Get off the beaten track in Permet, a historic city set on the turquoise Vjosa River. Relax in picturesque natural hot springs and explore one of the biggest national parks in Albania. Cosy cafes and family-run restaurants give Permet a friendly and authentic feel.
Things to do in Përmet
Guri i Qytetit, also known as Big Rock, soars over the city centre. A short trail winds to the summit, where you can enjoy sweeping views over the Vjosa River and surrounding countryside. Visit in spring or summer to see the rock carpeted with colourful wildflowers.
Enjoy a relaxing soak in the Benje Thermal Baths. The setting is beautiful and features crystalline pools surrounded by Mediterranean plants. Soak in the spacious main pool and head deeper into the valley to find smaller, more intimate baths. Continue further down the valley to Lengarica Canyon, a hidden gem where you can swim, sunbathe and enjoy a picnic. A sky-blue river flows through the canyon and is framed by towering rock walls.
Permet is a fantastic place to try traditional Albanian dishes. The city is packed with family-run restaurants where you can order favourites like “patellxhanet mbushur” stuffed aubergines, “byrek” cheese pie and “tave kosi” chicken baked in yoghurt. Indulge in “gliko” candied cherries for dessert and wash everything down with a glass of Albanian brandy.
Permet is a gateway to Fir of Hotova National Park. It’s one of the biggest national parks in Albania and protects 1,400 hectares of towering Macedonian fir forests, rugged canyons and flower-strew alpine meadows. Marked trails wind through the park and offer a chance to spot wildlife like brown bears, wild boar and deer.
Getting around Përmet
Permet is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Taxis are a good way to cover longer distances and visit surrounding sights and attractions, or you can rent a car. Permet is in Gjirokastër County, a 3.5-hour drive from Tirana and Tirana International Airport.