Saranda: Porto Palermo Castle & Himara Private Seaside Tour

Exploring Albania’s stunning coastline can be quite the adventure, and this private tour from Saranda offers a well-rounded taste of the highlights along the Albanian Riviera. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of a day packed with history, scenic beauty, and delicious food.

What makes this tour appealing are the captivating views of the Ionian Sea, the chance to explore Ali Pasha’s historic fortress, and the opportunity to unwind on a charming beach in Himara. The inclusion of a seaside dinner with sunset views adds a perfect finish to the day. One thing to consider: the tour is quite full, so it’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive day trip without feeling rushed. If you love coastal scenery, history, and local flavors, this experience is likely to hit the spot.

Good To Know:

• Historic Highlights: Porto Palermo Castle built by Ali Pasha.
• Scenic Drives: Journey along the breathtaking Albanian Riviera.
• Beach Relaxation: Free time at Himara’s inviting shoreline.
• Authentic Food: Dinner at a seaside restaurant with fresh seafood.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private group with professional guides.
• Limited Flexibility: It’s a structured 8-hour tour, so plan accordingly.

An Overview of the Experience

This 8-hour tour provides a well-paced glimpse into Albania’s coastal treasures, starting from Saranda. With a focus on comfort and storytelling, Pompea Tours & Travel organizes a day that combines history, nature, and local cuisine. You’ll be greeted at your hotel (note: hotel pickup is not included, so arrange your transportation), and then hop into a private van to begin your scenic journey.

The drive along the Albanian Riviera itself is a highlight, with stunning views out of every window—craggy coastlines, turquoise waters, and quaint towns that seem frozen in time. The itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with leisure, making sure you get enough time to explore without feeling overwhelmed.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Porto Palermo Castle: A Fortress Steeped in History

Your first stop is Porto Palermo Castle, a fortress constructed by the infamous Ali Pasha in the early 19th century. The guide provides historical insights that breathe life into the stone walls, explaining Ali Pasha’s influence and the strategic importance of this location. The castle’s architecture is impressive, with panoramic views of the bay that make it an ideal photo spot.

From reviews, visitors appreciate the guided tour—”We loved the way the guide explained the history, making it easy to picture days gone by,” says one traveler. The castle isn’t just a ruin; it’s a window into Albanian history, with enough structure remaining to explore its walls and towers. The views here are often described as breathtaking, with many visitors noting the perfect photo backdrop for sunset shots.

Why it’s worth visiting:

• Historic significance makes it more than just a photo stop.
• Panoramic views offer memorable moments and great photo ops.
• Guided insights help you understand the complex history behind it.

Scenic Drive and the Charm of Himara

After an hour exploring Porto Palermo, you’ll hop back into the van for a short 15-minute drive along the coast to Himara. This small town is known for its relaxed vibe and beautiful beach. You’ll have a couple of hours here—ample time to dip your toes in the Ionian Sea, lounge on the sand, or stroll through the streets filled with local shops and cafes.

From reviews, many mention how calming and unspoiled Himara feels—“The beach was gorgeous, and the water was so clear I could see my feet,” one visitor recalls. The town’s low-key atmosphere makes it ideal for unwinding after the castle visit, and the local eateries nearby serve simple, fresh food that complements the seaside experience.

What you can do here:

• Relax on the beach and maybe take a swim.
• Stroll through town, soaking in its peaceful charm.
• Grab a quick snack or drink at seaside cafes.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch and Leisure in Himara

A highlight for many travelers is the chance to enjoy a leisurely lunch. Some reviews mention the guided tour as a great way to explore local spots, but the free time in Himara allows you to choose your own pace. Whether you prefer a quick snack or a full seafood feast, you’ll find plenty of options.

The water here is often described as inviting, and you might find the opportunity to cool off in the Ionian Sea. The relaxed atmosphere means you can soak in the views and weather—just a perfect way to recharge before heading back.

Return Journey and Sunset Dinner

As the day winds down, you’ll reboard your van for the scenic drive back to Saranda, roughly 1.5 hours. The final experience of the day is a dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you’ll enjoy local dishes—particularly fresh seafood—while watching the sunset over the water. Multiple reviews mention how memorable this is, with many highlighting the combination of delicious food and stunning views as a perfect end.

This dinner isn’t just about the meal; it’s about savoring the moment, with many noting the peaceful ambiance and the way the setting sun enhances the flavors and atmosphere.

Practical Details for Travelers

Transportation and Group Size: The tour is operated in a private van, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to large group tours. The total duration is 8 hours, with the start time to be checked depending on availability.

Cost and Value: While the tour price isn’t specified here, considering the guided visits, entrance tickets, and dinner included, the value appears solid for an all-encompassing day trip. It’s a convenient way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or admission tickets yourself.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, your camera, and water. Remember, smoking isn’t allowed during the tour, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or non-swimmers.

Language: The guides speak multiple languages—English, Albanian, Greek, Italian, French, Spanish—making the experience accessible for many travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a mix of history, beach time, and scenic drives without overpacking their day. It’s ideal for those looking for authentic moments—like exploring Ali Pasha’s fortress—and enjoying the tranquility of Himara’s shoreline. If you love capturing beautiful views and savoring fresh seafood while watching a sunset, this tour is a good pick.

However, if you prefer a highly flexible, spontaneous trip or have mobility issues, you might find the structured schedule a bit restrictive. Non-swimmers should note that swimming is optional, but the beach time can be limited.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a well-rounded day exploring the best of Albania’s coast—history at Porto Palermo, relaxation in Himara, and stunning scenery throughout. It’s particularly good for travelers who appreciate guided insights, scenic drives, and local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

While it’s a fairly full schedule, the balance between sightseeing and leisure makes it manageable and enjoyable. The inclusion of a sunset seaside dinner tops off the experience, adding a touch of magic to an already memorable day.

If you’re after a thoughtfully organized day that combines culture, nature, and good food—plus some of the best coastal views—you’ll likely find this tour well worth it.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to the starting point.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive from Saranda to Porto Palermo takes about 75 minutes, and the return journey to Saranda is approximately 1.5 hours.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
No, a dinner at a seaside restaurant is included in the tour, but you may want to bring snacks or extra water for the day.

Is swimming available during the tour?
Yes, there’s free time in Himara where you can swim in the Ionian Sea if you wish.

What languages do the guides speak?
Guides can speak Albanian, Greek, English, Italian, French, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, and children should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and walking. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues.

This tour from Saranda provides a balanced mix of history, coastal beauty, and relaxation, crafted for travelers who want to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort. It’s a memorable way to experience Albania’s stunning Riviera and uncover some of its hidden gems.

You can check if your dates are available here: