Himara Aerial View
© Shutterstock / AlDigital On
The Town of Himarë
Himare Beach Promenade
Himara Beach
Himare Promenade
Beach in Himare
Livadhi Beach
Himara Beach
Himara
Himare Old Town Castle
CITY
Himarë is a peaceful coastal town on the Albanian Riviera, known for its clear water, beautiful beaches, and slow, relaxed atmosphere. It is smaller than other seaside towns in Albania, which makes it a great place for visitors who want calm days, simple local food, and nice walks by the sea. The mix of mountains and coastline gives the area a unique charm.
What makes Himarë special is the variety of places you can visit in a short distance: large beaches, hidden bays, old stone villages, and quiet hiking paths. The town also offers easy access to several natural attractions that are popular with travelers, including Gjipe Beach and the Karaburun Peninsula.
This guide shows the 6 best things to do in Himarë, with clear explanations of how to reach each place, how long to stay, and what makes it worth visiting.
This interactive map includes all major sights mentioned in this guide—Livadhi Beach, the Old Town, Porto Palermo Castle, Gjipe Beach, Himarë Promenade, the Karaburun Peninsula boat tour point, traditional restaurants, and convenient parking areas. It’s included to help you understand how these locations connect to each other, making it easier to plan your route and visualize the best way to explore Himarë.
Before you start exploring, remember that Himarë is compact. Most beaches and viewpoints are easy to reach by foot, car, or a short boat ride.
Livadhi Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Himarë. It has a long stretch of white stones, calm turquoise water, and plenty of space, even in summer. The beach is clean, wide, and known for its relaxed atmosphere, with sunbeds, restaurants, and also quieter areas where you can sit on your own towel.
You can reach Livadhi Beach on foot from the Himarë promenade, and the walk takes around 25–35 minutes, depending on your pace. The road is easy to follow, but it includes an uphill and downhill section, so it may feel warm during hot summer days. Most visitors choose to go by car, scooter, or taxi, especially if they are carrying beach bags or traveling with children.
Because the beach is large, it never feels too crowded, and the water stays clear even during the busiest months.
Tip: For the quietest areas, walk toward either end of the beach.
Himarë Old Town is located on a hill behind the modern town. It is a small, traditional village with stone houses, narrow alleys, and beautiful sea views. Many people think there is a large castle here, but only ruins remain today. The area is still worth visiting because the views from the hill are amazing, especially before sunset.
You can reach the old town by car or on foot. Walking takes about 20–30 minutes from the center, and the uphill path is manageable for most visitors. Many travelers enjoy the quiet atmosphere, old stone walls, and the feeling of stepping back in time.
Most people spend around 45 minutes to 1 hour here.
Tip: Visit in the early evening for cooler temperatures and nicer photos.
Porto Palermo Castle is one of the most famous landmarks near Himarë. The castle sits on a small peninsula in a quiet bay, about 8 km south of the town, which is roughly a 15-minute drive along the coastal road. It is believed to have been built during the time of Ali Pasha in the 19th century and has a triangular shape, thick defensive walls, and simple rooms you can explore inside.
There is parking close to the entrance, and the walk up to the top is short and easy. Many visitors combine the castle with a swim at the small beach in the bay or stop for photos along the dramatic cliffs nearby.
Most people spend 30–45 minutes inside the castle and another 15–30 minutes enjoying the area outside.
Tip: Bring comfortable shoes—the ground inside the castle can be uneven.
© Shutterstock / Arton
© Shutterstock / Zdenek Matyas Photography
© Shutterstock / AlDigital On
Gjipe Beach is a remote bay hidden between high cliffs, about 12 km north of Himarë. It is one of the most natural and peaceful beaches on the Albanian Riviera, known for its bright blue water, white stones, and quiet atmosphere. The beach feels wild because there are no buildings or large structures—only a couple of small beach bars that operate during the summer season.
There are several ways to reach Gjipe, such as walking from the parking area or arriving from the sea, but each option offers a different experience. If you want a full guide about access, hiking, walking paths, parking, and the canyon, you can read my detailed page here:
Full Guide to Gjipe Beach
Many visitors also choose to see Gjipe from the water. Boat tours from Himarë stop near the bay for photos and sometimes short swimming breaks, depending on the conditions.
Book Boat Tour
Tip: The beach is most peaceful in the morning, before the boats arrive.
The Himarë promenade is the center of daily life in town. It is a long walkway by the sea with cafés, restaurants, small beaches, and relaxing spots where people sit and enjoy the view. The promenade becomes especially lively in the evening, when the temperature is cooler and most visitors come out for dinner or a walk.
This is also the main area to find boat trip operators, rental shops, and seaside restaurants. The atmosphere is friendly and slow-paced, making it a comfortable place to spend time even if you are not swimming.
Tip: The sunset colors from the promenade are some of the best in Himarë.
© Shutterstock / Arton
The Karaburun Peninsula is one of the most impressive natural areas in Albania. It is known for its high cliffs, caves, and deep blue water. The peninsula is part of a marine protected area, so the water is very clean and full of sea life.
The only way to visit Karaburun is by boat. From Himarë, most tours take you along the coastline to see caves, hidden beaches, and the wild nature of the peninsula. Some tours include swimming stops in calm bays where the water is extremely clear.
Popular stops include:
• Gramma Bay
• Secret small coves
• Clear deep-water swimming areas
Boat tours usually last 3–5 hours, depending on the company.
Book Boat Tour
Tip: Bring a dry bag for your phone and a towel. Waves can be stronger in the afternoon.
Yes. It is one of the calmest towns on the Albanian Riviera, perfect for quiet beaches, clear water, and easy day trips.
Two or three days is ideal to enjoy the beaches and nearby sights at a slow pace. Five or more days if you want day trips, hiking, or full relaxation.
Yes. The town is small, safe, and beaches like Livadhi and the main town beach have calm water.
You can reach Himarë by car, bus, or taxi from Vlorë, Saranda, or Tirana. The coastal road SH8 is very scenic but has many curves.
June to September for swimming.
May and October for warm weather and fewer people.
Yes. It is considered one of the safest towns on the Riviera.
Himarë is the perfect place for travelers who want a calm and natural part of the Albanian Riviera. It does not have the busy nightlife or large crowds you find in bigger coastal towns like Saranda, and that is exactly why many visitors love it. The beaches are clean, the water is clear, and the atmosphere is friendly and slow.
With easy day trips, good walking paths, local food, and peaceful evenings by the sea, Himarë fits beautifully into any Albania itinerary—especially for travelers who prefer nature, quiet beaches, and relaxed seaside days.
