5-Day Adventure in Sarande, Albania

  1. Day 1: Lekursi Castle
    7 minutes (1.5 miles) from Sarande City Center

    Marvel at the breath-taking views of Sarande from Lekursi Castle, perched on a hill above the city. This 16th-century castle is the perfect introduction to Albanian history and culture, and a great place to watch the sunset.

  2. Day 2: Butrint National Park
    20 minutes (11 miles) from Sarande City Center

    Visit the UNESCO-listed Butrint National Park for a day filled with history, nature, and stunning landscapes. Explore the well-preserved ancient ruins of the Greek and Roman city, enjoy a leisurely walk through the forest, and learn about the importance of the park's ecosystem.

  3. Day 3: Blue Eye
    35 minutes (16 miles) from Sarande City Center

    Experience the incredible natural beauty of the Blue Eye, a natural spring in the heart of Albania's countryside. The water is so clear, you can see all the way to the bottom of the 45-meter deep pool. Take a swim, have a picnic and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

  4. Day 4: Ksamil Beach
    16 minutes (5.5 miles) from Sarande City Center

    Spend the day relaxing and soaking up the sun at Ksamil Beach, one of the most picturesque beaches on the Albanian Riviera. With crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning views of the nearby islands, this is the perfect place to unwind.

  5. Day 5: Sarande City Walk
    0 minutes from Sarande City Center

    Take a leisurely walk through the streets of Sarande, discovering the charm and character of this coastal town. The town is steeped in history, and you'll find a mix of traditional and modern architecture, local businesses, and tempting eateries along the way.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Lekursi Castle (1-2 hours, free admission)
  • Butrint National Park (4-6 hours, $8 admission fee)
  • Blue Eye (2-3 hours, free admission)
  • Ksamil Beach (full day, parking fee $3)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $11 admission fee + $3 parking fee (Ksamil Beach)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to nearby Gjirokastra, a charming historic city that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you have less time, consider skipping Butrint National Park and instead taking a boat ride to one of the nearby islands.

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