The Ultimate Guide to Slow Travel in Albania: Saranda & Beyond
By Joel Hartz and Michelle Hartz | October 6, 2025
Discover the Allure of Slow Travel in Albania
Albania, particularly Saranda in spring, is perfect for slow travel. The bustling summer crowds haven’t arrived yet and rental prices for apartments are still very affordable with beautiful views of the water and Corfu, Greece.
We returned to Saranda for a second visit in our forth year of traveling full-time, choosing to stay for two months, and it has now become one of our favorite spots in Europe.
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Getting to Saranda: Flight Routes, Costs, and Tips
Traveling to Saranda from the US involves some planning, but with the right approach, it can be done without to many headaches. A notable advantage for American travelers seeking long stays in Albania is the convenient one-year tourist visa granted upon arrival.
This policy makes Albania an ideal destination for slow travel or enjoy extended periods abroad, ranging from a few months to an entire year.
Routing Options from the US: Direct Flights vs. Multi-Layover Strategies
Navigating the best way to reach Saranda from the U.S. involves understanding your flight options. Often, you’ll have to connect through various cities.
- Cost-saving tips: Use airline points for booking and look for budget airlines that fly to major hubs like Corfu or Tirana.
Ryanair stands out as an excellent choice for budget-friendly connections, offering strategic routes that simplify reaching your destination without breaking the bank.
This is our preferred way to get to Saranda, the last two times we have visited Saranda we have flown Ryanair via Bergamo, Italy and Corfu, Greece.
- Plan your route: Consider flights from the East Coast or Midwest for flights to Europe. At this time there are no non-stop flights to from the United States to Albania. Check for flights on your favorite flight tool like kayak.com, expedia.com.
Seasonality and Airport Considerations (Corfu vs. Tirana)
Travelers need to be aware of seasonal flight schedules especially if you’re going to fly to Corfu, Greece to get to Saranda.
As April approaches, flights heading towards Corfu significantly increase, offering not only convenience but also cost savings. This shift is particularly beneficial for those eyeing this charming Greek island as a gateway to their Albanian adventure.
Meanwhile, Tirana sees its own impact from these schedule changes with budget airlines like Ryanair stepping in; however, they too wait until April before launching routes here.
Opting for Corfu might just be the smartest move – it provides easy access via a brief ferry ride directly to Saranda. Note that the ferry schedule is also season dependent with limited routes in the winter season.
We’ve flown to Corfu each time we’ve ventured to Saranda, treating ourselves to a nice little 2-3 day stopover. It’s the perfect excuse to explore this stunning island, with its enchanting old town, winding narrow streets and delicious food.
The Corfu Connection: Ferry Travel and Practicalities
Traveling from Corfu to Saranda is straightforward and easy.
We began our journey with a delayed flight leaving Dublin, Ireland. Upon arriving much later than anticipated. With only one customs officer to process the whole plane, over an hour later we finally found ourselves en route to our charming apartment in the old town of Corfu.
If you are looking to save money, it’s crucial to grab a taxi directly outside the airport entrance. Avoid booking at the taxi desk inside the airport as it could lead you paying significantly more, we did this our first time and it was another 10 Euro. Remember there’s no rideshare option available here!
The trip into Old Town should be priced at no more than 15 Euros. Also, always make sure to negotiate the price of your taxi ride up front.
Ferry Bookings: Timing, Costs, and Line Selection
Ferry rides from Corfu to Saranda take about 30- 45 minutes depending on the weather and cost around €20 each. During the quieter months, ferry services are less frequent, so securing your tickets ahead is crucial. We would recommend booking online to save time and hassle. Alternatively you can also book direct at one of the ferry offices near the port.
Remember to adjust your clocks as you transition into Central European Standard Time (GMT+2); leaving Corfu you will arrive in Saranda at nearly the same time you left due to the time change. The reverse is true going to Corfu, despite leaving at one hour, you’ll arrive in Corfu nearly two hours after leaving Saranda due to this time shift. It is crucial to plan for this when traveling to Corfu from Saranda.
Arrival in Saranda: Customs, Transportation, and Currency Exchange
Once you’ve arrived in Saranda, a few things will make your entry smoother. If you’re a U.S. passport holder, you’re in luck with a one-year visa upon arrival, perfect for extending your European adventure beyond the Schengen zone.
