Best Things to Do in Himara 2026: Beaches, Castle & Boat Trips

Himara (Himarë) sits at the midpoint of the Albanian Riviera and has a different character from the beaches to either side. It is more town than resort - with a historic upper quarter, a Greek-speaking minority community, a long sandy beach at Livadhi, and some of the most accessible and least-developed beaches on the coast nearby. A good base for 2–3 days of relaxed Riviera exploration. All prices approximate as of 2026.

The old town and castle

Himara’s old town sits on a rocky hilltop above the modern town, about 2 km uphill from the seafront (a 20–30 minute walk on a clear path, or a taxi for approximately €3). The castle at the top has Byzantine origins and was used as a defensive position into the Ottoman period.

The hilltop settlement is one of the most atmospheric in the Riviera area. Stone houses with courtyard gardens, a Greek Orthodox church (Saint Athanasios), narrow alleys, and panoramic views over the Ionian Sea and coastline to both north and south. At sunset, the views from the castle walls are exceptional.

Entry to the castle area is free. Allow 60–90 minutes for the old town and castle combined. The area is largely off the mass-tourism radar - you will often have it largely to yourself outside of summer weekends.

Beaches

Livadhi Beach - The main town beach, approximately 2 km long, with golden sand and clear water. Less crowded than Dhermi’s main beach in peak season. Sunbed hire approximately €5–8/day for two sunbeds. Multiple beach bars and restaurants immediately behind the beach. The water is calm and clean - suitable for families with children.

Potami Beach - Approximately 15 minutes north of Himara by car (or taxi). A quieter pebble-and-sand beach with a couple of seasonal beach bars. Not as developed as Livadhi - good for a more peaceful half-day.

Borsh Beach - The longest beach in Albania at approximately 7 km. Located about 20 minutes south of Himara by car. The length means it never feels overcrowded even in peak season. A few seasonal beach bars and restaurants operate in July–August; facilities are very basic outside those months. Sunbeds approximately €4–6/day. The water is typically excellent - calm and clear.

Palasa Beach - At the boundary with the Dhermi area, accessible by boat from Himara (approximately 15 minutes) or by car. Rocky approach but the water quality is among the best on the coast.

Boat trips

Boat operators based at Himara harbour (the small port near the town beach) offer trips to nearby beaches and sea caves not accessible by road. A shared trip to the sea caves and back runs approximately €10–15 per person; a private half-day hire approximately €80–120. The sea caves at Fosse and the coves north of Himara are the main draws.

In peak season (July–August), departures are typically in the morning. Negotiate directly with operators at the harbour.

Hiking

Old town trail - The walk uphill from the modern town to the castle is the most accessible hiking option. Clear path; bring water. Return the same way or loop back via a different route through the old quarter.

Llogara Pass trails - 30 minutes north by car, the Llogara Pass (1,027m) has marked hiking trails through mountain pine forest. A good half-day option for anyone wanting to get off the coast. Free entry; bring water and sun protection.

Coastal path south to Borsh - A rough coastal footpath connects Himara with Borsh Beach via rocky headlands and small coves. Approximately 3–4 hours one-way, mostly unmarked. Experienced hikers only; bring 2+ litres of water per person.

Food and eating out

Himara has a noticeably Greek influence in its cuisine - fresh fish, Greek-style salads, and grilled lamb feature more prominently than in most Albanian towns. The best meal is grilled local fish at a table by the beach, priced by weight (approximately €8–14/kg for sea bream or bass).

• Restaurant Rapo - consistently recommended for fresh seafood and local dishes; terrace with sea view; mains approximately €12–18; dinner for two approximately €40–60
• Taverna Porto - casual fish restaurant near the waterfront; reliable quality; mains approximately €10–15
• Beach bar restaurants on Livadhi - snacks, salads, and light meals throughout the day (approximately €6–12)

Himara’s café scene is relaxed and good - Albanian espresso approximately €1–1.50; fresh fruit juices approximately €2–3.

Getting there and around

• From Saranda: approximately 30 minutes by car via the coastal road (one of the most scenic drives in Albania); furgon approximately €3–4
• From Dhermi: approximately 20 minutes by car; furgon approximately €2–3
• From Tirana: approximately 4 hours by car via Llogara Pass; or bus to Vlora (2.5 hours) and furgon from there
• Within Himara: the town is walkable; taxis to the old town approximately €3; car rental recommended for exploring Borsh and surrounding beaches (approximately €30–50/day)

2-day plan

Day 1 - Old town and Livadhi Beach Morning: Uphill walk to the castle and old town → late morning coffee with views → return downhill → lunch at a beach restaurant → afternoon on Livadhi Beach → sunset walk on the seafront

Day 2 - Beaches and boat trip Morning: Boat trip to sea caves and Palasa → lunch on the boat or at a beach bar → afternoon at Borsh Beach → evening at Restaurant Rapo for seafood dinner

Best time to visit

June and September offer the best conditions: warm water (21–24°C), lower prices, and a calmer pace than the July–August peak. The Greek-Albanian atmosphere of the town is more accessible when it is not overwhelmed by summer visitors.

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Plan your trip: Browse Albania tours and activities for boat trips and coastal excursions from the Riviera. Hire a car to explore the beaches from Borsh to Dhermi at your own pace, and cover your journey with Balkans travel insurance.