Solo Travel Guide To Saranda, Albania

I still remember my first walk through Sarandë, a lively coastal city along the sparkling Albanian Riviera in southern Albania. The warm Mediterranean climate, clear turquoise waters, and peaceful views of the Ionian Sea made it easy to explore the area alone. 

As I passed the olive grove-smattered rocky coastline, I caught a small glimpse of daily life shaped by the old Communist regime and the rapid growth of tourism since the 1990’s. This beautiful port town sits close to Greece and works as a popular entry point for many travelers arriving by ferry on an open deck route across the sea. The energy of the colourful Mediterranean city, mixed with the sounds of the Albanian language, gives solo visitors a true feel of Albania and the wider Balkans.

Many people visit Saranda or Sarande for the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, known for its deep historical significance and ancient ruins. I found real relief in slowing down here and enjoying the surrounding countryside, dramatic coastline, and the region’s stunning natural beauty. Unlike crowded places in the north, this part of the country still feels authentic, even as international travelers and the biggest names in travel place it at the forefront of modern adventure trips.

The mix of Mediterranean culture, local food, and relaxed beach life can almost guarantee an incredible experience for anyone searching for a unique travel destination on the riviera. With several recently opened cafes and guesthouses appearing across the area, the city continues to make its debut on the travel world stage as an exciting exception to the usual European hotspots.

Saranda is worth visiting

I arrived in Saranda, Albania after a Corfu ferry and my first impression honestly felt a little bleak. After a month in Greece, surrounded by lush landscapes, sparkling waters, charming cities, and picture-perfect, Insta-worthy views, this busy coastal town looked very different. Still, this solo travel guide became my ultimate guide to understanding why the city works for both budget travel and luxury travel. 

The lively seafront, long seafront promenade, colorful stalls, Albanian flags, flags, and souvenir fridge magnets quickly showed the energy of the place. Along the bustling strip, I found restaurants, bars, clubs, beach bars, and pop up beach bars serving cheap cocktails while tourists enjoyed the famous nightlife, nightlife scene, and bustling nightlife that make the city a true hotspot and nightlife destination. Even in a slightly weird part of town, surrounded by old buildings, my small balcony gave me a better view of the growing tourism, active local businesses, and busy businesses shaping this travel destination in the southernmost parts of the Albanian Riviera.

What makes Saranda special is how easily you can start exploring Albania from this convenient home base. I used the local public transport and a cheap public bus to reach Ksamil village in about half an hour, and the scenery completely changed. The crystal clear waters, clear water, white sandy beaches, hidden peaceful coves, and secluded coves felt calm compared to the crowded city beaches. During the summer season and height of summer, the main resorts, coastline resorts, and scenic resorts fill with summer crowds, but I still found quiet beaches, hidden beaches, and peaceful spots perfect for a solo traveller wanting a relaxing solo adventure. 

The mix of beautiful beaches, sandy coast, coastline, waters, and scenic attractions creates a memorable travel experience full of beauty, charm, and authentic local culture. Whether you prefer a lively city life, a quieter resort town, or a safe place for wandering around alone, this popular destination offers useful travel insights, smart travel planning, practical travel tips, trusted travel recommendations, and enough hidden gems and must-visit attractions to keep fellow solo travellers busy during every trip around the Albania coast and wider region. 

The relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, active action near the port, stylish resorts, and mix of town, big city, and urban area living make experiencing this part of southern Albania feel rewarding for anyone who loves to wander and discover a unique destination with a safe and relaxing atmosphere.

The Best Way To Get To Saranda

I found that the easiest way to reach Sarande was through Corfu, especially for solo travelers exploring the Albania Riviera and the wider Balkans. Many travelers from London now use legal flight hacking by booking London to Romania, then Romania to Corfu, instead of paying £300+ for expensive direct flights. I used a self-transfer plan with the Kiwi guarantee, spent around £99 plus another £25, and enjoyed real money saving with nearly £200 savings. The closest airport to southern Albania is on Corfu island in Greece, so many people fly there first before taking the Corfu to Sarande ferry. This direct route Corfu Saranda works well if you want to visit 3 countries in one day while still keeping your travel budget low. I carried only a few coins for snacks and stayed flexible because Albania operates own time, not always your time.

