Himare, Albania: A Guide to the Best Things To Do
Written By: Global Grit and Glam
February 2025
Sunset over the Albanian Riviera (Himare, Albania)
Situated in the stunning Albanian Riviera on the country's southwest coast, Himare is a small Mediterranean coastal town for visitors who are seeking relaxation, discovery, and a deep dive into local Albanian cuisine. With abundant history, laidback beach views, clear ocean waters, and delicious food, Himare is a highly recommended addition to any Albanian itinerary.
Whether you’re coming for its reputation as one of the most beautiful places on the Albanian coast or for the quiet moments its Old Town will instill in any traveler, this seaside town will surprise you at every turn. Here, we share our adventures in Himare and recommend the top things to see and do in Himare, Albania!
Himarë Beach (Himare, Albania)
Quick Tips
Beautiful beaches (Himare, Albania)
Here are some quick tips to help you make the most of your visit to Himare and the Albanian Riviera.
Himare offers visitors a solid combination of history, laidback beach views, clear ocean waters and delicious food.
Consider visiting Himare during either of the shoulder seasons (April to June or September to October), when the weather is pleasant and the beaches less crowded.
Unlike other crowded Mediterranean destinations, Himare remains authentically local and beautifully peaceful.
Getting to Himare can be an adventure in and of itself – whether you’re heading here from Tirana or Saranda, or any other small town in Albania.
Once you’re in Himare, you’ll discover it’s an easily walkable town, with most of the attractions, cafes, restaurants and hotels within walking distance from the town center.
Himare’s history dates back thousands of years, with initial roots stemming from a strong medieval influence.
Visit Himare’s beautiful beaches: Himare (or Spile), Livadi, Filikuri, Gjipe or Jale.
Take some time to explore one of Himare’s main attractions: the historic and impressive Himare Castle.
Use Himare as a base from which to explore the Albanian Riviera: consider a day trip outside the city limits to Dhermi, Port Palermo, or the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint National Park.
Accommodation in Himare is plentiful, offering visitors a range of options from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels with Ionian Sea views.
Albanian cuisine is at its best in Himare, especially if you’re keen for some fresh seafood!
No matter where you are in Albania – including Himare – make sure you’re carrying with you enough of the local currency to comfortably get you through your entire stay in town. Cash is king in this country!
Follow these tips and recommendations, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a fantastic visit to Himare, Albania and the Albanian Riviera!
Plan Your Trip
Views of the Albanian Riviera (Himare, Albania)
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Planning a trip to Himare? Take advantage of the following recommended resources.
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We highly recommend Mihalis Apartments
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Himare VRBO apartment rentals
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We also rely on Skyscanner and Booking.com as great flight comparison tools.
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Car rental for Himare
Economy car rental for Himare
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While it’s tempting to skip the extra cost, travel insurance should be considered for domestic travel, and it’s a must for international travel.
TravelInsurance.com is an excellent comparison tool.
EKTA provides affordable plans with different coverage levels.
If you're planning outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking, consider travel insurance that covers those activities.
Visit our Resources page for additional planning tips, strategies, and companies we recommend.
Himare: A Small Town with a Big History
Deep-rooted history (Himare, Albania)
Medieval Times
Himare’s history dates back thousands of years, with initial roots stemming from a strong medieval influence. The area is believed to have been first inhabited before the Middle Ages by the Chaonians, a Greek tribe. The Chaonians founded Himare as a trading outpost, with one theory suggesting the town was named after the Greek word “cheimarros” (χειμάρρος), meaning "torrent" or “valley.”
Unlike other crowded Mediterranean destinations like Santorini and Nice, Himare remains authentically local and beautifully peaceful. Even in this part of Europe, it remains a hidden gem, with few tourists visiting more than its beaches.
