Sarandë (also spelled Saranda) is a coastal town in southern Albania, nestled between lush hills and the Ionian Sea. It sits near Albania’s Greek border, with the island of Corfu visible across the water. Once a sleepy fishing port, Sarandë has grown into a vibrant resort city.
Renting a car is a convenient way to explore nearby highlights like Ksamil, Butrint National Park, and the scenic Albanian Riviera. The town is part of the Albanian Riviera, known for its clear blue waters and unspoiled Mediterranean scenery. This guide is for travellers planning a Sarandë vacation. After reading, you’ll be ready to enjoy one of Albania’s top coastal destinations.
Here are some top reasons why Sarandë deserves a spot on your Albanian itinerary:
Sarandë enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, meaning hot, sunny summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Sarandë depends on your preferences for weather and crowds. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:
Summer from June to August is the peak season in Sarandë, with hot, dry weather and a lively atmosphere. Daily high temperatures in July and August hover around 30°C (86°F) or more. The town bustles with tourists enjoying the beaches by day and the bars by night. Nightlife is in full swing with open-air parties and music events dotting the coastline. Keep in mind that summer is also when hotel and rental prices are highest, and popular Sarandë attractions can get crowded.
The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn (April to May and September to October) are the best time to visit Sarandë. In April and May, days start to warm up to around 20 to 25°C, hillsides are green, and the sea is ideal for a quick swim by late May. September and early October remain warm (mid-20s °C) and the sea retains much of its summer warmth.
During these months, you’ll find fewer tourists, making it easier to explore sights like Lekursi Castle or the Blue Eye spring. Hotels and restaurants are open, but often with lower off-peak prices. It’s an ideal time for sightseeing, hiking in the nearby parks, or taking leisurely day trips.
Winter, from November to March, is the off-season in Sarandë. Temperatures are mild for Europe. It averages around 14°C (57°F) on winter days, and frost or snow is extremely rare. Most of the annual rainfall occurs between November and February, so you can expect some wet days and the occasional storm. Many beach bars, tour operators, and some hotels close for the season, especially from late fall through winter. So, don’t expect sunbathing or a pumping nightlife scene during these months.
Sarandë may be tucked away in Albania's far south, but reaching this coastal city is relatively straightforward. Whether you’re coming from abroad or elsewhere in Albania, you have a few options for getting here. Below, we cover arriving in Albania first and then the specifics of getting to Sarandë.
By air, the main gateway is Tirana International Airport, with flights from many European cities. Sarandë lies about 280 kilometres away, so onward transport is required. A popular alternative is Corfu International Airport in Greece, very close to Sarandë and well-connected in summer. From Corfu, travellers take a short ferry crossing. Tirana and Corfu are the most convenient options.
Driving to Sarandë allows you to explore the countryside along the way. From Tirana, the journey is about 280 kilometres and usually takes 4.5 to 5 hours in good conditions. There are two main routes. The inland route via Gjirokastër is faster, while the coastal route via Vlora and the Llogara Pass is longer but far more scenic.
Expect mountain roads with sharp turns, slower traffic at times, and occasional obstacles such as livestock or uneven surfaces. The coastal drive, in particular, rewards patience with dramatic views of the Albanian Riviera. For visitors planning to self-drive, car hire in Albania for tourists is widely available, especially in Tirana, and rentals are also possible in Sarandë.
Having a car gives you the freedom to stop at beaches, villages, and viewpoints along the route. Make sure you carry an International Driving Permit, drive cautiously, and book accommodation with parking, as finding spaces in Sarandë can be difficult during peak season.
Despite its modest size, Sarandë packs in a variety of activities and sights to keep you entertained. From sunny beaches to historical ruins, here are the top things to do in Sarandë and its surrounding area:
One of the main reasons people come to Sarandë is its wide choice of beaches, ranging from central and lively to quiet and natural. Central Sarandë Beach, also known as the city beach, sits directly along the main promenade. It is a long curve of small pebbles and clear blue Ionian Sea water.
