Castle of Porto Palermo is a well-preserved coastal fortress located along the Albanian Riviera, about a 5-minute walk from Porto Palermo Beach. The entrance fee is currently around 300 lek (about €3), making it an easy and worthwhile stop if you’re exploring the area.

The castle is believed to have been built in the early 19th century by Ali Pasha of Tepelena, who controlled much of southern Albania during the Ottoman period. Its triangular shape and thick stone walls were designed to protect the nearby bay and serve as a strategic military point.

Today, you can walk through the interior rooms and climb to the top of the fortress, where you’ll get beautiful views over the turquoise water and surrounding coastline. It’s not a long visit, but the history and scenery make it worth stopping by.

I’d recommend visiting in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during summer, when the light over the bay is best and the temperatures are more comfortable.