Where to Stay in the Albanian Riviera

Where to Stay in the Albanian Riviera: Best Towns and Beach Hotels

Wondering where to stay in the Albanian Riviera? The Albanian Riviera offers stunning pebble beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, hidden coves, and exciting water activities.

It is important to plan how many days you will spend and which coastal town you want to stay in.

Wake up to the sound of the waves and welcome the salty sea breeze through the windows in these fabulous hotels, which offer privileged views and where you will be happy to wake up every morning.

This post will help you find the best beach towns and hotels on the Albanian Riviera, whether visiting for the first time or looking for a beach getaway.

Where to Stay in the Albanian Riviera

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here are our favorite towns and beach hotels in the Albanian Riviera to stay in.

Dhermi: The small coastal town is a good choice for those who love the vibrant beach life and the seaside restaurants and beach clubs where they can spend their time.

• Best beach bar Hotel: La Brisa Boutique
• Best hotel with outdoor pool: Empire Beach Resort

Himare: The best seaside town for everyone, you can easily explore hidden beaches and take lots of boat trips. Around the Himare beach, you will find many cozy restaurants, bars, local vendors, and shops.

• Romantic getaway: Rea Boutique Hotel
• Best affordable hotel: Soñar en el mar

Ksamil: It is famous for its soft white sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, various water activities, and beautiful views of the surrounding islands.

• Closest to everything: Poda Boutique Hotel
• For the best view: Arameras Beach Resort

Vlore: This seaside town is a quick drive from Tirana or a short ferry journey from Italy, and a perfect base for exploring the rest of the Albanian Riviera.

• Best for a quiet escape: Maritim Marina Bay Resort SPA
• Best choice for everyone: Yacht Hotel

Saranda: Whether you enjoy a picturesque sunset in the evening or want to party, the town provides the ideal environment for relaxation and a taste of the essence of beach life.

• Best value for money: Hotel Aloha
• Best for Families or Groups of Friends: Aquamarine Apartments

1. Dhermi

Where to stay in the Albanian Riviera for the best sea views? Dhermi’s crystal clear turquoise waters are incredibly inviting, making it a paradise for swimming and snorkeling lovers.
On the beach, elegant umbrellas offer a private retreat for guests where you can relax on sun loungers, sip refreshing cocktails, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.

We were in Dhermi at the end of May, and it was very quiet, but there are often beach parties in the summer months. Dhermi has two longer beaches with luxury and mid-range hotels overlooking the Sea. If you are looking for more affordable hotels close to the beach, Essos Villas and Sofo Hotel are good choices.

One is Dhermi beach, a small pebble beach with beautiful turquoise waters. The other one is Drymades beach, 5 minutes’ drive away, also very nice, and we loved spending a few hours there. We have a detailed post on the best beach hotels in Dhermi to suit all budgets.

Most people choose to stay at Dhermi beach, which is better built and has many beach restaurants and beach clubs where you can spend a few lazy days.

If you’re planning a family vacation, then you may not want to stay in this town on the Albanian Riviera, but if you like the vibrant beach life, it’s a great choice.

Beyond A Luxury Boutique Hotel

This beachfront hotel offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea and is just a short walk from the beach. All rooms and suites are equipped with modern facilities and furnishings, ensuring a stylish and comfortable retreat. The highlight of the hotel, the hotel restaurant, combines the best of traditional Albanian cuisine with fresh, delicious seafood.

Photo credit: Beyond A Luxury Boutique Hotel

La Brisa Boutique Hotel

La Brisa Boutique Hotel is one of the best 5-star beachfront hotels in Dhermi. The hotel offers two restaurants, an outdoor pool, a spa & gym, a 24-hour front desk, room service, parking, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. This hotel has the perfect atmosphere to ensure the best relaxation during your stay in the Albanian Riviera.

Photo credit: La Brisa Boutique Hotel

Empire Beach Resort – Adults Only

Empire Beach Resort is a 4-star hotel overlooking the Ionian Sea with a private beach, outdoor swimming pool, and excellent leisure facilities. Taste the juicy, fresh seafood live cooked by the hotel’s chefs or enjoy special sushi nights by the sea at Sanur á la carte restaurant.

Photo credit: Empire Beach Resort

2. Himare – Stay in the Albanian Riviera near the Best Beaches

Where to stay on the Albanian Riviera if you’re looking for secluded beaches and underrated places to visit? We stayed here for 3 nights and it was one of our best choices when travelling on the Albanian Riviera as it had the most and best beaches to explore.

It is much quieter than other towns on the Albanian Riviera. In fact, it is not a big town, so you can easily walk to the Himare beach from anywhere. You can easily book epic boat tours and water taxis or rent kayaks at the beach. So even if you arrive with or without a car, there is plenty to do in Himare.

