Day Trip From Saranda to Himarë – The Ultimate Guide

Tucked away on the sun-soaked Albanian Riviera, the charming village of Himarë is one of those places that is easy to fall in love with. Whenever I visit southern Albania, I always set aside a day to drive from Saranda to Himarë and explore some of the lesser known beaches and hidden gems of the riviera.

With its clear turquoise waters, quiet pebbled beaches, and dramatic mountain scenery, taking a day trip from Saranda to Himarë offers the perfect escape from the busier tourist hubs of Saranda and Ksamil. The pace here is slower, the crowds thinner, and the vibe undeniably more relaxed.

A visit to Himarë offers a more authentic experience making it an essential stop on your Albanian road trip itinerary as well as an easy day trip during your stay in Saranda. 

You can easily rent a car in Saranda and take a leisurely drive along the coast stopping to swim at beautiful beaches, exploring ancient castle ruins, and enjoying lunch at a beachfront restaurant in Himarë. This is hands down one of my favourite day trips from Saranda!

In this complete guide, I’ll show you how to plan the perfect day trip from Saranda to Himarë including transportation options, what to see and do, and the best places to stop on the Albanian Riviera. 

Saranda to Himarë Day Trip – The Perfect One Day Itinerary

Practical Info & Tips

• Start early: Aim to make an early start if you want to see all the highlights of the Albanian Riviera in one day. 
• Getting there: To make the most of this day trip from Saranda to Himarë I would advise renting a car or booking a tour. The bus doesn’t allow for the same flexibility.
• Things to pack: Swimwear, towel, comfy shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, water, snacks.
• Money: Bring cash (Lek) for small purchases, ATMs may be scarce and most small businesses accept cash only.
• Best time to go: May/June or September/early October offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Borsh Beach 

Departing Saranda after breakfast, head north along the stunning coastal road and make Borsh Beach your first stop. This long stretch of shoreline is one of the biggest beaches on the Albanian Riviera yet it remains peaceful and uncrowded. There is a reason why Borsh Beach is one of the best places to visit in Albania!

The drive alone is worth it, with dramatic views of the turquoise Ionian Sea backed by rugged green mountains. Once you arrive, grab a coffee or juice at one of the low-key beach bars or simply enjoy a quiet walk along the shore.

The water here is crystal clear and offers a refreshing morning swim. Borsh offers the kind of raw natural beauty you won’t find at the popular beaches in Ksamil. So take your time and soak it all in before continuing north toward Porto Palermo. 

Upper Qeparo (optional)

For an extra adventure just north of Borsh Beach, take a little drive into the mountains to explore the abandoned Old Town of Upper Qeparo. Up there you can catch unbeatable ocean views, wander the quiet narrow alleys and visit a true hidden gem on your day trip to Himarë.

Keep in mind the road to get there is very steep and narrow making it unsuitable for certain vehicles. Save this restaurant in your map when visiting the village of Upper Qeparo for epic views and amazing traditional food.

This little detour will add some additional time to your Himarë day trip so if you prefer to keep the day focused on beach hopping, then it’s ok to skip this one!

Porto Palermo Castle 

Just 15 minutes north of Borsh, Porto Palermo Castle makes for an easy mid-morning stop. Located on a narrow peninsula within a sheltered bay, this historic 19th-century fortress was built by Ali Pasha of Tepelena and offers incredible views in every direction.

It’s only 300 lek to enter (about €3), and it’s likely that you’ll have the place almost to yourself. Inside, you can explore winding stone corridors, hidden tunnels, and open-air terraces that look out over the sea. The castle has a slightly eerie, weathered charm to it. 

It won’t take you long to visit (30–45 minutes is plenty), but the views alone make it a must-stop on the drive from Saranda to Himarë. There’s even a tiny, calm beach nearby which is very inviting for a quick dip before moving on.

Himarë – Wander The Old Town & Castle

Once you reach Himarë, head uphill to explore the Old Town and hilltop castle ruins before making your way to the beach for lunch. The cobbled lanes here are lined with traditional stone houses, olive trees, and panoramic viewpoints around every corner.

Himarë Castle itself is mostly in ruins but it’s well-worth a visit to witness over 3,500 years of history, entry is only 300 lek per person (if the ticket collector is even there!). From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the coastline and the Greek island of Corfu in the distance.

It’s a great place to get a sense of Himarë’s fascinating history and soak in its unique blend of Albanian and Greek influences. Morning and sunset are the best times to visit the castle, you might even have the place to yourself if you visit early enough. Bring water and good shoes, as the climb up from town can be a bit steep. 

