Ksamil or Himare, Which Albanian Beach Town is Better?

So you’re trying to figure out which beach town is better, Ksamil or Himare. I spent a week in each recently. While both towns are on the Albanian Riviera, they are completely different experiences!

Ksamil is very much a beach resort town. It’s full of beach clubs, nightlife and tourists. Compared to Ksamil, Himare is a sleepy little village! It’s much quieter and feels more local and authentic.

Here’s my take on the differences between Ksamil and Himare, and the pros and cons of visiting each.

Ksamil or Himare, Which Albanian Beach Town is Better?

I visited both Ksamil and Himare in June, right before peak tourist season. To be honest, after a week in Ksamil I was more than ready to leave for Himare.

Himare is much more my speed, but for others Himare will be too quiet and Ksamil will be the perfect Albanian beach town.

Overview of Ksamil and Himare

Both Ksamil and Himare are part of Albania’s Riviera – the gorgeous 120 km stretch of coastline that starts in Vlore and ends in Ksamil.

While Ksamil is located at the bottom of Albania, Himare is further up the coast about halfway between Saranda and Vlore.

Ksamil is famous for its white sand beaches and clear, turquoise water. It’s often called the Maldives of Europe and is Albania’s number one holiday destination.

It is primarily a beach resort town with little to do outside of beach activities.

Himare also has beaches, but is more famous for its Greek and Albanian mixed culture and stunning rugged coastline. It’s a little smaller than Ksamil and has a more authentic, local vibe.

Planning a longer trip to Albania? See how I fit Ksamil and Himare into this two-week highlights of Albania itinerary, with both car and bus versions.

The Beaches of Himare and Ksamil

There is no doubt here, the beaches of Ksamil are superior. You just can’t beat that white sand and crystal clear water. Ksamil has many beaches, and you can easily walk to all of them.

On the downside, Ksamil beaches are crowded in summer, and you’ll have to pay for a sunbed and umbrella no matter where you go. There are no free beaches.

Himare has nice beaches too, but not quite as beautiful as Ksamil’s. On the plus side, Spille Beach, the largest one, is public (free). It’s a nice long beach in town, with the main promenade beside it.

There are some pretty spectacular beaches on par with Ksamil, but they are outside of Himare and you’ll need a car to reach them (or be willing to hike).

Which Cost More, Himare or Ksamil?

Ksamil is Albania’s most popular holiday destination and more expensive than Himare. Accommodation, restaurant meals, taxis all cost less in Himare, but not by a huge amount.

If budget is a major consideration, don’t visit either location during July and August when prices are at their highest.

Ksamil and Himare are significantly more affordable during shoulder season, especially May and September.

Which Beach Town has More to Do?

Ksamil is bigger and has more restaurants, night life and water sports than Himare. There’s also a group of 4 islets called the Ksamil Islands that visitors can explore by boat tour or renting a kayak or jet ski.

Neither destination has a lot to do outside of the beaches, but there are interesting sites close to both.

Ksamil is only 5 km from one of Albania’s most important historic sites, Butrint National Park. Butrint is an 86 square km park with spectacular Roman, Greek and Byzantine ruins.

The city of Saranda is another popular excursion from Ksamil. It’s only 15 km up the coast and there’s a bus.

Himare has a charming old town and ancient castle just 2 km from the centre. The fortress of Porto Palmero is 6 km away, and the seaside village of Qeparo Fushe is 13 km down the coast.

Which is Easier to Get to?

Ksamil is easier to get to. Himare is smaller and less popular, so it doesn’t have as many travel options.

Because Ksamil is so close to Corfu, Greece many visitors take the ferry from Corfu to Saranda and then the bus or taxi to Ksamil. It’s a good alternative to taking the bus or taxi from Tirana.

There are buses from Vlore and Tirana to Himare, or private transfers and taxis. From Tirana airport the rate to Himare is 16,000 lek ($191 USD).

I also use Taxi Landi for private transfers and taxi services.

Here’s a summary of the major differences between Ksamil and Himare:

• Ksamil is a lively beach resort town, while Himare is quieter and more authentic
• Ksamil is easier to reach via Corfu, Greece and Saranda, while Himare is better reached from Tirana or Vlore
• Ksamil has beautiful but paid beaches, while Himare offers a large free public beach and quieter nearby spots
• Himare is close to scenic villages and a hilltop castle, while Ksamil is near Butrint’s ancient ruins
• Ksamil is pricier and more touristy, while Himare is more affordable and laid back

Where to Stay in Ksamil and Himare

If you’re wondering where to stay in Ksamil, as long as you don’t stay on the outskirts you’ll be within walking distance of the beaches and restaurants. My top hotel recommendations in Ksamil are:

Luxury hotel: Poda Boutique Hotel
Mid-priced hotel: Emar Beachfront Hotel
Budget hotel: Vila Sun 2e
Best family hotel: Ori Mare Hotel

In Himare it’s important to stay in town unless you have a car. Even finding a taxi in Himare can be challenging! My top hotel recommendations in Himare are:

Luxury hotel: Rea Boutique Hotel
Mid-priced hotel: Guesthouse 1932
Mid-priced hotel: Elpis Guesthouse
Best budget holiday apartment: Ylli’s Rooms

Last Words: Ksamil or Himare, Which Albanian Beach Town is Better?

In the end, choosing between Ksamil and Himare really depends on what kind of beach trip you’re after. If you want perfect beaches and a lively atmosphere, Ksamil is better. If you’re looking for something quieter and more authentic, you’ll enjoy Himare more.

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