2025 Sarande Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Dreaming of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and a bit of history? Sarandë and Ksamil make the ultimate duo on Albania’s Riviera — and they’re only 20 minutes apart. Here's how to combine both in a single (perfect) day or over a relaxed weekend: ☀️ Morning: Start in Sarandë 🏖️ Take a Seaside Stroll Begin your day along Sarandë’s promenade. Grab a coffee with a sea view — locals love places like Haxhi or Mare Nostrum — and soak up the laid-back vibes. 🏛️ Optional: Lekuresi Castle If you are up for a quick panoramic view, head to Lekuresi Castle (10-min drive uphill). You’ll get a stunning vista over both Sarandë and Ksamil — perfect for early photos before the heat hits. 🚐 Midday: Head to Ksamil 🚌 How to Get There: By bus: Every 30–60 minutes in summer from Sarandë (approx. 100–150 lek) By car or taxi: 15–20 minutes, super easy (taxis may charge €10–15) By scooter or bike: Ideal for flexibility, but it can be hot in summer 🏝️ Ksamil: The Beaches You Came For Now for the main event — Ksamil’s famous beaches. Think crystal-clear waters, beach bars, and tiny islands you can swim or kayak to. Top Beaches to consider: Ksamil Beach 9 & 10 – good mix of crowds + views Bora Bora Beach – chill vibes, soft sand, bars nearby Lori Beach – more local and relaxed Private beach clubs (like Guvat or Cori) if you want comfy loungers 🛶 Tip: Rent a kayak or paddle boat to explore the Ksamil islets just off the shore! 🌅 Evening: Back to Sarandë Return to Sarandë in the late afternoon. Walk the promenade at sunset Enjoy seafood dinner at places like Taverna Fish Filipi or La Petite Grab a drink at rooftop bars like Sunset by the Sea or Jericho Cocktail Bar 📌 Final Tips Time your trip: Ksamil gets crowded in July–August, so go early or off-season if you can Transportation: Buses are cheap but irregular, so renting a car/scooter gives freedom Stay overnight? Definitely worth it if you want to relax — Ksamil is quieter at night!

Nestled along the stunning Albanian Riviera, Sarandë is a breathtaking coastal town known for its crystal-clear waters, rich history, and laid-back Mediterranean charm. Located just a short ferry ride from Corfu, Greece, this hidden gem has become a favorite for travelers seeking sun-soaked beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant seaside culture. One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is the Lëkurësi Castle, a 16th-century fortress perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding countryside. The area is also home to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including an amphitheater, basilica, and Venetian tower. For those looking to unwind, Sarandë boasts some of the best beaches in Albania, such as Ksamil Beach, where powdery white sands and turquoise waters rival those of the Maldives. The town’s waterfront promenade is lined with lively cafes, seafood restaurants, and bars, perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail with a view. Whether you’re exploring hidden coves, diving into history, or indulging in fresh seafood, Sarandë offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination along the Ionian coast. #europetrip

Why should you visit Ksamil in the summer of 2025?!☀️🏖️🌊 Located in southern Albania, Ksamil is a gem of the Albanian Riviera and an ideal summer destination. Here are some reasons to visit Ksamil in the summer: 1. Enchanting beaches Ksamil is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, often compared to tropical destinations. The small islands near the coast are easily accessible by boat or swimming, offering a tranquil getaway. 2. Relaxed atmosphere Unlike some overcrowded Mediterranean hotspots, Ksamil retains a more laid-back vibe. It's a great place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of major tourist centers. 3. Fresh seafood and traditional cuisine Ksamil's restaurants serve delicious, fresh seafood and Albanian specialties like byrek and Tave Kosi. Dining by the sea adds to the charm. 4. Proximity to Butrint National Park Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a short drive from Ksamil. The park combines ancient ruins, natural beauty, and fascinating history, making it a perfect day trip destination. 5. Affordable paradise Ksamil offers an affordable alternative to other Mediterranean destinations. You can enjoy high-quality services and experiences at a fraction of the cost. 6. Perfect for water activities Summer is ideal for activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The calm and warm Ionian Sea is perfect for exploration. 7. Stunning sunsets Ksamil's sunsets are magical, with vibrant colors reflecting on the clear waters. You can enjoy them at a beach bar or while dining al fresco. 8. Convenient location Ksamil is close to other popular destinations like Saranda and Corfu (accessible by ferry), making it easy to explore the region. Visiting Ksamil in the summer allows you to fully experience its beauty and charm, ensuring you have an unforgettable trip!

