If you’re on the hunt for a gorgeous, budget-friendly beach getaway that’s not flooded with tourists, then Himare should be high on your list. It was, hands down, our favorite little beach town in Albania. It felt much more authentic and less touristy compared to Ksamil, for instance.
Himare has a bunch of beaches to explore, with awesome restaurants and bars right on the sand. On top of that, there’s also some fantastic culture to soak up. I seriously think now’s the perfect time to visit before it gets too crowded in the next few years.
We just got back from a month-long trip around Albania, and I can’t help but share this gem as the best alternative to Ksamil for beach towns. Here is a complete guide on where to stay in Himare!
- Where to stay in Himare – Best Hotels
- Where to stay in Himare – Best Areas
- Where to Stay in Himare for the Best Beaches and Good Nightlife: Himare Beach
- Where to stay in Himare for Budget Travelers & Backpackers: City Centre
- Where to stay in Himare for Families & Relaxation: Potami Beach
- Where to stay in Himare for Luxury: Livadhi Beach
- Where to stay in Himare – Frequently Asked Questions
Where to stay in Himare – Best Hotels
Geo & Art Boutique Hotel Himare
The hotel in Himare with the best views is definitely the Geo & Art Boutique Hotel Himara. This boutique hotel offers family rooms, free private parking, and sea and mountain views. I especially loved their breakfast every morning, which you can enjoy on the rooftop terrace. All in all, Geo & Art Boutique Hotel is one of the most modern boutique hotels in Himare, so it is definitely worth checking out for your next trip.
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Rea Boutique Hotel
If you’re looking for some proper luxury, then I’d highly recommend Rea Boutique Hotel. This boutique hotel features accommodation with room service, air-conditioned rooms, a terrace, and barbecue facilities. My personal highlight was how close it was to the sandy beach of Himare and the private jacuzzi on our terrace with a sea view.
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Aphrodite’s Garden
For the most stunning views in Himare, I hands down recommend Aphrodite’s Garden. Aphrodite’s Garden offers accommodation with a garden and mountain view, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant. Just be aware of the location; it’s situated up in the hills behind Himare, so I recommend having your own car if you want to stay here.
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Irini Boutique Rooms
Irini Boutique Rooms is a fantastic budget stay if you value a great location. It’s not located in Himare town, but it’s right on Livadhi Beach, making it great for a quiet beach vacation. The air-conditioned accommodation is boasting family rooms with free Wifi and free parking. I enjoyed staying here because it was super family-friendly and within walking distance of the main beach, making it perfect for an affordable family vacation.
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Pine Side Camp
Lastly, my personal favorite and highlight in Himare is Pine Side Camp. Yes, this is tent camping in Albania. This little location was so serene, with tents set up right by the ocean so you could hear the waves crashing at night. It is, of course, very basic and not comparable to some of the luxury hotels, but it had its own charm and was definitely a fun experience.
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Where to stay in Himare – Best Areas
Himare in southern Albania is not the most famous beach town among tourists, and that’s what’s awesome about it! It’s less crowded, with more locals enjoying their vacation, which means you get a truly authentic experience. It’s also easier on the wallet compared to places like Ksamil, which is always a huge bonus.
If you’re visiting for the first time, then I recommend staying close to Himare Beach as this is where you’ll find most restaurants and are located close to the main beach.
If you want to save some money and you’re traveling on a budget, then staying in the Himare City Center is a great option.
Further down the bay, next to Himare Beach, you’ll find Potami Beach, which has some great restaurants and beach clubs, perfect for families and some downtime.
Lastly, if you want something a little more upscale and secluded, then Livadhi Beach is great, just outside of Himare.
If Himare feels a bit too quiet for your taste, you should definitely check out our guide on Ksamil! We’ve got the scoop on the best hotels, the coolest areas, and the must-try restaurants.
Where to Stay in Himare for the Best Beaches and Good Nightlife: Himare Beach
Himare Beach is the most popular beach in Himare, and for good reason. It’s a stunning sandy bay with crystal-clear water and plenty of space to lay out your towel. There are also plenty of restaurants and beach bars along the stretch, making it perfect for both sunbathing during the day and enjoying some drinks at night.
If you’re looking for a fun nightlife scene, then staying near Himare Beach is your best bet. The beach bars have a lively atmosphere and often host events such as live music or DJ sets.
