A Guide to Dhërmi Old Village and its Churches

Updated 2026-11-02 · 5 min read · Prices and schedules change — check locally.

How to visit Dhërmi old village

Travel to Dhërmi via the SH8 coastal road from either Vlorë or Sarandë.
Navigate to the upper part of the town, away from the beach, and park near the central square.
Follow the village lanes to the stone staircase leading uphill to the Monastery of Saint Mary.
Explore the narrow alleys on foot, as most of the old village is inaccessible to cars.

What is the best way to see the churches in Dhërmi?

The best way is a self-guided walking tour starting from the village centre and climbing toward the Monastery of Saint Mary.

While there are dozens of small churches tucked between houses, some may be locked outside services. To see the interiors, visitors often need to ask locals for the key-holder or visit during specific feast days. The paths are steep and made of stone, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.

What are the most important churches to visit?

The Monastery of Saint Mary and the Church of Saint Stephen are the two most prominent historical sites.

The Monastery of Saint Mary sits at the highest point of the village and features significant 18th-century frescoes. The Church of Saint Stephen is one of the oldest in the region, showcasing a mix of architectural styles that reflect the area's long history under various influences.

Church Name	Highlight	Location
St. Mary's Monastery	Panoramic views & frescoes	Highest point of village
St. Stephen's Church	Ancient foundations	Lower village, near the sea
St. Charalampus	Orthodox parish church	Near village square

Is there an entry fee for the old village?

There is no fee to enter the village itself, though small donations are welcome if a church is opened for you.

Exploring the streets and exterior architecture is entirely free. If a local resident offers to open a church or guide you, you can ask whether a voluntary donation toward the church’s upkeep would be welcome. Parking in the village is generally free but limited.

When is the best time to visit Dhërmi old village?

The best time is during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October for cooler hiking temperatures.

In the height of summer (July and August), the uphill walk can be very hot, so it is best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon. For a quieter visit, check the beach festival calendar before booking: major events also take place in June, outside the July-August peak.

How do I get to Dhërmi from Tirana?

You can reach Dhërmi by car or bus in roughly 3 to 4 hours from Tirana, depending on traffic and the service; the Llogara Tunnel offers an alternative to the pass.

For the scenic mountain drive through Llogara National Park, choose the old pass road rather than the tunnel. Buses serving Dhërmi depart from Tirana’s South and North Terminal and stop along the SH8 in the village; confirm that your service takes the coastal route.