The Castle of Porto Palermo: A Coastal Fortress with a Storied Past
Explore the historic Castle of Porto Palermo on the Albanian Riviera, offering stunning views, rich history, and a glimpse into Albania's past.
The Castle of Porto Palermo, also known as Ali Pasha Tepelena Fortress, is a well-preserved 19th-century castle located on a small peninsula in Porto Palermo Bay, along the Albanian Riviera. With its strategic location and unique triangular architecture, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into Albania's rich history and stunning coastal scenery.
A brief summary to The Castle of Porto Palermo
- Ali Pasha Tepelena Fortress, Porto Palermo, AL
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Bring local cash (LEK) for the entrance fee.
- Visit during the spring or summer months for the best weather.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Porto Palermo Beach for swimming and relaxation.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle's grounds and climbing the towers.
Getting There
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Driving
From Himarë, drive south along the coastal highway (SH8) for approximately 8 km. The castle will be on your right, and a right-hand turn will take you down to the parking area on the strip of land connecting the castle to the mainland. Parking is free but can be crowded in the summer. From the parking lot, it's a short walk to the castle entrance.
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Public Transport
From Himarë, catch a minibus heading towards Qeparo or Saranda. Inform the driver that you want to stop at Porto Palermo Castle. The bus will drop you off near Porto Palermo Restaurant, a short walk from the castle. The bus fare is approximately 100 LEK. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the return journey to Himarë.
Discover more about The Castle of Porto Palermo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sun Bakers Hostel Himara
4.5 km
Your cozy base for exploring Himarë's stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture on the Albanian Riviera.
Taverna Velco
4.5 km
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Taverna PiroΣia
4.6 km
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Taverna Stolis
4.7 km
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Portokalis
5.0 km
Experience authentic Albanian cuisine with fresh seafood and stunning sea views at Portokalis Restaurant in Himarë. A family-friendly culinary haven.
Rescue At The Beach
5.3 km
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Namos Beach
5.3 km
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ARXONTIKO Hotel and Restaurant
5.6 km
A modern 4-star hotel in Himarë, Albania, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to beaches and local attractions.
Sfageio Beach
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Geo & Art Boutique Hotel Himara
5.6 km
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Coba Rooftop & Restaurant Himare
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To Steki sti Gonia
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GUMA Souvlaki Himara
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Lefteri's Tavern
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Himara Beach Hopping Tours
5.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Palermo Beach
0.2 km
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Monastery of St. Nicholas
0.3 km
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Porto Palermo
1.2 km
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Porto Palermo Beach
1.2 km
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Llamani Beach
2.9 km
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Plazhi Qeparo
3.1 km
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Qeparo Beach
3.1 km
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Upper Qeparo
3.2 km
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Gjiri Amla - Amla Bay
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Bitejova Cave
3.8 km
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Himara view
4.2 km
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Filikuri Beach
4.2 km
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Filikuri Bay
4.2 km
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Potami beach
4.7 km
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View from Himara
5.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Veranda Restaurant
2.7 km
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Talasa Restaurant
3.1 km
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Andonis Restaurant
3.2 km
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Taverna Dhrami
3.2 km
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ELÉA Restaurant
4.1 km
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Lui Potam
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SOREN
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Fane
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Cibo Mare e Terra, Himarë
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Pastaria Himare
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Astro Brunch&Cocktail Bar
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La Mer Restaurant
5.1 km
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Acta Restaurant
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Valentino Restaurant
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Enigma Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Market Stolis
4.9 km
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Market Lui
5.1 km
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MARKET MIRI HIMARE
5.4 km
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IONI Market
5.4 km
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San GIORGIO
5.7 km
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Lapa Market & Dyqan Mishi
5.8 km
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NELI STYLE
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GRAND Fashion Himara
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Italia Shopping Himare Albania
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Big Market
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Himara Electronics
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Kafe Pasticceria Himara 1928
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Produkte Mishi (Meat Shop)
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Kancelari/Suvenire Vongli
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Wash 'n Dry Self-Service Himara
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Boulevard Cocktail Bar
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Fish & Go Summer
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Rapo’s Restaurant Beach Bar
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VARKA - Beach Bar
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Anemos Lounge Bar
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Akacia beach bar
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Red Indian Rock Cafe Himare
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Privat Lounge
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Thèa Rooftop Bar
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Acta Cocktail Bar
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UMI Sushi & Cocktail
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Taverna Vironas
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Mojo Cocktails Bar
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Locca Rooftop
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Prado Luxury Bar
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