Things to Do in Himare Beach
Himare Beach is the perfect spot for a day of relaxation and fun. Of course, hanging out on the beach and soaking up the sun is a must, but there are also plenty of other fun things to do.
Jumping on a boat trip to explore nearby caves and coves is a popular activity, as well as jet skiing or parasailing. For those looking for a more low-key experience, there are also paddle boats and kayaks available to rent.
At night, the beach bars often host bonfires where you can enjoy some drinks and meet new people.
Best Restaurants in Himare Beach
To Steki sti Gonia: If you’re looking to dive into a full Greek feast, this beachfront restaurant is a must-visit. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic gyros or eager to explore other Greek delights like their grilled meats and seafood, this spot has got you covered.
Locca Rooftop: I have to say, the decor here is a bit quirky with its giant red neon heart overlooking the rooftop. But besides that, it’s a fantastic spot with stunning views and delicious drinks over Himare.
Where to stay in Himare for Budget Travelers & Backpackers: City Centre
Staying in the heart of Himare is not only budget-friendly, but it also gives you a real taste of local life. Himare city center has many small, cozy, family-run hotels and guesthouses, plus some great budget-friendly hostels. Sure, you might miss out on that postcard-perfect beach view, but Himare is so compact that the beach is probably just a short stroll away—no worries there!
The city center is your go-to spot if you want to be surrounded by restaurants, shops, and cafes, while still being just a stone’s throw from the beach. One of my favorites is the city center, perfect for a bit of cultural exploration, too. You’ll love wandering over to Himare’s old town, where you’ll stumble upon charming old buildings, including the fascinating Himare Castle.
Things to Do in the City Centre:
If you’re looking for something special, you absolutely have to visit Himare Castle. Exploring the ruins of this historic site from the Byzantine era was one of my favorite activities. The views from the top of the hill are breathtaking, and you get this incredible sense of history as you roam around the ancient fortress.
While you’re there, don’t miss a stroll through Old Town. The cobblestone streets are perfect for wandering, and the traditional architecture is simply charming. There are also loads of cozy cafes, local shops, and cute little alleyways to explore. It’s the kind of place where getting lost is part of the fun.
And if you love fresh produce, the local markets in the city center are a must! Stock up on fresh fruits, veggies, and all kinds of local goodies!
Best Restaurants in the City Centre
Merkur Merkuri: Merkur Merkuri is hands down my favorite restaurant in Himare. The ambiance is just perfect—nestled in a cozy back street, it strikes the ideal balance between casual and fancy. Their seafood pasta is spot-on, and the wines are both delicious and affordable. You definitely have to try their orange crumble for dessert—it’s a must!
Garden Grill: Another great spot for dinner is Garden Grill right in the city center. Their beer garden is super cozy, making it the perfect spot to enjoy some grilled fish or steak with a big, refreshing pint.
Butterfly Cafe: After exploring the Himare castle, the best place to chill is Butterfly Cafe in the Old Town. They have simple but delicious lunch dishes, cold beers, and mouthwatering cake and coffee. It’s perched high on the hill, offering breathtaking views over the whole bay of Himare.
Where to stay in Himare for Families & Relaxation: Potami Beach
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect spot in Himare for a laid-back family getaway, then Potami Beach is my top pick. Located at the far south side of Himare, it’s a sweet escape from the hustle and bustle, yet close enough if you want to dive into the action.
Potami Beach is generally much quieter and boasts plenty of beach clubs and seaside restaurants where you can easily spend a whole day just soaking it all in. Most of these beach clubs are super family-friendly and not party beach clubs, making it an ideal spot for everyone.
There are also loads of rental options, from cozy apartments to spacious luxury villas in the area, perfect for families or groups who want a more private and comfy stay.
Check out this villa (Stonevilla Buta Himare) with spacious family rooms perfect for your family vacation.
Things to Do in Potami Beach
First off, Potami Beach is a gem with its beautiful sandy stretch, making it perfect for some downtime on the beach. The crystal-clear water and gentle waves make it ideal for families with young kids—it’s like a paradise for little ones!
Now, if you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, head over to Filikurit Beach. It’s just a 15-minute walk from Potami and feels like a secret hidden beach. The hike down those steep cliffs is a bit challenging, so you’ll need to be somewhat athletic and up for an adventure. Getting back requires a bit of climbing, using a rope, which is quite the thrill! Definitely not for the little ones, but teenagers and adults will find it exciting.
Alternatively, if you’re into kayaking, why not paddle your way to Filikurit Beach? It’s a popular choice and adds an extra fun element to your beach day.
