Saranda

The emerald of the Albanian Riviera across the Ionian

Saranda, the most cosmopolitan city in southern Albania, is a place where Mediterranean temperament overflows alongside the endless blue of the Ionian Sea. Built amphitheatrically around an open bay and just a stone’s throw from Corfu, the city combines the aura of a classic summer resort with the region’s rich and multi-layered history. Featuring a vibrant seaside promenade bustling with life, palm trees swaying in the sea breeze, and crystal-clear beaches, Saranda serves as the ultimate base for exploring the Albanian Riviera. Stroll along the water’s edge at sunset, savor fresh seafood, and discover hidden natural and ancient treasures located just a few kilometers away.

Ideal for:

Couples & Romantic Travelers ,

Beach & Leisure Seekers ,

Party & Nightlife Enthusiasts

Highlights

Ksamil

Often called the "Maldives of Europe," and it is not far from the truth. Located just 15 kilometers south of the city, Ksamil offers white sand and breathtaking turquoise waters. The three small islets in the bay are accessible even by swimming or paddleboat, creating an exotic, highly photogenic setting.

Butrint National Park and Archaeological Site

A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is an absolute must-visit. It is an ancient city built within a lush natural environment beside a lagoon. Here, you will walk among Greek theaters, Roman baths, and Venetian castles, feeling millennia of history unfold right before your eyes.

The Blue Eye

A natural wonder hidden within a dense forest of oak and plane trees, about a 30-minute drive from the city. It is a natural spring with water gushing up from unfathomable depths (divers have reached down to 50 meters without hitting the bottom). The crystal-clear, icy waters feature a dazzling blue and green color that resembles a human eye.

Lëkurësi Castle

Built in 1537 by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, this castle stands atop the hill directly above Saranda. It is the ultimate spot to enjoy the sunset, offering panoramic views of the entire city, the Butrint lagoon, and Corfu.

Seaside Promenade

The heart of Saranda's nightlife. The paved promenade along the sea bustles with people every evening, following the local tradition of the evening stroll ("xhiro"). It is lined with cafes, restaurants, street vendors, and small amusement parks, offering the ultimate summer leisure experience.

Select your Travel type

Individual Travel (FIT) Group Travel (Tours)

IDEAL DESTINATION

The Crossroads of Cultures and the Boundless Blue

Saranda is a city in constant motion, having transformed rapidly in recent years while still preserving its Balkan soul. It is a place where the modern pulse of coastal entertainment sits alongside the serene tranquility of ancient ruins and untouched inland nature.

Whether you are unwinding with a glass of wine while gazing at the twinkling lights of Corfu on the horizon, or losing yourself in the refreshing chill of springs and lagoons, this corner of Albania captures you with its spontaneity. Warm hospitality, Mediterranean flavors, and breathtaking shifts in landscape make Saranda a destination full of vibrancy and delightful surprises.

Culinary Journey through Saranda

The local cuisine is an exceptional blend of Mediterranean, Italian, and Balkan influences. The spotlight is on fresh seafood, with mussels (farmed in Lake Butrint) taking center stage. Try grilled fish, seafood linguine, as well as traditional Albanian flavors like Byrek (traditional savory pie) and Tavë Kosi (lamb baked with yogurt). Pair your meal with plenty of ice-cold local beer (such as Korça or Tirana) and top it off with a shot of strong, traditional raki.

The Best Time to Visit Saranda

June and September are undoubtedly the absolute best choices. The weather is ideal for swimming and the sea is warm, yet you avoid the unbearable traffic and peak-season crowds. During July and August, the region—especially Ksamil—is packed with tourists, temperatures rise significantly, and the nightlife reaches its absolute peak.

How to Get Around Saranda

Airport Transportation Options

Saranda does not (currently) have its own airport. The most popular and convenient way to arrive by air is to fly into Corfu (CFU) and take a hydrofoil (ferry) from the island’s port, which reaches the port of Saranda in just 30 to 40 minutes!

Alternatively, you can fly into Tirana (TIA) and travel south by car or bus—a scenic drive taking roughly 3.5 to 4 hours. Naturally, if traveling from Greece by road, access via the Mavromati border crossing (Sagiada) is exceptionally quick and straightforward.

Public Transportation

The city center and the seaside promenade are easily walkable. To reach Ksamil and Butrint, there is a regular and very inexpensive local bus departing from the center of Saranda every 30 to 60 minutes. Taxis are available everywhere, but be sure to agree on the price in advance. For ultimate freedom to explore secluded beaches and villages along the Riviera, renting a car is the ideal option.

Questions / Answers

Q&A

No, Greek citizens (as well as all EU citizens) can travel to Albania simply using their valid national ID card with Latin characters.

The official currency is the Lek (ALL). However, in Saranda, the Euro (€) is widely accepted in almost all restaurants, hotels, and shops (though paying in Lek often offers a slightly better exchange rate).

It is completely safe. It is an extremely popular tourist destination, very friendly to visitors, and ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Of course! Ferries run daily and very frequently during the summer, making a day trip between Saranda and Corfu a fantastic idea.

