Welcome to Sarandë, a gem nestled on the stunning Albanian Riviera, famed for its breathtaking beaches. This tourist favorite features a vibrant center bustling with restaurants, bars, and numerous tourist facilities, all surrounded by gorgeous sandy beaches and offering views of the Greek island of Corfu. In Sarandë, ancient history and modern comforts merge seamlessly, making it an ideal spot not just for sunbathing and tasting local dishes but for exploring a variety of attractions.
In this blog, discover the top sights to see in Sarandë and the best day trips you can take in the area. From pristine beaches to ancient castle ruins and ferry trips to a Greek island, find out why Sarandë is a must-visit on your Albanian adventure.
Where is Sarandë in Albania?
Located in the south of Albania along the Ionian Sea, Sarandë—or Saranda—is a key part of the Albanian Riviera. The city is well-connected by a main road that hugs the coastline, linking to other significant Albanian cities.
Sarandë sits roughly 14 kilometers from the northern tip of the Greek island of Corfu, with a ferry route connecting it to the island.
The close proximity to major attractions such as the archaeological site of Butrint and scenic beaches makes Sarandë a popular base along the Albanian Riviera.
What Sarandë is Known For
Known as the most popular seaside resort in Albania, Sarandë is celebrated for its stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes. Encircled by lush green hills and spots of white sandy beaches beside clear blue waters, it serves as a perfect launching point to explore untouched beaches and hidden coves along the Albanian Riviera.
The city draws visitors to its lively promenade, where a mix of local and international cuisine can be enjoyed at a variety of dining spots. Beyond its natural beauty, Sarandë is rich in historical sites, including ancient monastic ruins and Byzantine churches. The city is favored for its relaxed vibe, which stands in contrast to more bustling resort locations in more popular Eurepean destinations. However, it can get quite busy during summer, making the quieter spring or autumn seasons ideal for a visit when it’s less crowded and the weather is cooler.
Ksamil or Sarandë?
Since Ksamil and Sarandë are closely positioned along the Albanian coast, it makes sense to choose one of them to add to your itinerary.
Each offers distinct experiences: Ksamil is celebrated for its serene beaches and the picturesque Ksamil Islands, perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat. Its beaches are great for relaxing and swimming in crystal-clear waters, offering a quieter village atmosphere to escape the hustle and bustle.
In contrast, Sarandë boasts more vibrancy with a wider selection of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife options. It’s the better pick if you’re interested in cultural activities like visiting the Monastery of 40 Saints or the Lëkurësi Castle. Plus, it’s an excellent hub for nearby excursions, including trips to the Blue Eye Spring, the charming town of Gjirokastër, or even over to the Greek island of Corfu.
Your choice between Ksamil and Sarandë largely depends on what kind of holiday you’re seeking. Opt for Ksamil for a quieter, beach-focused getaway, or choose Sarandë for a livelier, tourist-friendly experience with plenty of amenities and activities.
Where to Stay Sarandë
The best place to stay in Sarandë is ideally in the city center, close to the beach. This location offers a perfect blend of the city’s vibrant atmosphere with convenient access to restaurants, bars, and the beach or ferry port. The city center hosts many exquisite hotels that boast sea views or even their own private beaches.
For a quieter stay, consider the southern coastline of Sarandë. Here, you’ll find lovely resorts and hotels directly on the beach, often featuring relaxing outdoor pools, yet still close enough to enjoy the lively city center when you wish.
Tip: With generally low prices in Albania, you have a fantastic opportunity to opt for the finest hotels and pay the same—or even less—than what you would for a standard hotel room in other parts of Europe.
Booking.comThe best hotels in Sarandë:
#1 Vila Era Beach is an outstanding resort featuring a pristine private beach with sunbeds, letting you wake up right on the coast that Sarandë is famous for. Guests love the spacious rooms with sea views, the delicious breakfast, and the warm hospitality of the family that runs it.
#2 Hotel Olsi is located in the city center, just a 5-minute walk from the beach. Its trendy decor, comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and excellent value for money make this a top choice for Sarandë.
