Sarandë: The Complete Guide

Sarandë offers a wide range of accommodation options, from stylish seafront hotels to cozy boutique stays close to the city center. If you want to be near the lively waterfront and main promenade, staying along Rruga Jonianet or Rruga Mitat Hoxha is ideal. Here you’ll find places like Illyrian Boutique Hotel and Hotel Piccolino, both offering easy access to beaches, restaurants, and ferry connections. These central locations are perfect if you want to explore Sarandë on foot and enjoy the town’s vibrant evening atmosphere.

For visitors seeking a quieter and more luxurious beachside retreat, the area along Rruga Butrinti heading toward Ksamil offers several excellent choices. Properties such as Yacht Premium Hotel and Bougainville Bay Hotel provide modern amenities, stunning sea views, and quick access to more secluded beaches. This part of Sarandë is ideal for travelers wanting a more relaxed environment, while still being only a short drive or a pleasant walk from the bustling center.

Budget travelers and families might prefer accommodations a little further inland, where prices are more affordable but access to the beach is still convenient. Hotels like Hotel Olsi and Hotel Sole provide excellent value, comfortable rooms, and a friendly atmosphere. These options are great for longer stays, offering a peaceful base while being just minutes from Sarandë’s beaches, shops, and restaurants.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Sarandë. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Visiting Sarandë in Spring

Spring, from March to May, is one of the best times to visit Sarandë. Temperatures during this season range from 18°C to 24°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities without the intense summer heat. The beaches and nearby attractions like Butrint and the Blue Eye are much quieter, and the lush landscapes are especially vibrant after the winter rains. Spring also sees the city beginning to host smaller local events and cultural gatherings, giving visitors a more authentic glimpse into life before the peak tourist crowds arrive.

Visiting Sarandë in Summer

Summer, from June to August, is the peak season in Sarandë, with temperatures often reaching between 28°C and 35°C. The beaches are lively, the waterfront promenade is buzzing with open-air cafes and restaurants, and ferry links to nearby Corfu are in full operation. Festivals and concerts take place throughout the summer, including cultural events celebrating traditional Albanian music and dance. Though it’s the busiest time, the vibrant atmosphere, warm evenings, and crystal-clear sea make summer a thrilling time to experience Sarandë at its liveliest.

Visiting Sarandë in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, is a fantastic time to visit Sarandë for those looking to enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds. Temperatures cool slightly to a pleasant 20°C to 28°C, and the sea remains warm enough for swimming well into October. The Ksamil beaches, Butrint, and other nearby sights are still easily accessible without the summer congestion. Autumn is also harvest time in the region, with local food festivals and markets full of seasonal produce like olives, figs, and grapes, offering visitors a rich culinary experience.

Visiting Sarandë in Winter

Winter, from December to February, is the quietest time in Sarandë. While temperatures rarely drop below 10°C, and days can be mild and sunny, many tourist facilities close for the season. However, winter offers a peaceful and authentic experience of the town, ideal for visitors interested in quiet strolls along the waterfront, enjoying the dramatic coastal scenery, or exploring historical sites without crowds. The New Year festivities bring a bit of life back into the town, with small-scale celebrations and local traditions adding charm to the cooler season.

Getting to Sarandë by Air

The most convenient way to reach Sarandë is via Corfu International Airport (CFU) in Greece. From the airport, it’s a short transfer to the Port of Corfu, where you can catch a ferry to Sarandë. Ferries operate multiple times daily, with a crossing time of approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly into Tirana International Airport (TIA) in Albania. From Tirana, Sarandë is about a 5- to 6-hour drive or bus ride.

Getting to Sarandë by Train

Currently, there are no train services to Sarandë. The Albanian railway network is limited, with the southernmost station located in Vlorë. Therefore, train travel is not a viable option for reaching Sarandë.

Getting to Sarandë by Car

Driving to Sarandë offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore the scenic routes of southern Albania. From Tirana, the journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours via the SH4 and SH8 highways. The SH8 coastal road, in particular, offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, as some roads can be winding and narrow.

Travelling around Sarandë

Sarandë is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. For destinations outside the city, such as Ksamil, Butrint, or the Blue Eye, local minibuses (furgons) and taxis are available. While public transportation schedules can be irregular, these options provide access to nearby attractions. Car rentals are also available for those wishing to explore the region at their own pace.