Guidebook for Sarandë
Sightseeing Sarande
This natural phenomenon is a spring that is a constant 10 degrees, even at the heat of the summer.
The Blue eye’s water is so clear that you can see every little particle. It’s called the blue eye because the spring looks like an eye if you look from the metal watching tower above. Divers have dived as far as 50 meters down but have failed to go any further due to its length and the pressure that the spring holds. The surrounding nature is very beautiful. You can expect a dense forest and many colours, especially in spring!
To get to Blue eye you can either drive, catch a bus or a taxi.
Taxi: You can usually organise for a taxi to take you and wait for you there for around 20- 25 euros return. The drive takes about 20-30 minutes.
Bus: Otherwise you can catch the bus which heads towards Gijrokastёr. You can tell the driver ‘blue eye’ and he will drop you off at the entrance. Keep in mind that the entrance is around 2km from the actual blue eye. There’s a gravel path that will lead you there which you will share with buses and cars. You can ask someone who is driving to catch a ride with them. That’s the smartest idea as in the summer it can become extremely hot! On the way back it’s an uphill walk you most definitely should try and hitchhike!
When you want to go back to Saranda you can walk back to where the bus dropped you off and wave down the next one you see. The buses usually come by every hour.
74 locals recommend
Blue Eye
This natural phenomenon is a spring that is a constant 10 degrees, even at the heat of the summer.
The Blue eye’s water is so clear that you can see every little particle. It’s called the blue eye because the spring looks like an eye if you look from the metal watching tower above. Divers have dived as far as 50 meters down but have failed to go any further due to its length and the pressure that the spring holds. The surrounding nature is very beautiful. You can expect a dense forest and many colours, especially in spring!
To get to Blue eye you can either drive, catch a bus or a taxi.
Taxi: You can usually organise for a taxi to take you and wait for you there for around 20- 25 euros return. The drive takes about 20-30 minutes.
Bus: Otherwise you can catch the bus which heads towards Gijrokastёr. You can tell the driver ‘blue eye’ and he will drop you off at the entrance. Keep in mind that the entrance is around 2km from the actual blue eye. There’s a gravel path that will lead you there which you will share with buses and cars. You can ask someone who is driving to catch a ride with them. That’s the smartest idea as in the summer it can become extremely hot! On the way back it’s an uphill walk you most definitely should try and hitchhike!
When you want to go back to Saranda you can walk back to where the bus dropped you off and wave down the next one you see. The buses usually come by every hour.
Located in the centre of Saranda right next to the little park, are ancient ruins of a synagogue dating back to the 5th century. In the 6th century, these buildings were converted into a basilica but later were destroyed due to an earthquake. These ruins were only discovered in 1984.
You could visit these ruins within 15 minutes, and will also see other signs of ancient Saranda throughout the city. On the boulevard, you will discover a part of the ancient city walls.
Synagogue - Basilica, Archeological Remains
Located in the centre of Saranda right next to the little park, are ancient ruins of a synagogue dating back to the 5th century. In the 6th century, these buildings were converted into a basilica but later were destroyed due to an earthquake. These ruins were only discovered in 1984.
You could visit these ruins within 15 minutes, and will also see other signs of ancient Saranda throughout the city. On the boulevard, you will discover a part of the ancient city walls.
Overlooking the city of Saranda is Lëkurësi Castle. Lëkurësi Castle itself was built in 1537. You can easily walk from Saranda centre to Lëkurësi Castle if you’re up for a bit of a hike, it takes around 45 minutes to reach the top of the castle
87 locals recommend
Lekuresi Castle
Overlooking the city of Saranda is Lëkurësi Castle. Lëkurësi Castle itself was built in 1537. You can easily walk from Saranda centre to Lëkurësi Castle if you’re up for a bit of a hike, it takes around 45 minutes to reach the top of the castle
Only a 20km from the city of Saranda is the UNESCO site of Butrint. It will take 2 or 3 hours to explore and costs 1000 Lek entry. In the summer I recommend visiting early in the morning or late afternoon as the sun can be overbearing, and you will appreciate it a lot more in the cooler weather.
66 locals recommend
Parku Kombëtar i Butrintit
SH81Only a 20km from the city of Saranda is the UNESCO site of Butrint. It will take 2 or 3 hours to explore and costs 1000 Lek entry. In the summer I recommend visiting early in the morning or late afternoon as the sun can be overbearing, and you will appreciate it a lot more in the cooler weather.
