Qeparo Beach and Himara from Saranda: Half-Day Guided Tour

Travel comfortably along the spectacular Albanian Riviera
Discover the traditional charm of the hillside villages
Explore the historic old town - Qeparo and Himara
Admire panoramic views of the Albanian Ionian coast
Enjoy free time to relax by the sea on the beautiful beaches
Benefit from comfortable transport in a car or minivan
Hear interesting facts and stories from a guide
Smartphone Vouchers are accepted, no need to print the tickets

Join us on a half-day guided tour as it takes you along the stunning Albanian Riviera between Saranda and Vlora. You will visit two places, Qeparo and Himara. Travel in a comfortable car or minivan as you follow the scenic Ionian coastline. First, you will visit Qeparo, a beautiful village located about 40 kilometers north of Saranda. Here you will see the famous places such as the old town of Qeparo, Shen Dhimitri Monastery, St. Spiridion Church, and more. You can also have some free time to relax by the sea. If you are hungry, you can visit small restaurants, bars, or taverns. With this guided tour, you will explore the old town set on a hill overlooking the sea. Next, you will visit Himara, passing the beaches of Porto Palermo. In Himara, you will visit the famous Himara Castle, built in the 5th Century BC by the Greek tribe Caoni. Inside the castle, you will find ancient churches, monuments, the Temple of Apollo, and a historic Greek school. Along the way, you will see breathtaking landscapes where mountains meet the sea. From the hilltop charm of Qeparo to the historic walls of Himara Castle, this tour beautifully captures the spirit and coastal beauty of the Albanian Riviera.

Your journey along the beautiful Albanian Riviera begins with a comfortable drive by car or minivan along the stunning Ionian coastline, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the culture, landscapes, and history of this remarkable region. Traveling between Saranda and Vlorë, the road reveals dramatic views of mountains meeting the deep blue sea, charming coastal villages, and long stretches of unspoiled shoreline. The first stop is the picturesque village of Qeparo, located about 40 kilometers north of Saranda in the heart of the Albanian Riviera. This coastal settlement is known for its stone houses, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic paths that gently lead toward the sea.

Your guided exploration begins in the old village of Qeparo, where narrow paths wind through olive and lemon groves toward the historic hilltop settlement. The village developed around important religious sites such as the Shen Dhimitri Monastery and the St. Spiridion Church. Perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea, the village offers breathtaking panoramic views, and on exceptionally clear days it is even possible to glimpse the distant coast of Italy. The old town, which dates back more than a thousand years, is quiet and atmospheric, with only a few residents remaining today. Around the hill lie the remnants of five different megalithic walls and the historic Qeparo Karos Castle, whose origins trace back to prehistoric settlements in the area.

After exploring the village, you will have time to relax along Qeparo’s inviting coastline, where a long stretch of fine white sand mixed with soft pebbles creates a peaceful place to enjoy the sea and sunshine. Many small family-run restaurants, taverns, and cafés line the shore, offering a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of choices for refreshments. The journey then continues north along the coast, passing scenic bays such as Porto Palermo before arriving in the charming town of Himarë. Here you will visit the historic Himarë Castle, a well-preserved stone fortress standing high above the sea. Built originally in the 5th century BC by the ancient Greek tribe known as the Chaonians, the castle offers sweeping views of the Ionian coast and contains historic churches, monuments, the remains of the ancient Temple of Apollo, and a historic Greek school. Paths around the fortress wind through olive and citrus groves, eventually leading down toward the sea, completing a memorable journey through history, culture, and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Travel by comfortable car or minivan
Guide Albanian , English , Italian speaking

Food and Beverages
Gratuities

Voucher Information: Mobile Vouchers are accepted !
Disclaimer: Due to traffic issues, public holidays, weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances, there might be sudden changes in the route or in the schedule. Traffic congestion and road closures- may cause delays and changes to the route. We’ll do all we can to provide a smooth and frequent service! No refund will be offered for any changes or cancellations due to any unforeseen circumstances.
Due the moderate amount of walking to reach the main attraction sites could be better to wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
We suggest this tour to customers who are able to climb and descend streets and stairs.
This tour is not suitable for customers in wheelchair.
In case of hot weather we suggest you to bring a cap with you.
Please reach the meeting point 15 minutes before the departure time.

You must cancel your booking at least 24 Hours before the start time of the activity/experience to get a complete refund.
If you cancel your booking less than 24 Hours before the start time of the activity/experience, you will not be reimbursed.
Any modifications made less than 24 Hours before the start time of the activity/experience will not be allowed.
The cut-off times are determined by the activity/experience's local start time.
This activity/experience is weather dependent. If it is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be given an alternate date or a full refund.