Don’t worry about stamps; Albania tracks your entry and exit electronically.
- Documentation: Keep copies of your flight details and hotel bookings. It’s essential if you’re planning to maximize your time in Europe outside the Schengen zone.
Taxis: Be wary of taxis; they have a reputation for overcharging. It’s often unavoidable, so plan accordingly. Aim for short-distance fares that should cost about €6-12.
Tip: Download Jetpac eSIM Europe plan so you have data upon arrival in Corfu, Greece and Saranda, Albania. Read our full Jetpac eSim review
Currency Exchange: Rates, Locations, and ATM Fees
While Saranda and most of Albania is primarily cash-based, a few businesses do accept credit cards.
Euros and LEK are both accepted here but it’s best to pay in LEK the local currency. The exchange rate hovers between 100 – 120 LEK per U.S. Dollar at the time of writing.
For the best rates, use ATMs with a fee-reimbursing debit card but expect ATM fees of about 600 Lek.
Settling into Saranda: Accommodation, Daily Life, and Essential Tips
Finding the right place to stay in Saranda is crucial. The town is built into the side of a mountain so you will be navigating lots of steps or going up hill and down hill depending on what part of town you chose to stay in.
Choosing Accommodation: Location Considerations and Noise Levels
Since we are familiar with Sararada and the different neighborhoods we decided to stay just one street up from the promenade. Our apartment offered incredible views of the water, Corfu island, and was conveniently located near everything we needed.
We recommend picking accommodations near the promenade, especially if it’s your first time visiting Saranda. You will have stunning views but be ready for noise from party boats that crank their music loud at night plus weekend street activities. Bring some earplugs or have a noise machine!
If you’re heading to Saranda, our Quick Start Travel Guide provides all the essential info for a smooth start.
Balancing Work and Life: Creating a Sustainable Routine Abroad
Set a daily rhythm that incorporates work and leisure. Engage in local activities that also allow you to work or relax. Settling into a balanced work-life routine was seamless for us, thanks to our familiarity with the area and having multiple friends in Saranda.
Local Life: Groceries, Markets, Restaurants, and Gyms
Within our first couple of days in Saranda we hit up our favorite markets, restaurants and grocery stores. By the end of our first week we had pretty much everything we needed to make us comfortable for our two month stay.
We quickly joined a gym in the town center, investing in our health with membership costs of 3300 LEK for Joel and 3000 LEK for Michelle, 3 days a week which translates to about $65 a month for the two of us. While it might seem pricey, prioritizing our health is crucial, especially after months of inactivity and overcoming some health concerns.
Building Community: Connecting with Expats and Locals
Reconnecting with both local expats and fellow slow travelers from last year was great!
We frequented our favorite expat bars and restaurants which made it feel like home. Make sure to join Facebook local groups or forums to discover activities and meet new people.
Exploring Saranda and Surrounding Areas: Activities and Experiences
Saranda offers a plethora of activities for every traveler, particularly if you like the outdoors.
Beaches, Hiking, and Water Activities: The Natural Beauty of Saranda
Relax on beautiful beaches or hike through breathtaking mountains.
Some Must-visit spots: Ksamil beach which is very busy and packed with tourists in the summer months but is manageable during off-season. Crystal clear water blue and turquoise water is the highlight here.
Another great beach is Lukova just north of Saranda. We took a small grill and had lunch with friends on the beach, sun bathed and splashed in the water.
Local Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes and Seasonal Specialties
Don’t miss out on local dishes such as fresh seafood or the famous Albanian mussels. Seasonal festivals also offer unique culinary experiences.
Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Monasteries, and Historical Sites
A new festival that started in 2024 is the Fish Festival. It was super fun to hang out with friends, eat lots of different seafood from all of the vendors that were set up along the promenade and enjoy the free concerts in the evenings.
Just a short drive over the mountain outside of Saranda is the Monastery of St. Nicholas. The views alone of the countryside are worth visiting.
About a 30 minute drive south of Saranda is Butrint National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is definitely a must visit, full of Roman and Venetian ruins.
Day Trips and Excursions: Exploring Beyond Saranda
Consider day trips to other towns or natural wonders. Albania is an nature lovers paradise and holds some amazing landscapes and natural springs like the Blue Eye.