Ali Pasha castle near the main site of UNESCO Butrint. The castle dates back to the 17th century. This fortress was rebuilt in 1819 from its surface with 3 towers. Until 1820 it was the second residence of Ali Pashe Tepelena. The castle is surrounded by water in the most beautiful setting. If you get there early you will be in complete quietness along with the local fisherman.
https://youtu.be/Pkgs-jaXAYI
Ali Pasha Castle of Butrint
SH81Ali Pasha castle near the main site of UNESCO Butrint. The castle dates back to the 17th century. This fortress was rebuilt in 1819 from its surface with 3 towers. Until 1820 it was the second residence of Ali Pashe Tepelena. The castle is surrounded by water in the most beautiful setting. If you get there early you will be in complete quietness along with the local fisherman.
https://youtu.be/Pkgs-jaXAYI
Finiq is an archaeological site which sits on the best vantage point overlooking the nearby region and the city of Sarande. Finiq dates back to the 5th century BC.
You can see remains of an ancient theatre, a small prostyles temple, Hellenistic houses, Byzantine church and other important relics and monuments.
7 locals recommend
Phoenice Archaeological Park
Finiq is an archaeological site which sits on the best vantage point overlooking the nearby region and the city of Sarande. Finiq dates back to the 5th century BC.
You can see remains of an ancient theatre, a small prostyles temple, Hellenistic houses, Byzantine church and other important relics and monuments.
The Monastery of the 40 Saints is my top recommendation for things to do in Saranda Albania. Many miss the opportunity to visit this historic site and a beautiful vantage point. This monastery is a special place, it was built between the 4-6th century and houses 40 rooms within. It was dedicated to the 40 Martyrs of Sebaste who refused to give up their Christian faith during the early stages of the Roman empire in Armenia, so they were locked in the building to die.
The monastery was in good condition up until 1944 when it was bombed by British soldiers who believed there was a German garrison hiding inside.
Saranda got its name from the monastery as Saranda means 40 in Greek.
9 locals recommend
Manastiri i 40 Shenjtorëve
The Monastery of the 40 Saints is my top recommendation for things to do in Saranda Albania. Many miss the opportunity to visit this historic site and a beautiful vantage point. This monastery is a special place, it was built between the 4-6th century and houses 40 rooms within. It was dedicated to the 40 Martyrs of Sebaste who refused to give up their Christian faith during the early stages of the Roman empire in Armenia, so they were locked in the building to die.
The monastery was in good condition up until 1944 when it was bombed by British soldiers who believed there was a German garrison hiding inside.
Saranda got its name from the monastery as Saranda means 40 in Greek.
The Monastery of St Mary is special because it is built within the cliff face! It’s only around a 30-minute drive from Saranda to Kostar. The road is good enough to drive right to the top.
The view from Kostar is absolutely stunning as you can imagine and so is the building!
Manastiri i Kostarit
The Monastery of St Mary is special because it is built within the cliff face! It’s only around a 30-minute drive from Saranda to Kostar. The road is good enough to drive right to the top.
The view from Kostar is absolutely stunning as you can imagine and so is the building!
Manastiri i Shën Gjergjit is another place not far from the city of Saranda, on the way to Ksamil. This 14th-century monastery sits on top of a hill and has a spectacular view. It’s also in great condition.
The path to the Manastiri i Shën Gjergjit is not in great condition so beware if you are a little older because the surface isn’t the best to walk on.
Manastiri Shen Gjergjit
Manastiri i Shën Gjergjit is another place not far from the city of Saranda, on the way to Ksamil. This 14th-century monastery sits on top of a hill and has a spectacular view. It’s also in great condition.
The path to the Manastiri i Shën Gjergjit is not in great condition so beware if you are a little older because the surface isn’t the best to walk on.
Gjin Aleksi Mosque is a 15th century mosque in the village of Rusan, near Delvinë, Albania. It is a Cultural Monument of Albania. The mosque is distinguished for the high quality of acoustics that is obtained through casks that are strategically placed in holes in the walls.
Xhamia e Gjin Aleksit
Gjin Aleksi Mosque is a 15th century mosque in the village of Rusan, near Delvinë, Albania. It is a Cultural Monument of Albania. The mosque is distinguished for the high quality of acoustics that is obtained through casks that are strategically placed in holes in the walls.
The monastery is thought to have been built in 1224 or 1225. It was once enclosed by a circular wall which is today only partly preserved.[1] Its double apse makes it unique in its genre, and some researchers[who?] have advanced the hypothesis that this was due to the monastery being used by two religious rites (Catholic and Orthodox).[2]. The East–West Schism of 1054 appears not to have deterred the Catholic and Orthodox believers in Mesopotam, evidently successful in finding a compromise that enabled them to work together in the construction of the monastery
Ιερά Μονή Αγίου Νικολαόυ - Μεσοπόταμος
The monastery is thought to have been built in 1224 or 1225. It was once enclosed by a circular wall which is today only partly preserved.[1] Its double apse makes it unique in its genre, and some researchers[who?] have advanced the hypothesis that this was due to the monastery being used by two religious rites (Catholic and Orthodox).[2]. The East–West Schism of 1054 appears not to have deterred the Catholic and Orthodox believers in Mesopotam, evidently successful in finding a compromise that enabled them to work together in the construction of the monastery
Entertainment
The underwater life in Saranda is quite magnificent if you know the right places. From corals to beautiful, bizarre sea creatures and even shipwrecks, if you want to discover underwater life opt to do a tour or diving course with the likes of Saranda Diving centre. Or if you would like to discover it on your own, go to Monastery or mirror beach and swim towards the rocks. Just be careful of jet skis and boats if you go past the barriers.
Saranda Diving
142 Rruga Mitat HoxhaThe underwater life in Saranda is quite magnificent if you know the right places. From corals to beautiful, bizarre sea creatures and even shipwrecks, if you want to discover underwater life opt to do a tour or diving course with the likes of Saranda Diving centre. Or if you would like to discover it on your own, go to Monastery or mirror beach and swim towards the rocks. Just be careful of jet skis and boats if you go past the barriers.
Discover Albania with SARANDA JEEP! Reward yourself with a day full of colors, breathtaking panoramas and lot of laughs and fun on our powerful OPEN TOP 4X4 JEEPS. 1-day tour around southern Albania Stops on the most scenic places Relax on the most enchanting bays Typical food for lunch Possibility to drive Visit to major points of interest ...and much, much more!
Saranda Jeep
11 Rruga JonianetDiscover Albania with SARANDA JEEP! Reward yourself with a day full of colors, breathtaking panoramas and lot of laughs and fun on our powerful OPEN TOP 4X4 JEEPS. 1-day tour around southern Albania Stops on the most scenic places Relax on the most enchanting bays Typical food for lunch Possibility to drive Visit to major points of interest ...and much, much more!
WALK THE BOULEVARD IN THE EVENING. The boulevard is the main deal when it comes to Saranda. In the summer it is buzzing with people as well as entertainers and little food stalls.
Bulevardi Hasan Tahsini
Bulevardi Hasan TahsiniWALK THE BOULEVARD IN THE EVENING. The boulevard is the main deal when it comes to Saranda. In the summer it is buzzing with people as well as entertainers and little food stalls.
Food Scene
I just love absolutely everything about this place - amazing service, delicious food, beautiful presentation and romantic setting.
PRICE RANGE
ALL 618 - ALL 2,226
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
CUISINES
Seafood, Mediterranean, European
6 locals recommend
Harmony Hotel
I just love absolutely everything about this place - amazing service, delicious food, beautiful presentation and romantic setting.
PRICE RANGE
ALL 618 - ALL 2,226
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
CUISINES
Seafood, Mediterranean, European
The Demi restaurant is well located with wonderful views. Food and service were very good too.
CUISINES
Italian, Seafood, European, Albanian, Mediterranean
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
9 locals recommend
Demi Hotel
Rruga ButrintiThe Demi restaurant is well located with wonderful views. Food and service were very good too.
CUISINES
Italian, Seafood, European, Albanian, Mediterranean
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
The atmosphere is incredible. The food is pretty good and compared with the elegant design of the place the prices are not that high. The view is fascinating and excellent place to have dinner with friends or having a romantic dinner here.
CUISINES
Seafood, Mediterranean
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Friendly
Hotel Agimi and S
Rruga ButrintiThe atmosphere is incredible. The food is pretty good and compared with the elegant design of the place the prices are not that high. The view is fascinating and excellent place to have dinner with friends or having a romantic dinner here.
CUISINES
Seafood, Mediterranean
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Friendly
A very nice restaurant located next to the water offering a varied menu of seafood, pasta, and salads with a full bar of drinks and wine available.
PRICE RANGE
ALL 1,236 - ALL 3,091
CUISINES
Italian, Seafood, Mediterranean
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
47 locals recommend
BAR RESTAURANT "LA BANANA"
Rruga Ismail TatzatiA very nice restaurant located next to the water offering a varied menu of seafood, pasta, and salads with a full bar of drinks and wine available.
PRICE RANGE
ALL 1,236 - ALL 3,091
CUISINES
Italian, Seafood, Mediterranean
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free Options
The restaurant is located outside of the crowded touristic city center and close to the fishing port. The staff was really nice. The food was simple, not expensive, good and fresh.
6 locals recommend
Rruga Peshkatari
Rruga PeshkatariThe restaurant is located outside of the crowded touristic city center and close to the fishing port. The staff was really nice. The food was simple, not expensive, good and fresh.
