Booking one of our Himare holidays is the first step toward experiencing one of the Albanian Riviera’s most captivating seaside escape hubs, famous for its twin crescent-shaped bays framed by dramatic olive-covered hills and laid-back, authentic Greek-influenced coastal village atmosphere. Whether you are planning a relaxed week-long escape or a sun-drenched coastal getaway, maximizing your time here means diving straight into the local culture, scenery, and cuisine. To help you map out an unforgettable itinerary, we have put together the ultimate guide to the absolute best things to do in Himare, from the crumbling hilltop ruins of Himare Castle to swimming the crystalline shallows of Livadh Beach.
Things to Do in Himare
From historic landmarks to stunning natural landscapes, Himare packs an incredible mix of experiences into one unforgettable destination. Dive into our handpicked selection below to discover the top-rated attractions, local spots, and must-add activities for your upcoming itinerary.
Where to Stay in Himare
Himare stretches along a horseshoe-shaped bay with three zones:
- Himare Beach (Spile): Main town beach with a promenade lined with tavernas, bars, and palm trees.
- Old Himare (Kastro): Medieval hilltop settlement 200m above the bay with stone alleys, Byzantine churches, and spectacular sunset views.
- Livadh Beach: Quieter stretch 3 km north with a wide pebble beach and secluded atmosphere popular with campers and long-stay visitors.
- Himara Castle Hotel: Boutique rooms inside old castle walls with sea views and a stone courtyard. Doubles from EUR 45.
- Sea View Hotel: Beachfront on Spile Beach with modern rooms and terrace. Doubles from EUR 40.
- Guesthouse Beleri: Family-run in the old town with homemade breakfast. Doubles from EUR 25.
How to Get to Himare
From Tirana: 4 hours by car via SH4 and coastal SH8 through Llogara Pass and Dhermi.
From Saranda: 1 hour north on SH8 along the coast.
By Bus: Regular buses connect Tirana and Saranda via Himare (5 hours from Tirana).
Best Time to Visit Himare
June-September: Peak season with warm weather and swimming. July-August busiest and hottest (30-35C).
May and October: Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, excellent for hiking and old town exploration.
November-April: Many beachfront businesses close. Old town remains accessible for mild winter exploration.
