Himara - Discovering Albania

Travelling to Himara

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Himara, a pretty good destination in Albania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Himara and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Himara, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Albania, here's everything to know about Himara for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Himara

Himara is a small town located on the southwestern coast of Albania, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. It has a population of around 6,000 people and is the center of the Albanian Riviera region. The town itself is situated on a hill overlooking the sea, with narrow streets and traditional houses. The surrounding area is rich in history and culture, with ancient ruins, medieval castles, and traditional villages nearby. Some popular activities in Himara include swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and exploring the local cuisine.

What to visit in Himara

Himara is a popular tourist destination located in the southwestern part of Albania. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Himara are: 1. Porto Palermo Castle: This castle is located near the village of Porto Palermo and was built in the early 19th century by Ali Pasha. It offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
2. Livadhi Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in the area with crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. It's a great place to spend a relaxing day soaking up the sun.
3. Filikuri Beach: This is a small, secluded beach that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
4. Potami Beach: This beach offers a peaceful, secluded atmosphere with crystal-clear waters and fine white sand. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
5. Gjipe Beach: This is a stunning beach located between two towering cliffs. It's accessible only by foot or by boat, which makes it a quiet and peaceful place to relax.
6. Himara Castle: This ancient castle was built on a hill overlooking the town of Himara. It dates back to the 4th century and offers amazing views of the coastline.
7. Llamani Beach: This is a small, hidden beach that offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet time.
8. Drymades Beach: This is another popular beach in the area with crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and a lively beach bar scene.
9. The Blue Eye: The Blue Eye is a natural spring located in the nearby village of Muzina. It's a unique and beautiful natural wonder with crystal-clear, blue-green waters.
10. The Ethnographic Museum: The Ethnographic Museum is located in the center of Himara and showcases the traditional culture and way of life of the area's residents.

When to go on holiday to Himara

The best time to visit Himara, Albania is during the summer months, between June and September. During this time, the temperatures are warm and perfect for swimming and other outdoor activities. Additionally, the sea is calm and clear during this period, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities. However, it's important to note that the peak season for tourism in Himara is during July and August, and the area can get quite crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money, you can consider going in May or late September when there are fewer tourists, and the prices of accommodation and flights are generally lower.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Himara

There are a few different transportation options to get to Himara, Albania: 1. By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate routes to Himara from various cities in Albania. The journey can take around 5-6 hours depending on your starting point.
2. By Car: You can rent a car or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Vlora or Saranda and drive to Himara. The journey usually takes around 2-3 hours.
3. By Air: If you're coming from abroad, you can fly into Tirana International Airport and then take a bus or rent a car to get to Himara.
4. By Ferry: During the summer months, there is a ferry that operates from Corfu (Greece) to Saranda (Albania). From Saranda, you can take a bus or taxi to Himara.
No matter which option you choose, I recommend checking schedules and booking ahead of time to ensure availability and save time.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Himara, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Himara

Himara is a small coastal town in Albania, known for its rich and delicious traditional cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Himara with a short description for each of them: 1. Tave Kosi: This is a traditional lamb and yogurt casserole, which is often served with rice, salad, and a slice of homemade bread.
2. Fërgesë: Fërgesë is a delicious, savory dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and onions, mixed with meat or cottage cheese.
3. Byrek: Byrek is a savory pastry made with thin layers of dough, rolled up and filled with meat, cheese, or spinach.
4. Kollo: Kollo is a hearty pasta dish made with homemade noodles, meat, and a rich tomato sauce.
5. Llokuma: Llokuma is a sweet, fried dough stuffed with cheese or honey, served as a dessert or snack.
6. Petulla: Petulla is a deep-fried dough ball that can be eaten with salt or sugar. It is often served with honey or jam for breakfast or dessert.
7. Mussels: Himara is known for its fresh and delicious mussels, which are often served steamed or fried.
8. Bakllava: Bakllava is a sweet and flaky dessert made with layers of thin pastry sheets, chopped nuts, and honey.
9. Qifqi: Qifqi is a dish made of small, fried meatballs made with rice, herbs, and ground meat.
10. Fasule Me Mish: Fasule Me Mish is a hearty and warming dish made with white beans and meat. It is usually served with bread, olives, and cheese.
You can find general info about typical foods in Albania here.

Is Himara an expensive destination for tourists?

Himara is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists relative to other European destinations. Prices for accommodation, dining, and activities are generally lower than in more popular destinations in Europe. However, like any destination, the actual cost of a trip will depend on various factors, including the time of year, type of accommodation, and activities chosen. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any travel plans.

Where to find accomodation in Himara

In Himara, the best areas to find accommodation would be in or near the town center, or in popular beach areas like Livadhi or Jale Beach. Another great option is to stay in the village of Dhermi, which is a short drive away from Himara and has its own lovely beaches and hiking trails. Overall, it is recommended to find accommodation near the places you plan to visit to make transportation and sightseeing easier.
You can check hotel prices at Himara here:
Booking.com

Is Himara a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, generally speaking Himara is a safe place for tourists. Albania as a whole is considered a safe country, with low levels of violent crime and a relatively low risk of terrorism or other security threats. However, as with any travel destination, it's important for visitors to exercise caution and common sense while exploring Himara. This might include taking normal safety precautions like staying aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables secure, and being mindful of traffic when crossing streets. It's also a good idea to do some research in advance to learn about any specific risks or issues that might be relevant to your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Albania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Himara.

What type of travelers will enjoy Himara the most?

Himara, Albania is a wonderful destination for various types of travelers. However, it mostly caters to adventurous and outdoor-loving individuals and families. The town has a unique charm, blending the old with the new, and offers stunning views of the sea and the Albanian Riviera. It is especially popular with tourists who love hiking, swimming, and exploring the local culture.
Couples and young people also enjoy Himara, especially during the summer season when the vibrant beach parties take place. The nightlife is quite lively, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. However, the town is not as focused on tourism as other destinations and provides the perfect escape for those seeking a quieter and more laid-back vacation.
Overall, travelers looking for fun, adventure, and relaxation can enjoy their vacation in Himara. It is a perfect place for couples, young people, and families who appreciate the beauty of nature and wish to disconnect from the hectic pace of life.

How to get around Himara

In Himara, you can move around by using different modes of transportation, including taxis, buses, and rental cars. Taxis are the most convenient and widely available mode of transportation, whether you need a quick ride or a longer journey. Buses operate between different parts of the town and also connect Himara with other towns and cities in Albania. If you prefer to have more flexibility and freedom in your movements, you can rent a car from one of the many rental agencies in the area. The roads in and around Himara are generally well-maintained, although some of the smaller roads can be steep and winding, so be sure to choose a vehicle that you feel comfortable driving.

What to see around Himara

Sure, here are some suggestions for nice day trips from Himara: 1. Porto Palermo Castle: The castle is located about 20km from Himara, and it offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding area.
2. The Blue Eye: The Blue Eye is a natural spring that is located about 25km from Himara. The crystal-clear water of the spring is known for its vivid blue color.
3. Gjipe Beach: Gjipe Beach is a secluded beach located about 15km from Himara, and it can only be reached by foot or by boat. It is a great spot for swimming and relaxing.
4. Llogara National Park: Llogara National Park is located about 40km from Himara, and it is known for its beautiful mountainous landscapes and scenic driving routes.
5. Borsh Castle: Borsh Castle is an ancient castle located about 10km from Himara, and it has an interesting history dating back to the Ottoman era.
These are just a few options, and there are many more places to explore within a day trip distance from Himara.
For every travel information about Albania you can click here.

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