Himarë – Have Lunch at a Seaside Tavern

After a full morning of exploring, it’s time to refuel. Head down to the promenade at the main waterfront area in Himarë, where you’ll find a handful of relaxed seaside taverns serving up fresh local fare.

Seafood is the star here, grilled octopus and fresh fish are common staples, often caught that morning. Pair your meal with a crisp Albanian white wine or a cold Korça beer and don’t miss the fresh tomato-and-cucumber salads drizzled with olive oil. Himara ‘28 Restaurant is a great choice on the waterfront. 

The pace of lunch in Himarë is slow and easy, just like the vibe of the town itself. It’s the perfect chance to relax, watch the waves roll in, and enjoy the chilled vibe of this charming riviera town before heading to the beach for the afternoon. Don’t leave without stopping for ice cream at one of the gelato shop in town!

You could either choose to stay in Himarë and hit the beach right in town, you don’t have to go far to find amazing crystal-clear water here! Otherwise you can hop back in the car and continue to the next stop on your coastal drive: Livadi Beach. 

Livadi Beach

No day trip from Saranda to Himarë is complete without a lazy afternoon at Livadi Beach. Located just a few minutes’ drive or a 45-minute hike north of the town centre, Livadi is larger and usually quieter than Himarë Beach.

It’s known for its bright, pebbly shore and beautifully clear water, ideal for swimming or renting a kayak. Several beach bars and cafes offer loungers and umbrellas for rent (around 500 – 100 lek), so it’s easy to find a comfortable spot and settle in for a few hours of sun and sea.

If you prefer something more secluded, head to the far ends of the beach where it’s quieter. The setting here is pure magic, backed by rolling hills and shallow turquoise water inviting you to float for hours. A swim here is the perfect reward after your morning of exploring.

Llamani Beach is another gem near Himarë that I really loved on my most recent visit to Albania. This small beach is an absolutely breathtaking slice of paradise however the time of year that you visit can play a big part in how enjoyable your experience is.

During peak season, the beach is filled with bars that set up sun beds for daily rental ranging from 10€ – 20€ per day. The beach becomes so crowded that it’s not possible to find your own space to sit/swim without paying for a sun bed. 

When I visited in early May, there were only a few beach bars operating at that time which made it a much better experience! That’s why I will recommend Livadi Beach here instead.

However if you happen to be in the south of Albania during shoulder season (May or September), be sure to stop at Llamani Beach to experience this magical place when it’s less busy!

Gjipe Beach (optional)

If you’re still up for adventure and have time left in your day, Gjipe Beach is a must-see gem. It’s about 25 minutes north of Himarë by car and requires a short hike or a ride in a 4×4 to reach but trust me, it’s worth the effort. 

Gjipe is nestled between towering cliffs at the mouth of a canyon, and its remote feel makes it one of the most stunning beaches on the Albanian Riviera. The hike down from the parking lot takes around 30-40 minutes following a narrow and steep gravel path. Be sure to stop at the lookout on the way down for an epic photo opportunity. 

The beach has fine pebbles, unbelievably clear water, and dramatic scenery that makes you feel far away from civilization. With limited facilities here, it’s best to come prepared with water, snacks, and good shoes for the hike.

If you’re into wild, natural beaches with a touch of adventure and minimal crowds, Gjipe is the perfect way to end an unforgettable day trip before driving back to Saranda. For those who are interested, camping on this beach is allowed!

**Tip** Instead of driving, it is also possible to take a boat trip to Gjipe Beach from Himarë. Taking a boat is a convenient way to visit this amazing beach, cutting out extra driving time and the hike to/from the beach. 

Along Himarë’s harbour, you’ll find locals offering boat trips to Gjipe. These trips typically operate daily and include stops at other nearby beaches. Most captains offer a round‑trip package for around 3,000 – 5,000 Lek, depending on the season and group size.

Just stroll along the waterfront, ask around and negotiate your fare directly. Himara Seas The Day is a reputable tour company to keep in mind or check this Himarë to Gjipe boat tour if you prefer to book online.

This is a great activity for those spending more time in Himarë as some of these boat trips are longer than 4 hours. This isn’t ideal if you’re trying to make other stops on your day trip to Himarë!

How to Get from Saranda to Himarë

Rent a Car

The best way to take a day trip from Saranda to Himarë is by renting a car. I created this itinerary based on my own travels along the Albanian Riviera, and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Car rentals in Saranda are both affordable and straightforward, with daily rates starting at around €25. With a car you can easily stop at beautiful spots like Borsh Beach or Porto Palermo Castle along the way, something that’s not easy with public transport.

My favourite place to rent a car in Saranda is Leka Car Rentals, I use them every time I visit. On my last trip, they even dropped a car off at my hotel at no extra charge – a service that is hard to beat! Send them a message on Whatsapp to book your car ahead of time.

