal advice on frequency.
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