Getting There - The Blue Eye is located between Gjirokaster and Sarrandë in Albania. it takes 30 mibutes to get there from Gjirokaster and 20 minutes from Sarrandë Attractions - The Blue Eye is free of charge and is easy to reach. It takes around 20 minutes to walk to the Waterfall Blue Eye from the Parking Area. It is possible to jump into the Blue Eye from a platform Hotels - There are many hotels with seaview in Sarrandë i recommend you to check out Food & Restaurants - There is a small restaurant next to the attractions Shopping - Next to the Blue Eye is a small museum shop where you can buy postcards #tripblazers #bucketlistreboot

#tripaway The Llogara National Park is a national park centered on the Ceraunian Mountains along the Albanian Riviera in Southwestern Albania, spanning an surface area of ​​1,010 ha (10.1 km2). The park's terrain includes large alpine meadows, vertical rock faces, precipices and dense forests. The most area of ​​land is covered by forests and was established in 1966 to protect several ecosystems and biodiversity of national importance. The park features outstanding diversity with the landscape ranging from the alpine peaks of the Acroceraunian Mountains covered with snow in winter to the sunny Ionian Sea Coast in summer. At 1,027 m, the Llogara Pass provides a striking scenery, with tall mountains overlooking the Riviera and several islands in the sea. The region experiences a mediterranean climate. This means that the summers are hot and the winters generally dry to warm to cool. Despite the vicinity to the mediterranean climatic region, an alpine climate prevails at the Cika peak. #tripaway

#tripaway “Characteristics of the gulf of Krorez” Beauty Exclusivity (the impression of being unique in the world) A wild and virgin environment: the one that gives us the opportunity to project and construct an incomparable ex-nihilo village An archeological area in the vicinity of Butrint and a city dating back to the XIII-th century (Gjirokastra) A transparent sea Two enclosed beaches in the middle of nature: number 1, in the heart of the village, number 2, next to the village, easily accessible 290 sunny days a year A wonderful temperature (rarely higher than 30 Celsius degrees) ”" The Monastery of Saint Maria Krorez that has been created in 1672 "They also suggest an efficient solution in order to guaranty an easy access to the bay for any international tourist. #visitalbania#beautifulalbania#travel #tripaway

#tripaway Butrint is strategically located in the eastern part of the Strait of Corfu in the extreme south of the country. It sprawls across a peninsula that is surrounded by Lake Butrint and Vivari Channel. The channel connects the lake to the Ionian Sea through a narrow sandy bar. Located in the direct proximity to the sea, the park experiences mild mediterranean climate. This means that the winters are mild and the summers are hot and dry. The archaeological heritage of Butrint is one of the most important archaeological sites in the country, containing different artefacts and structures, dating from the Iron Age up to the Middle Ages. Numerous monuments are still extant including the city walls, a late-antique baptistery, a great basilica, Roman theater and two castles. The ancient city is situated within a natural woodland with a complex ecosystems which depends on the nearby lake and channel. Nevertheless, it is this combination of cultural monuments and natural environment which makes Butrint such a unique place. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the park as Category II. In 1992, the archaeological site joined the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The lagoon has been further recognized as a wetland of international importance by designation under the Ramsar Convention. Nevertheless, Lake Butrint is an Important Bird and Plant Area, because it abundant to significant bird and plant species of international importance. #visitalbania #beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Saranda is a coastal city in the south of Albania, near the border with Greece, a place that has wonderful beaches in the Ionian Sea. Saranda is a small paradise that has all the conditions to spend a wonderful vacation like the beaches with small natural stones, a wonderful blue sea, as well as with extraordinary views that leave you breathless. #visitalbania#beautifulalbania #tripaway

Theth is the village at the centre of the Albania Alps, it is the perfect place to base yourself for a few days to explore the area. The best thing to do in Theth is hiking, there isn’t much to do in the town, so just keep this in mind if you plan on visiting. The village area is beautiful, stunning views of the Albanian Alps and gushing rivers abound. As well as viewing the church and lock in tower in Theth village we did a couple of excellent hikes to The Blue Eye, Grunasi waterfall and Canyon of Grunas which is spectacular. How to get to Theth from Shkoder: To get to Theth from Shkoder you will need to book a minivan. This minivan only leaves once a day at 7am, so it’s important to book it. There are multiple companies, but spots are limited. You can do this at your accommodation, or you can go to the bus station in Shkoder and try your luck for a bus with availability. It’s recommended to arrive around 6.30am to catch the 7am bus.