The Early Ottoman Period: The Past Uncovered
Stunning views of the Albanian coast (Himare, Albania)
At the end of the Middle Ages, the Ottoman Empire played a prominent role in shaping the town of Himare and its surrounding region. In 1431, during war and trade, Himare became a nahiye, a regional administrative division consisting of several different villages and smaller towns, a Sanjak of Albania. Thus began almost five centuries of Ottoman rule. The Himariots, known for their independence, resisted Ottoman control through numerous revolts, including the Albanian revolt of 1566-1571 and the Ottoman-Venetian War of 1570-1573.
Despite this resistance, Himare remained under Ottoman control, which turned the town into a commercial hub. Merchants from all over the Mediterranean came to this small coastal town, attracted by its prosperous position and promising market.
Walking through Himare today, you can still feel the influence of these past rulers, with ancient ruins, traditional houses, and cobblestone streets still dotting the landscape.
Top Things To See and Do in Himare
Spile Beach (Himare, Albania)
Himare’s Beaches
Himare is known for its beautiful beaches that offer visitors a mix of sandy shores, pebbled coves, and clear Mediterranean waters. Whether you’re looking for a beach party or a quiet escape, Himare has it all – including a main beach that is becoming increasingly popular amongst travelers. So either get there before it becomes too busy (which, gratefully, it wasn’t when we visited at the height of summer) or else see some of the other nearby beaches.
Spile Beach umbrellas (Himare, Albania)
Himare (or Spile) Beach: The main beach and promenade of the town of the same name, where you can sunbathe or enjoy a drink at one of the many beach bars. Numerous restaurants and cafes also line the promenade.
Livadi Beach: This sandy beach is a hop, skip, and jump north of Himare. It's ideal for families and those looking for a quieter beach experience. Easy beach access and a nearby parking lot make Livadi an excellent option for beach lovers.
Filikuri Beach: Another smaller bay surrounded by high cliffs, less than 3km (1.86 mi) south of Himare. The beach is accessed most easily by boat. Note there are no shops nor facilities at this beach, so be sure to pack in (and out!) everything you’ll need for your visit, including plenty of drinking water.
Gjipe Beach: 16km (9.9 mi) north along the coast from Himare, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Albanian Riviera … and a secret paradise (shhhh! don’t tell too many people!). With crystal clear waters and majestic cliffs, this beach is accessible only by coastal hike or boat (making it a definite consideration for water sports and nature lovers!). We heard from other travelers that the hike back to the road can be a little challenging, especially on a hot summer day.
Jale Beach: Another of Albania’s stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and excellent dining options, this popular destination is known for its beach clubs and party atmosphere. Paid parking is available nearby, and umbrellas and chairs can be rented from local vendors.
Himare Beach promenade (Himare, Albania)
The beaches of Himare are not just a place to while away some spare time on a beach chair under a beach umbrella (though we highly recommend doing that, too!). There are opportunities for some fantastic local Albanian experiences. You’ll find everything from excellent food and drinks at beachside cafes, bars, and restaurants to water sports, boat tours … and everything in between!
Himare Castle: A Historic Fortress
One of the main attractions of Himare is its impressive fortress, located just 3km (1.92 mi) northwest of the town. Himare Castle, also known as Himara Castle or the Castle of Himare—and known locally as Kastro—was built by the Chaonians and appears to belong to the set of the earliest Chaonian fortifications in the region. Its ancient walls are believed to date back to the 5th century BC, providing a stronghold for the town through the centuries.
Once inside the castle, you’ll discover the ruins consist primarily of tiny cobbled streets, leading to some inhabited and some (partly) ruined uninhabited houses. As this region of Albania becomes more popular with visitors, the municipality of Himare has been slowly working to renovate some of the buildings inside the castle: you’ll now find several accommodation options and small coffee shops inside, all with incredible views.
Among the castle ruins lie several beautiful, interesting churches: the Church of St Sergius and Bacchus and the Church of St Mary Kasoitra. At the foot of the castle, near the main road, you’ll also find the Greek Orthodox Church of All Saints.
