Sarande - Discovering Albania

Travelling to Sarande

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Sarande, a pretty good destination in Albania (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Sarande and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Sarande, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Albania, here's everything to know about Sarande for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Sarande

Sarande is a coastal city located in southern Albania, situated on the Ionian Sea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters and rich history. The city has a population of around 20,000 and is in close proximity to several important landmarks, including the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Blue Eye, a natural spring with crystal-clear blue water. Sarande is also well known for its lively nightlife, with many bars, cafes and restaurants lining the seaside promenade.

What to visit in Sarande

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Sarande, Albania along with some information about each one: 1. Butrint National Park - This archaeological site is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcases the ruins of an ancient Greek and Roman settlement.
2. Lekuresi Castle - This castle is situated on a hilltop above Sarande and provides stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the town below.
3. Ksamil Islands - Located just south of Sarande, Ksamil is a set of four small islands that can be reached by boat. These islands have pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
4. Blue Eye - A natural spring that is a mesmerizing hue of blue and is surrounded by lush greenery.
5. St. Nicholas Monastery - A 13th-century church that is known for its intricate frescoes and beautiful architecture.
6. Sarande City Promenade - This beautifully landscaped walkway runs along the coast and is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the sea views.
7. Syri i Kalter (The Blue Eye) - Located just a few miles outside of Sarande, the Blue Eye is a stunning natural spring with vivid blue waters that are unlike anything you've ever seen.
8. Sarande Museum of Archaeology - This museum showcases Sarande's history from the prehistoric period up to the Roman era.
9. Forty Saints Monastery - Located just north of Sarande, the Forty Saints Monastery is a Byzantine church that dates back to the 4th century.
Overall, Sarande is a beautiful coastal town that is packed with history and natural beauty. These attractions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all of the things that Sarande has to offer.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Sarande.

When to go on holiday to Sarande

The best time to visit Sarande, Albania is during the summer months from June to September. During these months the weather is warm, with average high temperatures ranging from 28-32°C (82-90°F), and there is very little rainfall. This makes it perfect for swimming in the sea, exploring beaches and enjoying water sports.
However, if you prefer a quieter time with fewer crowds, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or October-November). During these months the weather is still mild and pleasant, with fewer tourists and lower prices. Just keep in mind that some tourist attractions and services may be closed during the off-season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Sarande

There are several ways to get to Saranda, Albania: 1. By Air: The closest airport to Saranda is in Corfu, Greece. From there, you can take a ferry or hydrofoil to Saranda.
2. By Ferry: It is possible to take a ferry from various ports in Italy, such as Bari, Brindisi, Ancona, or Venice. You can also take a ferry from the Greek islands of Corfu, Patras, or Igoumenitsa.
3. By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily services to Saranda from major cities in Albania, such as Tirana, Durres, and Vlore.
4. By Car: You can rent a car and drive to Saranda from various locations in Albania. The journey can be long, but the scenic drive is worthwhile.
5. By Train: Unfortunately, there are no direct train services to Saranda. However, you can take a train to nearby cities such as Vlore, and then take a bus to Saranda.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Sarande, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Sarande

Here are some typical foods of Sarande, Albania with a short description for each of them: 1. Tave Kosi - This is a popular Albanian dish made with lamb and yogurt. It's slow-cooked with spices and served with a side of rice or bread.
2. Baklava - Baklava is a sweet dessert that's made with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and nuts. It's a traditional dessert in Albania that's often served during holidays and special occasions.
3. Fërgesë - This is a traditional Albanian dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese. It can be served as a side dish or as a main course, and it's often served with bread.
4. Pite - Pite is a type of pie that's made with filo dough and a variety of fillings. It can be savory or sweet, and common fillings include spinach, cheese, and apples.
5. Byrek - Similar to Pite, Byrek is a traditional Albanian pie that's made with phyllo dough and a variety of fillings. It can be served for breakfast, lunch or dinner and is often found in small bakeries throughout Sarande. 6. Fërgesë me Melçi - This is a traditional Albanian dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and liver. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's typically served with bread or rice.
7. Qofte - Qofte are Albanian meatballs that are made with ground beef or lamb and spices. They can be grilled or fried, and they're often served with a side of salad or potatoes.
8. Tulla - Tulla is a type of a fried dough pastry puff sprinkled with sugar or cinnamon. It's a popular street snack in Albania, and it's often served with coffee or tea.
These are just a few of the many delicious and traditional dishes you can find in Sarande.
You can find general info about typical foods in Albania here.