#3 Hotel Aloha is renowned for its prime beachfront location. This hotel offers a private beach with excellent facilities including a comprehensive breakfast, beach sunbeds, and attentive staff. It’s often praised for providing great value for money.
#4 El Primero Hotel offers a dreamy place to stay in the south of Sarandë, featuring a stunning outdoor pool with sea views and surrounded by sun loungers, plus a vast private beach. It consistently receives high reviews for good reason.
#5 Buzë Boutique Hotel is a stylish hotel boasting modern décor, an outdoor pool, a restaurant and bar, and its own private beach. It’s one of the top-rated hotels in Sarandë, with guests describing it as ‘a slice of paradise’ and frequently complimenting the helpful staff.
Sarandë Tourist Map
10 Best Things to Do in Sarandë
#1 Lëkurësi Castle
Lëkurësi Castle stands as one of the most iconic landmarks near Sarandë. Strategically built on a hill just outside the city, this ancient fortress offers a commanding view of the area, a feature that was crucial for defense in the past but now serves as a major draw for visitors, especially at sunset when the view becomes truly spectacular.
Constructed in the late sixteenth century by the sultan of the Ottoman Empire, the castle was intended to protect the region from Venetian forces. When visiting, expect to find not a grand medieval castle, but rather some ruins and mainly tourist-oriented facilities that blend well with the original architecture. Among these is a restaurant with a terrace nestled within the old castle walls, providing stunning views. You can either drive up to the castle or enjoy a more adventurous climb on foot. Entry to the castle grounds is free.
#2 Butrint National Park
Butrint National Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located just 30 minutes south of Sarandë and ranks as one of the most famous sites in Albania for a rewarding day trip.
The park showcases Albania’s ancient history through well-preserved ruins from Greek, Roman, and Ottoman civilizations. Set in a scenic natural area surrounded by wetlands, Butrint offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
The site is unique due to the breadth of history it covers. Walking through Butrint National Park is like traveling through time, with remnants ranging from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages. You’ll see old city walls, a baptistry, a Roman theater, and two castles, with the Triconch Palace and the Lion Gate being particular highlights.
#3 40 Saints Monastery
The Forty Saints Monastery is another significant historical site near Sarandë. Located on a hill outside the city, this Byzantine monastery was constructed in the sixth century during the reign of Roman Emperor Justinian and has been a key pilgrimage site for centuries. Officially named Agioi Saranta, which translates to ‘forty saints’ in Greek, the name commemorates the forty martyrs of Sebaste.
Now largely in ruins due to neglect and earthquakes, the monastery saw significant damage during Ottoman invasions in the 14th and 15th centuries, with World War II delivering the final blow. Under the dictatorship of Enver Hoxha, who banned all religious expressions, the remains were further demolished to make way for a military base, leaving only parts of the outer walls.
For a small fee, visitors can explore this historic location, enjoy the serene environment, and take in the stunning views over Sarandë and Lëkurësi Castle.
#4 St. George’s Monastery
St. George’s Monastery, or Manastiri i Shën Gjergjit in Albanian, is beautifully situated on Dema Hill, nestled between Sarandë and the southern town of Ksamil.
This ancient Orthodox monastery primarily consists of a church, rebuilt in the fourteenth century within a larger monastery complex. The site offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea on one side and Butrint Lake on the other. Below the hill lies Monastery Beach, known for being one of the more picturesque beaches in the Sarandë area.
To visit the monastery, you can take a bus towards Butrint, ask the driver to stop at the path leading up to the monastery marked by a sign saying “Manastiri i Shën Gjergjit”, and then take a short but steep hike up.
#5 Hasan Tahsini Boulevard
Hasan Tahsini Boulevard is the vibrant heart of Sarandë. This broad street sweeps along the coast, linking the city center to the beach. With the Ionian Sea on one side and bustling city life on the other, the boulevard is perfect for leisurely walks, especially in the evening. The public beach, running from the ferry terminal to the end of the promenade, is ideal for a variety of water activities and offers a prime spot for beach relaxation. As the sun sets, the boulevard is a great place to experience the beautiful sunsets and discover the emerging nightlife.
