Albania · 2026 itinerary
Përmet 3-Day Itinerary
A day-by-day plan for Përmet: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.
Arrive & Explore the Highlights
Small 13th-century Byzantine church inside town, just off the main pedestrian street. Not always open, but when it is you can see faded frescoes and a wooden iconostasis. Donation expected, but entry
🕐 Typically 9 am–1 pm and 4–6 pm, but irregular
Free entry💡 Ask at the bakery opposite for the key if the door is locked — the owner often keeps it. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Hotels near Saint Athanasius Church (Kisha e Shën Thanashit) →A restored 19th-century Ottoman stone bridge spanning the Vjosa River just downstream from town centre. Good spot for photos and a walk along the riverbank. No charge to cross or stand on it.
🕐 Open access 24/7
Free entry💡 Visit at sunset for best light on the arches. The water below is swimmable in summer; take care on the slippery rocks.
Hotels near Katiu Bridge (Stone Bridge of Përmet) →Sorkadhja · ££
Antigonea · ££
Deeper Into Përmet
Unregulated natural hot springs on the Vjosa riverbank, about a 15-minute walk south of the centre. Two concrete pools filled with warm sulfur water. No facilities — bring your own towel and water. Fr
🕐 Open access 24/7 (best in daylight)
💡 Go early (before 9 am) to avoid crowds and get the cleanest water. The hottest pool is furthest from the river.
A 15-minute drive or 1-hour walk east of town along a dirt track. A 12-metre waterfall dropping into a deep green pool. You can swim in the pool beneath it in summer. No facilities or entry fee.
🕐 Open access 24/7 (best visited in daylight)
💡 The road is rough — park at the village of Shëngjergj and walk the last 800 metres. Bring insect repellent, especially in late afternoon.
Sofra Përmetare
Don Café
Final Favourites & Departure
A protected forest area about a 20-minute drive north of town. Home to rare Balkan pines, marked walking trails and natural springs. You can hike for hours with
💡 Drive to the trailhead at the village of Hotovë; the path to the old spring is an easy 2 km loop and takes about an hour.
Veranda
Cabeli
Getting Around Përmet
Furgons leave when full, not on a timetable. Sit near the driver for the best views of the Vjosa River valley—the back seats can be bumpy.
Walk to most spots—Përmet is small. For the Llixhat thermal baths, it's a 15-min drive; negotiate around €5-7 and arrange a return pickup.
The bus can be cramped and slow in summer—bring water. Ask the driver to drop you at the junction near Gold Hotel on the main road, it's a 5-min walk to reception.
Agree on the price before you set off—drivers often quote higher on arrival. Book via the hotel or a local service like Taxi Albania for a fixed rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3 days enough for Përmet?
Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Saint Athanasius Church (Kisha e Shën Thanashit) and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.
What is the best time to visit Përmet?
See our full best time to visit Përmet guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.
Where should I stay for this itinerary?
A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include Hotel Përmeti, Gold Hotel. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.