Himarë Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Himarë, Albania with our travel guide covering top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more. Get insider tips to explore this hidden gem of the Balkans.


Introduction to Himarë

Nestled in the heart of Albanian Riviera, Himarë is a small coastal town known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs. Once a pelagic island, today this town is one of the top tourist destinations in Albania. Himarë offers not just pristine beaches but a rich cultural and historical heritage, delicious food, and adventurous activities too.

List of Places to Visit in Himarë

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The town of Himarë has a rich history that has been preserved in the form of historical sights and museums. Some of the must-visit spots are:

  • The Castle of Himarë: Located on a hilltop overlooking the town, this castle dates back to the 14th-century and offers breathtaking views of the Albanian Riviera.

  • The Ethnographic Museum: A great spot to understand the culture and traditions of the locals, the museum has a collection of traditional clothing, tools, and furniture used by the people of the region.

Natural Attractions of Himarë: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Apart from its architectural treasures, Himarë also boasts natural beauty that attracts visitors from around the globe. Here are some breathtaking natural spots you cannot miss:

  • Gjipe Beach: Only accessible by boat or by hiking, Gjipe beach is a hidden gem of the Albanian Riviera. Surrounded by high cliffs and turquoise waters, you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or cliff jumping here.

  • Llamani Beach: Located a 20-minute walk from the town, this secluded beach offers a peaceful getaway from the crowds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Himarë

Himarë is not just about beaches but also mountains and trekking routes that will excite the adventurous side of you. Some popular hiking and biking trails include:

  • The Old Village of Himarë Trail, which is an easy hike for beginners.

  • The Panormi - Filikuri Trail is a moderate level trail that rewards hikers with breathtaking sea views.

Best Things to Do in Himarë: Activities and Tours

Himarë offers numerous activities apart from soaking up the sun and visiting historical places. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Take a Boat Tour: Explore Himarë’s hidden coves and bays by opting for a boat tour that will take you to some of the secluded beaches and caves in the area.

  • Go Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world of Himarë and discover colorful corals, fishes, and even shipwrecks!

Week-Long Itinerary for Himarë

Day 1: Explore the Castle of Himarë and enjoy the panoramic views of the Riviera.

Day 2: Visit the popular beaches of Jale and Gjipe, and go for swimming, sunbathing, and cliff jumping.

Day 3: Take a boat tour to explore the hidden coves and beaches of the Riviera like Porto Palermo and Grama Bay.

Day 4: Go for hiking on the Old Village of Himarë Trail and explore the traditional village and its people.

Day 5: Visit the Ethnographic Museum and understand the cultural and traditional aspects of the region.

Day 6: Visit the Llamani Beach for a relaxed day in the seaside.

Day 7: Go for scuba diving and explore the underwater world of Himarë.

Food and Drink Scene of Himarë

Must-Try Dishes

Himarë’s cuisine is influenced by the Mediterranean, Turkish, and Albanian food. Some of the must-try dishes are:

  • Byrek: A pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and meat.

  • Tave Kosi: A lamb and rice dish baked with yogurt, eggs, and spices.

Local Beverages

Albanians love their drinks, and in Himarë, trying local wines and raki is essential. The most popular local beverage is:

  • Raki: A strong grape-based alcoholic drink that is the national drink of Albania.

Where to Stay in Himarë: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Himarë offers various budget-friendly accommodation options for every type of traveler, like:

  • Piqeras Relax Guesthouse: A cozy guesthouse located close to beaches and town center.

  • Himara Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of the town and near the beaches.

What to Buy in Himarë: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive Oil: Albanian olive oil is famous for its rich taste and quality.

Local Culture and Customs of Himarë

Albanians are known for their warm hospitality and kindness, and this extends to the locals of Himarë too. When visiting the town, it is advisable to dress conservatively and respect the culture and customs of the region.

Best Time to Visit Himarë

The best time to visit Himarë is during the summer months of June to September. During this time, the weather is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, and all the restaurants and tourist spots are open.

Do’s and Don’ts of Himarë

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

  • Respect the culture and customs of the locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or be disrespectful towards the environment.

  • Discuss sensitive political topics with the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Himarë

Himarë is generally a safe and friendly place. However, like any other tourist destination, it is best to take precautions to avoid petty theft and pickpocketing.

Health in Himarë

It is advisable to carry insect repellents and sunscreen while visiting Himarë. It is essential to carry necessary medication and health insurance while traveling to a foreign country.

Getting to Himarë: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Himarë

The closest international airports to Himarë are Tirana International Airport and Corfu International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Himarë

Himarë has a bus station that is well connected to major cities of Albania.

How to Get Around in Himarë

The best way to explore Himarë is on foot as the town is small and can be easily covered. Alternatively, you can rent a bicycle or a scooter to explore the nearby villages and beaches.

Where to Go Next from Himarë: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Blue Eye: A natural spring with crystal-clear turquoise water located in the midst of Albanian forests.

  • Saranda: A charming town located 1-hour away from Himarë and known for its beaches and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint.

Conclusion

Himarë is a hidden gem of Albanian Riviera with much to offer to its visitors. From pristine beaches and rugged cliffs to its rich cultural heritage, food, and adventurous activities, Himarë has something for everyone. Plan your trip to this seaside town and get ready to experience the warm hospitality and stunning beauty of Himarë!

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