Përmet is one of southern Albania’s best-kept secrets — a small town surrounded by dramatic canyons, thermal springs, and Europe’s last wild river. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit.

Tucked between the towering peaks of the Nemërçka mountains and the untamed waters of the Vjosa River, Përmet is quickly becoming one of the most exciting destinations in Albania. Known locally as the “City of Roses,” this charming town offers a rare combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty that is still untouched by mass tourism.

Whether you are road-tripping through southern Albania or looking for an off-the-beaten-path escape in Europe, Përmet deserves at least two or three days on your itinerary. Here are the best things to do in Përmet.

1. Raft the Vjosa River — Europe’s Last Wild River

No visit to Përmet is complete without experiencing the Vjosa River. Designated as a National Park, the Vjosa is the last free-flowing river system in Europe, stretching over 270 kilometers from the Greek mountains to the Adriatic coast without a single dam.

Rafting on the Vjosa is the most popular adventure activity in the region, and for good reason. The river flows through spectacular gorges and valleys, offering Class II and Class III rapids that are thrilling enough for adventure seekers but safe and accessible for beginners, families, and first-time rafters.

At Rafting Vjosa Albania, we have been guiding rafting tours on the Vjosa since 2012. Our certified guides, full safety equipment, and local expertise ensure an unforgettable experience that lasts around two to three hours on the water. Tours start at our rafting center in Përmet, include a safety briefing and all gear (wetsuits, helmets, life jackets), and cost €35 per person.

Prefer something quieter? Our kayaking tours on the Vjosa are also available at the same price — a great way to explore the river at your own pace.

Pro tip: The best months for rafting are from April through October. Book your spot early during July and August, as these are our busiest months. You can reserve online with free cancellation up to 24 hours before your trip.

2. Swim in the Bënja Thermal Baths

Just a fifteen-minute drive from the center of Përmet, the Bënja Thermal Baths are one of Albania’s most unique natural attractions. Several hot springs flow into pools along the Lengarica River, creating a surreal setting where warm thermal water meets the cool river current beneath a stunning Ottoman stone bridge.

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The baths are free to access and open year-round, though they are most enjoyable in spring and autumn when the temperatures are moderate. You can soak in the warm pools, explore the riverbed, and walk across the historic Kadiut Bridge — an Ottoman-era arch bridge that adds a dramatic backdrop.

Getting there: Follow the road south from Përmet toward Bënja village. There is a small parking area near the bridge.

3. Hike the Lengarica Canyon

Starting from the thermal baths, you can walk upstream into the Lengarica Canyon — a narrow, towering gorge carved by thousands of years of water flow. The canyon walls rise up to 80 meters on either side, creating a cool, shaded passage that feels like stepping into another world.

The hike through the canyon takes roughly one to two hours depending on your pace and how far you want to go. The water level is usually ankle to knee deep, so bring water shoes or sandals with a good grip. In the warmer months, the canyon hike can be combined with a swim in the thermal pools for a perfect half-day activity.

4. Taste the Local Cuisine

Përmet is famous across Albania for its food. The region produces some of the country’s best honey, walnuts, and wine, and the local cuisine reflects a deep connection to the land.

Dishes to try include fërgesë (a baked dish of peppers, tomatoes, and local cheese), tavë kosi (lamb baked with yogurt), and lakror (a savory pie filled with greens or cheese). For dessert, do not miss gliko — fruit preserves made from walnuts, figs, or roses, served with a glass of raki, the local spirit.

Some of the best places to eat in Përmet include traditional restaurants along the riverside and family-run guesthouses that serve homemade meals. Our team at the rafting center is always happy to share their favorite local spots with you.

5. Visit the Permet Wine Region

Albania’s wine scene is growing, and Përmet is at its heart. The surrounding hills are home to small vineyards producing both red and white wines from indigenous grape varieties like Debinë and Vlosh.

Several family-run wineries welcome visitors for tastings, often accompanied by local cheese, olives, and bread. It is a relaxed, personal experience — far from the polished tasting rooms of Western Europe, and all the better for it.

6. Explore the Vjosa National Park

Established as Europe’s first Wild River National Park, the Vjosa National Park protects the entire river ecosystem from source to sea. The park is home to over 1,100 species of animals and more than 1,500 plant species, many of which are endemic to the region.

Within the park, you can go hiking, birdwatching, or simply drive along the valley and stop wherever the view calls to you. The landscape shifts between wide gravel riverbeds, forested slopes, and rocky gorges — all with very few other tourists in sight.

7. Walk Through Përmet Town

Përmet itself is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. The town center features a tree-lined boulevard, several cafés, a small bazaar, and the Ethnographic Museum, which offers a glimpse into the region’s cultural history.

In the evening, join the locals for the xhiro — the traditional evening walk along the main road. It is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Albania, and a reminder that some of the best travel moments are the simplest ones.

How to Get to Përmet

Përmet is located in southern Albania, approximately three and a half hours by car from Tirana. The most scenic route passes through Berat and follows the Vjosa River valley southward. From Gjirokastër, Përmet is about one hour by car.

There are daily bus services from Tirana and Gjirokastër, though having your own car gives you the most flexibility to explore the area.

Where to Stay in Përmet

Accommodation in Përmet ranges from cozy family-run guesthouses to small boutique hotels. Most options are affordable compared to Western European standards, with clean rooms, warm hospitality, and often a home-cooked breakfast included.

For the best experience, stay in or near the town center so you can walk to restaurants and cafés. Our rafting center is conveniently located in Përmet, making it easy to combine your accommodation with a morning or afternoon on the river.

When to Visit Përmet

The best time to visit Përmet is from April to October, when the weather is warm and all outdoor activities — rafting, hiking, swimming — are available. July and August are the warmest and busiest months. Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for hiking and exploring.

Plan Your Përmet Adventure

Përmet offers something rare in modern travel — genuine adventure in an unspoiled landscape, with warm people and incredible food. Whether you come for the rafting, the thermal baths, the canyon, or simply the peace and quiet, this corner of Albania will stay with you long after you leave. And we would love to be part of your adventure.

Ready to experience the Vjosa River? Book your rafting or kayaking tour with us → — free cancellation, certified guides, and over 1,900 five-star Google reviews.

Rafting Vjosa Albania — your local adventure team in Përmet since 2012. Safe, eco-friendly rafting and kayaking tours for beginners, families, and experienced paddlers. View our tours and prices →