Top 10 Things To Do In Saranda Albania – My Personal Guide

Saranda, more famously known as Sarandë, is popular for its public beaches, national parks, and open-air activities. If you want to know the top 10 things to do in Saranda Albania, you have come to the right place.

Saranda is the perfect destination for tourists who want to solo trip to Albania. Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• Saranda, Albania, is a breathtaking tourist destination with lively beaches, national parks, and charming restaurants.
• It is the perfect place to visit during the summer, as the beaches are incredibly relaxing.
• You can get lost in the Lekuresi Castle or visit a preserved restoration park.
• Moreover, you can explore the village life or drive through the Llogora Pass for an unforgettable experience.

What is Saranda Albania like?

Saranda, located on Albania’s breathtaking southern coast, features a lively beach scene, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful surroundings.

It is a popular tourist destination, especially during summer, attracting visitors for its mix of history, vibrant local culture, and historical heritage. Let’s explore what Saranda is like and its most popular attractions.

1. Visit the Pulëbardha beach in Saranda

If you’re wondering whether Albania is worth visiting, take a dip in the cool waters at Pulëbardha Beach. Admire the sunset views as the sun dips over the horizon or simply splash around on the beach with your loved ones.

As it is free to visit, you don’t need to worry about entrance costs. You can partake in several activities at Pulëbardha Beach, including swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling.

• Location: Butrint National Park, Ksamil, Albania
• Opening Hours: +355 69 728 8111

2. lose yourself at the Lekuresi castle

Located on a lonely hilltop overlooking Saranda, the Lekuresi Castle, or Kalaja e Lëkurësit, is a hidden gem unknown by many. The castle used to hold the old Lekures village. It features a square shape with two round towers on its southeast and northwest corners.

While climbing to the castle requires travellers to leave the main road on Qafë Gjashtë, it is worth the sight. Take in Saranda’s breathtaking city views from the top. Done admiring the view? Head down to the Lekuresi Restaurant, which offers delectable treats for everyone.

• Location: Saranda, Albania
• Opening Hours: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)

3. indulge in mouth-watering treats at the Saranda embankment

If you’re still wondering what to do in Albania, the Saranda Embankment, a historical landmark in Saranda, is worth visiting. Admire the natural routine of incoming and outgoing boats while taking a stroll along the embankment.

As the winter season begins to set in, it becomes a beautiful place to visit for tourists, providing a chilly breeze. Moreover, you can indulge in mouth-watering treats, local to Saranda, at the embankment.

• Location: Shetitorja Naim Frasheri, Saranda, Albania

4. take photos atop the monastery of 40 saints in Saranda

The Monastery of 40 Saints is a ruined Eastern Orthodox monastery that overlooks the coastal city of Sarande. The monastery was built in the 6th century AD and became one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Ionian Sea region.

While the monastery showcases little now, it serves as a historical site depicting the old-age history of Sarande. The 40 Saints is one of the best autumn destinations in Albania, perfect for when the weather starts to cool down.

• Location: Southern Albania, Saranda, Albania

5. visit dhermi village

Located 69 KM away to the north of Sarande, the Dhermi Village is a must-visit village in Vlore County. It is built on the slope of the Ceraunion Mountains, at 200 metres approximately.

While the Dhermi Village does not have much to offer, it is home to the Dhermi Beach. Take a relaxing stroll while watching the waves pass by, or simply sunbathe as the cool sea breeze relaxes you.

• Location: Vlore County, Albania

6. drive through llogora pass

The Llogora Pass, or the Qafa e Llogarasë, is a mountain pass located within the Ceraunian Mountains along Albania. It is a part of the Llogora National Park, spanning an area of 10.1 sq km.

Take a drive along the Llogora Pass, connecting the Dukat Valley with the Himare in the south. If there is one thing you should know before travelling to Albania, it is that its scenic drives are among the best.

7. take a relaxing stroll at Butrint National Park

Located in southern Albania, Butrint National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to ancient times. With its origins tracing back to the 7th Century BC, Butrint used to serve as a Greek colony before turning into a Roman city.

Later, it became an important Venetian and Byzantine trading post. Currently, it encompasses 9,424 hectares of hilly terrain with several freshwater lakes, salt marshes, and wetlands.

• Location: SH81, Butrint, Albania
• Opening Hours: 08:00 am to 07:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
• Contact Information: +355 69 226 6969

8. don’t miss out on the Scandinavian tourist centre in Albania

If you are looking to explore the Southern Albania area, don’t miss out on the trip of a lifetime, provided exclusively by the Scandinavian Tourist Centre. They provide guided tours for small and larger groups, taking you on various treks, historical landmarks, restaurants, beaches, and more. While you are at it, it is always best to have an itinerary for travelling to southern Albania.

• Location: Mitat Hoxha, Saranda, Albania
• Contact Information: +335 69 263 3434

9. experience the mesmerising syri I Kalter

The Skyi I Kalter, or the Blue Eye, is one of my favourite tourist destinations in Saranda. It is a water spring and a natural phenomenon awaiting your arrival!

The clear blue water can be seen from a 50-meter depth and is breathtaking. What’s even more fascinating is the fact that it is the initial water source of the Bistrice River, stretching 25 KM. If you are planning to visit Saranda, add this to your list, as it is one of the best things to do in Saranda Albania.

• Location: Sarande SHA22, Saranda 9701, Albania
• Opening Hours: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)

10. scuba dive at Karaburun-sazan National marine park

As the only marine national park in Albania, Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park is a must-visit. It is a magnificent coastal park occupying the Sazan Islands and the Karaburun Peninsula. The park encompasses a magnanimous 125.70 sq km. 

The Marine Park is home to a vast array of mountains, islands, cliffs, and canyons, and is one of the most beautiful places in Albania.  If scuba diving, snorkelling, or swimming is on your bucket list, Karaburin-Sazan Park is a must-visit.

Additionally, you may come across various shipwrecks while exploring underwater, making your trip even more memorable!

• Location: Sazan, Zvërnec, Albania
• Timings: Open 24/7

conclusion

Albania’s reputation as a tourism-centric country has seen a quick uprise in tourists coming in to visit globally. Saranda is especially infamous for its active city life, lively beach scene, and vibrant historical parks.

It is a magnificent place with a lot to offer, especially if you are planning to visit in the summer or autumn season. While you are here, do not miss out on the best things to do in Saranda Albania, as you might come to regret it otherwise when you return home.

That’s about it from my side, let me know what you think about these places in the comments!