If you are looking for a place where the mountains touch the sea and the water is so clear you can see your toes, then Himarë is the place for you! Located on the beautiful Albanian Riviera, this town is perfect for anyone who loves sun, history, and yummy food.

In 2026, more people than ever are discovering this hidden treasure. But don't worry there is still plenty of room for you to find your own secret spot. Here are the top places to visit in Himare Albania that you simply cannot miss!

Himarë Castle and the Old Town (Kastro)

The best way to start your trip is by going up! The Himarë Castle is not like a castle from a movie with tall towers. Instead, it is a very old village made of stone that sits on top of a hill.

Walking through the narrow, rocky streets feels like traveling back in time. You can see old churches with beautiful paintings on the walls and ruins that are over 2,000 years old. The best part? The view! From the top, you can see the whole ocean and the mountains. It is the perfect spot to watch the sun go down. If you're wondering about the best neighborhoods to sleep in after a long day of exploring, check out this guide on where to stay in Himare to find your perfect home away from home.

Spile Beach: The Heart of the Town

Spile Beach is the main beach right in the center of town. It’s perfect if you want to be close to everything. You can go for a swim and then walk just a few steps to get a cold ice cream or a tasty pizza. The water here is calm and blue, making it great for kids or anyone who just wants to relax on a towel.

Livadhi Beach: Wide and Sunny

Just a short drive or a nice walk from the center is Livadhi Beach. This beach is much bigger than Spile. It has tiny white pebbles and plenty of space for everyone. There are cool beach clubs where you can rent a comfy bed to lie on, but there is also lots of free space if you just want to bring your own umbrella. The backdrop of giant green mountains makes it feel like a paradise.

Gjipe Beach: The Secret Canyon

If you feel like an adventurer, you must visit Gjipe Beach. It is a bit hard to get to, but that’s what makes it special! You have to park your car and walk down a rocky path for about 20 minutes.

At the bottom, you’ll find a beach hidden between two huge cliffs (a canyon). The water is a bright turquoise color that looks like a swimming pool. It is very quiet and peaceful. Just remember to bring water and snacks because there aren't many shops there!

Porto Palermo Castle

A 15-minute drive south of Himarë will take you to Porto Palermo. Here, there is a very cool castle shaped like a triangle. It was built by a famous leader named Ali Pasha a long time ago.

The castle is dark and mysterious inside, but once you go up to the roof, you get an amazing view of the bay. The water around Porto Palermo is very still, so it’s a great place to go kayaking or snorkeling to see fish.

Nearby Village: Dhermi

While you are in the area, take a quick trip to Dhermi. It is a tiny village with white houses and blue windows that look a bit like Greece. You can hike up to the St. Mary’s Monastery on the hill. It is very quiet and has some of the most beautiful views in all of Albania. After your day trip, you'll want to head back to a cozy bed, so don't forget to look at the top 5 places to stay in Himare for your night's rest.

Conclusion

Himarë is truly a magical place. Whether you want to climb old castle walls, swim in a hidden canyon at Gjipe, or just eat fresh seafood by the sea, there is something for everyone. It is a town that makes you feel happy and relaxed the moment you arrive. So, pack your swimsuit and your camera Himarë is waiting for you in 2026!

Suggested Read

[The Best Albanian Riviera Road Trip Itinerary for 2026]

FAQ Section

What is the best time of year to visit Himarë?

The best times are May to June and September to October. The weather is warm and sunny, but it isn't too crowded like it is in July and August.

Do I need a car to get around?

While you can walk to Spile and Livadhi, having a car is very helpful if you want to visit Porto Palermo or the trail to Gjipe Beach.

Is Himarë expensive?

Compared to many other places in Europe, Himarë is quite affordable! You can find great meals and nice places to stay without spending too much money.

What language do they speak in Himarë?

Most people speak Albanian, but because it is a tourist town, many people (especially younger ones) speak English or Italian very well.

Are the beaches sandy or pebbly?

Most beaches in Himarë have small, smooth pebbles. This is why the water stays so clear! It is a good idea to bring "water shoes" to protect your feet while walking into the ocean.