Best Restaurants in Potami Beach
Soren: If you’re in Himare and craving seafood, you can’t miss Soren! In my humble opinion, it’s one of the best spots around. We tried the grilled octopus and sea bass, and honestly, it was some of the freshest and tastiest seafood I’ve ever had. On top of that, the wines and beers were fantastic and really affordable.
Nia Rooftop: For sunset drinks and nibbles, the rooftop bar at Nia Boutique Hotel is my go-to place in Himare. It’s the only spot in Albania where I found some good sushi. Yes, the prices are on the high side, and some might say it’s a bit steep for Albania, but the stunning location and delicious food and cocktails make it worth it.
Where to stay in Himare for Luxury: Livadhi Beach
If you’re craving a touch of luxury, Livadhi Beach is my top recommendation. It’s the place where you’ll discover the best hotels around. Albania’s tourism and hotel sector is still developing, so finding top-notch accommodations can be tricky. Thankfully, one of my all-time favorite hotels in Albania is right here. The Miamar Hotel offers incredible facilities and beautifully air-conditioned rooms, with an amazing pool area right on the beach.
Livadhi Beach is also much quieter than nearby Himare, making it perfect for a peaceful, upscale getaway. It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax and pamper yourself a little.
Things to do in Livadhi Beach
Of course, hitting the beach is the main event here, but if you’re lucky enough to stay in one of the upscale places, why not dive into a spa day or try out some of the hotel’s water activities? It’s always a great idea!
Now, if you’re itching to explore more of Himare and Albania, I loved the boat trip I took to Gjipe Beach. It’s a hidden gem, only accessible by boat, and seriously one of the most stunning beaches in the country.
Not a fan of water activities? No worries! You can easily hike or drive to Himare’s old town. I loved wandering through the castle and those charming cobblestone streets.
Best Restaurants in Livadhi Beach
Miamar Restaurant: The on-site restaurant at the Miamar is, in my opinion, the most upscale restaurant in the area, and for good reason. The seafood here is insanely good, and the dishes are definitely worth trying. They also have a beach bar where you can order food and lunch and use the sunbeds even if you’re not a guest.
Jester’s Tavern: One of my favorite local taverns is Jester’s. They serve all kinds of Greek and Albanian dishes, and the atmosphere is casual and cozy. Plus, their seafood platter is a must-try.
Where to stay in Himare – Frequently Asked Questions
🏨 What is the Best Boutique Hotel in Himare?
My absolute favorite when it comes to boutique hotels has to be Rea Boutique Hotel. It’s got one of the top spots in Himare, and the rooms are gorgeous with stunning views. Seriously, if you book the suite and treat yourself to one of those private jacuzzis on the balcony, you’re in for the best and most romantic experience.
Alternatively, Arxontiko features accommodation with amazing views and is also one of my favorite little hotels. Art Boutique Hotel Geo is one of the top favorites in the area. You just have to make sure to book your room early because they sell out quickly.
🏝️ What is the Best Beach in Himare?
This is a tough question because all of the beaches in Himare are beautiful in their own way. However, if I had to choose one, I would say Livadhi Beach. It’s secluded and has crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, there are some great beach clubs and restaurants nearby for a full day of relaxation.
đźš— How do I get to Himare?
Fly into Tirana Airport and rent a car or take a bus to Himare. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Corfu, Greece, directly to Himare during the summer months. The drive from Tirana takes about 3-4 hours and is quite scenic. If you’re not comfortable driving, there are also buses that run regularly from Tirana to Himare.
🏖️ Which boutique hotel in Himare has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool?
Palermiti Luxury Rooms is one of the few hotels in the area that offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. It’s not very common in town to have a pool because the beaches are so gorgeous. This boutique hotel includes free private parking, free Wifi, and loads of other perks. However, it’s not quite in central HimarĂ«; it’s a little further down the coast near Porto Palermo Beach, so I highly recommend a car if you consider staying here.
Where to stay in Himare – Final Words
As I’ve already mentioned throughout this article, I think that Himare is the perfect alternative destination for those looking to avoid the crowds of other popular beach destinations. With its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and charming town, it’s no wonder that more and more tourists are discovering this hidden gem in Albania.
When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options to choose from—whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxurious stay. From boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses and even camping sites, there are so many cool options for you. I hope that this guide on where to stay in Himare is going to help you plan your next trip. Happy travels!
