Driving from Ksamil to Himara
Himara is the most beloved town on the Albanian Riviera: a Venetian castle, small pebble beaches, and seafood worth the drive. The approach from Vlora crosses Llogara (1,027 m) — a road that’s a destination in itself.
Why book a car in Ksamil for Himara
- Every operator is a verified Albanian business — not a foreign reseller.
- Pick up in Ksamil and drop off in Himara (confirm with the operator).
- Local 24/7 support in English, Italian and Albanian — no overseas hotline.
Arriving in Himara
Himara is the most beloved town on the Albanian Riviera: a Venetian castle, small pebble beaches, and seafood worth the drive. The approach from Vlora crosses Llogara (1,027 m) — a road that’s a destination in itself.
Llogara: 20+ switchbacks on the descent
After cresting Llogara, you face roughly 20 hairpins down to Palasë. The road is paved and safe — but don’t start the descent after dark without mountain-driving experience.
Beach parking
Major beaches (Filikuri, Livadhi, Spile) have paid parking (€3–5/day). Smaller coves don’t — leave the car a walk away on the road.
Fill up before the Riviera
The closest stations to Himara are in Vuno and Borsh. Fill up before leaving Vlora or Saranda — fuel is sparse along the Riviera.
Other trips from Ksamil
To Saranda
Saranda is the entry point for travellers coming off the 90-minute ferry from Corfu. Streets are tight and steep — a small hatchback works far better here than an SUV.
To Gjirokaster
Gjirokaster is the “stone city” — every cobble has a story. But the cobblestones with 20%+ gradients demand constant attention. Overheated brakes are a real risk here.
To Dhermi
Dhermi is the Riviera’s gem: blue water, pebble beaches, and a summer-long club scene. The final approach roads are part-gravel — read on for what to drive.
To Llogara Pass
Llogara isn’t just a destination — it’s the road. 1,027 m above the sea, climbing 12 km from Vlora and dropping 12 km to Palasë. 20+ switchbacks, the Corfu coast on the horizon.
To Vlora
Vlora is the largest city in southern Albania and the natural launchpad for the Albanian Riviera. The new bypass that opened in 2025 has dramatically reduced through-traffic in the city centre.
To Berat
Berat is the UNESCO “City of a Thousand Windows”. The Mangalem quarter is car-free — leave the vehicle by the Osumi river and walk up to the castle. The cobblestones don’t forgive sudden braking.
Questions about Ksamil → Himara
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Do I need a 4x4 for the Riviera villages?
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