The Most Amazing Things to do in Saranda, 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 Saranda 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 Saranda, when to visit, how long you will need to explore the area and loads more!
Where is Saranda
Let’s start with the basics. Saranda (or Sarandë in Albanian) is an ancient Port city 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 Saranda worth visiting?
How do you get to Saranda?
There are several ways to get to Saranda, Albania. The most convenient is to take the ferry from Corfu. 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.
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 will drive through the Ottoman town of Gjirokaster. More on that later…
The Bus from Tirana to Saranda
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!
What are the Best things to do in Saranda?
There are so many unexpected things to do in Southern Albania. Here are the very best things to do in Saranda. All these sights are within the town and can be explored on foot.
The Ancient Synagogue
Saranda, and the surrounding area, is full of ancient ruins of historical significance. However, the old synagogue in Saranda wasn’t discovered until the early 2000s. The beautiful mosaic pavements had not seen the light of day for centuries as the place of worship has been dated back to the 5th century. There is a small charge to enter the ruins and look around but there is not always someone there to charge you. The synagogue is situated at the corner of Rruga Skenderbeu and Rruga Flamurit in the centre of Sarande. Many buses depart from this area so you might be able to visit 2 sights in 1!
Things to do in Saranda – The Monastery of 40 Saints
Another ancient sight in Saranda is the Monastery of 40 Saints. Constructed in the 6th century, this was an important pilgrimage site for many around the Ionian Sea area. Mainly ruins now, there is one basilica wall that is quite well intact and several beautiful arches that are almost complete. The Monastery is about a 50 – 60 minute walk from the centre of Saranda, or jump in a taxi to arrive in under 10 minutes. Just remember to negotiate the fare before you get in the cab.
Explore 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.
Stoll Along the Saranda Embankment
Back to a more modern Saranda, the embankment is the place to be. The embankment, or promenade, is full of restaurants, coffee shops and bars. It also follows the shoreline making it a great place to spend a few hours and enjoy the view. You will find the embankment at Shëtitorja Naim Frashëri, Sarandë, Albania.
Chill in Friendship Park
Friendship Park is a nice little space to enjoy some quiet time. It is near the synagogue and is a good way to escape the summer heat and do some people watching.
The Hillary Clinton Memorial
For something a bit quirky, visit Saranda’s Hillary Clinton Memorial. This was built to thank the Americans for all they have done to help Albania and her people. The bust seems to move around a bit but it is currently located in the small park opposite Hotel JoAn, near the centre of town.
Enjoy Saranda’s Beaches
One of the best things to do in Saranda is to relax on the beach. Saranda is a coastal town so there are tons of amazing beaches to explore. Try Mango Beach near the centre of Saranda. There is a low bustle during the day, but the place really comes to life at night. There is a lively vibe with some fantastic clubs and bars.
Things to do in Saranda – Hiking
There are a few good routes for hiking in Saranda. You can follow the coast in a north easterly direction for amazing views of the beaches and you might even spot a few of Albania’s many bunkers.
Alternatively, you can turn your visit to Lekuresi Castle into an afternoon hike that finishes up at a free beach! Click HERE for more info on the route.
If you are looking for some day trips from Saranda, we got you covered. Check out our post HERE!
When to visit Saranda?
This town is absolutely buzzing in the summer! Everything is open, the streets are filled with people, the night clubs are bangin’, the weather is awesome and there are some many amazing things to do in Saranda 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 Saranda becomes a very sleepy place.
How long to visit for?
Saranda 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?
By Albanian standards, Saranda is actually quite pricey during peak season. However, compared to other European beach resorts it is really great value and your holiday money will go far! A coffee will cost about €1.50 – €2, a meal at one of the amazing seafood restaurants will cost about €30 for two people and an air BnB can be found for around €40 per night. These are average prices during the summer months. Most things are cheaper off season.
Is Saranda safe?
Saranda is a safe city. 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. Take the same precautions as you would in any other city and you will really enjoy Saranda.
What to pack for a trip to Saranda
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)
More information
- For Saranda tourist info click HERE
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 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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