If you prefer to book your rental car online at one of the international companies like Europcar or Sixt, check out this site that locates cheap car rentals worldwide.  I’ve used this hassle-free site to book car rentals in many different countries around the world. 

Saranda to Himarë Bus

If you’re travelling on a budget or don’t feel comfortable driving in Albania, taking the bus from Saranda to Himarë is a good alternative. At 800 lek per person, you can catch the public bus from the centre of Saranda to Himarë. Buy your ticket and get on the bus at this location.

With limited departures per day (10:30am and 1:00pm), taking the bus is a much slower and less flexible option. I would recommend taking the bus to Himarë only if you plan to spend a night and return the following day. You won’t be able to visit all of the places mentioned in this itinerary when taking the bus.

Guided Tour

For a stress-free and easy day trip, consider booking a guided day tour from Saranda to Himarë. These tours include comfortable transport, an English speaking guide, and a well-planned itinerary covering highlights like Borsh Beach, Porto Palermo Castle, Himarë’s Old Town and beaches.

This is a great option if you’re short on time or want to learn more about the history of the region as you go. Most tours depart in the morning and return by late afternoon or early evening.

You can book online in advance or through a local travel agency once you arrive in Saranda. While it’s the priciest option, it takes all the planning off your plate and ensures you won’t miss the top sights along the way.

→Book your guided tour from Saranda to Himarë online←

FAQ About Taking a Day Trip to Himarë from Saranda

• How long does it take to drive from Saranda to Himarë?
  The drive takes about 1.5 hours each way, depending on traffic and how often you stop to admire the views!
• Is the road from Saranda to Himarë safe to drive?
  Yes, the SH8 coastal road is paved and generally in good condition, though it’s winding and narrow in places. Of course you should always drive cautiously, take your time and watch for goats on the road.
• Can I visit Himarë without a car?
  Yes, you can take a local bus or join a guided tour, but you’ll have less flexibility for spontaneous stops along the way.
• Are there petrol stations along the way?
  Yes, you’ll find a few petrol stations between Saranda and Himarë, especially near the towns. It’s still smart to fill up before leaving Saranda for peace of mind.
• Is one day enough to see Himarë?
  One day is just enough to see the highlights like the Old Town, castle, and beaches but you might find yourself wishing you could stay longer.
• What should I pack for the trip?
  Bring swimwear, a sun hat, sunscreen, water, snacks, comfortable shoes, and some cash, especially if you plan to visit more remote beaches like Gjipe.
• Are there restaurants in Himarë?
  Yes, Himarë has a good mix of beachside taverns and cafes, perfect for a seafood lunch with a view.

The Best Travel Insurance for Albania

Are you travelling to Albania from overseas? If you are, then you’ll need to get travel insurance before you go.

Travelling to any country without insurance is never a good idea. The reality of travelling overseas is that unexpected things can happen at anytime so the best thing you can do is be prepared.

For peace of mind while abroad, Heymondo is one of the most reputable companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you are into adventurous activities or simply looking for trip cancellation and medical insurance, Heymondo has you covered!

As a reader of The Road Is Life, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance by using the link below!

►Get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance◄

Sarande to Himarë Day Trip – Final Thoughts

A day trip from Saranda to Himarë is a refreshing contrast to the tourist hotspots of Albania’s south. Its a lovely blend of laid-back beach life, historic charm, scenic drives, and hidden coastal beauty. Don’t be surprised if you want to spend more than just a day!

Himarë is the perfect place to escape for a few quiet nights and lazy beach days. If you have the time to spare, you won’t regret booking a room and staying a little longer.

Let me know in the comments what you loved most about Himarë and be sure to check out my Saranda Day Trips travel guide for many more adventures in the south of Albania!

Happy beach hopping🌊

Read More Albania Travel Guides

• 12 Epic Things to do in Tirana, Albania
• 23 Best Places to Visit in Albania
• The Best Restaurants in Saranda
• The Best Hotels in Saranda
• The Best Hotels in Ksamil for Every Budget
• The Best Beaches in Saranda & the Albanian Riviera
• Saranda vs Ksamil – Which town should you stay in?
• 12 Awesome Day Trips from Saranda + How to Get There
• Day Trip to the Blue Eye from Saranda – Ultimate Guide
• The Ultimate One Week Albania Road Trip Itinerary

---

Enjoy Reading This Saranda to Himarë Day Trip Guide? Pin me for later!

 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission on purchases made through these links. By making any purchase, you are directly supporting The Road Is Life Travel Blog which allows me to continue providing you with free high-quality travel guides. I only recommend products or services I have tried/love!