How to Get to Himara from Vlora: Complete Guide, Buses & Best Routes
Are you looking for the best panoramic views on the Balkan Peninsula? You should definitely learn how to get to Himara from Vlora easily this season.
This beautiful coastal region features an ancient castle, stunning mountain views, and crystal-clear beaches. Today, it offers a great mix of history and scenery.
Our practical guide helps you choose the perfect transport option for this journey. You will find fresh bus schedules, ticket prices, and driving routes below.
Essential Travel Resources
Before you head out, sort your travel essentials to secure the best rates:
- Car Rental: Compare local deals and prices on DiscoverCars.
- Excursions & Guides: Book top excursions and local guides on GetYourGuide.
- Mobile Internet: Instant internet connection upon arrival via Yesim eSIM.
- Where to Stay: Find top-rated hotels and apartments on Expedia.
- Travel Insurance: Protect your trips with SafetyWing.
Public Transport vs. Renting a Car
Reaching this historic mountain peak requires some basic travel planning. Let us compare the main transportation options for tourists.
Traveling by Local Bus and Minivan from Vlora Terminal (near Kastrati gas station)
You can choose between two main options when traveling by bus from Vlora.
First, you can use the new bus terminal outside Vlora city.
It is located near the large Kastrati gas station.
Regular minivans (furgons) depart from here directly toward the Riviera. The winter ticket price was 700 ALL, but now expects to pay around 800 ALL.
Many budget travelers choose this option when figuring out how to get to Himara without a car.
Traveling by Bus from Bar Te Miri in Vlora
Second, you can catch a direct bus near Bar Te Miri in Vlora.
- Buses leave at 7:00, 8:00, and 9:00 AM daily.
- A ticket to Himara costs 800 ALL (Lek) or approximately 8 Euro.
This bus goes along the entire coast to Saranda. It makes multiple stops, including the village of Himara.
Driving a Private Vehicle
Renting a vehicle remains the most comfortable way to travel here.
You can explore the steep roads at your own pace. Knowing how to get to Himara by car gives you a huge advantage on these mountain roads.
🔎 We highly recommend booking a reliable car via DiscoverCars.
Advantages: A private car allows you to stop at amazing panoramic viewpoints. You can easily plan your own schedule and stay fully independent.
👉 You will find answers to any booking questions in the article: DiscoverCars Albania 2026: Rent a Car Safely Without Overpaying.
Which Road to Choose from Vlora to Himara?
If you choose a road trip, you need to know how to get to Himara by car.
Drivers can choose between two main routes when traveling from Vlora. Each highway path offers a completely different driving experience.
The Fast Bypass Route
You can take the modern inland bypass road via the Novosela turn. This fast route avoids the busy coastal areas completely. The road is wide, flat, and very easy to drive. It is the best choice if you want to arrive quickly.
The Panoramic Riviera Route
The traditional coastal highway runs directly along the beautiful sea. This path takes you through the famous mountain switchbacks of Llogara Pass. It offers spectacular views but requires careful driving. Traffic can be very dense during the high holiday season.
Finding the Castle Bus Stop: Key Landmarks
The ancient ruins stand on a hill about 2 kilometers before the main town. If you travel by public transport, look out for these important landmarks.
The bus makes a request stop near a tiny traditional chapel in the village. This spot is right at the crossroads heading to the ruins.
📍 Drop-off Location Coordinates: 40.119082, 19.732715
A narrow street inside the Himara Fortress.
You can catch the return bus at the local Alpet gas station.
⚠️ Important driving tip: The bus appears from around the sharp bend very quickly. You must wave your hand clearly so the driver notices you.
📍 Alpet Station Coordinates: 40.119563, 19.732713
What to See Inside the Castle Grounds
The ancient ruins are located on a mountain 240 meters high. From the top, the entire sea coast is perfectly visible. You can clearly see the modern town and beautiful Livadi Beach.
Today, tourists can walk on the old remaining fortress walls. Interestingly, some historic houses near the ruins are still residential. Local people live there and grow vegetables in their green gardens.
Himara Castle Quick Facts:
- Ticket Price: 300 ALL (Albanian Lek)
- Opening Hours: Open daily (Discounts available for young children)
📍 GPS Coordinates: 40.118985, 19.732645
History and Ancient Ruins
Soldiers founded this strategic military stronghold in the 4th-3rd century BC. The first human settlements here appeared during the Bronze Age. Even the famous Roman historian Pliny mentioned these mountain walls.
The ancient walls with narrow passages resemble a fairy tale.
The castle served as a major center of Albanian regional resistance. Local heroes fought the Ottoman conquerors here in 1481 and 1537. Today, it is an important archaeological heritage site protected by law.
Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus
This ancient church is a cultural monument of the first category. Archaeologists found a historic stone from the year 786 at its foundation.
The unusual design of the church is surprising.
In 1020, the church became a major patriarchal center. Byzantine Emperor Basil II confirmed its high status with an official charter. Today, these beautiful ruins remind us of its former medieval power.
Café at the Castle Exit
After exploring the hot ruins, you can stop for a break. A small cozy café operates right near the old exit.
After visiting the fortress, you can sit in a cafe.
Is Himara Worth Visiting?
Yes, figuring out how to get to Himara is absolutely worth your time. It is a fantastic weekend route for families and solo travelers.
Wonderful morning view of the surrounding area near the village of Himara.
You can take unique photos of the mountain valley and sea. It is a perfect place to touch real history.
👉 Hiking Trails Guide: If you love active mountain routes, read our guide Albania Travel Routes 2026 — Your Complete Navigation Guide.
Shorts: View of Livadi Beach and the Village of Himara from the Fortress
Shot Date: April 29, 2024
The video features a panoramic view of Livadi Beach and the village of Himara from the fortress. A beautiful panorama of the mountain valley, the chirping of cicadas, plenty of sun and space.
👉 Subscribe to the Life in Albania channel and like it — price reviews and up-to-date information about life in Albania.
Author content.
If this article helped you, you can support the author with a coffee.
