Himarë: The Caribbean of Albania
Visiting Himarë is like stepping into a quiet Mediterranean dream. With its laid-back vibe, crystal-clear waters, and uncrowded beaches, this coastal town captures the best of Albania’s Riviera without the heavy crowds found in more famous destinations. Himarë’s seafront promenade is lined with casual restaurants and cafés where you can relax over fresh seafood, and the gentle sound of the Ionian Sea becomes the perfect soundtrack to slow down and enjoy the moment.
The beauty of Himarë lies not just in its main town, but in the surrounding landscapes. Spend your days beach-hopping between hidden coves like Livadhi, Jale, and Gjipe Beach — a remote paradise reachable by a short hike. The nearby hills are dotted with traditional stone villages like Old Himarë and Qeparo, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and a glimpse into the area’s slower, traditional way of life. It’s the perfect base for both relaxation and light adventure, ideal for travelers who want to mix beach days with a little cultural exploration.
Himarë is also a fantastic jumping-off point for discovering Albania’s southern coastline. A scenic drive north leads you through olive groves, ancient castles, and more dazzling beaches, while heading south connects you with lively Sarandë and the tropical waters of Ksamil. Whether you’re sunbathing, kayaking, or simply enjoying a fresh seafood dinner with your toes in the sand, Himarë makes it wonderfully easy to fall in love with Albania’s Riviera.
Table of Contents
- History of Himarë
- Ancient Origins of Himarë
- Himarë Under Roman and Byzantine Rule
- Medieval Himarë and Ottoman Resistance
- Modern History of Himarë
- 1 Best places to See in Himarë
- Explore Himarë Castle
- Relax at Livadhi Beach
- Visit Porto Palermo Castle
- Discover Gjipe Beach and Canyon
- Wander Through Old Town Himarë
- Enjoy Water Sports at Llamani Beach
- Hike to the Monastery of Saint Theodore
- Attend the Himarë Summer Festival
- Take a Boat Tour to Nearby Caves
- Sample Local Cuisine at Traditional Taverns
- Jalë Beach
- 12 Best Day Trips from Himarë
- Where to Stay in Himarë
- Best Time to Visit Himarë
- Visiting Himarë in Spring
- Visiting Himarë in Summer
- Visiting Himarë in Autumn
- Visiting Himarë in Winter
- How to get to Himarë
History of Himarë
Ancient Origins of Himarë
The area around Himarë has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. It was originally a Greek-influenced coastal settlement, believed to have strong ties with the ancient region of Epirus. During classical antiquity, Himarë and the nearby coast were considered part of the Greek world, with the town maintaining strong cultural and trade connections to larger centers like Phoenice and Butrint.
Himarë Under Roman and Byzantine Rule
Following the Roman conquest of the region in the 2nd century BCE, Himarë became part of the Roman Empire’s coastal routes, benefiting from improved infrastructure and commerce. As the Roman Empire transitioned into the Byzantine Empire, Himarë retained its importance as a small fortified settlement. Throughout the Byzantine period, the town served both as a defensive outpost against pirate raids and as a crucial maritime link along the Adriatic and Ionian coasts.
Medieval Himarë and Ottoman Resistance
During the medieval period, Himarë’s strategic position continued to draw attention. Although nominally under the control of the Byzantine successors and later the Despotate of Epirus, the region often operated independently. With the Ottoman expansion into the Balkans, Himarë became famous for its resistance. The town and surrounding villages frequently rebelled against Ottoman rule, maintaining a semi-autonomous status for much of the Ottoman era. Its fierce independence, bolstered by the rugged landscape and strong local identity, remains a point of pride today.
Modern History of Himarë
In the 20th century, Himarë found itself caught between shifting borders during the Balkan Wars and World War conflicts. Despite periods of hardship, the town preserved its strong cultural ties to its Greek heritage, visible today in language, traditions, and religious practices. In recent decades, as Albania opened up to the world, Himarë has transformed into a beloved seaside destination, known for its stunning beaches, traditional stone villages, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Visiting Himarë for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Himarë on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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1 Best places to See in Himarë
This complete guide to Himarë not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Himarë and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Jalë Beach
Location: Jale Beach, Albania | Distance: 4.3km
Visiting Jalë Beach
Best Day Trips from Himarë
A day trip from Himarë offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Himarë provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Qeparo
Location: Qeparo, Albania | Distance: 8.8km
Visiting Qeparo
Dhërmi Beach
Location: Dhërmiu Beach, Albania | Distance: 9.8km
Visiting Dhërmi Beach
Tepelenë
Visiting Tepelenë
Gjirokastër
Visiting Gjirokastër
Sarandë
Visiting Sarandë
Ksamil
Visiting Ksamil
Vlorë
Visiting Vlorë
Përmet
Visiting Përmet
Çorovodë
Visiting Çorovodë
Berat
Visiting Berat
Fier
Visiting Fier
Ersekë
Visiting Ersekë
Where to Stay in Himarë
For those seeking a beachfront experience, the area near Potam Beach is ideal. This serene location provides easy access to crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. You can stay at Artis Blue Relax, which offers breathtaking sea views and modern amenities, making it perfect for a tranquil getaway.