Simply the best! A place to LIKE! Superfriendly staff and a modern, cool interior!
Price range: ALL 100 - ALL 700
Like Creperie
40 Rruga Mitat HoxhaSimply the best! A place to LIKE! Superfriendly staff and a modern, cool interior!
Price range: ALL 100 - ALL 700
Star Creperie
5 Rruga Mitat HoxhaBest fast food in Saranda! The prices are great and you would love the food. This place is very popular for "Pita Arabe" and Sqepasti"
PIZZA SAVOS
Rruga Adem ShemeBest fast food in Saranda! The prices are great and you would love the food. This place is very popular for "Pita Arabe" and Sqepasti"
Ristorant Te Bequa
Oda e Babës is a restaurant located near the center of Saranda, Albania. It is a special restaurant with Albanian traditional food. Everything which is served in the restaurant is Organic. They also serve our traditional drinks, especially Raki and Wine, which are produced in their little farm. Once a week in their restaurant is organised Albanian Night, with Albanian traditional music (polyphony).
Price range: ALL 1,243 - ALL 2,485
Oda e Babës
236 Rruga Lefter TaloOda e Babës is a restaurant located near the center of Saranda, Albania. It is a special restaurant with Albanian traditional food. Everything which is served in the restaurant is Organic. They also serve our traditional drinks, especially Raki and Wine, which are produced in their little farm. Once a week in their restaurant is organised Albanian Night, with Albanian traditional music (polyphony).
Price range: ALL 1,243 - ALL 2,485
Bar Restaurant Plazhi I Ri Caci and Pizza
A small, cozy, family-run restaurant located near the center of the city. Only a few steps away from the boulevard and you will be in a calm, quiet, and welcoming place. The food is fresh and tasty, but also reasonably priced. There is inside and outside seating on a cosy veranda.
11 locals recommend
Haxhi
Rruga 40 ShenjtorëtA small, cozy, family-run restaurant located near the center of the city. Only a few steps away from the boulevard and you will be in a calm, quiet, and welcoming place. The food is fresh and tasty, but also reasonably priced. There is inside and outside seating on a cosy veranda.
Drinks & Nightlife
Or Demi Lounge Bar that comes alive in the evening with great music, summer parties and special guests. Relax during the day by the music played exclusively from resident DJ.
21 locals recommend
DEMI BEACH
Rruga ButrintiOr Demi Lounge Bar that comes alive in the evening with great music, summer parties and special guests. Relax during the day by the music played exclusively from resident DJ.
Orange Cocktail Bar Music
SH81 Rruga ButrintiMango Kaffee Beach Bar
Shopping
Supermarket SPAR
"Pasuria e Detit" is a seafood store which delivers fresh, cooked seafood.
Contact: 00355 69 851 0576
Rruga Studenti 26
26 Rruga Studenti"Pasuria e Detit" is a seafood store which delivers fresh, cooked seafood.
Contact: 00355 69 851 0576
City/town information
Gjirokastër is a city in southern Albania, in a valley between the Gjerë mountains and the Drino, at 300 metres above sea level. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, described as "a rare example of a well-preserved Ottoman town, built by farmers of large estate".
Do not miss to make a day trip to Gjirokaster, a world heritage site. Many of the rooftops of Gjirokaster are covered with stones, which give them a unique appearance. Adjacent to the city is also an old fort.
From the fort, one can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Gjirokaster. The easiest way to get here is by car or furgons (Albanian minibusses).
36 locals recommend
Gjirokaster
Gjirokastër is a city in southern Albania, in a valley between the Gjerë mountains and the Drino, at 300 metres above sea level. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, described as "a rare example of a well-preserved Ottoman town, built by farmers of large estate".
Do not miss to make a day trip to Gjirokaster, a world heritage site. Many of the rooftops of Gjirokaster are covered with stones, which give them a unique appearance. Adjacent to the city is also an old fort.
From the fort, one can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Gjirokaster. The easiest way to get here is by car or furgons (Albanian minibusses).
Beaches 5-7 minutes on foot
Hotel Andon Lapa i Pare
Rruga Mitat HoxhaHotel Apollon
Rruga Mitat HoxhaCocktail Dreams Saranda
Rruga Guri NazifiHotel Epirus
112 Rruga Mitat HoxhaEra Beach
Pllakat beach, part of our local beach. Marble stone instead of sand but worth the effort. There are many new bars and restaurants in this part of the neighbourhood.
Liku, Pllakat Beach
Pllakat beach, part of our local beach. Marble stone instead of sand but worth the effort. There are many new bars and restaurants in this part of the neighbourhood.
African Beach Club
69 Rruga Mitat Hoxha