Unmissable Day Trips from Saranda
Saranda is the largest city on the Albanian Riviera. This beach town is not to everyone’s taste, but it is certainly a great base for exploring the gems of southern Albania. There are many great things to do in the city but we’re here to check out the absolutely unmissable day trips from Saranda.
Relax at Ksamil Beach and Islands
The first of our day trips from Saranda is to this extraordinary beach. Beautiful Ksamil is only a 30-minute bus ride from Saranda (see Butrint bus details further down the page).
The bright white sands and glittering turquoise waters attract a lot of tourists during the summer. But if you visit off season, it’s like a private paradise.
Ksamil has several smaller beaches, many of which are owned by bars or restaurants, so it’s often necessary to pay for a sun lounger. Saying that, it will only cost a couple of Euros (or free with a meal or drink in the off season) and you can watch the sunset over the islands with a cocktail in your hand.
Avoid visiting in August, as the crowds get a little crazy, but there is a great party atmosphere. However, there are no big chain hotels in town and many businesses are family owned. This makes Ksamil feel like a more relaxed and blissful beach location than others in Europe.
Boat trips are a popular choice amongst visitors to Ksamil. Many boat tours include a meal and drinks so it is a really fun way to see some of the smaller islands and enjoy the sea air.
Day Trips from Saranda – Be Mesmerized by The Blue Eye (Syri I Kalter)
Syri I Kalter is a captivating and intriguing body of water in southern Albania, making it a great day trip from Saranda. The Blue Eye is shrouded in mystery and local legend. The blue Eye, or Syri i Kalter in Albanian, is a natural water spring of unknown depth and chilling temperatures. The centre of the spring is a deep, dark blue, whilst the surrounding water is a fresh green fading out to the white of the pebbly shore, giving it the vague appearance of a huge eye.
Take the bus from Saranda to the Blue Eye
It is possible to take a minibus from Saranda to the Blue Eye. The bus departs from a stop next to the Synagogue remains on Rruga Flamurit. See it on the map HERE. You can buy the tickets on the bus. Tell the driver you are going to Syri i Kalter, this is a popular stop, and they will know what you mean. You will know when you have arrived as most people get off here. The bus ride will cost 300Lek (about €2) for a one-way journey and you will need to pay in cash. The Blue Eye is within easy reach making it a great day trip from Saranda
Buses can get busy so don’t be shocked if the driver whips out some spare plastic stools to place down the aisle for standing passengers to take a seat!
The bus will drop you off on the main road near the park entrance. Here, there is a small entry fee of 50Lek (€0.40) for pedestrians and 200Lek (€1.60) for cars – don’t forget to take enough cash! Then there is a walk of roughly 2km along a dirt track towards the river. Click HERE to see where the bus drops you and how to walk from there.
The area can get very busy in the summer, so we recommend arriving as early as possible to avoid any crowds – or visit off season. There is a restaurant close by and it’s a good place for a quick refreshment. There is not much else around so it’s definitely worth taking a day bag with a few supplies. However, you will probably only need to spend half a day here
Day Trips from Saranda – Visit Gjirokaster’s Ottoman Streets from Saranda
The stone city of Gjirokaster is well known for its incredible Ottoman architecture and spectacular castle. This is possibly one of the best day trips from Saranda.
To get to Gjirokaster, you can take the same bus from Saranda that goes to the Blue Eye. The journey will take between an hour and an hour and a half. The road is winding as it slopes up and down the Gjerë Mountains, but the scenery is spectacular! Just look out for the occasional flock of sheep that might slow you down.
There are many amazing things to keep you busy in Gjirokaster. The city is immersed in history and bursting with magnificent Ottoman architecture. The highlight for us was the imposing castle perched above the old town. Make sure you also check out the Old Bazaar, with some great souvenir shops, and stop for a strong coffee in one of the quaint coffee shops at the side of the picturesque, cobbled streets. Check out THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN GJIROKASTER
We combined a trip to the Blue Eye and Gjirokaster on the same day. It is a long day but easy to do if you plan your bus route well or have a car.
Day Trips from Saranda – Go Back in Time at Butrint National Park
A journey to Butrint is certainly one of the most interesting day trips from Saranda! We first heard about this UNESCO site on our visit to Tirana earlier in the year. Several locals advised us that it was one of the most fascinating and complete historical sites in the Balkans. They were right!
