Explore the beautiful coastal town of Sarandë with its blue, pristine waters of the Mediterranean coast, and be enriched by the the rich history and heritage. From archaeological remains of the earlier centuries synagogue, to castle ruins from the mid centuries, to ports and beaches; this charming town has breathtaking sights to behold that are simply out of the earth. Bask into the all year summer glow, and experience a true blue Mediterranean lifestyle as you taste local delights, and participate in local events and activities. This promising destination has more than just beautiful scenic views; check out the list of things to do in Sarandë, Albania!
Tip from tour guide
Saranda is one of the richest areas in Albania, blessed with 300 days of sun. It boats olive trees and olive oil production, orange and tangerine plantations, local wine and raki (Albanian traditional alcoholic drink), and of course, the best product that can be enjoyed from March to the beginning of September, mussels.
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1. Go hiking at Butrint National Park
Visit the UNESCO Heritage site and Albania’s historical Butrint National Park. Located in the south of Sarandë, this national park is one of the most important archaeological sites in the country and has numerous monuments that still stand up to this date such as the Roman theatre, Dionysus altar, etc. History buffs will appreciate the tour and knowledge gained about the Ancient Iliryans-Albanian, Greek, and Roman history that once existed in this place. It is within close proximity to the sea and is surrounded by the iconic Lake Butrint. Home to many of the flora and fauna of Albania, it is definitely worth the journey to explore one of Albania’s finest natural scenes.
Visited this place?
2. Sip cocktails at Jericho Cocktail Bar
With their happy hours from 2pm to 6pm, at Jericho Cocktail Bar there is no reason not to enjoy a tasteful drink in the summer heat. Enjoy your cocktails with an excellent view as the bar overlooks the ocean, and has amazing vibes that make you want to stay longer than you plan. Situated close to the beach paradise, it is an ideal place to just chill and people-watch the day away. This bar is well-known amongst locals and foreigners alike, and it is not just because of the quality of their drinks. The staff has exceptional service, and perhaps you might be rewarded with a special cocktail that you may call your own at the end of the night.
Jericho Cocktail Bar
Address: Rruga E Flamurit Sarande, Sarande 12208, Albania
Opening hours: 8am - 3am (daily)
3. Relish fresh seafood and local beer at Sunset Saranda Restaurant
Have a sumptuous feast of fresh seafood, pizza, and local beer at Sunset Saranda Restaurant right by the beach. It is definitely a fine location for dinner after a day out at the beach, and ideal to replenish your energy level after swimming out in the ocean. This family-friendly restaurant offers great portions with their creative menus and has healthy options for vegetarians as well. It is perfect for family outings, dinner dates, and a hang-out place for friends. The cozy atmosphere, coupled with a scenic view, makes it welcoming for every visitor to experience the best of Sarandë.
Sunset Saranda Restaurant
Address: Rruga Mitat Hoxha Saranda AL, 9702, Albania
Website: Sunset Saranda Restaurant
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
4. Have a fine dining experience at Layo's
Posted by LaYo's Restaurant on Monday, 26 March 2018
Satisfy your craving for fresh seafood at Layo’s Restaurant as they serve some of the finest delights in Albania. While their specialty is in local Albanian cuisine using fresh fish and seafood, they also offer a variety of options of Mediterranean and European cuisine. The ambiance in the restaurant is great and makes it an ideal choice for date nights and family outings. The food tastes impeccable, leaving you a lasting impression of Sarandë for sure.
Layo’s Restaurant
Address: Lagjja Nr 1 Rruga Butrinti, Saranda 10001, Albania
Opening hours: 8am - 12am (daily)
5. Watch the sunset from Lëkurësi Castle
If you are looking to see the highlights of Sarandë, there is no better view than from the hilltop of Lëkurësi Castle. This historic castle is an architectural feat from the earlier centuries and is set on a strategic location which provides a sweeping view of the charming town. Explore the ruins of the castle, and settle in for dinner at one of its lovely restaurants at sunset to gain a memorable sunset experience. Word has it that it sports the best sunset view in all of Sarandë!
6. Go swimming at Bora Bora Beach
• Bora - Bora Beach #Ksamil ??
Posted by Ksamil Albania on Wednesday, 6 June 2018
Take a dip at the popular beach of Bora Bora Beach at Albania. The clear seawater makes it good for swimming, and you may easily swim to the other smaller islands away from the crowd. The best time to visit the beach is in the morning before it gets cluttered with sunbeds and picnic mats; everyone wants a piece of this goodness!
