The Albanian Riviera is one of the most beautiful regions in Albania, and honestly, maybe even in all of Europe. The moment you start searching online, you’ll see endless photos of white beaches, crystal-clear water, and small bays tucked between the mountains. It’s the kind of place where you instantly picture yourself, lying on a towel, looking out over the Ionian Sea. But where should you stay on the Albanian Riviera? And where can you find the best hotels and other great places to stay?
The coastline stretches from Vlorë to Sarandë, with popular spots like Dhërmi and Himarë along the way. Just south of Sarandë, you’ll find Ksamil, known for its small beaches and almost tropical blue water. At the same time, the number of hotels on the Albanian Riviera is growing fast. From simple guesthouses to modern beachfront hotels, the differences can be quite big.
Crowds are also something to keep in mind. The region has become incredibly popular in recent years. Some seaside towns are lively and busy in summer, while just a few kilometers away you can still find surprisingly quiet beaches.
In this article, we share the best hotels on the Albanian Riviera, from small-scale guesthouses to hotels right by the sea. Perfect if you’re planning a holiday or road trip through Albania and still looking for a great place to stay.
Mini guide:
Albanian Riviera, Albania
Best Time To Visit
May through September for pleasant weather. July and August are peak season, so expect more crowds and higher temperatures.
Where to Stay
Gogo’s Boutique Hotel (Dhërmi): small-scale, stylish, great views.
Aphrodite’s Garden (Himarë): small-scale, and full of atmosphere.
ARAMERAS Resort (Ksamil): modern, luxurious, resort-style stay.
Before You Go
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Skip ahead to your favorite part
- Where to Stay on the Albanian Riviera? The Best Places for Your Holiday
- Best Hotels in Vlorë
- Best Hotels in Dhërmi
- Best Hotels in Himarë
- Best Hotels in Sarandë
- Best Hotels in Ksamil
- Tips for Booking Hotels on the Albanian Riviera
- Frequently Asked Questions About Hotels on the Albanian Riviera
- Final Thoughts: Where to Stay on the Albanian Riviera?
Where to Stay on the Albanian Riviera? The Best Places for Your Holiday
The Albanian Riviera stretches along the southern coast of Albania. The coastline is quite long, but in reality, most travelers end up in a few popular towns. This is also where you’ll find the largest selection of hotels.
Vlorë
Vlorë sits at the start of the Albanian Riviera and is often the first stop after Tirana. The city has a long promenade, plenty of restaurants, and more and more modern hotels with sea views.
Dhërmi
Dhërmi is set dramatically against the mountains and is known for its beautiful beaches and stylish hotels. The charming village itself is located higher up, while most hotels are closer to the beach.
Himarë
Himarë feels much more laid-back than the bigger seaside towns. You’ll find cozy restaurants, a small center, and beautiful nearby beaches like Livadi Beach.
➜ Also read our article with the best things to do in Himarë.
Sarandë
Sarandë is the largest seaside town in the region. Here you’ll find a long promenade, lots of restaurants, and a wide range of hotels with sea views.
Ksamil
Just south of Sarandë lies Ksamil, known for its small beaches and crystal-clear blue water. It gets very popular in summer, and yes, quite busy, but it’s still one of the most beautiful spots on the Albanian coast.
➜ Also read our article with tips for Ksamil.
During a road trip through Albania, many travelers combine two or three of these places.
Best Hotels in Vlorë
Vlorë is the starting point of the Albanian Riviera for many travelers. This is where the scenic coastal road begins, heading towards Dhërmi, Himarë, and Sarandë. The city feels bigger and more modern than most seaside towns further south.
Along the promenade, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, beach bars, and hotels with sea views. That makes Vlorë a great place to start your Albania road trip, or to slow down and end your trip in a relaxed way.
Magnus Hotel & SPA
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,3 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
New and modern hotel just outside the center of Vlorë, with a pool, spa, and a small private beach. Guests often mention the calm atmosphere, friendly staff, and stylish rooms. Some rooms offer views over the sea or the mountains, a great pick if you’re looking for a comfortable stay on the Albanian Riviera.
➜ Check availability
Nobus Hotel & Spa
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,1 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Modern hotel just outside Vlorë with a beautiful pool and sea views. Reviews often highlight the quiet location, extensive breakfast, and spa with massages. The beach is a few minutes away on foot, but since the hotel is outside the city, having a rental car is recommended.
➜ Check availability
Hotel Picasso
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,1 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid-range)
Beachfront hotel just outside the center of Vlorë with a pool and a small private beach with sunbeds. Guests often mention the views over the bay, the spacious rooms, and the good breakfast buffet. The location is a bit quieter than the center, although it sits along the coastal road.
➜ Check availability
Mazarine Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,1 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Modern hotel near Radhimë Beach, just outside the center of Vlorë. The hotel features a pool, a private beach across the road, and spacious rooms with a balcony. Reviews often highlight the friendly staff and the on-site restaurant. A great option if you prefer a quieter stay near Vlorë.
