Things to Do in Dhërmi, Albania: A Guide to Beaches, Villages and the Coast
Dhërmi is one of the most beautiful places to experience the Albanian Riviera, combining clear Ionian water, dramatic mountain scenery, traditional villages and easy access to some of the best beaches in Southern Albania.
Located on Albania’s southern coast between Vlorë and Himarë, Dhërmi is more than a summer beach destination. It is also an excellent base for discovering Drymades, Palasë, Gjipe, Llogara and Himarë, making it a practical choice for travelers who want to explore several destinations during one stay. Dhërmi is officially part of Himara municipality and is known for its Ionian beaches, traditional architecture and surrounding natural landscape.
1. Spend a Day at Dhërmi Beach
Dhërmi Beach is one of the best-known beaches on the Albanian Riviera. Its clear blue water and mountain backdrop make it especially popular during the summer months.
Along the coast you will find restaurants, cafés and beach facilities, while the long waterfront also makes it easy to combine swimming with a relaxed lunch or evening by the sea.
For travelers searching for beach accommodation in Dhërmi, staying in or around Dhërmi also makes several nearby Riviera destinations easily accessible.
2. Discover Drymades Beach
Just north of the main Dhërmi beach area, Drymades offers another beautiful stretch of Ionian coastline.
It is particularly attractive for travelers who want to spend most of their holiday close to the sea while still being within easy reach of Dhërmi village and nearby destinations.
Dhërmi and Drymades are commonly grouped together as one of the Riviera’s major beach areas, known for clear water and the dramatic Ceraunian Mountain backdrop.
3. Explore Old Dhërmi Village
A visit to Dhërmi should not be limited to the beach.
Above the coast, the old village offers a different atmosphere, with traditional stone houses, narrow streets, churches and views toward the Ionian Sea.
Spending an hour walking through the upper village gives visitors a better understanding of the history and character of this part of Southern Albania.
4. Visit Gjipe Beach and Gjipe Canyon
For many travelers, Gjipe Beach is one of the highlights of a trip along the Albanian Riviera.
Located between Dhërmi and Himarë, the beach sits at the entrance to a dramatic canyon and is more isolated than the main resort beaches.
Visitors commonly reach Gjipe on foot or by boat, making the journey part of the experience itself.
If you are staying in Dhërmi, Gjipe is an excellent choice for a half-day or full-day excursion.
5. Explore Palasë and Green Coast
North of Dhërmi lies Palasë, another spectacular part of Southern Albania’s coastline.
The area is particularly convenient for visitors traveling between Dhërmi and Llogara and adds another beach experience without requiring a long journey.
For guests staying around Green Coast or Palasë, Dhërmi, Drymades and the Llogara area can all form part of the same coastal itinerary.
6. Drive to Llogara Pass
One of the defining experiences of an Albanian Riviera road trip is the mountain landscape around Llogara.
The route connects the Vlorë side of the coast with Dhërmi and the Riviera further south, offering dramatic views where the mountains meet the Ionian Sea.
Llogara is frequently recommended as an easy excursion from Dhërmi and as one of the major stops along this part of the Riviera.
7. Take a Day Trip to Himarë
Dhërmi and Himarë work extremely well together during the same holiday.
Himarë is approximately 15–20 km south of Dhërmi and offers beaches, restaurants, a waterfront promenade and the historic Himara Castle area. Current local guides estimate the drive at roughly 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Visitors can spend the morning exploring Himarë and continue to nearby beaches such as Livadhi or Potam.
8. Swim at Potam Beach
On the southern side of Himarë, Potam offers another beautiful place for a relaxed swimming day.
Its location makes it particularly convenient for visitors who want to combine Himarë town with beaches slightly outside the center.
Guests staying in the wider Himarë or Potam area can also explore Dhërmi, Livadhi, Porto Palermo and other parts of the Riviera without constantly changing accommodation.
Where to Stay When Exploring Dhërmi and the Albanian Riviera
Choosing the right location depends on how you want to experience Southern Albania.
Stay near Dhërmi or Drymades if beaches, restaurants and summer atmosphere are your priorities. Choose Palasë and Green Coast for easy access to the northern side of the Riviera and Llogara. Consider Himarë or Potam if you want a central base for exploring beaches and coastal villages farther south.
Stay By Ilvesta offers a selection of villas and apartments across several of these Southern Albanian destinations, allowing guests to choose a location that matches their itinerary rather than staying far away from the places they plan to visit.
Final Thoughts
Dhërmi is an excellent starting point for discovering the Albanian Riviera because some of Southern Albania’s best-known destinations are within a relatively compact stretch of coastline.
Instead of visiting only one beach, plan time for Dhërmi, Drymades, Gjipe, Palasë, Llogara and Himarë. Together they offer a much richer picture of what makes the Albanian Riviera one of the most interesting coastal destinations in the Balkans.