The ferry route between Corfu and Sarande stays busy because multiple daily ferries and 3 departures run in the morning, afternoon, and evening through operators like Finikas Lines. I usually arrive 30-45 minutes before departure to finish customs beforehand, clear international borders, and pass the border crossing on the Albanian side with my passport ready. During rough weather, the sea becomes a little wild, and the ferry journey can feel like a choppy sea adventure with passengers grabbing plastic bags and quietly questioning decision choices. Still, this remains the easiest border crossing I have used in the region. Once you arrive at the bus station, local buses, transportation, and even a minivan can get anywhere from point A to point B based on the local schedule, even if it feels a bit random at times. I always keep SafetyWing travel insurance because it costs about $2 a day, and it helps when doing self-transferring trips across the hidden gem Balkans and every new destination along the way.

Where To Stay In Saranda

I found Saranda to be one of the best places in Albania for every travel style, from a backpacker on a nightly budget to someone wanting a luxurious stay near the sea. During my Albanian adventures, I stayed in a private apartment for 24 euros, which helped me save money and enjoy my own space while finishing work gigs. If you enjoy a lively social vibe, Wallaby Hostel is a great place to drink and meet people after a day of frantic exploring. 

The Wallaby terrace and rooftop offer an epic view, panoramic sea view, and relaxing terrace view across the sprawling coastline. This basic hostel has friendly owners, a social hostel atmosphere, and is ideal for travelers who think meeting people is essential at the start or end of their trip. I also checked out Hostel Hasta La Vista, a smart pick for budget accommodation, basic accommodation, and hostel stay options like a 6 bed female dorm for €10 per night. The super friendly vibe, shared free time, and stories about mysterious minibuses, strangers, and my Gjirokastër post made the whole experience feel real and memorable.

For travelers who prefer hotels, the northernmost part near the promenade gives easy walking distance to restaurants and sites, shopping, dining, beach access, and many promenade hotels, while helping avoid taxis pricey fares. I stayed at Azure Inn Hotel, a brand-new 4-star hotel on the edge of Saranda city, about a 10-minute drive from the center. 

The hotel had clean rooms, stylish room balconies, stunning sea views, balcony overlooking beach scenery, daily room service, complimentary breakfast, complimentary amenities, reliable WiFi, free parking, onsite parking, modern amenities, a bar, private beach area, and excellent staff ready to answer questions. Other solid city hotels include Yacht Premium Hotel, PALMA city HOTEL, Lost Beach Hotel, Republica Hotel, 

The Queen’s Lion Premium Hotel, and Hotel Royal Saranda, a charming family-run establishment close to the ferry port with a relaxing seafront setting. Some places are only a 1 minute drive, 3 minutes drive, or 7 minutes drive from the promenade access area, making them the perfect base for exploring the city, coastline, restaurants nearby, and local sites. Whether you choose a flashpacker setup, deluxe style, or even a swanky five star stay, the mix of modern facilities, clean rooms, friendly locals, balconies, beach, and affordable nightly cost makes staying in Sarande feel far cheaper than Greece, sometimes almost five times less expensive for couples looking for a couples stay or travelers enjoying their last night by the water.

Is it better to stay in Ksamil or Sarandë?

Choosing between Ksamil and Sarandë depends on your personal preference and the kind of travel experience you want along the Albania Riviera. I stayed a few nights in both places during my solo trip, and each one offered a completely different holiday experience. Sarandë feels like a more developed resort town with a wider range of restaurants, tourist attractions, tourism facilities, and lively entertainment near the waterfront. The city has a strong Mediterranean vibe, especially during the busy summer destination season when travelers fill the beaches and nightlife spots. If you enjoy a social beach holiday, active tourism, and a lively atmosphere, Sarandë makes a great destination choice for your vacation or short getaway.

On the other hand, Ksamil offers a more peaceful stay with calm beaches, beautiful scenic views, and a naturally quieter setting. I found the small coastal town perfect for relaxation, leisure, and a slow beach getaway away from the crowded areas of a popular resort. Many solo visitors choose Ksamil for its serene environment, warm hospitality, and simple accommodation close to the seaside. The soft relaxation atmosphere, clear water, and sense of tranquility create a refreshing coastal escape for anyone looking to enjoy the area’s natural beauty without too much development or loud nightlife.