The rocky hills on which Himare Castle is built are approximately 240m (787 feet) high and offer visitors stunning views in all directions. On a clear day, you can even see the Greek island of Corfu! Looking east over the surrounding landscape, you’ll also have views of the Visha Canyon (Kanioni i Vishes) and the Kole Midhari Canyon, with the towering Ceraunian Mountains in the background.
But the best part about the castle? The journey to get there! Whilst the main road, State Highway 8 (SH8), is accessible by car or taxi, the more adventurous traveler can take the steep path from Livadi Beach (just north of Himare), past several other notable historical landmarks (for example, the Pletksos Spring Water) up to the castle. This walkable route offers views of the Old Town, Himare and Livadi beaches, and the Ionian Sea spread out far below.
Make time to chill … but also to explore
Views of the Albanian Riviera (Himare, Albania)
Himare isn’t just a place to relax (though definitely make sure you do some of that!) – it’s also a great base from which to explore the Albanian Riviera. With more stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and cute villages just a short drive away, it’s an area crying out to be discovered. So whether you’re planning a day trip outside the city limits or long hikes along the coastal cliffs (which we hear are fantastic!), Himare is the perfect place to base yourself for easy access to some of the most beautiful places in Albania.
Day Trips and Excursions
Dhermi: A Beach Town
Dhermi is located approximately 30 minutes along the fabulously winding State Highway 8 (SH8) just north of Himare. Still part of the municipality of Himare, this delightful village enchants visitors with cobblestone streets, pebbled beaches, and a charm and character built into its traditional houses and Greece-meets-Italy vibes. The waters here are crystal clear, and its delicate mix of ancient history and lush green landscape make it a superb day trip from Himare.
Not sure what to do in Dhermi? Definitely take some time to relax on the beach with a cool drink in your hand, perhaps after visiting the Panagia Monastery Church (also known as Our Lady Monastery or St. Mary's Monastery Church), an Orthodox monastery located on top of a hill overlooking the village. Built in the 16th century, this church affords visitors spectacular views of the surrounding area – make sure to check out the murals painted on the monastery’s interior.
Dhermi’s cafes and restaurants are also a must-visit. They serve fresh seafood and traditional Albanian food. No matter which dining establishment you choose, you'll find an excellent meal.
Porto Palermo: A Castle and Bay
The Castle of Porto Palermo (Himare, Albania)
Located on the bay of Porto Palermo, less than 20 minutes south of Himare, lies this well-preserved 19th-century castle, built as a fortification by Ali Pasha, an Albanian ruler from 1788 through 1822. Porto Palermo Castle (known locally as Kalaja e Porto Palermos) is the most well-preserved garrison erected by Ali Pasha in the region, and today is a popular place for visitors to take in the striking views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as explore the underground corridors of the castle itself. There is a small parking lot on site, and the entrance to the castle is 300 Albanian Lek (US$3.25), though there is, unfortunately, little information about the castle within the grounds itself.
Combine your visit to the castle with a stopover at the nearby Porto Palermo Beach. This peaceful haven is housed within a small, secluded harbor with clear, calm waters, perfect for swimming or wiling away some time on the smooth pebbled beach. Take some time also to enjoy one of the small cafes or restaurants on the beachfront.
Butrint National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
68km (42 mi) south of Himare along State Highway 8 (SH8), you’ll find this 9,424-hectare (94.24 km2) park, complete with freshwater lakes, salt marshes, wetlands, and numerous islands. Today’s park is home to over 1,200 animal and plant species, and its vast expanse includes a significant archaeological site that contains the valuable remains of ancient civilizations and ruins dating back to the Iron Age, Roman and Byzantine periods, and the Middle Ages. As you wander through the park’s shaded paths, you’ll discover ancient amphitheaters, stone walls, and even a basilica. For history buffs, Butrint National Park is a must!
