Top Things to Do in Sarande

About the City

Nestled along the Albanian Riviera, Sarande is a delightful coastal town with a twinkle of Mediterranean charm. Its alluring promenade is perfect for a breezy evening walk, while the azure waters invite you for a refreshing dip. The town also serves as a gateway to the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells tales of civilizations past. Not just a summer fling, Sarande's off-season offers a peaceful haven with fewer crowds, allowing you to savor the local cuisine at leisure—fresh seafood is a must-try. However, prepare for a mixed bag when it comes to accommodation as options range from luxurious resorts to humble lodgings; choose wisely or risk a less-than-stellar night's sleep. The flip side to Sarande's beauty is the untamed construction boom, which can be an eyesore amidst the natural splendor. Also, brace yourself for potential encounters with over-enthusiastic street vendors and tourist traps. Nevertheless, if you can navigate through these quirks, Sarande's coastal allure, historical richness, and culinary delights make it a memorable destination.

Things to Do in Sarande

Go Gaga for Gjirokastra Qifqi

Food & Drink

Hop on the qifqi train in Sarande and indulge in these scrumptious rice balls! Originating from Gjirokastra, they're seasoned with a secret mix of local herbs and fried to golden perfection. A delight...

Discover Sarande's Underwater World

Outdoors

Strap on your mask and fins, it's time to meet Nemo and his buddies! The underwater scenery here is like a live-action aquatic show, minus the admission fee. Just dive in and get ready for a bubbly go...

Master Ancient Stone Carving

The Unexpected

Get chiselin' and channel ancient artisans! Join a stone carving workshop to craft your own little piece of Albanian history. It's not just for stony-faced historians – bring out the Michelangelo in y...

Artistic Alleyway Amble

The Unexpected

Who needs a gallery when the streets are your canvas? Take a stroll through Saranda's alleyways, where local artists turn every corner into a living, breathing masterpiece. Snap a pic with your favori...

Olive Grove Odyssey

The Unexpected

Olives, as far as the eye can see – and you're in the heart of it! Embark on an off-the-beaten-path trek through ancient olive groves. Learn the secrets of the sacred fruit and even try your hand at p...

Botanical Bonanza

The Unexpected

Delve into the dazzling world of Mediterranean flora! Saranda's local botanical gardens are a bloom with beauty – perfect for budding botanists or petal-peepers wanting a tranquil timeout from beach b...

Hop on a Horse for a Rustic Ride

Outdoors

Ever dreamt of bounding through the breeze on horseback with stunning landscapes rolling by? Well, in Sarande, you get to live that dream. Horsin' around here isn't just a pastime, it's the ultimate w...

Capture the Sunset from a Seaside Promenade

Outdoors

Enjoy an easy evening stroll along Sarande's promenade, the sun's warm goodbye kisses the sea while you're busy taking mental snapshots! It's the perfect chill pill after a sun-soaked day.

Trailblaze through the Olive Groves

Outdoors

Lace up your boots and get ready to wander where WiFi is weak but the connection to nature is strong. Strolling through ancient olive groves, you'll feel like you've stepped into a postcard - minus th...

Paddle Away in a Sea Kayak

Outdoors

Imagine slicing through the crystal waters, navigating around stunning coastline with every stroke. Sea kayaking here isn't just a paddle; it's a full-blown aquatic adventure. Whether you're a rookie ...

Chow Down on Some Chapëk

Food & Drink

Get your forks ready for a chapëk challenge! This traditional bean stew is simmered to rustic perfection. You'll find yourself diving into tender beans, veggies, and enough flavor to make your tastebu...

Peek at the Past in the Archaeological Museum

Sights

Get a scoop of history without the shovel at Sarande's Archaeological Museum. Dive deep into the past with artifacts that tell tales older than your grandma's sourdough starter. From ancient bling to ...

Gaze Through Time at the Synagogue Complex

Sights

Step back in time as you explore the hallowed remnants of Saranda's antique Synagogue Complex. Let the ancient stones whisper stories of times yore, all while you're smack dab in the middle of a seasi...

Capture the Castle Vibes at Lekuresi

Sights

Rule over your vacation kingdom as you capture the vibe atop the hill at Lekuresi Castle. Feast your eyes on panoramic views of Saranda and Corfu while sipping on something cool. Now, that's what I ca...

Soothing Soak at Saranda's Public Beach

Sights

There's nothing quite like the good ol' feeling of dipping your toes in the Adriatic at Saranda's own public beach! Sunbathe like the royalty you are, or make a splash in the warm, inviting waters.

Embrace Nature's Art Gallery

Sights

Get ready to have your breath taken away at the Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kalter), a natural wonder that'll have you gawping in awe. Peer into the crystal-clear blue waters and feel like you've stepped ...

Devour the Divine Dhodhë Brulee

Food & Drink

Satisfy your sugar cravings with Dhodhë Brulee, a creamy, dreamy dessert that takes custard to celestial levels, topped with a perfect, caramelized sugar crust!

Crave a Cup of Caramel Coffee

Food & Drink

Wake up your senses with Sarande's sweetest caffeine kick – Caramel Coffee! This sugary, buzzing beverage is the perfect pick-me-up for any slow-moving morning or afternoon slump.

Get Your Grill on with Qengji Vogël

Food & Drink

Hey there, meat lovers! Get ready to sink your teeth into some Qengji Vogël, a grilled lamb that'll make your heart sing (and your belly, too!). This ain't just any lamb—it's seasoned with a mix of lo...

Unwind with a Scenic Yoga Session

The Unexpected

Strike a pose and find your zen with the most scenic yoga sesh you can imagine. Stretch out against backdrops that'll make your heart do cartwheels—a brew of deep blue seas and glistening sunsets. Don...