Bora Bora Beach
Address: Bora Bora Street, Ksamil, Saranda 9706, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Sunbathe at Dhermi Beach
Also known as an Albanian paradise, Dhermi Beach is a popular attraction at Sarandë. You could easily spend a day there sunbathing and soaking in healthy Vitamin D being surrounded by the crystal sea blue waters and a stunning view of the mountains. If it gets too hot, take a dip in the clear blue waters. There are restaurants by the shoreline, and good music and vibes. It is perfect for a day of dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing).
Dhermi Beach
Address: Dhermi Beach, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Learn about the history of Saranda Synagogue Ruins
Visit the impressive ruins of the largest synagogue in the Balkans at Albania. Nestled in the heart of Sarandë town, one can easily see the ruins of the 5th-century synagogue right from the street. The rich history of these unassuming ruins could be told from its beginning as a thriving synagogue centered at the Jewish community of the 5th century. Thereafter, it withstood the Slavic invasion, acted as a haven for the Jewish refugees, occupied by the Italians, and later on was used as military storage.
Saranda Synagogue Ruins
Address: Sarandë, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Go head diving at Mirror beach
Mirror Beach stands as one of the most beautiful beaches in Sarandë. Head dive from a cave and high rocks into crystal clear blue waters. This picturesque pebble beach is a perfect choice destination for your beach holiday. It has a lesser crowd count compared to the main beaches of Sarandë, which makes it ideal for an idyllic, quiet retreat. Dine in one of the many good restaurants, and treat yourself to good local food and stunning sunset views. You most definitely do not want to miss out on this.
Mirror Beach
Address: Saranda, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
10. Test your luck at Admiral Club Sarande
Test your luck at Admiral Club Sarande, one of Admiral Group’s finest casinos in Albania. Not only does it have state-of-the-art gaming terminals, but it also sports a spectacular view of the beachfront. As such, there is no compromise between going to the beach and hitting the slot machines - you can get both at the same place! It is definitely an experience as you play and win in style with some of the finest gaming terminals here in Albania. If you want to take a break between games, pop by the sports bar to have an icy, cold beer and mingle with people of the trade.
Admiral Club Sarande
Address: Lagjia 1, Rr. , Sarande, Albania
Opening hours: 8am - 6am (daily)
11. Gaze at the panoramic views of the Port of Sarandë
Enjoy the beautiful view of Sarandë Harbour, and watch as ships and boats dock at this popular holiday destination at Albania. To some, people-watching and ship-watching may be a therapeutic activity as they share a quiet contemplative moment by themselves, or with strangers on the port. This cruise terminal is approximately a 10-minute walk from downtown Saranda where you may find the bustling town with its finest attractions, dining, and lodging.
Port of Sarandë
Address: Sarandë, Albania
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
12. Take a dip in the Blue Eye
Take a dip in Albania’s famous water spring, the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter). This natural phenomenon is definitely not to be missed. With crystal blue waters so deep and clear that you could see right to the bottom, and surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding nature; this place is out of the world. Join in the Albanian summer pleasures by diving straight into the center of the “eye” of the spring. This spectacular beauty is definitely worth going the miles for, even for a day trip; and you could drop by the iconic Muzinë village on the way!
Syri i Kalter - The Blue Eye
Address: Muzine, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
13. Explore the ruins of Forty Saints Monastery
Visit the ruins of a 6th-century Byzantine monastery and learn about the history of this former monastery and pilgrimage center. Legend has it that the Forty Saints Monastery was home to 40 brave martyrs that refused to renounce their faith back in the earlier century. The monastery has withstood decades of wars, earthquakes, and persecutions. Significantly, the place stands today as a popular tourist destination, sporting a spectacular view that overlooks the beautiful coastal city of Sarandë. The ruins behold a fascinating story, and it is definitely worth it.
Forty Saints Monastery
Address: 40 Shenjtoreve, Saranda, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
14. Enjoy the sunset at Pulebardha Beach
Nestled between Ksamil and Sarandë, Pulebardha Beach offers crystal clear ocean blue waters, with a stunning sunset view. It is perfect if you are looking for a laid-back vacation with minimal distractions while being surrounded by the beauty of nature. There are nearby restaurants where you could grab a bite and enjoy the view. Meanwhile, the warm waters are inviting for a swim; the sandy beach ideal for lounging around. When the sun sets across the horizon, it is a picturesque moment that will definitely take your breath away in this Albanian paradise.
Pulebardha Beach
Address: Pulebardha Beach, Saranda, Albania
Opening hours:24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
15. Plan a jeep safari with Saranda Jeep
Posted by Saranda Jeep on Thursday, 4 July 2019
Hop on to the amazing Saranda Jeep to discover the beauty of Albanian paradise. This ride of a lifetime is bound to be memorable as it brings you through breathtaking panoramas of the beautiful coastal city, tasty local delights you cannot find on the Internet, as well as a bundle of fun as you explore the major sights that put Albania on the map. The rewarding experience is not complete without learning about the history and heritage of Albania through the stories of knowledgable tour guides. This trip will make you richer in experience and more informed than you could ever imagine!