Europe is known for its high costs, but across the sea from Italy lies a small, unspoiled gem of a country with a socialist charm. Prices here are almost half of what you'd find in Italy. The cuisine is a delightful blend of Italian and Turkish flavors. You'll also get to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites. Day 1: Sightseeing in Tirana Day 2: Visit Kruja Castle → Berat ✅️ The City of a Thousand Windows Day 3: → Saranda ✅️ Ionian Sea Resort → Butrint ✅️ A coastal city with roots dating back to the Greek era → Saranda Day 4: → Gjirokastër ✅️ The Stone City → Saranda After sightseeing, you can relax on the beach and enjoy the ultimate resort experience. From Saranda, you can take a ferry to Corfu Island in about an hour. The pastel-colored old town streets are perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.

There are many boat tours options in Saranda and it’s definetely worth it!

📍 Itinerary Overview First we went to Tirana for two days and then headed south to Saranda. The bus took longer than we expected but guaranteed a good coast view. And what a coast! The first picture is one of the attractions on a boat tour around Saranda, we paid so cheap and the team was friendly. Most of the beach sand is actually stones, sometimes I would exfoliate my body with them because… why not?! Besides the beach, an uruguayan friend told us about this archeologycal city called Butrinti and we all went visiting together. I really like to learn more about the place’s history and culture, going to museums and traditional local parties is also super fun. 🚩 Sightseeing Route Krorez and Kakome beach; Rojdhes bay Butrinti City; Tirana’s main downtown center. #Albania #bluewater #beach #unescoworldheritage

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#summerbudgettrip Albania turned out to be a hidden gem for budget travelers. With its rich culture, stunning coastline, and low prices, it’s easy to explore the country without breaking the bank. My journey started in the vibrant capital Tirana and took me through historical towns, sunny beaches, and the breathtaking Albanian Riviera. Tirana was my first stop, full of energy and charm. I wandered through Skanderbeg Square, explored the colorful buildings and cafés of Blloku, and visited the unique BunkArt museum. Public transport was cheap, and meals in local restaurants were often under 5 euros. Next, I visited Berat, the "City of a Thousand Windows." Its white Ottoman-style houses and hilltop castle made for a peaceful and scenic experience. Guesthouses were affordable, and the old town was a great place to slow down and take in Albania’s history. From there, I headed to Durres — a great coastal stop between Tirana and the south. It offers long sandy beaches, Roman ruins like the amphitheatre, and a lively promenade. It’s a popular spot with locals, and prices are still very reasonable. Continuing south, I stopped in Vlore, where the mountains meet the sea. I spent my days relaxing on the beach and enjoying fresh seafood by the waterfront. Local buses and shared taxis made getting around simple and cheap. Finally, I reached Saranda, the jewel of the Albanian Riviera. I explored Ksamil’s stunning beaches and took a short trip to the ancient site of Butrint. Despite being more touristy, Saranda still had great budget options for food and accommodation. Albania is perfect for a summer trip filled with history, culture, nature, and the sea — all while staying wallet-friendly. #travel #thingstodo #beachlife #albania