Top Things to Know Before Travelling To Sarande, Albania

Best Time to Visit Sarande for Solo Travel

If you’re planning Albania travel as a solo traveler, timing makes a huge difference. I personally found Sarande most alive during the summer months, especially May and September, when the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for beach activities. This is the real tourism peak season, when the coastal city feels full of energy, but also slightly crowded. If you prefer calm, then the off-season or early April and late mid-September is better because you can still enjoy warm weather, avoid heavy crowds, and find open restaurants and shops without rush. I noticed that outside the main travel season, many places start to close, especially after the tourist season, so planning your trip carefully helps you actually enjoy the destination. The Mediterranean weather here is generally HOT in summer, making it ideal for vacation and outdoor activities, but always check the climate before you visit Albania.

Entry Requirements for Albania

Before you enter Albania, you must understand the basic entry requirements and visa policy. Some foreign visitors, including UK, USA, and Canadian citizens, can enjoy visa-free access depending on nationality and travel eligibility. Usually, you can stay up to 90 days, but your passport must have at least 3 months of passport validity after your planned departure day. Always check immigration rules and carry proper travel documents because border control at the Albanian border is strict with legal entry checks. I always keep my documentation, passport, and identification ready before international travel, especially when rules depend on citizenship and updated visa requirements.

Money and Currency in Saranda

In Saranda, the main currency is the Albanian Lek, also known as ALL, though euros are often widely accepted in many tourist spots. It is still a very cash-heavy city, so I always recommend you bring cash for daily spending and tourist payments. You’ll find banknotes, coins, and different financial transactions happening mostly in physical form, especially in small restaurants and local shops. The Albania economy in this region of the Balkan region works smoothly with both Lek and euro, but using local currency helps with better budgeting and avoids confusion during payments. Always keep a wallet ready because cash payment is still the most common way of handling money here.

Getting Around Saranda as a Solo Traveler

Getting around Saranda, Albania is simple but different from big cities because there is no ride-sharing app like Uber. You mainly use a local Taxi or a taxi stand near popular areas like the Saranda promenade. I often organise rides through my hotel or directly with trusted drivers like Romeo or Gert. A short 5-minute journey usually costs around 300-500+ lek (about £2.50–£4), but you should always negotiate with the driver. You can also rent a car for more convenience, especially if you want flexible city travel and full mobility. Local transport options, including taxi service, public transport, and private vehicle rental, make navigation easy, but walking around popular areas is also a great way to explore the city vibe.

Language Spoken in Albania

The official language spoken in Albania is Albanian, which reflects the local culture and daily communication style. In Sarande, especially in tourist areas, many people are English-speaking, so basic travel communication is easy for tourists. Hotels, restaurants, and the wider service industry often support multilingual interaction, making visitor interaction smooth. Still, I noticed that learning a few Albanian phrases helps a lot when speaking with locals, especially during casual conversations or in less touristy spots. This mix of native language and English creates a friendly hospitality experience for solo travelers.

Food and Dining in Saranda

Food in Saranda reflects rich Albanian cuisine and strong Mediterranean cuisine influence. You’ll find plenty of seafood dishes, grilled meats, and traditional meat dishes served in local restaurants. Some must-try traditional dishes include Burek and Tave Kosi, which show the depth of culinary culture in the region. I personally enjoyed trying different local specialties while exploring the city’s dining scene, especially fresh seafood near the coast. The area also offers local wines, making wine tasting a great part of the food tourism experience. Overall, the gastronomy here feels authentic, diverse, and deeply connected to Albanian food traditions.

Best things to do in Saranda

Butrint National Park

A trip through Saranda changed my first underwhelming introduction to Albania into an absolutely amazing travel experience. I arrived with low expectations, walked in almost blind, and then found myself standing inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint. This ancient city felt like another world, with archaeological ruins from the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians still standing after thousands of years. 

The Roman theatre, Byzantine basilica, Baptistery, Palace, walls, gates, fortress, and museum created a mind blowing mix of history and culture. I kept comparing the place to the Acropolis in Athens, and it came close to rivaling the famous landmark itself. Every part of the park looked well-preserved, and the viewpoint over the blue waters, rolling hills, and island-ish landscape looked stunning from the castle.

After I explored the main landmarks, I headed across the river on a quick raft while local people were offering boat rides to Ali Pasha’s castle a few kilometers away. The National Park has nearby sites spanning various empires, so you can keep delving deeper into the region’s rich history. 

I also visited the Trionch Palace, the theater, and another group of noteworthy archaeological spots before carrying onwards to Ksamil because I was hungry and needed a break near the gorgeous coastline. The surrounding scenery, the calm waters, and the peaceful atmosphere made this one of my favorite moments in southern Albania, and maybe the most memorable stop on my Euro-trip.