The Albanian Riviera is full of gems! If you move north, it is worth visiting Pasqyra beach (Mirror Beach), Borsh, Himara and the impressive Gjipe canyon.

TRAVEL BLOG

Travel Inspirations

View All

City Break with food walking tour in Athens [4days]

Travel Blog - Travel Inspiration. Exploring Greece

27 Jan 2026

Αthens : The Ultimate City Break Guide to Greece’s Timeless Capital

Ancient landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, authentic food, and easy day trips—everything you need to experience Athens like a local Athens is...

Travel Inspiration. Exploring Greece

13 Mar 2025

Enjoyable escape in Thessaloniki: Flavors, wine, and urban explorations

The ultimate city break destination for strolls, culture, and gastronomic delights.

Travel Inspiration. Exploring Greece

30 Dec 2024

Three unique excursions from Grevena

Discover three enchanting routes that will take you on a journey through the unparalleled mountainous charm of the region.

Travel Inspiration. Exploring Greece - Travel Inspiration. Exploring the world

11 Apr 2024

Which destinations do modern pilgrims prefer?

The latest trend focuses on a more sophisticated approach to life.

Travel Inspiration. Exploring Greece

5 Apr 2024

Discover the Breathtaking Nature of Drama.

A versatile destination for all seasons.

Travel Inspiration. Exploring Greece

28 Mar 2024

10 Amazing Greek Castles That Stand Out

Τhe Castles of Greece: Monuments of History and Culture

Travel Inspiration. Exploring Greece - Travel Inspiration. Exploring the world

20 Mar 2024

Discover the luxury of the top 7 spas in Europe.

The tradition of thermal tourism has deep roots in history and continues to captivate visitors even today.

Travel Inspiration. Exploring Greece

13 Feb 2024

5 wonderful hotels in the Greek nature with plenty of activities for children

Escape to nature with your family.

They said about us...

2025-11-11

Voyage Fit Cyclades

Oui nous avons très satisfaits de votre accompagnement et support . Le voyage et les hôtels étaient super! Vous pouvez publier notre avis sur votre site !

FIT Atenas

2026-06-22

FIT Atenas

El cliente ya he llegado a Portugal y nos hay llamado a dar feedback de su visita/traslado.

Hay ido todo muy bien, tanto el motorista como la guia fueren muy amables y el servicio fue muy bueno.

Gracias por todo y hasta una próxima.

École française

2025-12-11

École française

Je n'ai pas encore eu l'occasion de vous remercier pour ce voyage. Le voyage et les hôtels étaient super !Nous n'avons pas été mouillés et nous avons eu tout ce que nous souhaitions. Nous avons organisé des jeux de type olympique au stade.Tout était parfait.La visite du Parlement était fantastique. Les élèves sont ravis et vous remercient.

Verhoeve group

2026-06-09

Athens 4 days Group Tour from Germany

Thank you very much for the group to Athens! They had a great time. They were very enthusiastic about the trip & guide Jason. he swimming/beach stop after Corinth was a big plus. They enjoyed the nature as addition to the city and culture. Always good to add that when visiting Corinth.

The location of the hotel was very good, so a bus transfer in the evening was not always necessary. They could have easily come back via the metro to the hotel. That would have saved us real money.

Thanks again and looking forward to all the coming groups!

Group De Lange

2026-04-30

Τοur to Greece

Group De Lange returned from Greece and they were very happy with the tour. Iris was a great guide, programme went very smooth, first driver was very nice. Group is very satisfied about the tour.

Savita

2025-07-21

Αthens, Santorini and Corfu

My Kids and I loved the trip except for our lost baggage from the Aegean airlines upon arrival at Athens at the start of the trip.Loved all the sightseeing. Tour guides and Pick up services were awesome!! Tour guides were very knowledgeable in their area and history of the city and my kids and I loved that. They answered all our questions. Pick up services were always on time.I just wish I had a little more time in Corfu to do the boat tour as I had planned. Wasn’t able to accomplish that. Loved the wine tasting, Oia and Fira in Santorini. Thank You so much for helping me plan this trip. Great memories made on this trip!!Savita

2025-05-09

Group from India

Thank you so much for your flexibility and support throughout the past weeks – the group ended successfully and we truly appreciate your efforts.

During the trip, we also received very positive feedback from the tour leader regarding the hotels, restaurants, and the quality of your transportation service. We’re very happy with the overall arrangement and sincerely hope to continue working with you on upcoming groups.

2024-03-27

BDA - Scientific meeting

Mata/ChristineThe feedback from all delegates was very positive about all the arrangements provided by the hotel and your good selves. Accommodation, meals and overall satisfaction from the hotel was very good. The renovated rooms help to bring the best of the hotel – the gala dinner room location was fantastic. Please give this feedback to the hotel too. All the transfers, excursions, the drivers, guide etc were performed professionally and all delegates again had something good to say about your services and the way you have handled the management of these activities. Overall well done. This is a genuine feedback and hope that makes you feel satisfied for a job well done

Saranda

The emerald of the Albanian Riviera across the Ionian