Organize a day trip to Saranda from Corfu and witness stunning beaches, rich history and natural beauty. Experience Albanian hospitality on this adventure!
There are many reasons why Saranda, a beautiful coastal city on the Albanian Riviera in southern Albania, should be your next travel destination. Here are some highlights:
- Saranda has a large horseshoe-shaped bay with beaches to suit all tastes. The city beach is bustling and ideal for people-watching, but short boat journeys may transport you to secret coves and islets for a quiet paradise. Playa Beach, Mango Beach and Paradise Beach are all popular beaches
- Rich history & culture: Visit Lekuresi Castle, a 16th-century Ottoman fortification with stunning panoramic views. Learn about the region's history by exploring the ethnographic museum located therein. Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure mine of antiquities. Discover the ruins of a Greek city, a Roman theatre, a Byzantine church and a Venetian fortress, all hidden in a gorgeous Mediterranean environment
- Natural beauty: Spend the day at the mythical Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter), a natural freshwater spring famous for its stunning blue waters. The spring rises from a deep pool surrounded by thick flora, providing an idyllic image
- Delicious food: Take a stroll down the popular Saranda promenade, taking in the colorful atmosphere and admiring the breathtaking sea vistas. The promenade is dotted with cafés, restaurants, and stores, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and people-watching. Make sure to try one of the city's many waterfront eateries for fresh and tasty seafood meals
- Off the beaten path: If you're looking for a destination that's not overrun by tourists, Saranda is a great choice. You'll get to experience Albanian culture and hospitality in a more authentic way
Ferry departures to Saranda
Day travel departures to Saranda may vary according on the season, so check our online booking engine for the most up-to-date dates, timetables, prices, and availability.
The duration of your trip and stay in Saranda is determined on the ferry crossing, vessel and weather conditions you choose. Choose from a variety of everyday journeys for your preferred crossing date and enjoy your vacation in Albania!
Day trip |
Crossing duration |
Stay time |
Corfu to Saranda |
approx. 30 minutes |
up to 10 hours |
Day trip from Corfu to Saranda
The most popular mode of transportation between Corfu, Greece, and Saranda, Albania, is via ferry. Depending on the operator, the travel might take anything from 30 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Here are some tips for finding the best ferry for your trip:
- Ferry rates vary according on the firm, time of year and type of vessel. Make sure to compare costs before purchasing your ticket
- Some ferries have facilities including pubs, restaurants and duty-free shopping. Decide what facilities are crucial to you and select a vessel that provides them
- Ferries can easily become overcrowded, especially during high season. Book your ticket in advance to ensure your position
Saranda day trip program
Here's a suggested itinerary for spending a fun-filled day in Saranda:
Morning
- Plan your transportation to the port of departure. The high-speed ferries depart at around 08:00 in the morning and the trip is not longer than 30 minutes
- Be at the port at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled crossing time for check-in and embarkation
- Disembark at the port of Saranda and plan your transfer to any point of the city with a bus or taxi
During your stay
- Begin your day with a stroll down the bustling Saranda Embankment
- Hike up to Lekuresi Castle for stunning panoramic views of Saranda and the surrounding coastline
- Visit one of Saranda's numerous stunning beaches. Popular options include the centrally situated Santa Quaranta Beach, the tiny and isolated Mango Beach and the family-friendly Ksamil Beach
- Butrint National Park is a must-see for anybody interested in history or archeology. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes the remnants of an ancient Greek and Roman city, as well as a Venetian castle
- Round up your day with a visit to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter), a natural spring famed for its wonderfully brilliant blue water
- Dine at one of the marvelous seaside restaurants. After supper, visit one of the bustling pubs near the marina or join the clubs for drinks and dancing
Evening
- Get back to the port of Saranda on time and embark on the ferry back to your main destination
Additional tips
Click on your departure port and get information about the public transportation options that you have in order to reach the port and embark on your ferry to Saranda:
Transportation in Saranda
Public transportation in Saranda, Albania, is convenient and affordable. Here's a rundown of what you can use to get around:
- Buses: The most common means of public transportation in Saranda. The city has an extensive transportation network that connects the city center to the neighboring districts, including Ksamil, Butrint and Lekuresi Castle. Buses operate regularly throughout the day and tickets may be purchased from the driver right on the bus
- Minibuses are another frequent mode of public transit in Saranda. They are smaller than buses and more packed, but they are also a relatively inexpensive mode of transportation. Minibuses normally travel on predetermined routes, although they may pick up and drop off people wherever along the way
For further details about the buses and minibuses in the city, please visit Buses in Saranda.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about using public transportation in Saranda:
- Unfortunately, Saranda's bus schedules are not widely available online. Your best choice is to ask your hotel or hostel for guidance on routes and timetables, or to approach locals at the bus stop
- You can purchase bus tickets straight from the driver. Fares are extremely low, generally costing less than one euro
- Taxis: Taxis are widely accessible in Saranda, particularly in the city centre and tourist regions. They may be a useful mode of transportation, especially if you're going in a group or have luggage. However, taxis might be more expensive than public transit, so make careful to agree on a fee before getting in. Please, visit Saranda taxis to find out more
- Saranda is a relatively small city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to see the city and get some exercise