The city center can also be a good choice if you are looking for affordable accommodation and are arriving in the city by public transportation. But hotels by the beach always give you the feeling of a real holiday and relaxation.

Recommended post → Where to stay in Himare

Around the Himare beach, you will find many cozy restaurants, bars, local vendors, and shops. Spend a few hours relaxing on the beach, drinking a refreshing cocktail, or trying delicious Albanian food. However, if you want to get to a secluded beach like Aquarium Beach or visit the more popular Gjipe Beach, you will need a car.

It’s one of the best places to stay on the Albanian Riviera if you want to explore most of the beaches.

Artis Blue Relax

Situated right by the sea, offers beautiful views of the town, the mountains, and the sea. The rooms have everything you need for a relaxing stay. The bathtub overlooking the sea is the ideal place to relax after a long and busy day. This is one of the best luxury hotels to stay at during your trip to the Albanian Riviera.

Photo credit: Artis Blue Relax

Rea Boutique Hotel

The Rea Boutique Hotel is a unique hotel with a small selection of rooms and a panoramic sea view location. The hotel provides accommodations with a bar, free private parking, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a desk, an electric kettle, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a terrace, and a private bathroom with a shower.

Photo credit: Rea Boutique Hotel

Soñar en el mar

This is one of the best beach hotels in Himare, ideal for couples and families alike. The units have a balcony, air conditioning, a wardrobe, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower and hair dryer. The property also offers private parking and free Wi-Fi. A delicious á la carte breakfast is served daily.

Photo credit: Soñar en el mar

3. Ksamil – Coolest Place to Stay in the Albanian Riviera

Don’t know where to stay in the Albanian Riviera? Look no further. Ksamil beach is famous for its soft white sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, various water activities, and beautiful views of the surrounding islands. Fresh seafood, crisp salads, delicious pasta dishes, and tasty cocktails await you on the beach.

We arrived in the city after Himare and stayed here for 3 days. In our opinion, you can spend more than a few days in this town. There is plenty to do in Ksamil, whether taking a day trip to the Blue Eye or exploring the town or the surrounding beaches, you won’t be bored.

In the center, you’ll find plenty of affordable accommodation such as the Blue Eye Hotel or the Area Hotel, from where you can easily walk to the beach. Ksamil Beach is one of the most beautiful and crowded beaches in Albania. Although there are quieter beaches in Ksamil, this was one of our favorites. If you’re looking for a quieter area to stay with your family, read our detailed post on where to stay in Ksamil.

Everybody wants to see the beach, as it has become very popular on social media, but not everyone likes crowds, so you need to think about whether it’s worth a visit. We’ve got a detailed post where you can read our honest assessment of what we didn’t like and what we liked about our visit to Ksamil beach.

So whether you’re looking for a trip with friends, a romantic getaway, or a family holiday, Ksamil is the ideal place to stay on the Albanian Riviera.

Poda Boutique Hotel

Poda Boutique Hotel has a private beach and is located in one of the best locations in Ksamil. The hotel also has a swimming pool where you can relax or walk to the beach, where free sun loungers and umbrellas are provided. The beachfront restaurant serves a variety of fresh seafood and cocktails from where you can enjoy the view.

Photo credit: Poda Boutique Hotel

Arameras Beach Resort

Arameras Resort is located a 10-minute drive from the picturesque town of Ksamil, offering breathtaking views of the island of Corfu. The resort offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden, and a shared lounge. Set on the pristine coastline of Ksamil, its private beach offers a secluded getaway easily accessible by the daily golf cart offered by the hotel.

Photo credit: Arameras Beach Resort

Hotel Artur

Do you want to stay in a hotel with a private beach on the Albanian Riviera? It has free parking and free umbrellas and sun loungers are provided for hotel guests at the beach. It’s about a 15-minute walk from busy bars and parties but far enough away to be quiet and peaceful. The spacious rooms have views of the beach and a balcony where you can enjoy the magical scenery.

Photo credit: Hotel Artur

4. Vlore

Located in the south-west of Albania, this coastal town is easily accessible by ferry even from Italy. Vlore promenade is one of the best places for relaxing walks along the beach, cycling, and other sports. Lush palm trees and typical Mediterranean plants are in perfect harmony with the surrounding space. Delicious snacks, refreshing drinks, cocktails, and long drinks await visitors on the beach.

The old town has colourful streets lined with restaurants and cafés, making it a pleasant place for an afternoon walk. The town offers a variety of affordable, mid-range, and luxury accommodations, making it ideal for those visiting the Albanian Riviera for the first time.

Affordable hotels such as the Sea & Sand Hotel or the Grand Mirage are a good choice for those travelling on a budget but want to enjoy life by the beach. But if you are looking for hotels that are located on cliffs above the sea, you will have to go a little further from the town, but the view will make up for it.