Visit Lekursi Castle

During my Albanian itinerary, I visited many castles across Albania, but Lekursi Castle near Saranda easily became my favorite stop. I hiked a few kilometers up the hill to reach the old castle, and although some travelers call it relatively underwhelming when compared to larger sites in the region, the panoramic views and sweeping views of the Ionian Sea, the ocean, and the city felt absolutely stunning. 

The hilltop castle ruins, imposing round towers, and every quiet view overlooking the coast created a perfect sunset spot. I felt especially lucky because I did not have to pay an entrance fee, and after so many long travels, it was refreshing to find such a peaceful destination just outside the busy center of Saranda.

The large restaurant and spacious eatery inside Lekuresi Castle served Traditional Albanian cuisine, and I enjoyed a lovely dinner with local Albanian wine, good wine, and strong raki, a famous traditional alcoholic drink from the South of Albania. My simple dinner tasted incredibly fresh, while local music from a live band added a feeling of pure romance to the evening. 

Even travelers who get bored easily will find this place a real must-try because the amazing views, warm atmosphere, and local food make it a complete experience. I also picked up small keepsakes like a fridge magnet, a tiny charm, and Custom Enamel Pins to remember the places I explored and the local wine production culture that makes this part of Albania so special.

Relax on the Beaches

In Saranda, I started my leisurely days by moving between Ksamil, Sarande, and the nearby Butrint, where tourism shapes the rhythm of this little Albanian city on the Albanian Riviera. The contrast is clear: Ksamil feels like a popular beach with turquoise waters, while Sarande has a more busy, bustling, and slightly touristy vibe that still keeps a relaxed seaside atmosphere. 

I spent hours soaking up the sun on Saranda’s beautiful beaches, especially Mango Beach, Pulebardha Beach, and the quieter Pasqyra Beach, where the crystal-clear waters, pebble beaches, and scenic surroundings made every day feel slow and intentional. The beaches, waters, and constant sunny days created a natural pull for relaxation, whether I was walking along the coastal promenade, stopping at the main promenade, or just watching people—from families to groups of friends—enjoy the beachside atmosphere with cold drinks and laughter.

By late summer, the whole city turns into a lively travel destination, where the main economy is clearly tied to tourism, and the energy shifts between calm coastal city moments and a vibrant resort feel. The promenade feels almost like walking through an Italy-style beach resort, especially when the sunny days stretch into long evenings filled with nightlife and a strong vibe.

I enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere along the shore, where tourists, locals, and people all mix, creating a soft hum of life that feels both mainstream destination and still slightly raw. Even the nearby edges of the Albanian Riviera offer more relaxing beaches, making it easy to switch between busy energy and peaceful vacation spot moments, depending on how far you walk from the coastal promenade.

Discover the Blue Eye Natural Spring Near Saranda

On one of my favorite day trips during summer travel, I decided to venture on a short drive from Saranda to the famous Blue Eye, a true natural wonder known locally by its Albanian name Syri I Kalter. Many travelers catch bus routes going bus north or simply take a bus heading north, then get off where they are dropped off and enjoy a peaceful 10 minute walk toward the spring. The moment you arrive, you see a picturesque oasis surrounded by lush greenery, with crystal clear waters glowing in an astonishingly blue hue. 

The spring is the source of the Butrint River, formed by underground ground water and natural ground water pressure that creates a deep pool and unique swimming hole. I still remember standing there to marvel at the beauty of this unique geological phenomenon, watching people arrive for a quick destination visit or relaxing stop when they have time to kill.

During boiling hot weather, this place becomes the perfect Saranda escape for a nature lover who wants a tranquil escape from crowded beaches full of sand and salt water. The spring flows with icy cold water, cold water, and even freezing water, staying around 10 degrees year round, which makes every refreshing dip, swimming, or brave chilly plunge unforgettable. 

The flowing cool waters and natural spring source feed the clear basin, and while some travelers jump in to cooler off, others simply relax nearby during the height Summer season. Whether you stop briefly or spend a quiet time enjoying the scenery, the Blue Eye is definitely a worth visit location and one of the most memorable experiences near Saranda.

