Porto Palermo Castle Himarë
A historic castle on a picturesque bay, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Albania's layered past, from Ottoman rule to Soviet submari...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views
Porto Palermo Castle Himarë
Best Time
Golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic castle on a picturesque bay, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Albania's layered past, from Ottoman rule to Soviet submarine base.
"Porto Palermo Castle is a stunning surprise on Albania’s southern coast, perfect for a break from beach days."
Bring Cash for Entry
Entry is 300 LEK, cash only! Smaller notes are appreciated. :moneybag:
Park Nearby, Then Walk
No dedicated parking. Park by the bay and enjoy a short 5-min walk. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Porto Palermo Castle Walls
The main fortress structure
Explore ancient walls offering panoramic views of the bay and coastline. A true step back in time.
Bay of Porto Palermo
Surrounding the castle
A picturesque bay with clear waters, perfect for a refreshing dip after exploring the castle.
Former Soviet Submarine Base
Within the castle complex
Discover the intriguing remnants of its past as a strategic military site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King at Porto Palermo
Timing Your Visit for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Entry
Entry is 300 LEK, cash only! Smaller notes are appreciated. :moneybag:
Park Nearby, Then Walk
No dedicated parking. Park by the bay and enjoy a short 5-min walk. :car:
Limited Info Inside
Research the history beforehand; info boards are scarce. :books:
Stunning Photo Ops
The castle and bay offer incredible views, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Entry
Entry is 300 LEK, cash only! Smaller notes are appreciated. :moneybag:
Park Nearby, Then Walk
No dedicated parking. Park by the bay and enjoy a short 5-min walk. :car:
Limited Info Inside
Research the history beforehand; info boards are scarce. :books:
Stunning Photo Ops
The castle and bay offer incredible views, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Beach Time
Perfect break from beach days with a quick swim nearby. :bikini:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Porto Palermo Castle for its stunning coastal views and intriguing history, particularly its past as a submarine base. It's seen as a worthwhile, affordable stop on the Albanian Riviera, offering a perfect blend of history and beach relaxation. However, some note the lack of detailed historical information on-site and the cash-only payment requirement.
"Porto Palermo is an amazing place full of history and charm.
The views are absolutely stunning, especially on sunny days when the turquoise water sparkles in the sunlight — it looks truly breathtaking. There’s also a nice restaurant nearby, maybe not the cheapest, but the food is genuinely delicious and worth it. The whole area has a fantastic atmosphere and is definitely worth visiting.
However, there is one major problem that really needs attention — cleanliness. Unfortunately, the place can be very dirty at times. We’ve been there several times, and piles of garbage with a terrible smell were left lying around. It’s shocking that such a beautiful and popular destination, visited by so many tourists every day, is not properly maintained. It’s surprising that the local authorities allow this to happen in such a remarkable location.
Despite this issue, I still highly recommend visiting Porto Palermo. It’s a beautiful spot where you can swim, relax, or even come with a camper van or launch a jet ski or a small boat. It truly has great potential — I just hope the cleanliness will soon match the beauty of this place."
Albania4x4offroad carrentalholidays
"For €3 per person it was fine, but not a place I’d go out of my way to visit.
Nice views from the top of the castle and it is probably interesting for those that know the history, but there was no information about the history on site for those that didn’t do any reading prior to the visit.
We went during off season so there was enough parking, but I imagine that parking would be tricky when it’s busy. Entry fee was only payable in cash."
Michelle
"A small fortress, a well-preserved piece of history, but not well-showcased. There are no legends or descriptions of the times and history of the fortress.
There is no dedicated parking; you can park your car near the bay and walk for about 5 minutes.
The fee is minimal, and it's worth a visit, but again, without descriptions, a story... the experience feels dry."
Neagu Mihai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Porto Palermo Castle is located a few kilometers south of Himarë along the Albanian Riviera. You can reach it by car, taxi, or local bus. Many visitors rent a car to explore the coast, and parking is available near the bay, followed by a short walk to the castle.,
Yes, local buses that travel along the coast between Sarandë and Vlorë typically stop near Porto Palermo. It's advisable to confirm schedules with local operators.
If you're coming from Sarandë, driving or taking a bus towards Himarë will pass by Porto Palermo. The journey offers scenic coastal views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically 300 LEK per person. It's important to note that payment is cash only, so be sure to have smaller denominations with you.,
No, advance booking is generally not required for Porto Palermo Castle. Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the entrance.
Opening hours can vary, but the castle is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or with your accommodation for the most up-to-date information.
There isn't a dedicated parking lot directly at the castle. Visitors can park their vehicles near the bay and then walk for about 5 minutes to reach the entrance.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle walls offer stunning panoramic views of the bay and coastline, especially during sunrise and sunset. The unique shape of the castle and its strategic location make for dramatic shots.,
Drone photography is popular here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the castle and its surroundings. Ensure you are aware of any local regulations regarding drone usage.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the castle and sea.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the main fortress structure, remnants of its past as a Soviet submarine base, and various rooms. While the information boards are scarce, the architecture and views are the main draw.,
Yes, Porto Palermo Castle is a relatively small site that can be explored in about an hour, making it an ideal stop for those exploring the Albanian Riviera.
Information inside the castle is quite limited, with only a few basic info boards. Many visitors recommend researching the history of Ali Pasha and the castle's strategic importance beforehand.
There is a small beach right next to the castle, making it a perfect spot for a quick swim or to relax after your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there isn't extensive historical interpretation on-site, the visual aspect of the castle and its former military use can spark children's imaginations. Encourage them to imagine knights or submarines! Remember to bring cash for the entrance fee and plenty of water, as it can get warm.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic lunch and a swim at the adjacent beach to keep costs down. Many travelers also find that exploring the castle and its surroundings can be done independently, without the need for guided tours, further saving money.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a telephoto lens for details of the fortress. The castle's history as a former submarine base also offers a unique narrative for photography. Experiment with different angles to highlight the contrast between the ancient stone and the remnants of its more recent military past. Drone photography can offer breathtaking aerial perspectives of the entire bay and peninsula.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Intriguing History of Porto Palermo Castle
Beyond its Ottoman-era origins, the castle holds a more recent and intriguing secret: it served as a former Soviet submarine base during the communist regime in Albania. This dual history adds a unique dimension to the site, blending ancient fortifications with Cold War-era military infrastructure. Visitors can explore remnants of this past, offering a glimpse into Albania's complex geopolitical history.,
The castle's location in the closed bay of Porto Palermo, connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land, further enhances its strategic importance and visual appeal. This unique geography, combined with its historical significance, makes Porto Palermo Castle a compelling destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Experiencing Porto Palermo: Beyond the Castle Walls
For those exploring the Albanian Riviera, Porto Palermo serves as an excellent stopover. The drive along the coast is incredibly scenic, and the castle provides a perfect break from beach hopping. Many visitors appreciate the minimal entrance fee and the ease of access, making it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary.
Travelers often highlight the photographic potential of Porto Palermo, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The interplay of light on the ancient stones and the shimmering sea creates a magical atmosphere.,
The nearby landscape, with its rugged coastline and Mediterranean vegetation, adds to the overall charm of the region. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit