A Luxurious 4-Day Getaway in the Albanian Riviera

  • Day 1: Relax in Ksamil Beach
    20 minutes (13.9 km) from Saranda

    Start your trip by enjoying the turquoise waters and fine sand of Ksamil Beach, one of the most beautiful beach resorts in Albania. Discover the hidden beaches along its coast or rent a boat to go explore one of the nearby islands.

  • Day 2: Cruise to the Blue Eye Spring and Butrint
    40 minutes (40 km) from Ksamil

    Embark on a luxurious day cruise where you'll explore the stunning Blue Eye Spring and the ancient ruins of Butrint. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch onboard while admiring the breathtaking landscapes of the Albanian Riviera.

  • Day 3: Visit the Castle of Himara and Dhermi
    45 minutes (30 km) from Saranda

    Head north to visit the Castle of Himara and discover the beautiful coastal town of Dhermi. Stroll along its sandy beaches and admire the stunning views from the mountains. Stop by the famous seafood restaurants for a delicious lunch or dinner.

  • Day 4: Enjoy the Sunset in Saranda
    1 hour (80 km) from Dhermi

    Finish your trip by watching the sunset in Saranda, a charming coastal town known for its waterfront promenade and lively nightlife. Explore its castle, museums, and archaeological sites. Savor the local cuisine at one of the gourmet restaurants or bars.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Ksamil Beach (2-6 hours, free)
  • Blue Eye Spring and Butrint Cruise (8-10 hours, €100-€200 per person)
  • Castle of Himara and Dhermi (4-6 hours, €20-€50 per person)
  • Saranda (2-8 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs (per person): €120-€250

Transportation

The best way to get around the Albanian Riviera is by renting a car with a personal driver or a private yacht with a dedicated crew. Alternatively, you can use taxi services or public buses, but the transportation options are limited and can be time-consuming. The estimated cost for renting a car with a driver or a private yacht is approximately €500-€1000 per day, depending on the type of vehicle or boat. The estimated travel time between each location is 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the nearby town of Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features unique Ottoman-style architecture and rich cultural heritage. If you have less time, skip the Castle of Himara and explore other coastal towns such as Vlora or Orikum. Be sure to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and appropriate clothing for the weather.

Airports

The nearest airport to the Albanian Riviera is Tirana International Airport "Nënë Tereza" (TIA), which is located 274 km north of Saranda. The airport is connected to major European cities such as Rome, Vienna, and Istanbul, and serves several airlines including Alitalia, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines. You can reach the Albanian Riviera by car or bus, or by booking a private transfer from the airport.

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