#backpackeressentials Europe’s Hidden Gem on a Budget! Albania is a dream come true for budget backpackers — from stunning beaches to rugged mountains and charming towns, all without the Euro price tag. If you’re chasing Mediterranean vibes without draining your wallet, this is the spot. ⸻ 🎒 What to Pack: 🛏️ Travel towel & sleep sheet – Hostels may be basic, and beach stops are frequent 👟 Good walking shoes – You’ll be hiking trails, castle steps, and wandering old towns 💳 Cash (lek) – Albania is still mostly cash-based; always carry small bills 🌞 Sun protection – Summer sun hits hard, especially along the Riviera 📶 Local SIM card – Super cheap with great coverage 🚰 Reusable water bottle – Tap water is generally safe, and eco-friendly is always a win 🗺️ Offline maps – Some rural areas have limited signal ⸻ 🎯 Budget-Friendly Things to Do: 🏖️ Albanian Riviera – Ksamil, Himarë, Dhërmi = turquoise water without the crowds 🏰 Gjirokastër & Berat – UNESCO-listed towns with cobblestone streets and ancient castles 🥾 Theth to Valbona hike – Epic mountain views and authentic guesthouses 💦 Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) – Crystal-clear natural spring, perfect for a refreshing dip 🏛️ Tirana’s museums & bunkers – Bunk’Art and House of Leaves are a must ⸻ 💡 Money-Saving Tips: 🚍 Use furgons (minibuses) – Cheap, local transport that runs everywhere 🏠 Stay in guesthouses – Affordable, warm hospitality, and often include home-cooked meals 🍽️ Eat like a local – Try byrek, qofte, and tavë kosi from small eateries and bakeries 🎟️ Free walking tours – Available in Tirana and major towns 🧼 Laundry services are cheap – Pack light and wash on the road

📅 Itinerary Day1：party hard at saranda Day2: recover by the river Day3: coffee , hike 🏨 Accommodation close to sea 🌊 🍴 Food Recommendations local cuisine 📌 Tips korce beer 🍺

December - being the least visited time of the year in Albania, we thought we made a mistake but this trip was one of the most memorable ones I’ve been on. Never did I think that I would enjoy both the mountains and lakeside of Bahcallek, Shkoder up North as well as travelling down south through the gobsmacking roads alongside the beaches at Durres, Vlore, Sarande and Ksamil.

This unpopular European country Prices are 1/3 of Italy but the scenery is not inferior to Greece Chinese passports are directly in vain! ✈️ Transportation Guide: ▪️No Schengen Sign: Luton, London → Tirana (2h) ▪️With Schengen visa: Corfu, Greece → Salanda (1h boat ride) ⚠️Airport Warning: Tirana Airport is small like a passenger terminal 🌊Three must-visit places: 1️⃣Ksamil Beach 💎Jelly Sea Plain Replacement Santorini 🚣‍♀️ Pedal boat 10 euros/hour (remember to bargain) 2️⃣ Ginocastle 🏰Stone City + Millennium Castle 📸 Ottoman architecture from "Thousand and Away" 3️⃣Theth National Park ⛰️ ``Alpine Eastern European Minutes'' 💦Blue Eye Spring (Hiking Lovers Paradise) 💰 Price Shock Record: ▪️ Seafood feast 15 euros full to cry ▪️Four-star hotel 50 euros/night ▪️ Coffee 1.5 euros and what bike 🚗 Traffic Blood and Tears History: ▪️Bus system = no system ▪️ Rent a car and drive yourself (more mountain roads) ▪️Tirana → Salanda recommends taking the night bus ⚠️Safety Guide: ▪️Asian faces will be noticed (pure curiosity) ▪️ Girls are recommended to go together ▪️Avoid remote alleys (less street lights) 💡 Trivia: 1️⃣ You can wear short sleeves in December (Mediterranean climate is great) 2️⃣ Hocha's former residence has Chinese explanation 3️⃣ Locals do not accept coins (prepare notes)

Boat trip from Corfu

💰Average Price per Person: from London to Albania, it will cost you around 350£ per person including all for a 4 night 5 days trip 🗓️Itinerary Scheduling: Tirana - Vlora - Sarande - Ksamil - Himare - Berat - Tirana 💞Reasons to Recommend: Best road trip you can experience. We had rented a car for self drive for 5 days. Huge roads and a paradise for those who love driving cars outside their home country

The ancient theatre of Butrint, nestled within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint National Park, is a testament to the grandeur of classical civilization. Dating back to the 4th century BC, this Hellenistic marvel is one of the finest examples of ancient theater architecture in Albania. Carved into the natural slope of the hillside, the theatre once accommodated up to 1,500 spectators who gathered to witness dramatic performances, musical concerts, and civic events. Its semi-circular design and excellent acoustics ensured that every word spoken on stage resonated throughout the auditorium, captivating audiences with tales of gods, heroes, and everyday life. Today, visitors can marvel at the well-preserved remains of the theatre, imagining the echoes of applause that once filled its stone walls. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the tranquil waters of the Vivari Channel, the Butrint theatre remains a timeless symbol of artistic expression and cultural heritage.

Some of my trips abroad in the last few months)