When it comes to summer in Albania, few places are as iconic as Saranda and Ksamil. Located along the sparkling Ionian Coast, these two destinations offer a mix of lively beach town energy and postcard-worthy tranquility. In just 48 hours, you can swim in crystal waters, explore ancient ruins, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience why southern Albania is becoming Europe’s next coastal gem.
Day 1 – Saranda Vibes & Seaside Sunset
Morning: Arrival & Stroll the Seaside Promenade
Start your journey in Saranda, a vibrant coastal city with a laid-back Mediterranean feel. The best way to begin? A slow walk along the seaside promenade, lined with palm trees, cafes, and souvenir shops.
Must-do in the morning:
- Grab a coffee at Jericho Lounge or Bar Turizmi with sea views
- Dip your toes at the main city beach, right across from the promenade
- Visit the Synagogue Complex ruins and learn about Saranda’s multicultural past
💡 Tip: The promenade is best explored early before the summer crowds gather.
Midday: Lekursi Castle & Lunch with a View
Take a taxi or short hike up to Lekursi Castle, perched on a hill above Saranda. This 16th-century fortress offers a panoramic view of Saranda Bay, the Ionian Sea, and even Corfu Island on clear days.
Eat lunch at the castle restaurant, known for:
- Grilled seafood platters
- Fërgesë (baked cheese & peppers)
- Local white wine
It’s not just about the food — it’s the view that stays with you.
Afternoon: Explore the City or Hit the Beach
After lunch, you can:
- Visit The Forty Saints Monastery (Manastiri i 40 Shenjtorëve) — a historical and spiritual site overlooking the sea
- Relax at Mirror Beach (Plazhi i Pasqyrave) or Monastery Beach, both a short drive away and far less crowded than city beaches
💡 These beaches are quieter and more natural — bring water shoes, as they’re pebbly.
Evening: Saranda by Night
Saranda comes alive at night with music, lights, and the sound of waves. For dinner:
- Head to Limani Restaurant or Taverna Fish Filipi for fresh fish and seafood pasta
- Enjoy a cocktail at Haxhi Bar or Orange Lounge
The promenade glows under streetlamps, and couples, families, and travelers alike gather for their evening “xhiro” — a daily Albanian tradition of walking and socializing.
Day 2 – Ksamil: Albania’s Tropical Escape
Morning: Head to Ksamil (20-minute drive)
Wake up early and take a short drive or taxi to Ksamil, a stunning coastal village famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise water.
Top beaches to explore:
- Ksamil Islands: Rent a kayak or paddle boat to reach these tiny uninhabited islets — ideal for swimming and snorkeling
- Bora Bora Beach or Lori Beach: Well-organized with umbrellas, music, and beach bars
- Pulebardha Beach: A hidden gem on the way to Ksamil, with clean waters and fewer crowds
💡 The beaches fill up fast in summer, so arrive early if you want a front-row umbrella.
Lunch by the Sea
Ksamil’s beachfront restaurants offer some of the best meals you’ll have in Albania — fresh, simple, and flavorful.
Try:
- Octopus salad
- Grilled shrimp or calamari
- Tave me qepë (baked fish with onions)
- Ice-cold Albanian beer or house wine
Favorites include Guvat Restaurant (with terraces over the water) and Abiori Restaurant.
Afternoon: Butrint – Ancient Ruins in a Lush Setting
Just 15 minutes south of Ksamil lies Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological parks in the Balkans.
Explore:
- Ancient Greek and Roman ruins including the amphitheater, forum, basilica, and Venetian tower
- The Baptistery’s mosaic (if open)
- Dense Mediterranean forest paths and coastal lagoon views
The mix of history and nature is magical, especially in late afternoon when the light filters through the trees.
Evening: Sunset in Ksamil or Return to Saranda
Stay in Ksamil for dinner by the water — it’s quieter at night, and the colors of the sunset over the sea are unforgettable.
Recommended:
- Bella Vista Ksamil
- Korali Restaurant
Or return to Saranda for one last evening on the promenade. Either way, the end of your 48 hours will feel like a dream.
Where to Stay
In Saranda:
- Hotel Brilant – modern, central, sea view
- Bougainville Bay – with private beach and pools
- Hostel Hasta La Vista – backpacker-friendly
In Ksamil:
- Hotel Luxury – beach access, peaceful
- Villa Ideal – cozy and affordable
- Hotel Abiori – great location, simple comfort
Travel Tips
- Visit May–June or September for fewer crowds and better prices
- Bring cash, especially in Ksamil — some places don’t accept cards
- Sunbeds/umbrellas range from 500–1500 lekë per day
- Butrint ticket: ~1000 lekë (cash only)
Saranda and Ksamil are where Albania’s raw beauty meets Mediterranean bliss. Whether you want to swim, relax, explore ancient ruins, or enjoy fresh seafood with your toes in the sand, this stretch of coastline offers it all — without the price tag of Greece or Italy.
In just two days, you’ll find yourself slowing down, breathing deeper, and wondering how this little corner of Europe has stayed under the radar for so long.