Saranda Day Trips: Top 5 Unforgettable Escapes

So, you’ve found yourself in Saranda, that jewel on the Albanian Riviera, that’s something, too. I mean, it’s just a pretty fantastic spot, yet even paradise, in some respects, can call for a change of scenery every once in a while. I’m talking about Saranda day tours. Lucky for you, that region is filled to the brim with great places just waiting to be explored, so let’s have a look at the very best options for quick getaways from this lovely coastal town, almost.

Ksamil: A Beach Lover’s Dream

Ksamil, that is basically a little coastal village just south of Saranda, almost. The vibe of Ksamil? Pretty much laid-back with absolutely stunning beaches that’ll just knock your socks off, and the trip there is just so quick, too; about a 15-minute ride by bus or car will get you there, in a way, and once there, that bright, turquoise water, the soft, white sand, you know, like it really does feel like you’ve found yourself in a postcard. You might grab a sunbed at one of the beach clubs, or maybe that sounds terrible, yet you rather jump right into that crystal-clear water, but you should take your time, though! Is that your floating platform? Because these platforms offer such a fantastic way to soak up some sun and really just enjoy the Ionian Sea, might be.

That water is calm, too, it’s also perfect for families with small children, it’s virtually guaranteed, or if you are just like me, anyway, I want a gentle swim instead of wrestling with waves. Actually, just a little offshore are several little islands; you could actually swim to them, if you were planning to, rent a kayak, like your exploring them. One nice touch to visit the Ksamil Islands, that they really deliver a unique touch of adventure. Plus, I feel the restaurants in Ksamil often provide incredibly tasty seafood; dining with that ocean view… now, that’s living, so it is!

Butrint: Echoes of the Ancient World

You know, if you want something besides just lounging on a beach, the archaeological site of Butrint may really pique your interest, tends to be. The park has a lot of layers of history going back like thousands of years, typically, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. What you can see? That’s really the remains of theaters, temples, and bathhouses, anyway. Butrint feels just so cool because it’s surrounded by this, like, very lush nature reserve, so it gives off this atmosphere of discovering old secrets.

That site isn’t far, you know; you can grab a bus from Saranda that goes straight there, and those buses leave often. As a matter of fact, a guide, in fact, would really give you good insight on all of that spot’s importance, even though, so you understand what you are looking at, and, seriously, those mosaics found inside the baptistery and that ancient theater are really stunning, like. One could consider visiting the Butrint National Park.

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër): Nature’s Wonder

Clearly, a trip to the Blue Eye is just an absolute must for seeing something special; that, clearly, really is one of Albania’s great natural gems, actually. At its most basic, the Blue Eye is a spring with crystal-clear blue water bubbling up from who knows how far down below, as I was saying. Anyway, if you gaze into its depths, well, it truly does look like a big blue eye staring back at you, still. All around, that landscape? Pure, refreshing nature; the perfect place for taking pictures and experiencing what Albania’s countryside provides, basically!

I mean, it could take you a bit of time getting there by bus; then there might be a short walk from that road. Definitely consider a tour since they always make it a snap. That area might be busy, really; the views can easily be justified! This is quite popular, I assure you. Really, that vibrancy in the water’s shade set in all of that green feels super worth it, literally, for creating a serene escape. You will be wowed by visiting the famous Blue Eye of Saranda.

Gjirokastra: A Step Back in Time

Now, how about visiting Gjirokastra? It might actually be on that list of UNESCO World Heritage sites, you know, just south of Saranda. This old city is famous for its historic homes with stone roofs; hence its nickname “The Stone City.” Right when walking those cobbled streets, just you will absolutely think you’ve moved backwards, honest. Also, go have a look in its castle, like.

That’s up on the hill. Just imagine what the views are! By the way, inside the castle grounds, at the end of the day, that you are going to find a fascinating museum loaded with pieces, objects of war. In addition, Gjirokastra is known, obviously, for its strong tradition of hospitality; that said, expect some very welcoming smiles. The town itself, obviously, has plenty of Ottoman-era architecture, definitely, with unique Balkan flavor; that really makes just walking all around this spot just fantastic. Check the beautiful landmarks by touring Gjirokastra landmarks.

Lëkurësi Castle: Sunset Views

The last day trip consideration I can suggest from Saranda will provide that great panorama perspective over this city plus bay! You know, I’m talking about Lëkurësi Castle! Okay, that’s just remnants located top on that hill over the city that deliver really special viewing occasions! Actually, you have to get there with just a short car/taxi ride away, well. If that location up over it’s possible that offers viewing locations that really makes that worth it, really.

That setting is favored mostly just because sunset occasions occur over this vantage perspective overlooking these landscape that provide these absolutely best image location spots to view! And there are coffee venues nearby where visitors gather in order appreciate beverages also watching as dusk come nearby. This vantage spot provides memorable photo capturing occasions over most all landscape parts! Capture unique sunset images by capturing views from Lëkurësi Castle grounds.