Saranda is a fantastic destination for experiencing the best of the Albanian Riviera. It’s located close to Corfu, Greece, and surrounded by top attractions, stunning beaches, and beautiful nature in Southern Albania.
During my one-month stay in Saranda as a digital nomad, I enjoyed the relaxed cafe culture and the easy access to Southern Albania’s beautiful sights. If you’re planning a trip to Saranda, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Here are the top 15 activities to enjoy in Saranda, Albania:
1. Stroll Along the Saranda Embankment: The embankment connects various neighborhoods and is a great place to start exploring. You’ll find local businesses offering boat trips and activities. There are also swimming lanes if you’re up for some exercise, and cozy cafes for a post-swim coffee.
2. Visit the Blue Eye: This natural spring, also known as Syri i Kalter, features clear blue water resembling a pupil and iris. It’s a fascinating sight and a top attraction. Many tours from Saranda include a visit to the Blue Eye National Park, where you can swim in the cool waters.
3. Seafood Delights: Saranda is perfect for seafood lovers. Fresh mussels and trout are commonly found on menus, often sourced from Lake Butrint. Notable restaurants include Haxhi for seafood spaghetti and Fish Filipi for local dishes.
4. Explore Ksamil: Just a 20-minute drive from Saranda, Ksamil is known for its beautiful turquoise waters and stunning beaches. A tour can take you to the best beaches and the Butrint Archaeological Park.
5. Relax at Mirror Beach: Also called Pasqyra Beach, it’s known for the sun reflecting off the clear water like a mirror. Accessible via a one-track road with a car park, it’s worth visiting for a full day of relaxation, complete with a beachside restaurant.
6. Discover Butrint: This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts ancient Greek, Roman, and Venetian influences with well-preserved ruins. Tours typically include transportation and a guide.
7. Day Trip to Corfu: Ferries to Corfu run regularly, especially in high season. An early ferry allows you to explore the Old Town, enjoy local shops and restaurants, and visit the Old Fortress before returning to Saranda in the evening.
8. Sunset at Lekuresi Castle: For the best views of Saranda and its surroundings, visit Lekuresi Castle. The site also features a restaurant and bar, perfect for a sunset drink. You can walk there or join a tour that includes other local highlights.
9. Take a Boat Trip: Multiple businesses offer boat tours along the coast, either north to Himara or south toward Ksamil. Whether on a lively group catamaran or a private boat, it’s a fun way to explore hidden beaches and coves.
10. Jeep Tours: For adventure seekers, jeep tours offer a full-day exploration of Southern Albania, including off-road adventures, local villages, and top attractions like the Blue Eye.
11. Relax at Local Beaches: Saranda boasts beautiful beaches like the public Saranda Beach and private ones in the Kodrra area, where you can rent sunbeds. Rruga Butrinti also offers great beach clubs and clear waters.
12. Day Trip to Himara: North of Saranda, Himara features stunning beaches and a charming town. A bus or tour can take you there to enjoy the scenery and local attractions like the Borsh Waterfall.
13. Enjoy Saranda’s Nightlife: There are plenty of cocktail bars along the embankment with great views. Favorites include Tipsy Bar, No Name Bar, and Rooftop for their excellent drinks and ambiance.
14. Visit Gjirokaster: An ancient Ottoman town, Gjirokaster is a UNESCO World Heritage site close to Saranda. Its fortress and old town are must-sees. Combining a visit here with the Blue Eye makes for a perfect day trip.
15. Splash Park Fun: The inflatable obstacle course at Saranda Beach is great fun for both kids and adults. You can pay by the hour and enjoy a hilarious and active experience.
Where to Stay:
– Qender (the Center): Ideal for being in the heart of everything, with many accommodation options, restaurants, and bars.
– Rruga Butrinti: Close to beaches like Mango and Flamingo and various dining spots.
– Kodrra: Affordable and popular with backpackers, offering a quieter, more local experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Is Saranda worth visiting? Absolutely. It’s not only a great place for bars, restaurants, and beaches but also a perfect base for exploring the Albanian Riviera and experiencing local life.
– What sea is Saranda on? Saranda is on the Ionian Sea Gulf, part of the Mediterranean Sea.
– Is Saranda safe? Yes, even in high season when it’s packed with tourists, it feels very safe.
– What is Saranda known for? Saranda is famous for its clear, azure waters and beautiful coastline.
Hopefully, this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Saranda, Albania!