Langarica Canyon Hike: A Unique Albanian Adventure
Experience the slot canyons and thermal springs of Langarica for a memorable hike. This was an all day adventure for us with friends hiking through the canyon, sometimes walking through water up to our chest! We found a nice little picnic spot with beautiful views of a waterfall.
Potential Challenges and Solutions: Health, Allergies, and Emergencies
While traveling, it’s wise to be prepared for challenges. We had a couple of health issues that popped up on this trip. That’s why it’s always wise to have travel medical insurance.
Health Concerns: Handling Minor Illnesses and Access to Healthcare
Accessing healthcare is straightforward in Albania. There are both public and private hospitals which are very affordable. Pharmacies can provide medications like antibiotics for minor ailments often without a prescription.
Allergies: Medication Considerations and Local Availability
Those dreaded allergies reared their head again this year, just as they did last year for Michelle. A reminder that certain seasons can be tough, but nothing a good antihistamine couldn’t handle.
Joel ended up with a sinus infection that morphed into a pesky pink eye during our journey. Thankfully, the local pharmacy was a lifesaver, providing antibiotics that cleared things up quickly.
Emergency Planning: Financial Preparedness and Communication Strategies
Personal tragedy struck when Joel’s sister had a medical emergency back in the United States. It’s a continuing journey, but one that underscores the importance of resilience and connection with your loved ones, even from afar.
We always recommend you maintain an emergency fund for unexpected situations. We like to use an interest bearing checking account with an debit card attached. Here’s one of the high yield accounts ones we use.
Inflation and Accommodation Costs: Seasonal Price Fluctuations
It’s a good idea to monitor price changes, especially during peak seasons in Saranda. In the summer, prices can triple to rent an apartment. This is why we travel to Saranda during the off season.
As Saranda has become more popular we noticed some landlords started raising their prices as early as May. Planning ahead is crucial to securing the best deals. To avoid the sky-high prices plan your trip between October and May.
Quick Start Guide to Saranda Albania: Your Stress-Free Visit Starts Here
Planning a trip or traveling full time can be daunting, but dont worry! Our “Quick Start Guide to Saranda, Albania” is here to ensure your first week is smooth and stress-free.
Key Features:
- What to Know Before You Go
- Communication
- How To Get Around Saranda, Taxis and Rideshares
- Accommodations Where to Stay
- Banking ATMS Currency
- Groceries & Restaurants
- Nightlife, Bars and Nomad Communities
- Pharmacies, Health and Safety
- & More
Extending Your Stay: Transportation to Tirana & Beyond
When it’s time to leave Saranda, consider your travel options.
Ground Transportation from Saranda: Private Transfers vs. Public Buses
Private transfers in Albania can be more comfortable compared to the bus which can take a lot longer and can sometimes be hot and uncomfortable.
- Expect to pay around €120 – 150 for a private ride to Tirana.
Familiarize yourself with bus routes and schedules. Keep an eye on your arrival station; you might need a taxi or even another bus to reach your accommodation or the airport.
Taxi Alternatives: App-Based Ride Services in Tirana
Affordable Taxis: We found taxis quite economical using the MerrTaxi app, which is similar to Uber or Bolt. This is an easy way to get around Tirana and you don’t have to haggle with taxi drivers like you do in Saranda.
We only had three days in Tirana so we didn’t get to see very much but we will definitely go back to explore the city more!
Conclusion: Saranda – A Must-Visit Destination for Slow Travelers
Our second stay in Saranda was so good that we didn’t want to leave! Albania offers an appealing option for Americans with its generous one-year tourist visa and it’s not part of the Schengen area. The country has a compelling mix of affordability and stunning landscapes, along with tons of outdoor activities.
Would We Come Back?
Absolutely, yes! Although we were uncertain last year, some destinations simply demand a second visit. And this is one of them.
I transitioned from being an award-winning film and video producer to embracing the life of a full-time slow traveler and digital nomad. In 2019, my wife and I took a bold step by selling our home in Nashville along with most of our possessions to embark on this adventure. Since then, we've been capturing our experiences around the globe through videos for both YouTube and this platform. Our journey as slow travelers has allowed us to live an abundant life abroad, and we’re passionate about inspiring others to pursue their own adventures too.
To learn how to Escape to a life of travel and abundance, visit https://nomadicabundance.com and join our membership.
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