Nestled along the sparkling Ionian Sea, Sarandë (also written Saranda) is a true Mediterranean treasure. With its turquoise beaches, ancient ruins, and laid-back atmosphere, this seaside town has quickly become one of the most popular destinations on the Albanian Riviera.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or culture, Sarandë offers a perfect blend of all three — making it an ideal base for exploring southern Albania and even nearby Corfu, Greece.
☀️ Why Visit Sarandë?
1. Breathtaking Beaches and Hidden Coves
Sarandë is a beach lover’s dream. From bustling shores to quiet escapes, there’s a beach for every traveler.
Top Beaches Near Sarandë:
- Ksamil Beach – The most famous in Albania. Known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and small islands accessible by boat or kayak.
- Gjipe Beach – A hidden gem surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Reachable by hike or boat, it’s ideal for nature lovers seeking peace and adventure.
- Mirror Beach (Pasqyra) – A tranquil, lesser-known beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Santa Quaranta Beach – Family-friendly and close to town, offering calm waters and convenient beach bars.
🧭 Practical Tip: Rent a car or scooter to explore beaches along the Riviera — public transport is limited but affordable taxis and private tours are available.
2. Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage
Sarandë’s history spans Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras — and you can walk through thousands of years of civilization in a single day.
Don’t Miss:
- Butrint National Park (UNESCO Site): Ancient city ruins surrounded by lush nature, just 18 km from Sarandë.
- Lëkurësi Castle: A 16th-century fortress with panoramic views of the coastline and the island of Corfu. Perfect for sunset photos.
- Ali Pasha Castle: Built by the Ottoman ruler Ali Pasha, this fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s past.
- Monastery of St. Nicholas: A peaceful 15th-century monastery known for its frescoes and spiritual atmosphere.
3. Authentic Albanian Cuisine
Food in Sarandë is a celebration of the sea and Mediterranean flavors. Expect generous portions, fresh ingredients, and heartfelt hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Byrek – Savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
- Tava e Kosit – Baked lamb with yogurt sauce.
- Fërgesë – A hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cottage cheese.
- Fresh Seafood – Enjoy grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp caught daily.
- Raki & Local Wine – End your meal like a local with a shot of raki or a glass of regional white wine.
Best Restaurants in Sarandë:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Taverna Beni Peshkatari | Seafood | Family-run, harbor views, grilled fish specialties |
| Haxhi | Traditional Albanian | Cozy, authentic, excellent local wines |
| Mama’s Kitchen | Mediterranean | Great for families, generous portions |
| Sophra | Albanian & Gluten-Free | Perfect for traditional dishes and dietary needs |
4. Nightlife and Entertainment
As the sun sets, Sarandë transforms into a lively hub of bars, rooftop lounges, and seaside cafes.
Enjoy cocktails at Lekuresi Castle, dance at Jericho Beach Club, or stroll along the Sarandë Promenade for a more relaxed evening.
5. Adventure & Outdoor Activities
Sarandë isn’t just for sunbathers — it’s an adventure playground.
Top Activities:
- Snorkeling & Diving: Explore underwater caves and shipwrecks in the Ionian Sea.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak to visit nearby islands.
- Boat Trips: Daily tours to Ksamil Islands, Corfu, and hidden beaches.
- Hiking: Trails like Gjipe Canyon and Llogara Pass offer unforgettable views.
🏛️ Top Attractions in and Around Sarandë
Discover the irresistible allure of this enchanting destination, where breathtaking beauty meets rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, these captivating sites promise unforgettable experiences for all.
| Attraction | Description | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Butrint National Park | UNESCO archaeological site featuring ruins from Greek to Venetian times | 18 km |
| Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër) | Natural spring with vibrant blue waters; ideal for photos and picnics | 25 km |
| Lëkurësi Castle | Hilltop fortress with panoramic sunset views | 5 km |
| Ksamil Islands | Idyllic small islands perfect for swimming and snorkeling | Short boat ride |
| Sarandë Promenade | Scenic seaside walkway lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants | Town center |
🏨 Best Hotels in Sarandë
From luxury stays to budget-friendly gems, Sarandë offers accommodations for every traveler.
| Hotel | Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Bougainville Bay Hotel | Private beach, pools, restaurants | Luxury travelers & families |
| Hotel Apollon Sarandë | Seaside views, restaurant, private beach | Couples |
| Illyrian Boutique Hotel | Central location, rooftop bar | City explorers |
| Hotel Blue Sky | Budget-friendly, family-run | Budget travelers |
| Hotel Saranda Palace | Pool, private beach, sea-view rooms | Families |
🧭 How to Get to Sarandë
- ✈️ By Air: The nearest airport is Corfu International Airport (CFU). From there, take a 30-minute ferry to Sarandë.
- 🚌 By Bus: Regular buses connect Sarandë with Tirana, Vlorë, and Gjirokastër.
- 🚗 By Car: Driving the Albanian Riviera route (SH8) offers some of the most scenic coastal views in Europe.
- ⛴️ By Ferry: Daily routes connect Corfu (Greece) to Sarandë year-round.
💰 Budget & Practical Travel Tips
- Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL) — cash is preferred in small shops and restaurants.
- Language: Albanian; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Safety: Very safe destination — just take normal precautions.
- Best Time to Visit: June–September for beach weather; April–May and September–October for fewer crowds.
- Internet: Wi-Fi is widely available; eSIMs or local SIM cards are cheap and fast.
- Tipping: 5–10% is appreciated but not mandatory.
🗓️ Suggested 3-Day Sarandë Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore Sarandë Promenade and Lëkurësi Castle
- Afternoon: Relax at Santa Quaranta Beach
- Evening: Dinner at Taverna Beni Peshkatari, sunset cocktails by the sea
Day 2:
- Day trip to Butrint National Park and Ksamil Islands
- Swim, snorkel, and enjoy local seafood at Ksamil
Day 3:
- Morning: Visit the Blue Eye Spring
- Afternoon: Explore Gjirokastër or take a scenic boat tour
- Evening: Stroll the promenade and enjoy a final dinner by the coast
🌅 Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Fall in Love with Sarandë
Sarandë isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience.
From ancient ruins to pristine beaches, delicious food, and heartfelt hospitality, this Albanian gem offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, or sun lover, Sarandë is sure to steal your heart and stay in your memory long after you’ve left.