Saranda Jeep
Address: Rruga Jonianet, 11 - 9702 Saranda, Albania
Website: Saranda Jeep
16. Soak in the moist breeze at Paradise Beach
Posted by Plazhi Paradise Ksamil on Thursday, 13 June 2019
There is no pretense about this one - it is truly a paradise beach. Nestled between Saranda and Ksamil, Paradise Beach is by far one of the best beaches in the region and the local’s favorite. It is advisable to be an early bird for this one as you do not want to miss out on such a beauty. Similar to other beaches, this sandy beach has crystal blue waters and a stunning view. Yet, it is the people that make the difference; and there is no better welcome than an Albanian welcome by the friendly staff here at Paradise Beach.
Paradise Beach
Address: Rruga Riviera, Ksamil, Saranda 9706, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
17. Relax and unwind at Monastery's Beach
Posted by Monastery Beach Saranda Albania on Thursday, 6 April 2017
Breathe easy at Monastery Beach, yet another of Albanian beach paradise. This mystical beach is different from the rest; with more rocks on the coast and lesser waves. Yet, it is perfect if you are looking for an idyllic retreat and a quiet space to meditate. Take in the view of pristine, turquoise waters and sandy beach against the backdrop of ancient monasteries. While it is not recommended for water activities such as snorkeling, it is perfect to just laze in the water and enjoy an alternative paradise.
Monastery Beach
Address: Distretto di, Sarandë, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
18. Spend a day with family at Lori Beach
Spend quality time with your family at Lori Beach. This beautiful beach with pristine sand and clear turquoise waters is a family-friendly beach, with good restaurants at the bay. It is an ideal choice to bring the children out for some sand, sun, and swimming fun out at Albanian paradise. After a day of summer fun, dine in one of the restaurants by the beach for the best local food in town, which is 100 percent homemade in tradition and love. It will definitely be a memorable family vacation, with picture-perfect moments in this lovely beach paradise.
Lori Beach
Address: Ksamil, Saranda, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
19. Chill at Shpella e Pellumbave
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Shpella e Pellumbave, also known as Heaven on Earth, surely lives up to its name and stands as a tough contestation to the many beach paradises in Albania. Nestled between Ksamil and Saranda, it is not an easy journey to get there but definitely a rewarding find. Away from the crowd at the public and popular beaches, Shpella e Pellumbave has natural pristine sand, as well as sparkling blue waters. It sports a breathtaking view that is unlike any other, and a sheer delight to spend the day at.
Shpella e Pellumbave
Address: Rruga Sarande-Butrint, Saranda 9701, Albania
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
20. Have a taste of Albanian local delights at Mare Nostrum Cuisine
Posted by Mare Nostrum Cuisine on Monday, 30 June 2014
Enjoy Albanian local delights at Mare Nostrum Cuisine, a popular dining spot at a prominent area in Sarandë. Choose between authentic Mediterranean cuisine, or opt for a fusion-flavored flair as you enjoy a lovely dinner with a beautiful view. To some, it may be a taste of home; and to others, the exotic flavors will be a treat of a lifetime. The owner of the restaurant travels extensively around the world and brings back the experiences through his taste palette and incorporates in his dishes. It is definitely a must-visit experience for anyone passing through Albania.
Mare Nostrum Cuisine
Address: 1 Bilal Golemi Street, Sarande
Opening hours: 12pm - 11pm (daily)
21. Click breathtaking pictures at Saint George Monastery
Contributed by Tour Guide, South Albania Excursions Albania
For photography lovers, Saint George Monastery and the communist bunkers are a beautiful set to take gorgeous and interesting pictures. The area also offers the possibility to explore hidden waterfalls in the mountains and visit some of the oldest villages. Meet with local people who will be pleased to share their food and stories about different times, traditions, and legends. You can choose to explore any of this on a day tour or a multi-day tent tour. You may also be accommodated in local houses.
Albanian paradise awaits you
Surrounded by beach paradise at every corner of Sarandë, and fine restaurants with fresh seafood and local delights; there is no reason to turn away from the call of the Albanian paradise. The stunning landscapes that this ocean paradise offers are breathtaking and out of the earth; it will definitely make for a memorable vacation with lots of picture-perfect opportunities. This charming town is also a historical treat with a rich history told through beautiful ruins, castles, and relics preserved in the museums. This is no place for boredom, and this list of things to do at Sarandë proves that.
History
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