Përmet FAQ: 18 questions travellers ask
These are short answers to the questions visitors ask most about Përmet and the Vjosa valley in southern Albania, with links to the longer guides. Every answer comes from the guides, which list their sources.
Plan your trip
Start with things to do in Përmet for the full list, three itineraries for how to combine them, and how to get to Përmet for distances. The questions below cover the rest.
Practical guides
- Best time to visit for weather and seasons.
- Where to stay for choosing a base.
- Travel tips for money, language and safety.
- Rafting guide and Benja guide for the two best-known experiences.
Questions and answers
Is Përmet worth visiting?
Yes, if you like rivers, hiking, hot springs and food. It sits on the Vjosa, which became Europe's first Wild River National Park in March 2023, and it has the Benja thermal baths, mountain walks, a Slow Food speciality (gliko) and quiet village scenery. See things to do.
How many days do you need in Përmet?
One day is enough for the Benja baths, the town and a short walk or a rafting trip. Two to three days leave time for hiking, Frashër and the Hotova–Dangëlli forest. See the itineraries.
What is Përmet famous for?
Gliko, a preserve of whole fruit in syrup that is a Slow Food Presidium, along with raki, local wine, the Vjosa river and the Benja thermal baths.
Where is Përmet?
In Gjirokastër County in the south of Albania, on the Vjosa river at about 300 metres above sea level, between the Dhëmbel and Nemërçkë mountains and close to the Greek border.
How far is Përmet from Tirana?
About 249 km by road, about 3.5 hours by car and 4 to 5 hours by bus. See how to get to Përmet.
How far is Përmet from Gjirokastër?
About 60 km, roughly an hour by road.
Is there an airport or a train in Përmet?
No. The nearest international airport is Tirana, roughly 250 km away, and there is no railway. From the airport you can continue by hire car, by bus or by a pre-arranged transfer.
Do you need a car in Përmet?
Not for the town, but a car, a taxi or a driver helps for the Benja baths, Frashër and trailheads. Organised rafting and many guided hikes include transport.
What is the best time to visit Përmet?
May to June and September to October are the most comfortable months. Rafting runs from April to October. See the best time guide.
Is rafting on the Vjosa suitable for beginners?
Usually yes. The rapids are Class II to III, trips last about 2 to 3 hours on the water and the guide gives a safety briefing. See the rafting guide.
Is the Benja thermal bath free?
The pools are free to enter, with no changing rooms, so bring a swimsuit, water shoes and a towel. Some guides mention a small parking fee. See the Benja guide.
How hot is the water at Benja?
Visitor guides give between about 22 and 35 °C, so expect warm rather than hot. The pools are cooler higher up.
What are the best hikes near Përmet?
The Sopot waterfall, the church at Leusë, the Langarica Canyon and the Hotova–Dangëlli fir forest. See hiking around Përmet.
Can you cycle around Përmet?
Yes, on mountain bikes and e-bikes. See cycling around Përmet.
What should I eat and drink in Përmet?
Gliko, raki, Debina wine, mountain honey and traditional dishes such as shqeto and byrek. See food and drink.
Is Përmet safe?
It is a small, quiet town. The main risks are outdoors: river currents, the slippery rocks at Benja, the heat in summer and snow in the mountains in winter. See the travel tips for emergency numbers.
Can I visit Përmet in winter?
Yes, the baths are open all year, but snow covers the high ground from about November to April and can close mountain roads, so check conditions and avoid the high ground unless you are experienced.
Where should I stay in Përmet?
Most visitors stay in the town, which is the base for the river, the Benja baths and the walks. Villages are quieter but need a car. See where to stay.