The park is open daily from 9 a.m. through 7 p.m., and we recommend taking 2-3 hours to explore the entire park—make sure to wear comfortable shoes! Also, be sure to take food and water with you, as dining options are limited within the park boundaries. Entrance to the park is 1,000 Albanian Lek (just under US$11) and includes admission to the museum.
Practical Information
Spile Beach activities (Himare, Albania)
Getting to Himare
Getting to Himare can be an adventure itself! Located on the Albanian Riviera, this small coastal town is 4 hours south of Tirana and just 1.5 hours north of Saranda. The drive from Tirana takes you past the Albanian coastline and through many of the lovely coastal towns along the way.
Close to the Albanian Riviera (Himare, Albania)
We drove here after spending some time in Berat, taking the slightly more scenic – and longer, at 3.5 hours without stops) – winding inland route, which was at times a little hairy! We then traveled inland again, this time to Gjirokaster, along another spectacular, cliffside highway.
Ceraunian mountains (Himare, Albania)
If you’re taking public transport, there are several bus companies that offer daily buses that can whip you from Tirana to Himare in between 4 and 5 hours (depending upon traffic and the route taken) for the low price of just 1,000 Albanian Lek (just under US$11). You could also consider a slightly more adventurous option, joining the locals in a small white van known as a furgon, the primary form of public transportation in Albania. Note, however, you may be required to change furgons several times on the way to Himare from the capital.
However you choose to get to Himare, we can assure you the experience will be a spectacular one, as the views of southern and central Albania along the way are truly something else!
Getting Around Himare
All within a short distance (Himare, Albania)
Himare is easily walkable, with most of the attractions, cafes, restaurants and hotels within walking distance from the town center.
For beaches outside the main beach of Himare, as well as day trips to surrounding sights, you can either rent a motorcycle or a car, both of which will help you gain access to more remote adventures. Note that if you choose to drive, parking can be limited (and often informal, on gravel or dirt lots) at many of the major attractions and more popular beaches like Gjipe.
Public buses and taxis are also available to take you wherever you may wish to visit, and are often a cost-effective means to get around.
Accommodation in Himare
Mihali’s Apartments (Himare, Albania)
From budget guesthouses to luxury hotels with Ionian Sea views, Himare has something to suit all budgets and all travel styles (yes, every bit of the grit and the glam!). Some options include the following:
Relax on a hammock at Mihalis Apartments (Himare, Albania)
Beachfront Hotels: Wake up with a sea view and the salty smell of the ocean wafting through your window.
Traditional Guesthouses: For a local experience, try the likes of Filoxenia, or any of the local villas available for nightly or weekly rent.
Luxury Hotels: For a splash of the glam on your vacation, opt for high-end amenities and sea views at Villa Olive Stone Himara or any of the other numerous locally-owned villas situated right on the beachfront.
Food and Drink in Himare
To Steki Sti Gonia restaurant (Himare, Albania)
Albanian cuisine is best in Himare, especially if you want fresh seafood. Don’t miss fërgesë (a traditional Albanian dish of tomatoes, roasted bell peppers, and feta or cottage cheese), grilled fish, and stuffed peppers. Restaurants along the main promenade and Himare Beach serve local food with sunset views.
I Love Souvlaki restaurant (Himare, Albania)
Our first stop along the promenade when we arrived into Himare was at I Love Souvlaki, which offers quick, easy (and super delicious!) meals and clean bathrooms. We really couldn’t fault this local establishment: there’s a large menu and friendly staff, ordering food was easy, and our meals were served quickly. Mike’s Greek salad was simply incredible and the pita gyros were delicious – in fact, perhaps the freshest pita we tried in Albania. Cool mist pumped out from overhead, which was very much a welcome relief on a super hot Summer’s day. Oh, and the prices were excellent prices and there were amazing beach view from our table.
