27 Jan Top 5 Things to Explore Around Sarandë, Albania
Top 5 Things to Explore Around Sarandë, Albania
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Sarandë, Albania (or Saranda) is located directly opposite the Greek island of Corfu and is the “capital of the Albanian Riviera.” In fact, you can easily see Corfu from the shoreline on a clear day. What you can’t see is the sky-high prices and throngs of international tourists crowding streets, bars, and restaurants in the more popular Greecian destination. In fact, for lodging, grocery stores, and dining in Albania you’ll pay about half of what you’d expect in other parts of Europe.
A short drive will take you to other beachside villages and Butrint, a UNESCO historical site and national park that dates back to the 7th century BC.
Are you ready to join Albania in one of their favorite holiday spots?! Here are the top five things to do around Sarandë, Albania.
Saranda’s Bay & Boardwalk
The calm, blue waters of Saranda’s horseshoe-shaped bay make it perfect for a dip. The area has all the trappings of any beachfront boardwalk including gelato shops and seafood restaurants, as well as paddleboat and lounge chair rentals. We enjoyed strolling around the promenade (the Bulevardi Hasan Tahasini) with the locals at sunset–ice cream in hand!
The shoreline is rocky here, so if you’re looking for soft, white sand head on down to Ksamil where the beaches are plentiful and the food is delicious.
Try:
Lunch / Dinner @ Haxh or Taverna Beni Peshkatari
Gelato @ Kayak Gelato & Frozen Yogurt
Visit the Village of Ksamil
Plan to leave Saranda early so that you have the day to spend is this fantastic village that’s only a 30-minute ride drive south of Saranda.
As you head south towards Ksamil, take a look around Mirror Beach or Pasqyra Beach. The services at these two beaches are sparse but the views and solitude are what they are known for. Don’t stay too long, you’ll want to spend the day on the beaches in the town of Ksamil, the “Ionian Pearl.”
The water is warm, calm, and perfectly perfect. Unlike in Saranda where the beaches are rocky and jagged, the sand here is soft and white. When you’re there, look out to see the three islands just off the coast. Two are so close that you could swim to them–but I’d just opt for a kayak or pontoon boat.
After a day in the sun, fill your belly with a wallet-friendly, fresher than fresh seafood meal.
Try:
Lunch / Dinner @ Guvat Bar Restaurant
Grab a snack for the beach, fresh fruit, and drinks @ Supermarket Gjordeni
Take in the Views at Lekuresi Castle
Lekuresi dates back all the way to Ottoman times and today is almost entirely in ruin. Enjoy the panoramic views from the watchtower and wonder what all those people on Corfu are up to. A cab will cost you about $2 if you don’t have a car (or you can walk 45 minutes).
Take a Dip in the Syri Kalter
The “Blue Eye” is a natural spring that is about an hour by car from Saranda. It’s hands down one of the most gorgeous places I’ve ever seen. Park and take a short hike through a lush, verdant landscape full of oak and sycamore trees and ferns. Then strip down to your swimsuit and dare yourself to jump into the deep pool that makes the glistening “Blue Eye.”
Get a Dose of History in Butrint
You cannot miss Burtrint when you’re in Albania. The ruins are just a short drive from Saranda. This wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site was settled in the Bronze Age and dates back as far as the 7th century BC. It was an important settlement in Hellenistic and Roman times because of its position between Italy and Greece and access inland via Lake Butrint.
We loved touring around the grounds–and had it almost to ourselves the whole time. Highlights for us included the bathhouse, the Roman theatre, and the Great Basilica.
Book a Tour of Butrint with a Private Guide
What you Can Expect to Pay
> Lodging: $10-30 (wallet-friendly) vs $60-100+ (luxury)
> Bus to Kismil: Under $1
> Coffee: Under $1
> Dinner: $20 (Two People) Wine, Appetizers, and Seafood Main Courses
> Beer: $1-2
We stayed at a wonderful apartment right on the water (with a washing machine!) for about $50.
Recommended lodging options in Saranda —
>> Apartment close to the city center with views: Eli’s Seafront Boutique Apartment (from $55 / night)
>> Oceanfront with gorgeous views and a pool: Hotel Saranda Palace (from $55 / night)
>> For Budget-minded Backpackers (includes free breakfast): Saranda Backpackers (from $12 / night)
>> Hotel with Private Beach (free sun loungers and parasols): Hotel Apollon (from $50 / night)
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