➜ Check availability
Best Hotels in Dhërmi
Dhërmi is set dramatically against the mountains and is known for its beautiful beaches. White houses, winding streets, and a coastline with crystal-clear blue water give the village a unique atmosphere.
In and around Dhërmi, you’ll find a range of stylish hotels, often with sea views or close to the beach. It’s a popular spot for a relaxed beach holiday on the Albanian Riviera.
Zoe Hora
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,2 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Stylish boutique hotel in the old village of Himarë, with rooms in traditional stone houses and views over the sea. Guests often mention the atmosphere, the design, and the peaceful setting. A special place if you’re looking for something different from a typical beach hotel.
➜ Check availability
Gogo’s Boutique Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,0 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid-range)
Small-scale boutique hotel in Dhërmi with modern rooms and stunning views over the Ionian Sea. Guests especially love the calm vibe, the pool, and the clean design. A great place for a relaxed stay close to the beach.
➜ Check availability
Elysium Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,3 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Modern hotel in Dhërmi with a pool, spacious rooms, and beautiful sea views. Reviews often highlight the location and the pool. A comfortable choice if you want to stay near the beach but still enjoy some peace and quiet.
➜ Check availability
Amarea Boutique Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,2 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Stylish boutique hotel within walking distance of Dhërmi Beach. The hotel offers modern rooms, a private beach area, and a restaurant. Guests often mention the calm atmosphere, clean rooms, and the location close to the sea.
➜ Check availability
Best Hotels in Himarë
Himarë is one of our favorite spots on the Albanian Riviera. It feels smaller and more relaxed than Sarandë, but still has plenty of restaurants, cafés, and beaches.
You’ll also find beautiful beaches nearby, like Livadhi Beach and Gjipe Beach. In Himarë, most places to stay are small-scale hotels and guesthouses with a laid-back vibe.
Toni Retzo Rooms
⭑⭑⭑ 9,2 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
A small, welcoming B&B just outside the center. The hosts do everything to make your stay comfortable, and the breakfast is a big highlight. Quiet location, ideal if you’re traveling by car.
➜ Check availability
Aphrodite’s Garden
⭑⭑⭑ 9,2 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
Peacefully located with beautiful mountain views and sea views from some rooms. The modern rooms include air conditioning and a balcony. A big plus is the on-site restaurant and charming garden, perfect for dinner in the evening. In our opinion, one of the best value-for-money options in Himarë.
➜ Check availability
Dimitri Hotel
⭑⭑⭑ 9,4 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (mid range)
Lovely family-run hotel directly on Livadhi Beach, one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches near Himarë. Guests have access to private sunbeds, a pool, and a seaside restaurant where breakfast is served. Rooms are spacious and clean, and the staff are known for being kind and helpful, perfect for a relaxing beach stay.
➜ Check availability
Artis Blue Relax
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,5 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€€ (higher segment)
Stylish suites right by the sea, with a small terrace where the waves almost reach your feet. Some rooms have unique balconies directly above the water and stunning views of the bay. Quiet location but still close to restaurants and shops, ideal if you’re looking for something special.
➜ Check availability
Best Hotels in Sarandë
Sarandë feels like a true coastal city, with a long promenade, plenty of restaurants, and a wide range of hotels. From here, it’s easy to take trips to Ksamil or Butrint National Park.
Along the boulevard, you’ll find many hotels with sea views. Especially in summer, Sarandë is lively and a great base for exploring the south of Albania.
Andon Lapa Hotel & Spa
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,0 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Larger hotel just outside the center of Sarandë, with a pool, spa, and a private beach area. The resort-like feel makes it a great choice if you’re looking for more facilities than a standard city hotel. From the terrace and many rooms, you’ll have views over the bay of Sarandë. The center and promenade are a short distance away.
➜ Check availability
Hotel Teuta
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,7 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid-range)
Small-scale hotel just outside the center of Sarandë, with rooms that often include a balcony and sea view. Guests frequently mention the friendly staff and the extensive breakfast. The hotel is located slightly higher on the hill, giving you beautiful views over the bay. Keep in mind there’s a bit of a walk from the boulevard.
➜ Check availability
Julia Hotel
⭑⭑⭑ 9,0 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid-range)
Modern and small-scale hotel with a pool, located at the end of Sarandë’s boulevard. Breakfast is served on the rooftop bar, with views over the bay and even towards Corfu. Guests often highlight the friendly staff and central location. Restaurants, the beach, and the harbor are all within walking distance.
➜ Check availability
AL’YACHT Premium Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,4 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Modern and small-scale hotel just outside the busiest part of Sarandë’s boulevard. Many rooms offer views over the harbor and the bay. Reviews often mention the friendly service, clean rooms, and quiet location. The beach and boulevard are just a few minutes away on foot, and parking is well arranged at the hotel.