While it is not sandy, it is convenient, with cafés and gelato shops just steps away. The sea is usually calm and clean, making it suitable for swimming. Entry is free if you bring a towel, or you can rent a sun lounger and umbrella from nearby venues.
Just outside the centre, several other beaches offer different atmospheres. To the south, Mango Beach is popular for its organised setup, beach clubs, and energetic mood. Renting sunbeds typically costs about 10 to 20 USD for two beds and an umbrella. Music often plays in the afternoon, attracting a younger crowd. Nearby hotel beaches offer similar services with restaurants and summer DJs.
For quieter options, head a few kilometres beyond town. Mirror Beach is a small cove known for its clear water, while Pulëbardha Beach features dramatic cliffs and turquoise sea. Further north, more secluded beaches are often reached by boat. About 15 kilometres south, Ksamil stands out for its white sand and small islands.
Sarandë offers more than beaches, with several historical and cultural sites that add depth to a visit. One of the most striking landmarks is Lekursi Castle, set on a hill above the town. Built in 1537 during the Ottoman period, the fortress once controlled the harbour and surrounding routes.
Today, its stone walls and remaining towers provide sweeping views across Sarandë Bay, the Ionian Sea, and Corfu in the distance. You can reach the castle by a short drive or by walking uphill for about 45 to 60 minutes. There is no entrance fee, and the setting is ideal even if you only stop for a drink.
In the town centre, the Sarandë Synagogue Ruins reveal a lesser-known chapter of local history. Dating from the 5th to 6th century, this site includes mosaic floors decorated with religious and natural motifs. The synagogue was later adapted into a Christian church, reflecting centuries of change. Information boards explain the site, and it is easy to visit while walking through town.
For insight into everyday life, the Museum of Traditions presents traditional clothing, household objects, and photographs in a historic waterfront building. A short visit gives useful context to the region’s past. Nearby, Mother Teresa Square and the small Sarandë Mosque highlight the town’s layered identity.
Just outside Sarandë, you can visit Butrint National Park. Its ancient ruins are located beside a lagoon and tell the story of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influence. A half-day trip here completes a well-rounded cultural experience.
With its clear water and dramatic shoreline, Sarandë offers many activities centred on the sea. Boat trips are one of the most popular experiences. Daily tours depart from the harbour and range from relaxed sightseeing to lively evening cruises.
Day trips often stop at secluded beaches such as Krorëza and Kakome Bay, where you can swim in quiet coves and enjoy clear water. Some tours include snorkelling equipment, allowing you to explore underwater life in the Ionian Sea. Evening cruises offer a different atmosphere, with music and views of Sarandë illuminated after sunset.
Swimming and snorkelling are highlights in this region. The water is clean, calm, and very clear, especially around Ksamil, where shallow bays suit beginners. Rocky beaches such as Mirror Beach and Pulëbardha offer interesting underwater formations and fish. Summer sea temperatures reach about 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, making long swims comfortable. As most beaches are pebbly, visibility is excellent.
Kayaking and paddleboarding are also ideal activities. Rentals are available in Sarandë and Ksamil, often by the hour. Paddling along the coast reveals small caves, arches, and quiet spots unreachable by road. A popular route is between the Ksamil islands, which is manageable in calm conditions. Guided tours combine paddling with snorkelling stops and local insight.
Scuba diving is available on a smaller scale, with centres offering beginner sessions and guided dives to shallow wrecks or underwater springs. In high season, you may also find jet skis, parasailing, or pedal boats near the beaches.
In the grand tour of Albania, Sarandë stands out as a place where you can slow down and soak up the Mediterranean vibe without the Mediterranean prices. It’s the kind of place people tend to visit for a day or two and then wish they had planned for longer. Whether you’re travelling through the Balkans or just looking for a new summer spot, Sarandë is certainly worth visiting.
Rent a car in Albania with Final Rentals to unlock hidden beaches, coastal villages, and unforgettable road trips. Final Rentals offers flexible long-term rentals of up to 60 days, making it ideal for extended journeys across the country. Choose your pickup location, select your travel dates, and find the perfect vehicle for your adventure. Book and manage your car rental at any time. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
