Staying overnight in Sarandë is essential on nearly every tour through Albania. If you’re on the hunt for the most beautiful beaches along the magical Albanian Riviera and are interested in cultural attractions, you could spend several days delighting in this coastal city. Sarandë is popularly chosen as a relaxing getaway while also serving as a convenient base for exploring southern Albania with day trips.
This blog post will guide you on where to stay in Sarandë, recommend the optimal number of nights to spend, and introduce you to the finest hotels in the area.
Tip: The cost of living in Albania is relatively low, providing a great opportunity to stay in top-tier hotels for the same price—or even less—than what you might pay for a hotel room in other parts of Europe.
Booking.comWhere is Sarandë Located in Albania?
Situated in the southern part of Albania on the Ionian Sea, Sarandë is a jewel of the Albanian Riviera. The city is well-connected by the main coastal road that links it to other significant Albanian towns.
Sarandë sits approximately 14 kilometers from the northern tip of the Greek island of Corfu. There is a frequent ferry service between Sarandë and the island, with the journey taking just half an hour.
Due to its proximity to renowned Albanian landmarks like the archaeological site of Butrint and idyllic beaches, Sarandë is a favored base for visitors to the Albanian Riviera. It’s easy to spend a week or longer here, exploring the southern reaches of Albania and its picturesque coastline.
What is Sarandë Famous for?
Sarandë is acclaimed as the most tourist-friendly beach resort in Albania, celebrated for its exquisite beaches and breathtaking scenery. The city is encircled by lush hills and stretches of white sandy beaches that meet the clear, turquoise waters. It is commonly used as a starting point for discovering the untouched beaches and secluded coves of the Albanian Riviera.
Reading tip: best things to do in Sarandë
The city draws visitors to its vibrant promenade, where a mix of local and international cuisine is available in the many restaurants and cafés. In addition to its natural allure, Sarandë is rich in historical landmarks, including ancient monastic ruins and Byzantine churches. The city is especially popular among tourists for its laid-back vibe, offering a tranquil alternative to the bustling resort towns found in more widely-known destinations.
However, Sarandë can become quite crowded and touristy during the summer months. Therefore, we recommend planning your visit for the spring or autumn when the crowds thin out, and the weather remains pleasantly mild.
Choosing Between Ksamil and Sarandë
Since Ksamil and Sarandë are close to each other on the Albanian coast, it’s logical to choose one as your base. But which is the best addition to your travel itinerary in Albania?
Both destinations offer unique experiences on the Albanian Riviera, where one provides more tranquility and the other more vibrancy. Ksamil is often celebrated for its idyllic beaches and the stunning Ksamil Islands. This destination is perfect for travelers seeking peace and connection with nature. The sandy beaches are ideal for relaxed beach days and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. As a smaller, more laid-back village, Ksamil allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of busier locales.
In contrast, Sarandë is a livelier city with a wider range of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s also the more obvious choice if you’re interested in cultural activities, such as visiting the Monastery of 40 Saints or Lëkurësi Castle. Furthermore, Sarandë serves as an excellent starting point for day trips in the region, including excursions to the Blue Eye spring, the picturesque town of Gjirokastër, or even a trip to the Greek island of Corfu.
How Many Days Do I Need in Sarandë?
Two to three days in Sarandë are generally enough to explore the city and enjoy some time on the beach. This timeframe allows you to visit the city’s main attractions, such as the promenade and some nearby historical sites, including the 40 Saints Monastery.
However, Sarandë is not just about city attractions; there’s plenty to see and do in the surrounding area as well. For each day trip to locations like Ksamil, the Blue Eye, Gjirokastër, or the island of Corfu, consider adding an extra day. This makes Sarandë an ideal base for a week-long exploration of southern Albania and this stretch of the Albanian Riviera.
Where to Stay in Sarandë
The best place to stay in Sarandë is the city center, ideally close to the beach. This location offers the perfect mix of the city’s vibrant atmosphere and conveniences such as restaurants and bars, while also providing quick access to the beach and ferry port. In the city center, you’ll find many beautiful hotels boasting sea views or even private beaches!
If you prefer a quieter spot, look along the southern coastline of Sarandë. Here, beautiful resorts and hotels are right on the beach, yet you are just a short journey from the city center’s excitement.
Staying in Central Sarandë
#1 Illyrian Boutique Hotel is near both the beach and Sarandë’s restaurants and bars. The hotel features a stunning rooftop terrace offering panoramic views over the sea and the city, and convenient parking..
#2 Vila Era Beach is a gorgeous resort with a pristine white private beach with sunbeds. Staying here means you’re right on the beautiful coast that draws people to Sarandë. Spacious rooms with sea views, delicious breakfast, and the hospitable family that runs the hotel are frequently highlighted in glowing reviews.
#3 Hotel Olsi is centrally located, just a five-minute walk from the beach. Its trendy decor, comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and excellent value make it a top choice in Sarandë.
#4 Sun N Blue Hotel offers competitively priced rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. With varied breakfast options daily, spectacular views, an ideal location, and private parking, this hotel consistently receives rave reviews.
#5 Yacht Premium Hotel is a stunning luxury hotel right by the sea. The rooms are beautifully, luxuriously, and modernly furnished, often featuring a freestanding bathtub. Located in a relatively quiet part of Sarandë, it’s still just a short walk to the beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere of the city.
#6 Hotel Aloha stands out for its prime beachfront location. It features a private beach and amenities such as an extensive breakfast, beach loungers, and helpful staff. The good value for money is frequently praised in enthusiastic reviews.
Where to Stay near Sarandë
#7 El Primero Hotel offers a dreamy accommodation experience in Sarandë, with a beautiful outdoor pool overlooking the sea, surrounded by sunbeds, plus a vast private beach. The hotel’s high review scores are well-deserved.
#8 Buzë Boutique Hotel is a delightful hotel with modern decor, its own outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, and a private beach. It is one of the highest-rated hotels in Sarandë, often described in reviews as ‘a slice of paradise,’ with staff noted for their exceptional service.
#9 Meraviglia Boutique Hotel is a popular place to stay near the beach. The rooms are very spacious, featuring their own kitchen, dining area, and sitting area. The large balcony offers stunning sea views, adding an extra touch of luxury!
#10 Hotel Sole is acclaimed in reviews for its spacious and beautiful rooms, the friendly owner, the fantastic views, and the pleasant terrace for relaxing. However, the real highlight is the delightful outdoor pool, a perfect spot to cool off during the summer.