➜ Check availability
Best Hotels in Ksamil
Ksamil is probably the most well-known spot on the Albanian Riviera. The water here is incredibly clear, and many beaches are tucked into small bays. In July and August, it can get quite lively, so having a hotel with a pool or a quiet terrace is definitely a plus.
In Ksamil, you’ll find a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and small apartments close to the beaches.
ARAMERAS Resort
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,3 on Booking.com
Price range: €€€ (higher segment)
Modern resort in Ksamil with a pool, stylish rooms, lots of greenery, and a private beach. Guests often mention the peaceful atmosphere and the clean, well-designed rooms. A great place if you want to stay just outside the busy center.
➜ Check availability
Sondor Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,6 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid-range)
New and modern hotel with a pool and bright rooms, located a short distance from the beaches of Ksamil. Guests especially appreciate the clean rooms and the friendly staff. A solid choice if you’re looking for a comfortable stay close to the beach.
➜ Check availability
Euro Hotel
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,4 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid-range)
Small-scale hotel with a pool and spacious rooms near the center of Ksamil. Reviews often highlight the friendly staff and the great value for money. Ideal if you want restaurants and beaches within walking distance.
➜ Check availability
Poda Boutique Hotel Ksamil
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,5 on Booking.com
Price range: €€ (mid-range)
Stylish boutique hotel with a modern design, a pool, and comfortable rooms. The hotel is located opposite its own beach at Poda Beach Club. A great spot to fully enjoy a relaxed beach holiday.
➜ Check availability
Tips for Booking Hotels on the Albanian Riviera
A few things to keep in mind before booking a hotel on the Albanian Riviera.
- Book Early in Summer
July and August are the busiest months along the Albanian coast. Popular hotels in Ksamil, Himarë, and Dhërmi tend to fill up quickly. If you’re traveling during this period, it’s smart to book your stay well in advance. - Check Parking Options
In many coastal towns, streets are narrow and parking isn’t always easy. Make sure to check if your hotel offers private parking, especially if you’re traveling with a rental car. - Look at the Location
Many hotels are built on hillsides. That often means amazing sea views, but also a bit of a climb from the beach or the center. Something to keep in mind if you prefer everything within walking distance. - Combine Multiple Places
During a road trip through Albania, it’s a great idea to combine two or three spots along the Albanian Riviera. Many travelers choose to spend a few days in Himarë and then continue to Ksamil, or the other way around.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hotels on the Albanian Riviera
That really depends on what you’re looking for. Ksamil is known for its most beautiful beaches, Himarë and Dhërmi feel more relaxed and laid-back, while Sarandë is more lively with plenty of restaurants and hotels along the promenade. Vlorë is a great starting point for a road trip along the coast.
For July and August, it’s best to book well in advance. Popular hotels in Ksamil, Dhërmi, and Himarë tend to sell out quickly during peak season.
In general, hotels in Albania are still more affordable than in many other Mediterranean destinations. Along the Albanian Riviera, prices are a bit higher than inland, for example in places like Gjirokastër or Berat. During peak season, prices go up, especially in popular spots like Ksamil and Dhërmi. Outside of July and August, you’ll often find better deals.
A rental car isn’t strictly necessary, but it does make things a lot easier, especially if you want to explore multiple places along the Albanian Riviera. Distances along the coast are bigger than you might expect, and public transport is limited.
With a car, it’s easy to discover different beaches, villages, and viewpoints along the way. That’s exactly what makes a holiday or road trip through Albania so much fun. Many of the most beautiful beaches are a bit hidden along the coastal road, and much easier to reach by car.
Also read our article with tips for driving in Albania.
Vlorë, Dhërmi, Himarë, Sarandë, and Ksamil are among the most popular spots along the Albanian coast. Each place has its own vibe, from lively seaside towns to smaller villages with quiet beaches.
Final Thoughts: Where to Stay on the Albanian Riviera?
The Albanian Riviera is an amazing destination for a holiday in Albania or as part of a road trip along the coast. Some seaside towns are lively and busy, while others feel smaller and more relaxed.
During our own Albania road trip, we stayed in both Himarë and Ksamil. Himarë turned out to be our favorite base. It has a laid-back vibe, good restaurants, and several beautiful beaches nearby. From here, we visited places like Spile Beach and Pigeon Cave, two very different but equally great spots for a swim.
We also enjoyed visiting Ksamil, mainly because of its crystal-clear water and the small islands just off the coast. That said, it can get quite busy in summer, especially in July and August.
Dhërmi also seems like a great place to stay, especially if you like stylish hotels and beaches set between the mountains.
Which place suits you best really depends on what you’re looking for during your Albania holiday. Are you after lively beach towns and buzzing terraces, or a quieter base to explore the Albanian coast?
Plan Your Trip to the Albanian Riviera
Where to Stay on the Albanian Riviera
➜ Check out the best and most beautiful hotels on Booking.com
Rent a Car in Albania
➜ Compare prices at DiscoverCars, Rentalcars or Sunny Cars
More Travel Inspiration?
➜ Read our main article: Our 3-Week Albania Road Trip With Kids
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