Saranda

The official currency is the lek (ALL), but euros are accepted everywhere. Exchange rates at restaurants and shops are usually unfavorable. Best option – bring euros in cash and exchange at currency offices downtown (minimal commission). ATMs charge 500–1,050 ALL per withdrawal. Cards are accepted at larger venues, but small cafes and buses are cash-only.

Bus from Tirana – 5–6 hours, ~1,700 ALL. Daily services, tickets available online (Gjirafa Travel) or from the driver. Ferry from Corfu, Greece – 30–40 minutes, from €20 (Ionian Seaways, Finikas Lines). Buses also run from Himara (~1 hour, 300–600 ALL) and Gjirokastra (~1.5 hours). Renting a car is convenient for the Riviera, but parking in Saranda is tough.

The bay area is the universal choice: promenade, beach, restaurants all within walking distance. Apartments 2–3 streets up from the sea offer views, but the hill is steep (consider this if traveling with kids or elderly). Ksamil (15 km) is an option for those wanting quieter surroundings closer to beaches, though infrastructure is more limited.

Saranda is one of Albania's safest cities. In the 2024 high season, no incidents involving tourists were recorded. Standard precautions: don't leave valuables on the beach, watch your bag in crowds.

Lunch for two at a waterfront restaurant – €15–30. A burek or gyros – €1.5–3. Seafood is the local staple; a fish dish runs €5–10. Be sure to try the local wine and raki. In Ksamil, prices are 10–20% higher.

Butrint – an ancient city-museum (UNESCO), entry 1,000 ALL (~€10), bus ~200 ALL. Blue Eye – a karst spring, entry 100 ALL, easiest by car or with a guided tour. Ksamil – by bus from the waterfront, 15 minutes. You can combine Butrint and Ksamil in one day.

Ksamil has gotten noticeably more expensive in recent years. Sunbed + umbrella costs 1,500–3,500 ALL (€15–35), at trendy beach clubs up to €70. You can lay your own towel for free, but you'll need to stay outside the paid zones. Food in restaurants is 10–20% pricier than Saranda.

4G coverage in Saranda is good. EU roaming doesn't apply – expect high charges. Get an eSIM in advance or buy a local SIM card on arrival. Wi-Fi in hotels and cafes works reliably.

For Russian citizens – visa-free entry from April to October. Insurance isn't formally required but is strongly recommended: healthcare in Saranda is basic, serious cases are transferred to Tirana.

Yes, and it's a common route. The Corfu–Saranda ferry takes 30–40 minutes, tickets from €20. You can fly into Corfu, spend a few days, and cross to Albania. Note that Greece requires a Schengen visa, while Albania does not (during the season).