Travel to the Albanian Riviera
Getting to the Albanian Riviera
There are two easy ways in: fly to Corfu and take the ferry across the strait to Sarandë, or fly to Tirana and drive south along the coast. Here are the routes, the ferry guide and what to know before you go.
The Corfu ⇄ Sarandë ferry
The ferry across the strait is the quickest way to the southern Riviera. Corfu airport has plenty of summer flights and sits close to the port.
1. Fly to Corfu (CFU)
The new port is only a few kilometres from the airport – take a taxi or the bus.
2. Book the ferry ahead
Sailings fill up in high season. Book online and check the current timetable with the operator.
3. Passport control
Greek exit control happens in Corfu. Bring a passport or national ID card and arrive in good time.
4. Mind the time difference
Greece is one hour ahead of Albania. Timetables are given in each country's local time.
Operators on the route include Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways.
We don't list departure times because they change by season – always check with the operator before you travel.
Routes and approximate travel times
Times are approximate and depend on traffic, weather and season.
| From | To | How | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corfu (port) | Sarandë | Fast ferry | approx. 30–45 min |
| Corfu (port) | Sarandë | Car ferry | approx. 1–2 h |
| Tirana airport (TIA) | Vlorë | Car / transfer | approx. 2 h |
| Tirana airport (TIA) | Dhërmi / Himarë | Car via Llogara Pass | approx. 3–4 h |
| Tirana airport (TIA) | Sarandë / Ksamil | Car / bus | approx. 4–5 h |
| Sarandë | Ksamil / Butrint | Car / local bus | approx. 20–30 min |
The Kakavia border crossing (from Ioannina in Greece) is an option if you are driving your own car.
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Search flights
Pick your departure, arrival airport and dates. Tirana covers the whole Riviera, Corfu is best for Sarandë and Ksamil.
Search flightsOnwards to your resort
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Transfer or taxi
Pre-booked fixed-price transfers from Tirana airport or Sarandë port straight to your accommodation.
Book a transferCar hire
The best way to enjoy the coast road, the Llogara Pass and the small villages. Check whether your rental allows cross-border trips.
Compare car hire in AlbaniaBus and furgon
Buses and minibuses (furgon) link Tirana, Vlorë, Himarë and Sarandë. Tickets are usually bought on board – ask locally for times.
Good to have
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Travel insurance
Albania is not in the EU – make sure your policy covers medical care here.
See travel insuranceeSIM
EU roaming does not apply in Albania. An eSIM gets you data the moment you land.
See eSIMs for AlbaniaFlight delayed?
If your flight is delayed, cancelled or overbooked you may be entitled to compensation.
Check your compensationWhere to stay
Hotels and apartments along the Riviera.
Frequently asked questions
Is it quicker to fly to Corfu or Tirana?+
For Sarandë or Ksamil, Corfu plus the ferry is often fastest. For Vlorë, Dhërmi or Himarë, Tirana is usually easier.
Do I need a passport for the Corfu ferry?+
Yes, or a national ID card for EU/EEA citizens. Albania is outside Schengen, so there is a border check.
What currency is used in Albania?+
The lek (ALL). Euros are accepted in many places on the coast, but change is often given in lek.
Is there a time difference between Corfu and Albania?+
Yes, Greece is one hour ahead of Albania all year round.