Audio Guide of Porto Palermo Bay

The bay is freely accessible all day. To visit Porto Palermo Castle within the same site, it is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM in high season (May-September). You can get there via the SH8 coastal road, with parking next to the entrance. More details are available on the official Albanian monuments website.

Access to the bay is free, but admission to Porto Palermo Castle costs 300 lekë (approx. €3). Children under 12 enter free. Cards are not accepted, so bring cash in Albanian lekë.

A full visit takes 1-2 hours: about 45 minutes to explore the castle and fortifications, plus extra time to enjoy the pebble beach. If you swim in its crystal-clear waters, add 1 more hour.

Built in 1798 by Ali Pashë Tepelena (an Ottoman governor), it served as a strategic naval base. It was later used as a political prison during the communist regime. Its triangular architecture on the promontory is unique in Albania.

April-June and September-October offer pleasant temperatures (20-28°C) and fewer tourists. In summer it can be crowded. The early morning hours are ideal for photos without shadows and to avoid the intense heat.

The terrain is uneven, with stone paths and steps in the castle. The beach has pebbles that make wheelchair access difficult. There are no ramps or adapted restrooms. Sturdy athletic shoes with good grip are recommended.

Within a 20-minute drive you have: 1) Communist-era bunkers in Qeparo 2) Llamani Beach (turquoise waters) 3) The coastal town of Himarë with typical restaurants such as Taqueria Bravo. To the north is Llogara National Park (1 hour).

1) Bring water and sunscreen: there is little shade 2) Closed shoes for exploring the fortifications 3) Cash euros for small purchases 4) Swimsuit and towel if you want to swim 5) Visit the SH8 roadside viewpoint for panoramic photos.