If you prefer to be in the heart of the action, the Himarë town center is a great choice. This area is bustling with restaurants, cafes, and shops, giving visitors a taste of local life. A recommended option here is Rea Boutique Hotel, known for its charming decor and convenient location, just steps away from the main attractions.
For a more secluded and luxurious experience, consider staying in the Livadhi Beach area. This spot is slightly removed from the town center, offering peace and privacy while still being close to the beach. Miamar Hotel & Spa is a top pick, featuring upscale facilities and a relaxing ambiance, perfect for couples or families looking for a quiet retreat.
Adventure enthusiasts might enjoy staying near Jale Beach, a short drive from Himarë. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and water sports activities. Alex Boutique Hotel provides a cozy and stylish stay, with easy access to the beach and nearby entertainment options.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Himarë. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Himarë Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Himarë
Visiting Himarë in Spring
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Himarë as the coastline starts to bloom and temperatures become comfortably warm. From April to early June, the beaches are quiet, the water is crystal clear, and the hills surrounding the town turn lush and green. It’s perfect for hiking to nearby villages like Qeparo or visiting Gjipe Beach without the crowds. Although it’s a little early for swimming in April, by late May, the Ionian Sea starts warming up nicely.
Visiting Himarë in Summer (Best)
Summer is the peak season in Himarë, and for good reason. From late June to early September, the weather is hot, the sea is perfect for swimming, and the entire town buzzes with energy. This is the best time for enjoying lively beach clubs, kayaking trips, and vibrant local festivals. Himarë often hosts small coastal festivals celebrating music, local food, and traditional culture, especially in July and August. Just be prepared for slightly higher prices and book your accommodation early.
Visiting Himarë in Autumn
Autumn brings cooler but still pleasant weather to Himarë, making it an ideal time for a more peaceful visit. From September to mid-October, the sea remains warm for swimming, and the crowds start to thin out. The sunsets are particularly stunning at this time of year, and local restaurants feel more relaxed. It’s a great season for exploring the Albanian Riviera by car, with comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
Visiting Himarë in Winter
Winter in Himarë is quiet and very low-key. From November to March, the weather can be mild during the day but cool in the evenings, and many hotels and beach facilities close for the season. However, if you’re looking for solitude and don’t mind skipping beach activities, winter offers a rare glimpse of authentic local life along the coast. It’s a good time for peaceful walks, photography, and enjoying the slow pace of the Albanian Riviera without any crowds.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 10°C 53°F
- February 12°C 57°F
- March 14°C 61°F
- April 19°C 70°F
- May 21°C 73°F
- June 29°C 87°F
- July 29°C 93°F
- August 31°C 92°F
- September 26°C 83°F
- October 22°C 75°F
- November 15°C 63°F
- December 12°C 57°F
How to get to Himarë
Getting to Himarë by Air
Via Corfu International Airport (CFU)
Corfu International Airport (CFU) is the closest airport to Himarë, located approximately 57 km away. Travelers can fly into Corfu and then take a ferry to Sarandë, Albania. From Sarandë, Himarë is accessible by car or bus.
Via Tirana International Airport (TIA)
Tirana International Airport (TIA) is about 217 km from Himarë. Upon arrival, visitors can rent a car or take a bus to reach Himarë.
Getting to Himarë by Train
Currently, there is no train service to Himarë. Albania’s railway network is limited, and Himarë is not connected by rail. Travelers should consider alternative modes of transportation such as car or bus.
Getting to Himarë by Car
Driving to Himarë offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic routes along the Albanian Riviera. From Tirana, the drive takes approximately 3.5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The recent opening of the Llogara Tunnel has improved travel times and road safety in the region.
If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.Travelling Around Himarë
Once in Himarë, getting around is relatively straightforward. The town is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. For visiting nearby beaches and attractions, renting a car or using local buses is recommended. Water taxis are also available for coastal excursions.
