Himara Old Town: A Journey Through Time

4.2 (19)

Discover ancient ruins and stunning vistas in Himara Old Town, a historic hilltop village on the Albanian Riviera.

Home
Albania
Himara
Himara Old Town

Explore the historic Himara Old Town, a captivating hilltop settlement with roots stretching back 3,500 years. Wander through its cobbled streets, discover ancient ruins, and soak in panoramic views of the Albanian Riviera.

A brief summary to Himara Old Town

4P9M+44W, AL

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the uneven cobblestone streets.
Visit in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the sunset views.
Bring water, especially during the summer months, as the walk uphill can be strenuous.
Explore the churches within the castle walls to discover Byzantine-era paintings and murals.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Himara Castle

Himara Castle: A Timeless Fortress with Ionian Views

Livadi Beach

Livadi Beach: A Coastal Paradise in Albania

Livadhi Beach

Livadhi Beach: A Coastal Paradise in Himarë

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Himara, the Old Town is approximately a 45-minute uphill walk. The route is steep, so wear comfortable shoes and consider starting in the late afternoon to avoid the heat. Follow the main road (SH8) north, and then take the road that ascends towards the castle. There is a narrow pedestrian pavement for much of the way. Enjoy the views as you climb!
Taxi

Taxis are available in Himara town and can take you to the entrance of the Old Town. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A typical taxi ride from the town center to the Old Town costs around 500-700 Lek.
Driving

If driving, follow the SH8 north from Himara and take the ascending road towards Himara Castle. There is a free parking area near the entrance to the Old Town, but it can get crowded during peak season. Parking is free.

Discover more about Himara Old Town

Himara Old Town, also known as Himara Castle or Himara Fshat, is a captivating historical site perched on a hill approximately 2.5 kilometers north of modern Himara. This ancient settlement offers a glimpse into Albania's rich past, with evidence of habitation dating back to the late Bronze Age. Originally inhabited by the Greek tribe of the Chaonians, the site was fortified around the 8th century BC and later mentioned by the Roman author Pliny. Over the centuries, Himara Castle served as a strategic stronghold, witnessing Byzantine rule and Ottoman invasions. Though largely in ruins today, the old town retains its charm with cobbled streets, traditional stone houses (some inhabited, some renovated into guesthouses), and historic churches.Among the notable landmarks are the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, once the seat of the Archbishop of Himara, and the Church of the Virgin Mary Kasopitra, which incorporates parts of an ancient wall. Walking through the old town, you'll discover remnants of the castle walls and enjoy breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, Livadhi Beach, and the surrounding Akrokeraune Mountains. The elevated location offers stunning sunset vistas, making it a memorable experience for history buffs and scenery enthusiasts alike.