Is Sarande an expensive destination for tourists?

Sarandë, Albania can be considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists, especially compared to many other European cities. However, prices can vary depending on the season and your travel style. Overall, the cost of accommodation, food, and activities in Sarandë tends to be lower than in major tourist destinations in Western Europe. For example, a meal at a local restaurant can cost around 500-800 Lek (4-6 EUR), and a mid-range hotel can be found for around 35-70 EUR per night. That being said, prices may peak during the high season months of July and August, when demand is higher. Additionally, some attractions or activities may have higher entrance fees. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before your trip to get an idea of what to expect.

Where to find accomodation in Sarande

Sarande is a beautiful coastal town in Albania with plenty of accommodation options. Some of the best areas to find accommodation in Sarande are: 1. The city center: This area has a wide variety of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses. It's a great location to stay if you want to be close to the beach, restaurants and shops.
2. Ksamil: Ksamil is a small village located about 12km from Sarande. It's known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. There are many hotels and apartments available for rent in this area.
3. Butrint: Butrint is an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 18km from Sarande. There are a few hotels and guesthouses in the area, as well as camping options.
4. Xarre: Xarre is a village located about 5km from Sarande. It's a peaceful and quiet place to stay, with a few hotels and apartments available. The area has a beautiful beach and is close to the Butrint National Park.
Overall, there are many great areas to stay in while visiting Sarande, depending on your preferences and interests.
You can check hotel prices at Sarande here:
Booking.com

Is Sarande a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Sarande is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, you should use caution and common sense. Here are some tips to ensure your safety: 1. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night or in poorly lit areas.
2. Keep your valuables safe and secure, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
3. Be cautious of pickpockets and be sure to keep a close eye on your belongings especially in crowded areas such as buses, markets, and beaches.
4. Take care when swimming in the sea and make sure you are aware of any warning signs or flags on the beach.
5. Follow local customs and traditions, and be respectful to the locals.
By following these basic tips, you should enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Sarande.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Albania here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Sarande.

What type of travelers will enjoy Sarande the most?

Sarande, Albania is a great destination for all types of travelers, but it is especially popular among couples and families looking for a peaceful beach vacation. Sarande offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning Mediterranean scenery. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day by the beach, or explore the nearby archaeological sites and ancient ruins. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a great choice for young people looking for fun.
Overall, Sarande is a versatile destination that offers something for everyone.

How to get around Sarande

In Sarande, Albania, you can use different modes of transportation to move around. The most common means of transportation include taxis, buses and rental cars. Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable, while buses are an economical means of transportation. Rental cars can be hired from various car rental companies available in the area, to explore Sarande at your own pace. Additionally, walking is also an enjoyable way to explore the town's waterfront and the downtown area.

What to see around Sarande

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Sarande, Albania: 1. Butrint National Park - an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its archaeological ruins, including a theater, temple and baptistery.
2. Ksamil Beach - a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and small island nearby, located just 15 minutes south of Sarande.
3. Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) - a natural spring with crystal-clear blue water, located about 20 minutes northeast of Sarande.
4. Lekursi Castle - a historical castle located on a hill overlooking Sarande with beautiful views of the city and the sea.
5. Gjirokastra - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture and traditional stone houses, and located about an hour northeast of Sarande.
6. Borsh - a small village with a beautiful beach and crystal-clear waters located about an hour north of Sarande.
7. The Ali Pasha Castle - a historical castle located on a small island in the Bay of Porto Palermo about an hour south of Sarande.
I hope that helps!
For every travel information about Albania you can click here.

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