Sarandë

Saranda, once called Onchesmos and Aya Saranda (meaning “Forty Saints” in Ottoman Turkish), is a beautiful coastal town on the southern coast of Albania. Sitting by the Ionian Sea, Saranda offers an amazing view of Corfu Island in Greece across the water.

Lëkurësi Castle is the main sight of the town, from which one has views over the countryside and the sea. Within the city limits, ruins can be visited at Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains remains intact from every era, spanning from Ancient Greece through Rome, Byzantium, and Venetia.

For nature lovers, Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) spring is breathtaking with its crystal blue waters surrounded by dense flora. In addition to Ksamil Beach, there are other magnificent beaches in the area, such as those on surrounding islands, that are great for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, and other water sports.

The charm of Saranda comes through not only in history but in the vivid cultural life and natural beauty. Turning from the former modest town into a lively tourist centre with a highly crowded waterfront, full of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Local cuisine also reflects Mediterranean influence, offering a wide range of delicious seafood and traditional Albanian dishes. Thanks to the mild climate and beautiful beaches, the city has become a very nice place to spend time, so it is visited all year round by people who come for relaxation and entertainment.