Things To Do
in Sarandë
Sarandë is a sun-kissed coastal town in southern Albania perched along the Ionian Sea. It serves as a gateway to the ancient site of Butrint and the turquoise coves of Ksamil. The waterfront promenade, lively cafés, and hillside views give it a breezy Mediterranean vibe, especially in summer when boats fill the harbor.
Visitors can blend beach time with archaeology, scenic viewpoints, and easy hikes along the Albanian Riviera.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the stunning beach of Ksamil, where the turquoise waters invite you for a refreshing morning swim. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Albanian pastries and fresh fruit. Spend some time sunbathing on the soft sands or exploring the nearby islets.
In the afternoon, take a boat tour to the uninhabited islands of Ksamil, offering opportunities for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters. Afterward, return to Sarandë and enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant with delicious seafood dishes. Stroll along the promenade and soak up the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to the Sarandë waterfront for a picturesque view over Corfu Island. Dine at an authentic Albanian restaurant, tasting local specialties accompanied by fine wine. Finish the night by enjoying live music at a nearby bar, embracing the vibrant nightlife of Sarandë.
Kick off your day with an early visit to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore ancient ruins dating back to Greek and Roman times. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the rich history and culture of the area while surrounded by lush landscapes. Capture stunning photographs of the archaeological sites and the surrounding nature.
Enjoy a picnic lunch within the park or head back to Sarandë for a hearty meal at a local tavern. Afterward, visit the nearby archaeological museum to gain further insights into the history of Butrint. Take a nature walk on the trails, observing unique flora and fauna in this serene environment.
Return to Sarandë and treat yourself to dinner at a seaside restaurant overlooking the bay. Delight in traditional Albanian cuisine while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Conclude your day with a quiet stroll along the beach, enjoying the gentle sound of waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $1-2 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and clear water
- Proximity to UNESCO sites like Butrint
- Vibrant seasonal nightlife and fresh seafood
- Seasonal crowds can make peak-season days busy
- Some smaller shops may accept cash only
- Limited public transport options outside town centers
- "Përshëndetje" - Hello
- "Faleminderit" - Thank you
- "Ju lutem" - Please
- "Sa kushton?" - How much is it?
- "Ku është tualeti?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "A flisni anglisht?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Sarandë
Visit one of these nice places.
Long waterfront with palm trees, boats, and colorful façades—perfect for golden-hour photography.
Elevated overlook offering sweeping views of the town, coast, and Ionian Sea, especially dramatic at sunset.
Turquoise water and white-sand islets line the coast, creating iconic coastal landscape shots.
Emerald pool framed by forest—great for vibrant nature photography and color contrast.
Food in Sarandë
Sarandë Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled or baked local sea bass served with olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs at seaside tavernas.
Must-Try!
Charred octopus with olive oil, herbs, and a squeeze of lemon, often accompanied by vegetables.
Flaky pastry filled with creamy cheese and spinach, a common snack along the promenade.
A traditional baked dish of lamb with yogurt and eggs, found on many Albanian menus.
Sweet pastry with nuts and honey, a popular dessert after meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, seafood, herbs, and local products—great for a quick bite or picnic by the sea.
Buy the day’s catch and have it prepared at a nearby tavern or enjoyed fresh at the harbor.
Grilled corn, fried pastries, savory pies, and fruit skewers along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake and eye contact are common; use polite language and a courteous tone when addressing strangers.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; casual, comfortable clothing is fine for most tourist areas.
Keep noise to reasonable levels in residential areas and restaurants, especially late at night.
Show respect in conversations, avoid overly aggressive bargaining in markets, and be mindful of local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Sarandë
Ensure a smooth experience
In tourist areas, a tip of about 5–10% in restaurants is customary if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers or porters are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; major cards are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops; ATMs are common in towns, with some smaller places preferring cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August brings hot, dry days and water temperatures in the mid-20s C. Expect crowds, boat tours, and busy beaches; arrive early for the best spots and bring sun protection.
September–October remains warm and pleasant with fewer crowds; sea remains swimmable and photo-friendly, though weather can be variable.
December–February are milder and wetter with cooler evenings; some services reduce hours, but city centers are quieter and very atmospheric.
March–May offers mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking, photography, and outdoor meals without peak-season crowds.
Sarandë at Night
Hiking in Sarandë
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic mountain trail through pine forests with dramatic views of the coastline and Adriatic–Ionian landscape.
Rural trails around the Butrint area, combining nature walks with glimpses of ancient ruins.
Forest paths leading to Syri i Kalter, ideal for nature photography and peaceful treks.
Easy coastal hike connecting beaches and coves along the Ksamil shoreline.
Airports
How to reach Sarandë by plane.
Closest international gateway reachable by short ferry or boat transfer from Sarandë; frequent seasonal connections and broader flight options.
Main national airport serving domestic and international flights; drive or bus transfer to the south takes several hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Albanian locals with a growing number of seasonal residents and workers during the tourist season.
Global visitors, with strong international interest from Greece, Italy, and other European countries, especially in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local amateur teams and a lively fan culture.
Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and boat tours are common on the coast.
Favored in schools and local clubs, especially during cooler months when outdoor courts are used.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarandë.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options such as grilled vegetables, cheese-based meze, and salads; for vegan choices, ask for olive oil–based dishes and dairy-free sides.