How to Get to Dhermi: From Tirana, Vlora, Saranda and Corfu

Aerial view of boats at the Pirates Cave bay south of Dhermi

Dhermi sits in the middle of the Albanian Riviera, between Vlora and Saranda. Getting here is part of the adventure: the road over the Llogara mountains (or through the new tunnel) opens onto one of the most beautiful views of the Ionian coast. Here’s how to reach us from the main starting points.

From Tirana and Tirana Airport

  • By car: about 180 km, around 3.5 to 4 hours. You drive south through Fier and Vlora, then take the coastal road (SH8). The Llogara Tunnel saves you around 40 minutes. If it’s closed, the road goes over the Llogara Pass (1,027 m), which is slower but has an unforgettable view. You can rent a car at Tirana Airport: besides the official rental desks in the airport lobby, there are many rental companies near the airport.
  • By bus: buses for Himara leave from the South & North Bus Terminal in Tirana several times a day, run by Riviera Tours (+355 69 306 2500) and Olgeno Travel & Tours (+355 69 609 2899). Ask the driver to drop you off in Dhermi. The trip takes about 3 to 3.5 hours and costs around €15–16, paid in cash. Arrive early in July and August, because seats are not reserved.
  • By taxi: some electric taxi companies will take you from Tirana to Dhermi for under €100, which is a good choice for 2–4 people traveling together. For example: Lux Taxi +355 48 333 333, Green Taxi +355 800 2000, Blue Taxi +355 67 444 4444.
  • By private transfer: around €130–160 for a car with up to 4 people. Book at least 48 hours ahead.

From Vlora

  • By car: about 50 km, around 1 hour 15 minutes through the Llogara Tunnel.
  • By bus: the buses from Tirana to Himara pass through Vlora and stop in Dhermi.
  • By plane: Vlora’s new airport is not operating yet. For now, the closest airports are Tirana and Corfu.

From Saranda

  • By car: around 2 to 2.5 hours north along the coastal road, through Himara. There are many car rental companies in Saranda. Book in advance, because in high season it can be difficult to find a car to rent.
  • By bus: take an Olgeno Travel & Tours bus (+355 69 609 2899) along the coastal road, and ask the driver to drop you off in Dhermi. Some buses from Saranda take the inland road, so check before you get on.
  • By taxi: around €70–90. Make sure you agree on a fixed price with the driver before you get in.

From Corfu (Greece)

Take the ferry from Corfu to Saranda. There are departures in the morning, at 9:00 and 10:00, and in the afternoon, at 15:00 and 16:00. You can choose between two kinds of boats:

  • Hydrofoil (fast boat): about 35 minutes, around €20–30 per person.
  • Small ferry: about 1 hour. You can bring a motorbike or a car with you, but it will be expensive.

Two ferry companies run the route in both directions: Ionian Seaways, based in Corfu, and Finikas Lines, based in Saranda. You can buy tickets online or at their offices in the port. There are fewer departures in winter, so check the timetable before you travel. From Saranda, continue by car, bus or taxi as described above (about 2 to 2.5 hours).

When you arrive in Dhermi

  • By bus: the bus stops on the main road, next to Market Neco. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk downhill to Dhermi beach.
  • By car: there are plenty of parking places in Dhermi, and a full day costs about €5–8. Parking Dhermi is right behind our office, with direct access to the beach.
  • Taxis in Dhermi: a short local ride can be expensive. Even 1–2 km can cost up to €15, so agree on the price before you get in. For a local taxi, you can call Taxi Service Dhermi at +355 69 543 1024.
  • Getting around: renting a bicycle is not recommended, because Dhermi is very hilly. A small motorbike or scooter is a better way to get around. You can rent one at Rent Moto Drymades (+355 69 297 4793).
  • Our office: all our boat tours leave from our office on the main promenade of Dhermi beach, right in the center. 📍 View on Google Maps

Planning your days here? See our guides to things to do in Dhermi and the best time for a boat tour.