Himara Castle

The Albanian Riviera


Himara is mainly known for its beaches, but its Old Town on the hills high above the seafront is an interesting place to stroll around. One highlight is the ruins of Himara Castle, which existed in various forms on this site since the Bronze Age. Despite it being a ruin, many people live in houses within its walls, and the sea views are superb.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Albanian Riviera attractions

1. Livadhi Beach

0.66 MILES

Himara's longest stretch of beach is Livadhi, just north of the town. It's certainly very attractive but development hasn't been kind, with a slew of…

2. Himara Beach

0.98 MILES

There are two main beaches in Himara. The northern one is the main town beach and has a promenade lined with cafes and bars. Around the headland to the…

3. Jal

1.82 MILES

Jal beach, a 5km drive down a decent side-road from the village of Vumoni, has been well and truly 'discovered' in the last few years and an ever…

4. Vuno

2.78 MILES

Vuno is a tiny hillside village above picturesque Jal beach. Each summer Vuno's primary school is filled with blow-up beds and it becomes Shkolla Hostel…

5. Gjipe Beach

3.54 MILES

Between Dhërmi and Vuno is the turn-off for this little-known gem, a gorgeous stretch of isolated white sand and rock backed by big cliffs – and as yet…

6. Porto Palermo

4.61 MILES

In a picturesque bay just south of Himara, this 19th-century fortress, also known as the Castle of Ali Pasha, makes for an interesting stop-off along the…

7. Dhërmi

5.63 MILES

Dhërmi beach is well and truly under the tourist trance in summer: expect booked-out accommodation, loud music and half of Tirana sprawled on the stones…

8. Drymades

7.36 MILES

One of the more attractive beaches on the Albanian Riviera is Drymades. It's a long, shingle white beach backed by olive groves and the first stirrings of…

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