#6 Beaches of Sarandë and Surrounding Area
The beaches in and around Sarandë offer a delightful mix of vibrant hotspots and serene retreats. The central city beaches are conveniently accessible to everyone. On the city’s southern side, some of the most exquisite private beaches are generally reserved for guests of nearby clubs and resorts.
West of the city center, Era Beach provides a more exclusive beach experience, catering mainly to guests from the adjacent luxury hotels. Between Sarandë and Ksamil, you’ll find idyllic and almost untouched beaches such as Plazhi i Pasqyrave and Plazhi i Quetesise. While some beaches may be a bit challenging to reach, they are definitely worth the effort for those seeking tranquility and spectacular scenery, like at Pulëbardha Beach, which boasts one of the most stunning views in the area. Near Ksamil, too, you will find beautiful beaches that are worth exploring.
#7 Ksamil and the Ksamil Islands
For those eager to immerse themselves in nature, the area around Sarandë offers breathtaking walks with spectacular views. The coastal route from Sarandë to Ksamil is particularly stunning. Prefer to drive? You can reach the beach town of Ksamil from Sarandë in just 25 minutes.
Ksamil’s beaches are renowned for their fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The town is also famous for the iconic Ksamil Islands. Easily accessible by boat, these small islands are a picture-perfect spot in Albania. They offer a tranquil escape where you can enjoy untouched nature and serene beaches.
This region is especially popular during the summer when tourists flock to the area to soak up the serene waters and picturesque views. However, visiting outside of peak season lets you experience the true beauty of the Albanian coastline in a more peaceful setting.
#8 The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)
The Blue Eye, once considered a lesser-known attraction in Albania, has rightfully earned its place as a must-visit. This mesmerizing natural wonder is located just 35 minutes from Sarandë in the southern part of Albania.
Known locally as Syri i Kaltër, this natural spring is a unique geological feature near the village of Muzinë. It feeds into the Bistricë river, and the surrounding area, blanketed with oak and sycamore trees amidst a mountainous backdrop, is nearly as breathtaking as the spring itself.
The water emerges from a depth of at least 50 meters, displaying a vibrant turquoise clarity. When viewed from above, the Blue Eye resembles an actual eye—the deepest part looking like a dark blue pupil encircled by a lighter blue-green iris. The water is quite cold, around 10-13°C. Despite signs indicating that swimming is not allowed, many visitors indulge in a dip during the summer months.
A visit to the Blue Eye is highly recommended, though the site itself might seem simple at first glance. After you’ve admired the striking blue spring, consider exploring the surrounding area or stopping by the nearby floating restaurant, where you can savor Albanian dishes while enjoying a scenic view.
#9 Gjirokaster
An hour’s drive from Sarandë will take you to the authentic mountain village of Gjirokaster. With its reputation as one of Albania’s most charming and picturesque towns, Gjirokastër is an essential stop on your journey through the country. The town, particularly its historic core, may be small but it is packed with character. It features centuries-old Ottoman houses with stone roofs and whitewashed walls perched on the hillside, making Gjirokastër extraordinarily photogenic.
Gjirokastër is famed for its Ottoman architecture and its picturesque old town. Our top picks in Gjirokastër include the imposing Gjirokastër Castle and historic museum houses like the Zekate House, Skenduli House, and Kadare House. You can also explore the underground Cold War Tunnel, intended as a hideout for dictator Enver Hoxha during a potential foreign invasion. Or consider a scenic walk to the Ali Pasha Bridge for more breathtaking views.
#10 Greek Island of Corfu
Did you know that from Sarandë you can easily make a day trip to the Greek island of Corfu? This island in the Ionian Sea is actually closer to Albania than to the Greek mainland. A ferry ride from Sarandë takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a day trip. However, staying overnight to experience a bit of Greek culture during your Albania trip is also a great option.
Once there, Corfu offers a rich blend of cultural history, stunning landscapes, and bustling streets. The old town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow, winding streets framed by ancient Venetian forts. Here you can explore the local architecture, visit museums, and enjoy Greek cuisine in one of the many tavernas.
For a smooth day trip, it’s a good idea to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially in the high season, to avoid long waits at the terminal. Also, remember to bring a valid passport or ID card, as you’ll be crossing the border between Greece and Albania.
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