The Most Amazing Things to do in Ksamil, Albania
The Albanian Riviera is certainly gaining some interest on social media, and its easy to see why! The stunning white sandy beaches and dramatic, rugged landscapes will draw anyone in. The coastal town of Ksamil is becoming more popular with tourists, helped by its close proximity to the Greek island of Corfu. In this post, we highlight all the very best things to do in Ksamil, when to visit, how long you will need to explore the area and loads more!
Where is Ksamil
Let’s start with the basics, Ksamil (or Ksamili in Albanian) is an old village on the Albanian Riviera. Located in the South of the country, this area benefits from a Mediterranean climate and a myriad of spectacular beaches. The Greek border is less than 50km (30 miles) to the south and the “heel” of Italy’s “boot” is less than 100km (60 miles) as the crow flies. But is Ksamil worth visiting?
How do you get to Ksamil?
There are several ways to get to Ksamil, the “Maldives of Albania”. The most convenient is to take the ferry from Corfu to Saranda. The ferry takes around 30 minutes and is relatively low cost – depending on the time of year. There are many flights to the Island of Corfu making it a great place to start your trip. From Saranda to Ksamil is a quick 20 minute taxi or you can jump on a local bus (or furgon).
Another option is to fly to Albania’s capital, Tirana, and drive south. This is just less than 300 km (200 miles) and should take around 4 hours. The roads are mostly good and you can drive through the Ottoman town of Gjirokaster. More on that later…
The Bus from Tirana to Ksamil
Finding the correct bus station in Tirana can be difficult. Google maps isn’t always correct and there are several different bus stations across the city. For buses departing to Saranda, you will need the bus station is called ‘Regional Bus Terminal – South Albania’ and will be easily spotted as it is a very busy place! Once you are in Saranda, Ksamil is just a stones throw from here by bus or Taxi
What are the Best Things to do in Ksamil?
There are so many unexpected things to do in Southern Albania. Here are the very best things to do in Ksamil. We have also included some awesome sites in the local area for you to try out.
The Best Things to do in Ksamil – Relax on the Beach
One of the most popular summer locations in Albania is Ksamil Beach – a beach lover’s paradise! The clear green waters and bright white, sandy beaches have earned it the nickname, “the Maldives of Albania.” And it’s easy to see why!
Ksamil also 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.
If you are visiting in August as the crowds get a little crazy. However, there are no big chain hotels here and many businesses are family owned. This makes Ksamil feel like a more relaxed and blissful beach location than others in Europe.
Arriving at the beach early during peak season is the best advice we were given!
The Best Things to do in Ksamil – Explore the Islands
Ksamil has four, tiny, uninhabited islands really nearby. Actually, you can even swim to the two nearest ones!
The Best Things to do in Ksamil – Butrint National Park
A journey to Butrint is certainly one of the most interesting things to do near Ksamil! 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 Best Things to do in Ksamil – The Blue Eye
Syri I Kalter is a captivating and intriguing body of water in southern Albania, making it a great day trip from Ksamil. 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.
The Best Things to do in Ksamil – Visit Gjirokaster
There are many amazing things to keep you busy in Ottoman 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
The Best Things to do in Ksamil – Take a Trip to Saranda
Saranda is a port city a little further up the coast from Ksamil. It is really easy to get there and won’t take longer than 30 mins by bus or less if you drive or take a taxi. Check out our guide to see the amazing things to do in Saranda
The Best Things to do in Ksamil – Hike to Lekuresi Castle
If you like history (and who doesn’t?!) there is also Lekuresi Castle to discover. Sitting on the hilltop there are amazing views over the area, the valley and the Ksamil Islands. There is also a great restaurant to try out. The castle was built by the Ottomans in 1537 as they expanded their Empire to the west. Lekuresi Castle is possible to reach on foot in under an hour, or jump in a cab and arrive in 10 minutes.
Take the Ferry to Corfu
The Greek Island of Corfu is just a few miles away from Albania by ferry. There are many ferry companies offering trips from nearby Saranda to Corfu 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.
When to visit Ksamil?
This town is absolutely buzzing in the summer! Everything is open, the streets and beaches are filled with people, the clubs and bars are open all hours, the weather is awesome and there are some many amazing things to do in Ksamil in the summer!
However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds and the higher prices (still cheap by western standards) try visiting off season. Just be aware that many places go into hibernation during the winter and Ksamil becomes a very sleepy place.
How long to visit for?
Ksamil is a great base for exploring Southern Albania. It is possible to cram a lot into 3 days. But to really appreciate the area, we would suggest a week.
How expensive is it?
Recently, Ksamil has become a very popular destination thanks to its popularity on social media. Because of this, prices have gone up 3 or 4 times compared to last year.
We would recommend that you check the prices of restaurants, cafes, bars and even sunbeds before you sit down and make yourself comfortable. The prices in busy beach areas seem to vary wildly at the moment as people cash in on the huge increase in tourism. For example, an umbrella on the beach can be anything from €8-50 for a day. A bottled beer costs about €15 on the beach.
However, away from the beach, a coffee in the town will cost about €1.50 – €2, a meal at one of the amazing seafood restaurants will cost about €30-50 for two people and an Air BnB can be found for around €50 per night. Yes, accommodation can cost less than a spot on the beach! These are average prices during the summer months. Most things are cheaper off season.
Is Ksamil safe?
Ksamil is a safe place. As two females we never felt in danger at any point. We found people to be very helpful and curious about what we thought of their country. The only very minor issue we had was with taxi drivers, they can be slightly over zealous about finding fares – especially from tourists. Take the same precautions as you would in any other city and you will really enjoy Ksamil.
What to pack for a trip to Ksamil
Here’s a super easy packing list to make sure you don’t forget any of the essentials
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Bathing suit
- A good book
- Flip Flops
- Beach Towel
- Hat
- Cell phone- keep in mind that Albania is not in the EU so data might be more expensive as roaming charges will apply.
- power bank and charger
- Adaptor (European)
- Cash – Albanian LEK
- Map downloaded on phone (if you’re going exploring)
- Walking boots or comfy shoes
- Day backpack
- Decent camera (or phone) with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery
- Passport and travel documents
The Albanian language
Many Albanians in the cities speak a little English but it is useful to learn a few phrases in Albanian. Like all Balkan languages, it is certainly not an easy language for English speakers. However, 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)
Where to go next
Ready for another adventure? Why not try some more of Albania’s incredible beaches?
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 Albania or Ksamil already? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop us a message below, we would love to hear from you!
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