Sarandë

A deep-blue natural spring surrounded by woodland. Salt in Our Hair describes a 15-minute walk from the main-road drop-off and water that remains around 10°C.

16th-century hilltop castle overlooking Sarandë, Ksamil and Corfu; now houses a restaurant, and sunsets are special.

Pedestrian seaside promenade along the bay with beach access, beach clubs, cafes and summer markets.

5th-century Jewish complex near City Hall, later rebuilt as a basilica.

Luxury pick with outdoor pool, private beach access and spa.

Quick eats; order grilled meats, gyros, souvlaki or kebabs, with veggie options.

A must-see for families, with enough archaeology and nature to fill most of a day. The park also supports a diverse range of plants and animals.

Mentioned as a smaller beach offering a more secluded option in the busy Sarandë area.

Vegan restaurant; order the homemade falafel, hummus and lentil curries.

Family-owned promenade restaurant; order grilled fish, seafood pasta or the vegetarian beetroot "Pink Pasta".

Midrange pick near the port with ocean views and breakfast included.

Happy-hour cocktails on the promenade with front-row sunset views.

Secluded beach reached on a full-day boat tour from the promenade (about 20 euros).

Hilltop wine bar near the Forty Saints Monastery; order Albanian wines with a view over the city.

Secluded boat-tour beach, described as one of the most beautiful on the Riviera.

One of the author's top spots around Sarandë for breathtaking sunset views.

Good to knowVisit at sunset.

Recommended as a smaller beach for travelers seeking some seclusion around Sarandë.

Harbour-view restaurant; order pizza, pasta, risotto or Albanian classics in big portions.

Trendy brunch cafe; order smoothie bowls and avocado toast.

A popular beach praised for clear water and Ionian Sea views, with swimming, sunbathing and windsurfing among the activities.

Budget pick near the centre, steps from the beach, with kitchen, washer, parking and AC.

Sea-view brunch; order omelettes with hash browns and fresh juices.

Secluded snorkelling beach just before Ksamil; busy in summer, bumpy access road.

6th-century monastery that gave Sarandë its name; war-damaged but worth it for the views.

Local favourite near Lëkurësi Castle for authentic Albanian dinner with a view, cheaper than the castle restaurant.

Hidden-gem coffee shop with a view and huge breakfast portions; fast wifi.

Reconstructed 14th-century church on Dema Hill between Sarandë and Ksamil, above Monastery Beach.

Promenade dessert shop; order a scoop or two of gelato.