10 Things to do in Saranda

                                      10 Things to do in Saranda

1. VISIT THE BEST SARANDA BEACHES

There are many beaches to explore in Saranda because it is a seaside city. Because they are convenient, the beaches in the centre are among the most well-liked, but if you're looking for something more exquisite, you should visit the beaches on either side of the city. ☀🌕

The beaches in the Kodra neighbourhood of the city are among my favourites. There are also other excellent beaches on the opposite side of the city, close to Mango and Santa Quaranta. 🤽‍♂🏄‍♀

2. TAKE A TRIP TO KSAMIL

Keeping with the beach theme, Ksamil is a noteworthy beachfront town that you should not miss if you are visiting Saranda. Since Ksamil is the top destination on most travellers' bucket lists, it becomes popular in July and August. Ksamil has beautiful water and is well worth visiting. 🌴🌞

You have two options for getting from Saranda: driving, which takes around 20 minutes, or using the bus, which departs from the city centre and costs 100 Lek. It takes about thirty to forty minutes, depending on how crowded the bus is.

3. WATCH THE SUNSET FROM LEKURSI CASTLE

 Observing the sunset from the city-overlooking Lëkurësi castle is a definite must-do. Saranda's sunsets are a must-see since they are consistently breathtaking. There's a restaurant inside the castle where you may get a full dinner or just a glass of wine. Keep in mind that the eatery is only open in the summer. 🌄

4. ENJOY WINE AND VIEW FROM KRISTIANO WINE BAR 

One of the best-kept secrets in Saranda is a wine bar located next to the monastery of the forty saints, perched on a hill! While sipping an Albanian white or red wine, you may enjoy a stunning view of the city from here. Don't miss the opportunity to have a peek inside the building—it's quite gorgeous! 🥂🍻🍾🥜

5. WALK THE BOULEVARD IN THE EVENING

In Saranda, the boulevard is the primary attraction. It is bustling with people in the summer, along with small food vendors and performers. At dusk, when the locals go for their "Xhiro" (walk), the avenue is the busiest for strollers. In Albania, this is customary. It used to be how everyone in the communities met and caught up with one another every day!

6. CHECK OUT THE UNDERWATER LIFE

If you know where to look, Saranda's underwater life is truly amazing. If you want to learn about underwater life, consider taking a tour or diving course with a company like Saranda Diving Centre. They offer everything from corals to stunning, unusual sea life and even shipwrecks. Alternatively, if you want to find it on your own, swim towards the rocks at Mirror Beach or Monastery. Just watch out for boats and jet skis if you cross the barricades.

                                           https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTCaxqRhrmo

7. TAKE A DIP IN BLUE EYE

The blue eye is a natural phenomena that can be reached from Saranda after around 20 minutes by car. The waters of the Blue Eye, a naturally occurring spring, are among the purest you've probably ever seen. No one can verify the exact depth of the spring because divers have only been able to descend to 50 metres before having to surface due to the intense pressure. 🥽🪼🐠🐋

Swimming in the eye itself is not advised, but you are welcome to swim in the other areas if you descend a little—just be careful—the water is really cold! Even in the summer, it remains at a steady 10 degrees throughout the year. 

8. EAT SEAFOOD AT FISHLAND

Try the seafood; it's one of the nicest things to do in Saranda. They serve top-notch, freshly caught seafood! Fishing port is next to Fishland. 🍤🦪 The walk to the port from the centre takes around twenty minutes. You can anticipate fresh seafood straight off the boats at the restaurant because it is located next to the fishing harbour! It has a lovely outlook and is also incredibly reasonably priced.

9. HAVE A DRINK AT CITY LOUNGE

City Lounge is among the most well-liked lounges. It is situated close to Orange, a pub and nightclub. Make sure to enjoy a drink at the outdoor lounge that is positioned directly on the water. Excellent music and beverages are available!

10. TAKE A TRIP TO BUTRINT

A trip to the UNESCO-protected historic city of Butrint would complete a visit to Saranda. Butrint has a rich history in the region, dating back to the Iron and Middle Ages. It would take at least a few hours to see everything in the ancient city because it is very big. You should remember to pack water and a packed lunch. Going early is advised if you are visiting during the summer months because it might get hot and crowded! Each entry costs 700lek.