Saranda is a great alternative for those who want a similar Greek experience but reap the benefits of seeing a new country!

Geography.

Saranda is home to the most pristine beaches in Europe. Inland you will find magnificent castles and ancient ruins dating back to the 5th century.

Costs.

Coming from (very expensive) Greece, Albania was a breath of fresh air on our pockets. Food and accommodations were almost half the price of what we paid for the same quality in its neighboring country.

Food.

Saranda is known for its rich Mediterranean cuisine,  lamb, raki, and FRESH seafood are commonly found in most restaurants.

Notes.

The beaches in the summer months will be PACKED with people. Bring lots of sunscreen and try to claim your spot early!

$10 USD per ticket

Butrint National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site built 25,000 years ago. The name “Butrint” derives from the latin word meaning “wounded bull”. It was believed the Greeks had tried to sacrifice a bull in Corfu but the bull escaped and swam to what is now Butrint. The Greeks then decided to build what is now one of the most famous attractions in southern Albania.

Duration

Be prepared to stay at least 2-3 hours to see most of the sites. There is quite a lot of walking and only one small shop with small snacks and drinks so bring food and water if you can. This would make an excellent day trip from Corfu.

How to get there:

From the ferry terminal, there is a direct bus that goes straight to the national park. It takes about 30 minutes and costs around 100 leke ($1 usd)

$10 USD for lounge chairs

Ksamil is breathtaking. The white sandy beaches, the crystal clear water that is a shade of blue I have yet to see anywhere else, the bougainvilleas above every building- the list goes on and on. With so many private little coves, you are bound to find the perfect spot to lay out and enjoy the Albanian sunshine.

How to get there:

There is a bus that leaves Saranda every half an hour to Ksamil.

200 leke per car ($2)

Ksamil is breathtaking. The white sandy beaches, the crystal clear water that is a shade of blue I have yet to see anywhere else, the bougainvilleas above every building- the list goes on and on. With so many private little coves, you are bound to find the perfect spot to lay out and enjoy the Albanian sunshine.

How to get there:

There is a bus that leaves Saranda every half an hour to Ksamil.

Mirror Beach

Road to this beach can be tricky, be careful with potholes.

Monastery Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Saranda.

The Monastery of 40 Saints

This is where Saranda got its name. Meaning 40 in Greek, it is named after the 40 martyrs of Sebaste.

Day trip to Gjirokaster

A MUST see when in Albania!

Ali Pasha Castle

A castle surrounded by beautiful waters

Borsh Beach

The longest beach in Albania

Saranda Embankment

A nice boardwalk promenade, great for people watching and activities