Porto Palermo Castle: A Fortress of History and Turquoise Waters
Explore the historic Castle of Porto Palermo in Albania, offering stunning views, military architecture, and a glimpse into the past on the Albanian Riviera.
Nestled on a small peninsula in Porto Palermo Bay, Albania, the Castle of Porto Palermo is a well-preserved fortress built in the early 19th century by Ali Pasha of Tepelena. This triangular castle, a gem of military architecture, offers stunning views of the bay and the Ceraunian Mountains, and is a must-visit on the Albanian Riviera.
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, as Euros may not be accepted.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially during the summer months.
- Combine your visit with a trip to Porto Palermo Beach for a refreshing swim.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle's interior and climbing to the upper terrace.
Getting There
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Driving
The easiest way to reach Porto Palermo Castle is by car. From Himare, drive south for approximately 15 minutes (8km) along the SH8 highway. After passing Llamani Beach, look for the right-hand turn towards the bay. Follow the road down to the parking area located on the strip of land connecting the castle to the mainland. Parking is free, but can get crowded in summer.
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Walking
For those staying in Himare, it is possible to walk to Porto Palermo Castle. The walk is approximately 8km and will take around 2 hours. Follow the SH8 highway south, enjoying the coastal scenery. Be aware that the road can be busy with traffic, so exercise caution. Once you reach the bay, follow the road down to the castle entrance.
Discover more about The Castle of Porto Palermo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Porto Palermo
1.6 km
Discover Porto Palermo Castle: a historic fortress with stunning views on the Albanian Riviera, built by Ali Pasha in the 19th century.
Sun Bakers Hostel Himara
4.5 km
Experience Himarë's beauty and hospitality at Sun Bakers Hostel: budget-friendly, social, and steps from the beach. Your Albanian adventure starts here!
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
Experience vibrant nightlife & refreshing cocktails at Himarë's Rescue At The Beach, where fun meets the stunning Albanian coastline.
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.
Himara Beach
5.6 km
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Sfageio Beach
5.6 km
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Geo & Art Boutique Hotel Himara
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Coba Rooftop & Restaurant Himare
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Plazhi i Himarës
5.8 km
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To Steki sti Gonia
5.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Palermo Beach
0.2 km
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Porto Palermo Beach
1.2 km
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Llamani Beach
2.9 km
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Qeparo Beach
3.1 km
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Gjiri Amla - Amla Bay
3.6 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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Prinos Beach
5.0 km
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Small bunker
5.3 km
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Orzo Marine Beach
5.4 km
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The Castle of Borsh
5.6 km
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Himarë
5.8 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
4.6 km
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SOREN
4.6 km
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Fane
4.6 km
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Cibo Mare e Terra, Himarë
5.0 km
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Pastaria Himare
5.0 km
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Astro Brunch&Cocktail Bar
5.0 km
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La Mer Restaurant
5.1 km
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Acta Restaurant
5.6 km
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Valentino Restaurant
5.8 km
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Enigma Restaurant
5.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Market Stolis
4.9 km
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Market Lui
5.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Market Lui in Himarë, where local flavors, handcrafted goods, and authentic Albanian culture await you.
MARKET MIRI HIMARE
5.4 km
Immerse yourself in the local culture at Market Miri Himare, where fresh produce and traditional Albanian delicacies await in vibrant surroundings.
IONI Market
5.4 km
Explore IONI Market in Himarë for a taste of local culture and fresh products, perfect for every tourist's culinary adventure.
San GIORGIO
5.7 km
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Lapa Market & Dyqan Mishi
5.8 km
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NELI STYLE
5.8 km
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GRAND Fashion Himara
5.8 km
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Italia Shopping Himare Albania
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Big Market
5.8 km
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Himara Electronics
5.8 km
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Kafe Pasticceria Himara 1928
5.8 km
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Produkte Mishi (Meat Shop)
5.8 km
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Kancelari/Suvenire Vongli
5.9 km
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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
5.2 km
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Privat Lounge
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Thèa Rooftop Bar
5.7 km
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Acta Cocktail Bar
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UMI Sushi & Cocktail
5.8 km
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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
7.3 km
Discover elegance at Prado Luxury Bar in Himarë, where exceptional drinks meet stunning views along the Albanian Riviera.