The coastal city of Vlore is a quick drive from Tirana, and is a perfect base for exploring the rest of the Albanian Riviera.

Maritim Marina Bay Resort SPA

A 10-minute drive from the city center, the hotel is set in a secluded bay and is a luxurious oasis overlooking the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. The resort’s spa will provide a unique and relaxing spa experience during your stay on the Albanian Riviera. A secluded beach area is available where you can enjoy complete privacy or relax in one of the three hotel pools.

Photo credit: Maritim Marina Bay Resort SPA

Yacht Hotel

The hotel is a unique blend of comfort, style, and design, offering stunning views of the beautiful sea and promenade. The rooms have everything you need for a relaxing stay. A very short walk away is the hotel’s beach bar, pizzeria, and a cute little playground ideal for family travellers. Enjoy authentic Albanian, Mediterranean, and Italian cuisine at The Yacht restaurant.

Photo credit: Yacht Hotel

Hotel Liro – Adults Only

Set on a cliff edge, the hotel offers one of the best views and its own beach. The sea is great for swimming, as is the saltwater pool, which always feels natural. The hotel restaurant is of high quality and offers a great selection of fresh seafood. Overall, the hotel is a perfect choice for anyone looking to stay in a quieter part of the Albanian Riviera.

Photo credit: Hotel Liro – Adults Only

5. Saranda – Most popular place on the Albanian Riviera

Where to Stay in the Albanian Riviera for Nightlife? One of the largest cities in southern Albania, Saranda has a fantastic nightlife especially in the summer months. The seafront promenade has several excellent restaurants and beach bars. You can reach the city directly from Tirana by bus, but many people also arrive by boat from Corfu.

There is plenty of affordable accommodation in the port area, and hotels such as Hotel Mano are close to the bus station and the port. But there are also beach hotels like Da Luz Boutique Hotel that offer unforgettable moments of relaxation.

However, there’s not so much to do in Saranda. Still, there are plenty of tours to different beaches, and it’s a great central location for exploring the surrounding areas.

Whether you enjoy a picturesque sunset in the evening or want to party, the town provides the ideal environment for relaxation and a taste of the essence of beach life.

Hotel Vale

The pleasant boutique-style Hotel Vale is centrally located, with easy access to all the city’s main attractions, beaches, and restaurants. A fresh buffet is served every day, with a huge selection including local and international dishes, freshly squeezed orange juice, and the best coffees. The hotel is within walking distance of the port if you are arriving from Corfu, and is also close to the bus station for getting to Ksamil from the city.

Photo credit: Hotel Vale

Hotel Aloha

The hotel is in a beautiful location close to the best restaurants and the harbour, but still away from the noise of the city. It has a private beach with free sun loungers for guests to make their stay on the Albanian Riviera comfortable. The spacious apartments with air conditioning, soundproof walls, and sea-view balconies are also a good choice for families.

Photo credit: Hotel Aloha

Aquamarine Apartments

The apartments are modern, clean, and comfortable, and if you arrive by car, you can park in the covered garage. Aquamarine Apartments is well furnished, and the kitchen is equipped with everything you need during your stay. Supermarkets, bars, and restaurants, as well as the public beach, are located right in front of the building. On the balcony, you can enjoy your breakfast and coffee overlooking the sea.

Photo credit: Aquamarine Apartments

Albanian Riviera: FAQ

Top Tours

Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Karaburun Boat Tour
Saranda, Ksamil Islands, Blue Eye Tour
Bovilla Lake & Gamti Mountain Hiking
Berat City and Belshi Lake Tour

When is the best time to stay in the Albanian Riviera?

The best time to visit is from May to September. The weather is sunny and dry during these months, perfect for swimming, boat trips, and exploring the attractions. The hottest and most crowded months are July and August.

How to Get Around

The best way to explore the Riviera is by car. You can also explore many beaches and hidden gems, and it’s much more comfortable. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can also take buses to different cities.

How many days do you need?

It depends on how many towns you want to stay in. We first stayed in Himare for 3 days, and from there we explored the Dhermi area by car. Afterwards, we spent 3 days in the popular Ksamil. If you want to relax and explore the best beaches and places of the Albanian Riviera, we recommend spending at least 7 days.

Where is the Albanian Riviera?

It is a stretch of coastline in southwestern Albania along the Ionian Sea, covering the towns and villages between Vlore and Sarande.

Where to Stay in the Albanian Riviera: Map of the Best Towns

We have categorized the Albanian Riviera into 5 towns to help you find the best places to stay.

We hope our post on the best towns and hotels in the Albanian Riviera helps you plan where to stay. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.

More Travel Guides about Albania

• The Best Albania Itinerary for 2 Weeks
• 7 Best Things to Do in Ksamil
• How to Visit Lumi i Shales
• Best Things to Do in Gjirokaster
• Best Beaches in Himare
• How to Visit Butrint National Park

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