Beaches
The city beaches are located along the promenade, but most visitors head to the clearer coves south of the city, or further to Ksamil. North of Sarandë, there are smaller beaches accessible by car or boat.
Albanian Riviera
Sarandë
The lively center of the southern Riviera, with a ferry to Corfu
Sarandë is the largest town in the southern part of the Albanian Riviera and a natural hub for travel in the region. The city lies in a horseshoe-shaped bay directly opposite the Greek island of Corfu, which is clearly visible across the strait.
Here you'll find the Riviera's widest selection of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife, and within a short distance are some of Albania's premier excursions: Ksamil, Butrint, and the Blue Eye spring.
Highlights
01
Promenade
Lively in the evenings with cafes, restaurants, and views of the bay towards Corfu.
02
Lëkurësi Castle
The castle on the mountain above the city – famous for its sunset views.
03
Blue Eye
Syri i Kaltër, a deep blue spring in a lush forest about half an hour inland.
04
Ancient Onchesmos
Ruins of an early Christian basilica and synagogue right in the city center.
Excursions
Butrint and Ksamil are a short drive south, Blue Eye inland towards the mountains, and the Monastery of the Forty Saints – which gave the city its name – on a hill outside the center. Ferries to Corfu make it easy to combine Albania and Greece on the same trip.
Food and Nightlife
The promenade and the streets behind it are full of restaurants offering fish, seafood, and Albanian cuisine. In summer, bars stay open late.
FAQ
How do you get from Corfu to Sarandë?+
Regular ferries operate between Corfu Town and Sarandë during the season. Check current timetables with the ferry companies before your trip.
Is Sarandë or Ksamil better to stay in?+
Sarandë has more restaurants, a wider selection, and nightlife. Ksamil has more beautiful beaches but is smaller and very crowded in high season. Many stay in Sarandë and take day trips.
More Riviera destinations
All destinations →
Vlorë
The northern gateway to the Riviera – where Albania declared independence
Read the guide
Dhërmi
White beaches, turquoise waters, and a village on the hillside
Read the guide
Himarë
Relaxed coastal town with a castle, olive groves, and hidden coves
Read the guide
Porto Palermo
Ali Pasha's fortress in a protected turquoise bay
Read the guide
Ksamil
Clear water and small islands – the Riviera's most famous view
Read the guide
Butrint
UNESCO-listed ancient city by a lagoon near the Greek border
Read the guide