Experience Saranda’s Beach Nightlife

During my first visit to Saranda, I found the city surprisingly calm, almost a quiet city compared to other parts of Albania. Some areas even felt like a boring city, but the long strip of beach along the seafront quickly changed my mind. Small stalls selling Albanian flags and fridge magnets lined the walkway, while pop up beach bars, lively bars, and buzzing clubs created a true nightlife hotspot in the region. 

The beach strip is full of tons of restaurants, casual restaurants, and many places to party, making Sarande a real party destination places to party. I loved the relaxed outdoor atmosphere by the sea, where travelers would grab a beer, enjoy cold beer and drinks, or sip cheap cocktails and even expensive drinks while meeting other solo travelers.

On my second visit, the difference was clear. A massive tourism explosion had pushed the destination far beyond pre pandemic levels, and the nightlife felt alive during the summer months, especially in bumping summer evenings. Some of my personal favorites included Demi Beach, City Lounge, and Orange Cocktail Bar, all known for their strong beach nightlife energy. Many cocktails costing just over $5, sometimes just $5, made it easy to stay out all night. 

The music, dancing, and dancing the night away atmosphere created an amazing vibe, and honestly the amazing vibe made me want to party the night away with travelers I had just met while experiencing nightlife. If you enjoy meeting people while traveling alone, this Sarande nightlife scene might convince you to return the following year with even more vengeance.

Enjoy Albanian Food in Saranda

When I first started visiting a new city in a different country, trying local food quickly became my favourite thing in daily life while traveling solo. In Southern Albania, the coastal landscape and fresh seafood make exploring the city exciting, especially along the beachfront promenade near the port and beach, where lively coffee shops, relaxed bars, and small cafe spots sit side by side. 

One evening I stopped at Limani, a popular restaurant where friendly waiters served grilled fish while travelers enjoyed a calm people-watching spot. Walking here also reveals the region’s rich history and food culture shaped by Mediterranean countries, with ingredients like olives, olive oil, olives oil, and fresh citrus fruits shaping many classic dishes.

Food lovers will quickly notice how Albania cuisine reflects Mediterranean flavours, Balkan flavours, and diverse influences from places like Italy and Greece, which explains why menus often include pizza, pasta, souvlaki, and light salads. During one afternoon break, I grabbed a sweet casual bite at Like Creperie, where soft crepes filled with cheese, spinach, or even meat made a perfect snack.

The small shop’s colorful decoration across the walls and the steady flow of people coming and going gave the place a relaxed solo-travel vibe. If you want something more traditional, try traditional Albanian food such as Flija or Byrek, a flaky pastry packed with cheese, spinach, or meat, which locals say tastes even better when you travel a little inland from the busy coast.

Take a Boat Tour

A Take a Boat Tour trip along the Albania Riviera gave me one of the best coastal experiences during my solo travel through Saranda. I joined a group boat tour from the busy Saranda promenade, where several boat tour companies, including Ajla Boat and Saranda Tours, offered a fun guided tour for around €30. The ride passed the stunning coastline, peaceful shoreline, and beautiful natural landmarks around the Mediterranean. 

We stopped near Ksamil, Cape of Qefali, Gjiri Roidha, Gremina Kakome, and Plazhi Ushtarit while enjoying the clear crystal water, wide ocean view, and relaxing seaside atmosphere. This type of boating experience mixes adventure, relaxation, sightseeing, and exploration, making it one of the top activities for both travellers and visitors exploring Albania tourism.

I personally loved Krorëza Beach, which became my personal favourite stop during the coastal tour. The quiet beach, scenic islands, and peaceful nature created the perfect holiday feeling, especially during summer. Many tour operators and local tourism companies also organize local tours, beach tour options, and even group excursion trips with ferry connections for tourists looking for more outdoor activity around the Riviera. 

You will get plenty of chance for swimming, a quick swim, and unforgettable moments on the water, but here’s a small warning: most pebbled beaches are not sandy and are covered with pebbles. Even so, the mix of boat, boating, island hopping, nearby coastal attractions, and exciting travel activity options makes this destination one of the best parts of a solo vacation in Albania for customers seeking authentic tourism and memorable experience through unique local activity and scenic landmarks.

Day trip to  Ksmail

A day trip from Sarande to Ksamil gives solo travelers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and exploration along the stunning Albania coast. I started my morning near Butrint, then followed the beautiful coastline toward the picturesque coastal village known for its breathtaking beaches, crystal sea, and glowing turquoise waters. Even though the area feels a bit touristy during summer, the calm Mediterranean vibe, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers. 