Roman baths, a large amphitheatre, an acropolis dating back to the 8th Century BC and, our favourite, the relatively intact basilica from the 6th century, were just a few of the ancient gems of Butrint. We also learned that prehistoric sites have been identified within the area and the earliest evidence of occupation dates back to 50,000 BC. The civilization was eventually abandoned due to the progression of the marshland.
The admission cost to Butrint National Park is 700Lek (about €5.70) and you will need at least half a day to really appreciate the history and beauty of the area. It was not busy when we visited in the height of summer, so it was very easy to let your imagination run wild amongst the ancient stones. There is not much shade, however, and the summer sun is strong. So be prepared if you visit in the heat.
How to Get to Butrint
It’s easy to take the bus from Saranda to Butrint National Park. The bus stop is located near the Port of Saranda. About 200 meters to the east you will see a roundabout with a huge tree in the middle and lots of cars screeching in every direction.
The bus departs from here. During the summer the buses run roughly twice per hour – but this is Albania, timetables are not strictly adhered to if at all. The journey only takes about 30 – 40 minutes and costs 100 lek (€0.80) for a one-way ticket. This bus also passes through Ksamil if you fancy a stop at the beach as well!
Fancy a Day trip from Saranda to Corfu?
The Greek Island of Corfu is just a few miles away from Albania by ferry. There are many ferry companies on this route in the peak seasons and most of them will take around 30 minutes and cost about €20 -50. You can book online here and it’s definitely better to book in advance during the busy summer season.
Corfu is a busy little island with plenty to offer. Visit the Old Venetian Fortress that looks out across the Ionian water. You might even catch a glimpse of Albania on a clear day. The main town has many beautiful streets lined with cafes, restaurants and small shops. This is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy a Greek gyro and a Frappe. Feeling a bit more playful? Visit Corfu waterpark for some superb slides and pools. Or do some hiking and appreciate some of the island’s wonderful nature.
Day Trips from Saranda – Visit More of Albania’s Incredible Beaches
Take a day trip from Saranda to some of the lesser-known beaches, such as Himara. Possibly one of the most glamorous beaches in Albania, Himara enjoys the sun all year round.
Sailing and fishing boats pass in and out of the harbor while the town offers plenty of clubs, cafes and restaurants. Borsh, Porto Palermo and Lukova beaches are also nearby. It is also easy to visit ancient Borsh castle from here.
There are only a few buses per day from Saranda to Himara. There is one at 11:30am but it’s always best to arrive early and ask the guys at the bus stop. The buses depart from Rruga Flamurit near the Synagogue.
The Village of Qeparo
Located just north of Himara, and less than 1 hour drive from Saranda, the small village of Qeparo makes an excellent day trip. The village is split into two parts. Lower Qeparo lines the sea front while Upper Qeparo lies around 300m above sea level.
The upper portion of the village has lain partially abandoned since the 1990s after the fall of Communism. However, it is full of character and surrounded by breath-taking views. The village is lined with charming old paths, crumbling stone buildings and walls and there are colourful flowers everywhere during the summer.
A Day Trip from Saranda to Permet
Take a day trip from Saranda to the thermal baths of Permet. An early start is needed as the drive can take over 2 hours and the journey is even longer by bus. However, it is totally worth it!
On arrival, the smell of sulphur in unmistakeable, and a little unpleasant. However, the beauty of the area far outweighs the smell. The ancient bridge crossing the green water is quite a spectacle and the views from the top are unbeatable.
There is a small car park at the Thermal baths and it costs 200L for parking at the site. If you plan on swimming in the river, be aware that there is mud on the river bed.
There is a nice hiking route from the town of Permet to thermal baths. You can also visit Kanioni i Lengarices – a captivating canyon and Kisha e Shen Merise or the Church of Saint Mary. There are many activities available on the Vjosa River including rafting and camping. However, the river is currently being explored for oil so double check before you go.
The bus leaves Saranda for Permet at 7:30 am daily and costs 600Lek (€5). Remember to check at the bus station for return times.
Visit the Rural Village of Delvina
Delvina is a small mountain town off the beaten track. However, it is only a 25 minute drive from saranda! There is also a bus. This day trip from Saranda provides an opportunity to see the real Albania. Relax and enjoy the slow pace of life, have some barbequed meat and enjoy a coffee.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, climb up to the castle – Kalaja e Delvinës – for some amazing views. There are also many mosques and churches and some good hiking paths to explore.
