Visiting the Fortress
The fortress is a short walk from the parking area by the road. Bring water and comfortable shoes; in summer, early morning or late afternoon is most pleasant.
Albanian Riviera
Porto Palermo
Ali Pasha's fortress in a protected turquoise bay
Porto Palermo is one of the most photographed locations along the Albanian Riviera: a small triangular stone fortress on a lush headland in the middle of an almost enclosed, turquoise bay. The fortress is associated with Ali Pasha of Tepelena, who dominated the region in the early 19th century.
The bay was long used as a military base and still bears traces of that era. Surrounding it are some of the Riviera's calmest spots – the old village of Qeparo and the long beach of Borsh.
Highlights
01
The Fortress
Walk along the walls and into the cool halls, with views of the bay in all directions.
02
The Bay
Protected, clear waters perfect for a swim after your visit.
03
Old Qeparo
A nearly abandoned stone village on the mountain above the modern coastal village.
04
Borsh
One of the Riviera's longest beaches, with olive groves and a castle ruin in the background.
Qeparo and Borsh
South of Porto Palermo lies Qeparo, where the old village on the mountain offers hiking and expansive views. After that comes Borsh with a several-kilometer-long beach – rarely crowded and with simple beachfront restaurants.
FAQ
How much time do you need in Porto Palermo?+
One to two hours is sufficient for the fortress and a swim. Consider combining it with Qeparo and Borsh for a full day.
Can you stay in Porto Palermo?+
Accommodation options by the bay are very limited. Most people stay in Himarë, Qeparo, or Borsh and visit Porto Palermo as an excursion.
More Riviera destinations
All destinations →
Vlorë
The northern gateway to the Riviera – where Albania declared independence
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Dhërmi
White beaches, turquoise waters, and a village on the hillside
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Himarë
Relaxed coastal town with a castle, olive groves, and hidden coves
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Sarandë
The lively center of the southern Riviera, with a ferry to Corfu
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Ksamil
Clear water and small islands – the Riviera's most famous view
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Butrint
UNESCO-listed ancient city by a lagoon near the Greek border
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