Himara
Coastal Town · Albanian Riviera · ★ 4.5
Himara
About Himara
A laid-back coastal town with a string of stunning beaches strung along the Ionian coast, Himara offers a more relaxed and authentic alternative to the busier resorts of Saranda and Ksamil. The town is divided into three distinct areas: the old hilltop quarter of Kastro with its Venetian castle ruins and traditional stone houses, the main strip along the coastal road, and the spectacular beaches that stretch north toward Dhërmi and Jale. The beaches near Himara — Livadhi, Potami, and Prinos — offer crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by olive groves and pine-covered hillsides, and they are noticeably less crowded than those further south. Just north, the village of Dhërmi has some of the most photographed beaches on the Riviera, and Gjipe Beach — accessible only via a cliffside path or by boat — is an unforgettable secluded cove between dramatic limestone cliffs. Himara's Kastro old town is a peaceful labyrinth of narrow lanes, abandoned stone houses, and small churches with faded frescoes, all overlooking the Ionian Sea. The area has a strong Greek minority influence, reflected in the local cuisine, music, and bilingual street signs. Olive oil production is a way of life here, with ancient groves blanketing the hillsides — some trees are said to be centuries old. Himara is quieter than Saranda even in peak season, making it ideal for travelers seeking a genuine coastal Albanian experience without the crowds.
🗓 Best Time to Visit
June to September is the prime window. May-June offers pleasant swimming temperatures and uncrowded beaches. July-August brings more visitors but Himara never feels as packed as Saranda or Ksamil — you can still find a quiet spot. September is outstanding: the sea is warmest, accommodation prices drop, and the daytime crowds thin out significantly. The Kastro old town is lovely for sunset walks year-round, but the best beach weather runs from June through mid-October.
🍽 Food & Drink
Himara's dining scene reflects its coastal location and Greek minority heritage. Cafe Kanda is a local favorite serving hearty Albanian dishes for around €9 per meal — excellent value and authentic flavors. Ionian Restaurant (€8-15) offers fresh seafood with a terrace overlooking the water; try the grilled octopus and seafood risotto. Piazza (€7-15) blends Italian and Albanian cuisine with wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta — a popular spot for families. The beachfront grills along Livadhi serve grilled fish, souvlaki, and qofte for €4-8. Local olive oil — poured over fresh bread as a starter — is some of the best in Albania. Try the local raki and wine from the Berat region. The Greek influence means you'll also find tzatziki, grilled halloumi, and baklava on many menus.
🚗 Getting There & Around
By bus: Furgons run regularly from Saranda (700 lek, 1.5 hours) along the stunning coastal road — one of the most scenic bus rides in Albania. Buses from Tirana take about 4 hours. By car: The SH8 coastal highway connects Vlora, Himara, and Saranda — allow 1.5 hours from Vlora and 1.5 hours from Saranda. The mountain curves are dramatic but well-paved. Parking in Himara is limited in summer; park on the outskirts or near the new town. Getting around: Himara is walkable between the beach area and the main strip. To reach the Kastro old town, you'll need to walk up a steep hill (15 minutes) or drive. MerrTaxi works locally. A scooter rental is a great option for exploring the nearby beaches of Dhërmi and Jale.
🏨 Best Hotels in Himara
Himara offers excellent range across budgets. Backpackers and budget travelers love Himara Hostel — dorm beds from €10/night and private rooms from €29/night, with a sociable atmosphere and great sea views from the terrace. Mid-range travelers should check Solive B&B, a charming family-run property with homemade breakfasts and a peaceful hillside location. Rapos Resort offers comfortable rooms and apartments with a pool and direct beach access — ideal for families. For the best experience, look for rooms in the hillside guesthouses above the coast — they offer panoramic sea views and cooler evening breezes. Prices roughly double in August, so visiting in June or September gets you the best value. Many guesthouses offer home-cooked breakfasts included in the rate, often featuring fresh eggs, olives, cheese, and homemade jam.
🍽 Where to Eat in Himara
For a truly local meal, head to Cafe Kanda (€9 per meal), where the menu changes daily based on what's fresh — expect grilled fish, stuffed peppers, and hearty stews. Ionian Restaurant (€8-15) is the go-to for seafood with a view — their grilled octopus and black risotto are standouts, and the sunset terrace is magical. Piazza (€7-15) satisfies pizza and pasta cravings with an Albanian twist, and their outdoor seating area is popular with families. For a budget beach lunch, the tavernas along Livadhi beach (€4-8) serve simple grilled fish, Greek salads, and cold beers with your feet in the sand. The best-value meals are often at the tavernas a street back from the waterfront. Don't miss the local olive oil — pour it generously over bread, salads, and grilled fish. Many restaurants offer complimentary raki as a digestif after your meal.
🎯 Things to Do in Himara
Kastro Old Town — Walk up to the hilltop Venetian castle ruins for sunrise or sunset; the panoramic views over the Ionian Sea are unforgettable, and the old stone lanes are wonderfully peaceful in the morning light. Porto Palermo Castle — A striking 19th-century fortress on a tiny peninsula 10 minutes south of Himara, built by Ali Pasha of Tepelena. Entry is free, and the setting is spectacular. Llamani Beach — A secluded pebble cove south of Himara, accessed via a steep road. Less crowded than the main beaches, with crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling. Livadhi & Potami Beaches — The main beaches near town, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachfront bars. Water shoes recommended for the pebbly shore. Gjipe Beach — Accessible by a 20-minute hike down a cliffside path or by boat from Himara. A spectacular canyon beach between limestone cliffs. Day trip to Saranda — The bus costs just 700 lek and takes 1.5 hours along the coast, making Himara a good base for exploring southern Albania at a slower pace.
💡 Insider Tips: Walk up to Kastro old town at sunrise — you'll have the ancient lanes and Venetian ruins entirely to yourself, with the best sea light of the day. Porto Palermo castle (10 min south) is free and often empty — combine it with a swim at the adjacent pebble cove. Himara is noticeably quieter than Saranda and Ksamil even in August — if you want the Riviera experience without the crowds, base yourself here. Llamani beach is the best secluded option nearby — bring your own snacks and water as there are no facilities. The bus to Saranda costs just 700 lek and takes 1.5 hours — easy for a day trip. Water shoes are essential for the pebbly beaches.