Day Trips from Saranda – Finiq Archaeological Park
This is another fantastic day trip for history buffs! The site is not as impressive as Butrint, but you might have the ruins to yourself. There is also a really authentic feeling to the place as it is virtually untouched and lies in a rural setting.
To get from Saranda to Finiq, find out how to take the bus HERE. The ruins are in better shape than the road leading to them so be carful driving or walking. There is a small entrance fee of 200Lek but there is not always someone there to accept payment. There is a short but steep climb to the top – around 30 meters or so.
This diverse site holds Greek, Roman and Byzantine ruins and a few cold war bunkers. The ancient stones are surrounded by glorious views and colourful wildlife. Amongst other things, there is an Amphitheatre. However, it is not that well preserved.
Finiq is amazing if you love hiking, history or being in the great outdoors. There are no shops nearby so make sure to take provisions. Wear good shoes and maybe long trousers to protect your legs, there are some mean plants up there protecting the ruins!
A Day Trip from Saranda to Berat
To visit Berat from Saranda in a day, you will need to be up with the birds. The bus from Saranda to Berat leaves at 8am. If you are driving, you might want to leave earlier as there is loads to see!
This city began as an Illyrian settlement in the 6th century BC. The streets are lined with Ottoman houses earning it the nickname, “The town of 1000 windows”.
Berat Castle sits atop the mountain and overlooks the city and the surrounding valley. Take a hike to the top to explore the ancient castle and absorb the remarkable views. You might even learn the folklore tale of Baba Tomorre.
There is a fascinating ethnographic museum that provides an interesting history of the area and its people. There are also many beautiful mosques and churches to marvel at throughout the city.
What to Pack for your Day Trips from Saranda
We have put together a convenient packing list for your day trips from Saranda.
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Backpack
- Snacks for travel
- Mini handheld fan (buses get incredibly hot in the summer!)
- Book/audiobook/music
- Water bottle
- Weather appropriate clothing, such as windbreaker and fleece OR swimsuit and beach towel
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Map or downloaded GPS or map application on your phone
- Phone
- Charging pack if needed
- Decent camera (phone) with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery
- Cash
Should I Rent a Car to take a Day Trip from Saranda?
This is a tricky one, and definitely down to personal preference. Albania’s public transport is cheap and cheerful and most places are accessible by bus. However, there are very few railways in Albania. The buses – or furgons – are great for travelling between towns and cities. However, the timetable can be a bit restrictive. If you can haggle, a taxi driver will take you anywhere!
Hitchhiking in Albania is a popular way to get around and is supposedly perfectly safe. We have not tried this ourselves but have spoken to many successful hitchers.
If you decide to rent a car in Albania, please make sure you take out the full insurance. Drivers in the Balkans have their own unique style… On our last visit to Saranda we spent 3 days in the town and witnessed 2 crashes.
Plan your journey in advance as there are many small roads that are not more than dirt tracks. Several mountain routes can be perilous if you do not plan ahead and take great care.
If you take the plunge and decide that driving is best for you, try SIXT. They are really handy if you are based in Saranda and are located just beside the port.
The Albanian Language
Many Albanians in the cities speak a little English but it is useful to learn a few phrases in Albanian. It is certainly not an easy language for English speakers, but any attempt is greatly appreciated by the locals. Here are a few words to try out:
Hello Tungjatjeta (toon-jah-TYEH-tah)
Please Ju lutem (yoo LOO-tehm)
Thank you Faleminderit (fah-lehm-meen-DEH-reet)
Yes Po (poh)
No Jo (yoh)
Goodbye Mirupafshim (meer-oo-PAHF-sheem)
More information
- For Saranda tourist info click HERE
Where to go next
Ready for another adventure? Why not try travelling from Saranda to Ohrid, North Macedonia? There is plenty of history and nature to discover in beautiful Ohrid.
Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.
Have you visited Saranda or anywhere else in Albania? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!
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What an excellent guide for seeing different places from Saranda! Albania is high on my list of places to visit and I’d love spending time at the beaches! I’d also enjoy the stone city, city of a 1000 windows and taking a ferry to Corfu. I didn’t realize how close Corfu is!
I’ve heard of Butrint before! This would be my first choice for a day trip, but the other ones that you’ve mentioned all look equally as appealing too. Thanks for the handy tips!