Albanian Riviera

Saranda

The south's main seaside city and gateway to Ksamil, Butrint and the Corfu ferry.

Albanian Riviera 2–3 days Base for the south, ferry to Corfu

Why visit Saranda

Saranda is the transport hub of the south, with a long promenade, sunset views over Corfu and easy day trips to Butrint, the Blue Eye and the Riviera beaches.

Planning your visit

Saranda is best suited to base for the south, ferry to corfu. Allow 2–3 days to do it justice. For the most current opening hours, ticket prices and transport details, check official sources before you travel — these change seasonally.

Where to stay in Saranda

Saranda

Saranda Sea-View Hotels

Promenade hotels with views toward Corfu and easy access to Butrint.

Best for: Base for the southPrice: Budget to mid-range

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Related destinations

Beaches

Albanian Riviera

Ksamil

A small coastal village with three offshore islands and some of the clearest turquoise water in the country.

Ksamil's shallow, warm Ionian water and swim-to islands make it the most photographed beach destination in Albania. It sits just minutes from the Butrint archaeological site, so you can combine ruins and a swim in one day.

1–3 daysExplore

Beaches

Southwestern Coast

Albanian Riviera

The Ionian coastline from Vlore to Saranda — turquoise bays, pebble coves and dramatic mountain drops to the sea.

The Riviera is the stretch of coast that put Albania on the beach map. The Llogara Pass drops from the mountains straight to the sea, and a string of beaches — Dhermi, Himare, Borsh, Qeparo — follow one another to Saranda.

3–7 daysExplore

Beaches

Albanian Riviera

Himare

A relaxed Riviera town with a long beach, an old hillside village and easy access to quieter coves.

Himare is a good base for the central Riviera — less intense than Ksamil, with a genuine old town above the sea and beaches like Jale and Gjipe within a short drive.

2–4 daysExplore