Beaches
Spile and Potami are centrally located and well-suited for families. Livadhi is larger and more natural, and along the coast north and south of the town, there are several small coves that are most beautiful when seen from a boat.
Albanian Riviera
Himarë
Relaxed coastal town with a castle, olive groves, and hidden coves
Himarë is located in the middle of the Albanian Riviera and for many, it's the perfect compromise: enough restaurants and accommodation for a comfortable holiday, but with a calmer and more authentic atmosphere than the most developed beaches.
Above the modern coastal town lies the old castle town on a hill, with stone houses, churches, and views of the coast. The area has a strong local identity, and both Albanian and Greek are spoken here.
Highlights
01
Himarë Castle
The old town center on the mountain, with ruins, churches, and sea views.
02
Livadhi
A long, bright beach north of the center, surrounded by olive groves.
03
Potami & Spile
The beaches within the town itself – close to restaurants, cafes, and the promenade.
04
Hidden Coves
Small beaches like Filikuri and Llamani are reached by boat or short hikes.
Things to See and Do
Walk or drive up to the old castle at sunset, visit the small churches in the area, and take a day trip to Porto Palermo further south. The olive groves around Himarë produce olive oil sold locally.
Food
The cuisine is influenced by both Albanian and Greek traditions, featuring grilled fish, local cheeses, vegetables, and olive oil. Family-owned tavernas dominate.
FAQ
Is Himarë good for families with children?+
Yes. The beaches in town are easily accessible, and there are plenty of restaurants and accommodation within walking distance.
Do you need a car in Himarë?+
It's possible to get by without one in the town, but a car makes it much easier to explore coves, Porto Palermo, and the villages along the coast.
More Riviera destinations
All destinations →
Vlorë
The northern gateway to the Riviera – where Albania declared independence
Read the guide
Dhërmi
White beaches, turquoise waters, and a village on the hillside
Read the guide
Porto Palermo
Ali Pasha's fortress in a protected turquoise bay
Read the guide
Sarandë
The lively center of the southern Riviera, with a ferry to Corfu
Read the guide
Ksamil
Clear water and small islands – the Riviera's most famous view
Read the guide
Butrint
UNESCO-listed ancient city by a lagoon near the Greek border
Read the guide