The Ksamil Islands, with their small islets, hidden coves, pristine beaches, and crystalline waters, create an unforgettable island escape filled with hidden gems, scenic islands, and endless natural beauty. I spent hours swimming in the azure sea, enjoying a quiet beach day on the soft sands, and walking along the shorelines near Pasqyra Beach and the beautiful Pasqyra coastline.

By afternoon, the lively seaside energy completely changed the mood of my travel experience. The area around the Ksamil beaches and Sarande beaches felt more vibrant than the usual nightlife scene back in town, especially with the mix of tourists, beachside restaurants, and relaxing local restaurants serving fresh seafood, fresh fish, and flavorful local cuisine. I joined a short exploration tour for island hopping, discovered more hidden beaches, and found several quiet spots perfect for beach relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying the clear waters. 

The combination of coastal beauty, tropical vibe, relaxing atmosphere, tranquil waters, and every nearby swimming spot turned this vacation stop into a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you want a scenic coastal escape, a fun seaside adventure, or simply a relaxing destination for tourism and travel, this part of Albania tourism easily becomes one of the most renowned and famous beaches areas in the region.

Day trip to Corfu Town (Island Escape from Saranda)

A great day trip from Albania begins with a short ferry ride and ferry crossing over the Mediterranean, where the ferry takes you from Saranda along a clear travel route toward a captivating island and scenic island that feels like a true island getaway. The journey is part of the travel experience and tourism experience, shaped by a soft charming atmosphere, open coastal destination, and the feeling of a real travel adventure for every traveler. 

As you approach Corfu, you step into a world of Greece, Mediterranean island, and deep island culture, surrounded by lush landscapes, scenic beauty, and wide coastal beauty, where wander and exploration become natural. The crossing reveals Venetian influence, Venetian architecture, architecture, and a strong sense of cultural heritage that connects both sides of the sea.

Once inside Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and UNESCO site, the historic center opens into narrow cobblestone streets, cobbled lanes, and picturesque streets filled with beautiful streets, elegant mansions, and elegant buildings shaped by traditional architecture. 

You experience deep cultural exploration, rich history, and heritage, moving through historic landmarks, historical attractions, iconic landmarks, and the powerful Old Fortress with strong fortress walls near the waterfront. The Liston Promenade invites a slow promenade walk through a vibrant town, where town square, sightseeing, and a strong tourism flow create a complete travel destination experience. With panoramic views, lush scenery, seaside beauty, and a perfect perfect blend of culture and sea, the day feels like a full day excursion filled with tourism experience, heritage site, and lasting scenic beauty in Corfu Town.

How many days do I need in Sarande?

I spent 4 days in Saranda, and I’d suggest that as the minimum 4 days needed to truly enjoy the town without rushing. A short stay covers the beach and a few quick stops, but a full week is ideally better if you want to fully experience the turquoise sea, relaxed cafés, and the city’s attractions at a slower pace. Extra time also allows you to join boat tours, take scenic day trips, and still have enough downtime and leisure time to sit by the coast and explore the area more thoroughly.

Conclusion

I found Saranda to be a true hidden gem along the Albanian Riviera, especially for a backpacker looking to explore the South of Albania. While some travelers and every solo traveller may think the city can be skipped, I enjoyed the mix of stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and easy access to amazing destinations like Gjirokaster, Berat, and Ksamil. 

A day trip to Butrint National Park and the ancient ruins of Butrint gave me one of the most unforgettable experience moments of my travels, especially after tasting fresh seafood and traditional Albanian cuisine near Mango Beach. The welcoming environment, safe environment, and friendly locals make visiting this part of Albania comfortable for solo female travellers and other visitors who enjoy the coast, the beach, and a little relaxing after a long party night.

Getting there from Greece is simple because Ferries from Corfu take only half an hour by fast boat, making the island a smart addition to any itinerary. The closest airport sits in Corfu, while Tirana, the capital, connects the rest of the country. During my stay, most hotels accepted only cash, so carrying LEK mattered since 100LEK equals around €0.80, and every ATM or nearby ATMs often charged a high fee. 

I also learned that planning an exchange money stop early saves a frustrating long hunt later. Since Albanian is an Indo-European language, many English speakers rely on Italian or Greek as a second language when speaking with locals. One practical tip I followed was avoiding the tap water because locals said it was highly chlorinated.