The Albanian Gem
Why Visit Saranda?
Here, we'll briefly cover some of the main reasons why you should visit Saranda at least once in your lifetime!
While this might sound like a typical article written by a local businessman trying to convince you to visit his town, we promise it's not. Saranda is quickly becoming the new Mallorca, and Albania might soon become the new Spain. Discover for yourself why this hidden gem deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
Top Reasons
Why Saranda Should Be Your Next Destination
Rich History & Culture
Saranda and its surrounding areas have been inhabited since prehistoric times. From the 27,000-year-old Kreshmo Cave to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, a trip here feels like a lesson in human history, art, and antiquity.
12 Stunning Beaches
Crystal-clear water so blue it looks painted. Saranda boasts 12 beaches to choose from, all easily accessible by public transport or private vehicle. The farthest sites are only 25 minutes from the city center.
Water Activities Galore
Being so close to the sea, water activities are abundant. Enjoy speedboat tours, sailing trips with Onhezmus 1, boat parties, and more — all departing right from the heart of Saranda.
Nature & Adventure
Explore the Blue Eye Natural Park, a magnificent karstic spring resembling a human eye. Hike to the Monastery of the 40 Saints for breathtaking panoramic views, or climb Mount Heremec, the highest point in the area.
305 Sunny Days a Year
The region's favorable climate makes it perfect for nearly any activity, with rainfall limited to just one or two months a year. Saranda is a year-round destination unlike most Mediterranean towns.
Excellent Accommodation
Accommodation options are plentiful, with thousands of apartments available for rent. Check platforms like Booking.com, or let us help you find the perfect place to stay during your visit.
History & Culture
One of Albania's Richest Regions
Saranda and its surrounding areas have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Not far from the town, near a village called Konispol, lies the Kreshmo Cave, which is around 27,000 years old.
Just a few kilometers away is the Ancient City of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 4th century BC. A few kilometers further, you can find the Ancient City of Phoinice, also from the 4th century BC.
And that's just the beginning. A trip to Saranda can feel like a lesson in human history, art, and antiquity.
Historic Sites Nearby
Yes, they are all in Saranda!
- The Monastery of the 40 Saints
- The Monastery of St. Nicholas
- The Monastery of St. Mary in Kostar
- The Monastery of St. George
- The Mosque of Gjin Aleks
- The Paleochristian Basilica
- The 4th-century Jewish Synagogue
- Ancient City of Butrint (UNESCO World Heritage)
- Ancient City of Phoinice (4th century BC)
- Kreshmo Cave (~27,000 years old)
Things To Do
Activities in Saranda
The region's favorable climate — about 305 sunny days per year — makes it perfect for nearly any activity.
Speedboat Tours
Boat Trips
Horseback Riding
Fishing Tours
Nightlife & Cocktail Bars
Traditional Albanian Cuisine
Camping & Rafting
Historical Tours
Nature & Adventure
Explore the Natural Wonders
Just a few kilometers from the town lies one of the most stunning natural wonders: The Blue Eye Natural Park. This park features a magnificent karstic spring resembling a human eye. Cool, refreshing water, tall trees, and amazing wildlife await visitors — a perfect summer destination.
You can hike to the Monastery of the 40 Saints for breathtaking panoramic views or climb Mount Heremec, the highest point in the Saranda area. The region also offers camping, rafting, and historical tours for the adventurous traveler.
Saranda also offers nature exploration, camping, rafting, historical tours, and more. The region's favorable climate — about 305 sunny days per year — makes it perfect for nearly any activity, with rainfall limited to just one or two months a year.
In Conclusion
Don't Miss This Chance!
It would take pages to describe everything Saranda has to offer. But the best part is discovering it yourself — not just reading about it online.
Saranda is quickly becoming the new Mallorca, and Albania might soon become the new Spain. And as they say about Spain: "You should have visited it while you could." 😉