Tavernetta Milano delicious crepe (Himare, Albania)
After a long walk along the promenade, and in need of another place to shelter from the blistering heat for a wee while, we stumbled upon Tavernetta Milano, where Mike ordered a crepe. Staff here were also lovely and provided menus in both English and Albanian. Mike commented that his crepe (the Bianco Neve) was “Seven out of five … it’s freakin’ good!”.
To Steki Sti Gonia Greek Grill House (Himare, Albania)
Our final meal (a late lunch the following day) in Himare was at To Steki Sti Gonia, also right on Himare’s open promenade. Craving some decent Greek food, this local restaurant was certainly worth all the hype and recommendations from other visitors – we were not disappointed! More incredible ocean views from our table, delightful staff with excellent English, our food was served quickly – and the meals were huge! “Grilled to perfection!” … “I’m good if I go now” (or if this is my last ever meal, I’ll be happy) … “This is incredible!” … “This is out of this world!” … all came out of Mike’s mouth at one point or another during our meal. Needless to say, everything was fresh and delicious and, even though it was a little pricier than other restaurants throughout the area (in fact, about twice the price), it was definitely worth it!
Planning Your Trip to Himare
I Love Souvlaki restaurant (Himare, Albania)
When to Visit
The best time to visit Himare is during either of the shoulder seasons: April to June or September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the beaches far less crowded. If you’re traveling during the Summer (as we did), be prepared for peak season, with larger crowds at all the beaches and attractions, coupled with higher prices for food and accommodation.
Budgeting Your Time in Himare
Himare is a (still somewhat hidden!) gem on the Albanian Riviera and offers great value for visitors. Whether you’re a budget backpacker (as Beck was for many years) or looking for a wee bit of luxury (as Mike loves to seek out), this small coastal town has something for all budgets. Below is a condensed budget recommendation to help you best plan your time in Himare.
Accommodation (per night)
Bed in a hostel dorm: 500-1,000 Lek (US$5.50-$10.75)
Budget hotel room: 2,000-3,000 Lek (US$21.50-$32.50)
Mid-range hotel room: 4,000-6,000 Lek (US$43-€64.50)
Luxury hotel room: 8,000-12,000 Lek (US$86-$130)
3-bedroom family villa: 37,000 (US$400) and above
Food (per person per meal)
Fast food/Street food: 150-500 Lek (US$1.60-$5.50)
Mid-range restaurant: 1,000-2,000 Lek (US$10.75-$21.50)
Fine dining: 3,000-5,000 Lek (US$32.50-$54)
Transportation (per person per trip)
Bus ticket: 500-1,000 Lek (US$5.50-$10.75)
Taxi: 1,000-2,000 Lek (US$10.75-$21.50)
Activities (per person)
Boat tour: 2,000-5,000 Lek (US$21.50-$54)
National park entrance fee: 1,000 Lek (US$10.75)
Whilst Himare is a budget-friendly destination for travelers, with affordable accommodation, well-priced fresh seafood, and numerous activities to keep you occupied for at least a few days, we can’t stress this enough about Albania – including any visit to Himare – cash. is. king. Make sure you’re carrying with you enough of the local currency (Albanian Lek) to comfortably get you through your entire stay in Himare.
Final Thoughts
Berat Castle cannon (Berat, Albania)
We thoroughly enjoyed our few days in Himare, Albania – a small coastal town that will hook you in instantly with its diverse nature, intriguing history, local traditions, and hospitable inhabitants. From the Himare Castle to the beaches and day trips to the surrounding area, Himare has everything you need to sit back, relax, and then stand up again to explore this fascinating region of Albania. Here, adventure meets comfort with a low price tag, where you can enjoy the simpler things in life.
Make sure to book your accommodations and any beach club reservations in advance during peak season; bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes for all the exploring you’ll be doing; pack water shoes for nearby pebbled beaches; remember to carry local currency with you everywhere … and get your travels to Himare started in 2025!
Now … it’s time to plan your trip!
