Saranda is the main resort town in southern Albania, curving around a bay on the Ionian Sea. The promenade is the center of life: restaurants, bars, beach. The town is compact and entirely walkable. Notable sights include {Lekursi Castle[PLACE_LEKURSI_CASTLE]} on the hill with bay views and a 5th-century synagogue. But Saranda's real value is as a base for excursions: Butrint (UNESCO, 20 km south), Ksamil beaches (15 km), the Blue Eye spring (25 km inland). South of town – Pasqyra Beach with views of Corfu.
Two main ways to get here. First – bus from Tirana (5–6 hours, ~1,700 ALL / ~€16), daily services. The mountain road is scenic but winding. Second – ferry from Corfu, Greece (30–40 minutes, from €20 one way). This works well for combined Greece + Albania itineraries. Car rental is useful from Saranda for trips to Butrint and Ksamil, but parking in town is problematic. For short trips, the bus to Ksamil departing from the waterfront (~100 ALL) does the job. Season runs May to October, peaking in July–August when accommodation prices double.
