Himarë surprises each traveler with its excellent mixture of idyllic seashores, historical castles, cozy lunch spots, and adventurous actions. This charming coastal city on the Albanian Riviera feels smaller and quieter than different southern seashore locations like Sarandë and Ksamil. That makes it the perfect place for anybody on the lookout for an genuine vibe and a pleasant steadiness between rest and discovery. Whether or not you’re right here to swim in secluded bays, hike previous centuries-old ruins, or just take in the solar with a cocktail in hand, Himarë has all of it! Learn on to find one of the best seashores, nice eating places, and enjoyable issues to do in Himarë.
Sidenote: A number of the locations and actions on this information overlap with these in our article about Dhërmi. That’s as a result of Himarë and Dhërmi are shut to one another and each make nice bases for exploring this area.
At first look, Himarë would possibly appear to be a quiet seaside village, however there’s a shocking quantity to find within the space. Listed below are the 8 finest issues to do in Himarë!
Watch the Sundown From Himara Fortress
Only a 10-minute drive from the middle, perched on a hilltop, you’ll discover Himara Fortress. Initially relationship again to antiquity, it was expanded over the centuries by the Byzantines and Ottomans. Right this moment it’s largely in ruins, however that’s precisely what provides this place such a mysterious appeal. What makes it additional particular is the exceptional view—you possibly can see the ocean, the city, and the encircling mountains.
You’ll be able to wander by way of previous stone homes (some nonetheless inhabited), crumbling partitions, and small church buildings like Kisha e Shën Sergjit dhe Bakut. Right here and there you’ll discover little lookout factors with views of the Ionian Sea. Since Himara Fortress isn’t overly touristy, you’ll usually have the place virtually to your self. You should definitely come at sundown, when each the fort and the views are at their finest.
Hike to Filikuri Seaside, Considered one of Albania’s Most Lovely Seashores
Discover the Mountain Village of Dhërmi
Dhërmi is likely one of the most charming cities on the Albanian Riviera. Perched on a hillside, it’s crammed with white limestone homes with crimson roofs and slim streets. One spotlight is St. Mary Monastery, an historical monastery above the village providing serene views of the shoreline. From the previous city, it’s a few 10- to 15-minute stroll.
From the middle, a winding highway takes you in about 10 minutes right down to Dhërmi Seaside, an extended pebble seashore with turquoise water. The vibe right here is completely completely different from the village—you’ll discover loads of seashore golf equipment and eating places, excellent for a day by the ocean. Need to know extra? Our full information to Dhërmi covers one of the best seashores, day journeys, and eating places.
Stroll to Gjipe Seaside
Gjipe Seaside is one in all Albania’s most well-known seashores. Its dramatic setting is what makes it so particular—tucked between steep cliffs on the finish of Gjipe Canyon. The excessive rock partitions, turquoise water, and laid-back vibe make this a implausible spot for a day on the coast.
The distant location means getting there takes some effort. From Himarë, drive towards the Gjipe Seaside car parking zone, then proceed on foot alongside an unpaved monitor. The stroll takes about 30 to 40 minutes alongside a rocky path with unimaginable sea views. If in case you have a 4×4, you possibly can drive all the best way down. On the seashore, there are a couple of easy eating places for lunch or a chilly drink.
Tip: You can even go to Gjipe Seaside on this enjoyable boat tour from Himarë, which stops at hidden seashores, sea caves, and dramatic cliffs. Highlights embrace Turtle’s Cave, Crystal Seaside, and naturally Gjipe Seaside. You’ll have time to swim, snorkel, or just benefit from the views from the water.
Swim within the Crystal-Clear Waters of Aquarium Seaside
If you happen to’d relatively escape the crowds, Aquarium Seaside—additionally known as Gjiri i Akuariumit—is a hidden gem. This distant cove is surrounded by rocks and named for its clear waters and colourful marine life. The highway to get right here is unpaved and bumpy, however the seashore is value it.
Unwind at Kiço Meniko Himarë Seaside Membership
Tucked away in a lesser-known bay, Kiço Meniko Seaside Membership is usually blissfully quiet. Set between the rocks with a terrace overlooking the turquoise sea, it’s the right spot for swimming, sunbathing, grabbing a chunk, or simply stress-free.
Driving right here? Don’t go all the best way down—there’s no parking and turning is hard. As a substitute, park close to Mihalis Residences and stroll about 10 minutes to the seashore membership.
Go to Porto Palermo Fortress
About 20 minutes south of Himarë, you’ll discover Porto Palermo Fortress, a formidable fortress constructed on a slim peninsula within the Ionian Sea. It was commissioned within the early nineteenth century by Ali Pasha of Tepelena, a robust Ottoman ruler of Albania and Greece. He constructed a number of fortresses to guard his area, however Porto Palermo Fortress is likely one of the finest preserved.
Contained in the partitions, you’ll discover darkish corridors, previous guard rooms, storage cellars, and even a small chapel. Climb to the roof for sweeping views of Porto Palermo Bay, the mountains, and the Ionian Sea.
Soak Up the Ambiance at Himara Seaside
Himara Seaside—additionally known as Plazhi i Himarës—is the city’s predominant seashore, proper alongside the promenade. Right here you’ll discover loads of eating places, cafés, and sunbeds. The calm, shallow water makes it a terrific place to spend a day.
Tip: Discover Himara Seaside too crowded? Head to Livadi Seaside, simply north of Himarë. This lengthy pebble seashore has loads of house, even in peak season. You should definitely seize a chunk at Tonea’s All Day Brunch & Café—a relaxed spot serving tasty sandwiches, salads, and pancakes.
Himarë has a shocking variety of nice eating places, from hip seaside brunch spots to conventional tavernas the place fish comes straight from the grill. Listed below are our favorites:
ELÉA Restaurant – Considered one of our high picks in Himarë! Take pleasure in a mixture of conventional Greek and Albanian dishes made with native substances.
Cafe Shëndet – This cozy dinner-only spot serves scrumptious vegetarian and vegan dishes filled with veggies.
Astro Brunch & Cocktail Bar – Begin your day at this trendy beachfront brunch spot. The menu options breakfast bowls, smoothies, sandwiches, and extra.
Taverna PiroΣia – A welcoming taverna serving conventional Albanian fare like grilled meats, recent fish, and hearty stews.
UMI Sushi & Cocktail – The place for sushi by the ocean. Contemporary rolls, poké bowls, and glorious cocktails—plus sundown views over the promenade.
Fig and Olive – A comfortable spot simply exterior the middle providing Mediterranean and European dishes like Greek salad, grilled sea bass, and truffle fries.
Tonea’s All Day Brunch & Café – Whether or not you’re craving fluffy pancakes with recent fruit, a colourful smoothie bowl, or a hearty brunch with avocado and poached eggs, this place has all of it. Situated simply exterior Himarë at Livadi Seaside.
Simply exterior the middle of Himarë, you’ll discover Vila Milo, providing luxurious rooms and residences with all of the facilities. The spotlight is the massive pool with each shallow and deep sections, surrounded by loads of loungers for a couple of hours of rest. Having a (rental) automobile is useful if you happen to keep right here.
On a tighter price range? Orchard Retreat is a good different, with spacious fashionable rooms that includes air-con, rain showers, and king-size beds. It’s additionally completely situated, only a 10-minute stroll from the middle of Himarë.
Desire a hostel the place you possibly can simply meet different vacationers? Himara Hostel is your most suitable option. It has a pleasant vibe, breakfast included, and a giant backyard with hammocks and beanbags. Each personal rooms and dorms can be found.
