The Albanian Riviera remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, though whispers of its beauty are spreading faster each year. Stretching along the country’s southwestern coast where the Ionian Sea sparkles in impossible shades of turquoise, this 120-kilometer stretch of coastline offers everything the Croatian coast does—minus the cruise ship crowds and premium prices.
Having spent three unforgettable days exploring these shores last summer, I can honestly say the Albanian Riviera exceeded every expectation. From dramatic mountain backdrops plunging into crystal-clear waters to fresh seafood that costs a fraction of neighboring Greece, this itinerary will help you experience the very best of what many are calling the Mediterranean’s final frontier. Pack your swimsuit, bring an open mind, and prepare for a journey that feels genuinely adventurous.
Day 1: Arriving in Saranda & Exploring Ksamil
Start your Albanian Riviera adventure in Saranda, the region’s largest coastal town and your most convenient gateway. After settling into your accommodation, grab a quick lunch at one of the seafront restaurants—I recommend trying the grilled octopus, which typically costs around 800-1000 lek (about €8-10). In the afternoon, make your way to Ksamil, just 17 kilometers south of Saranda.
Ksamil is often called the “Albanian Maldives,” and while that’s perhaps a stretch, the cluster of small islands just offshore and the incredibly clear water make the comparison understandable. Rent a paddleboard or kayak for around 1000 lek per hour and explore the three main islands, or simply claim a spot on one of the beaches. Mirror Beach and Bora Bora Beach are popular choices, though expect to pay 500-1000 lek for a sunbed during peak season. For a quieter experience, walk south toward the lesser-known Pasqyra Beach.
One honest downside: Ksamil has become quite developed in recent years, and the main beaches can feel crowded during July and August. The construction boom has also left some areas looking a bit rough around the edges. Visit in June or September for a more relaxed atmosphere.
End your first day with dinner in Ksamil village, where family-run restaurants serve fresh catches of the day. Taverna Gjerasimi offers excellent value with generous portions and sea views.
Day 2: The Scenic Drive to Himara via Porto Palermo
Day two involves one of Europe’s most spectacular coastal drives, so start early and soak in every moment. The SH8 highway hugs the cliffs between Saranda and Himara, offering jaw-dropping viewpoints at nearly every turn. Budget at least three hours for this 70-kilometer journey, as you’ll want to stop frequently.
Your first major stop should be Porto Palermo, home to a striking 18th-century castle built by Ali Pasha that juts into the bay. Entry costs just 200 lek, and wandering the fortification’s walls provides panoramic views of the surrounding bay. The water here is exceptionally calm and perfect for a morning swim.
Continue north, stopping at Borsh Beach—Albania’s longest beach at 7 kilometers—if you fancy a less-developed stretch of sand. The village behind it produces excellent olive oil if you’re looking for an authentic souvenir.
Arrive in Himara by mid-afternoon. This charming town has become the Riviera’s unofficial backpacker hub, though it maintains genuine Albanian character. Explore the Old Town (Himara e Vjetër) perched on the hillside above, where elderly locals still speak a Greek dialect and crumbling stone houses hint at centuries of history. Watch the sunset from the castle ruins before descending for dinner at Llamani Beach, where several excellent restaurants serve food practically on the sand.
Day 3: Gjipe Beach & Dhermi
Your final day features the Albanian Riviera’s crown jewel: Gjipe Beach. This secluded cove, accessible only by boat or a 30-minute hike through a canyon, represents everything magical about this coastline. From Himara, drive north to the Gjipe Canyon parking area (look for signs near Ilias village). The trail descends through dramatic rock formations before opening onto a pristine beach flanked by towering cliffs.
There’s a small beach bar serving basic refreshments and renting sunbeds, but facilities are minimal—bring water and snacks. The swimming here is extraordinary, with underwater caves to explore if you’re a confident swimmer. Spend your morning here before the day-trippers arrive.
In the afternoon, head to nearby Dhermi, arguably the Riviera’s most beautiful village. The main beach stretches for over a kilometer and offers better infrastructure than Gjipe, while Drymades Beach just north provides a mellower vibe with bohemian beach bars. If you have energy remaining, the old village of Dhermi sits high in the mountains above, connected by a winding road that rewards visitors with traditional architecture and sweeping coastal views.
Where to Stay on the Albanian Riviera
Accommodation options have improved dramatically along the Albanian Riviera in recent years. In Saranda, Hotel Butrinti offers comfortable rooms with sea views and an excellent central location, while budget travelers will find numerous guesthouses in the 2000-3000 lek range per night. Ksamil has seen a boom in boutique hotels, though quality varies—check recent reviews carefully.
Himara provides the best base for exploring, with options ranging from the stylish Hotel Himara to family-run guesthouses in the old town. For something special, consider staying in Dhermi at one of the cliffside hotels overlooking the beach.
Book your Albanian Riviera accommodation through Check hotels → to compare options across all the coastal towns and secure the best rates during your preferred dates. Booking ahead is essential for July and August visits.
Getting to the Albanian Riviera
The nearest international airport is Tirana International Airport (TIA), approximately 280 kilometers from Saranda. From Tirana, you can rent a car (recommended for flexibility) or take a bus to the coast. Direct buses to Saranda take around five hours and cost approximately 1500 lek.
Alternatively, fly into Corfu, Greece, and take a ferry to Saranda—the crossing takes just 30-45 minutes and operates multiple times daily during summer. This route offers a scenic arrival and works well if you’re combining Albania with Greek island hopping.
Use Search flights → to find the best deals on flights to Tirana or Corfu, comparing routes and prices to optimize your journey to this stunning stretch of coastline.
A second consideration: public transportation between beach towns is limited, and while furgons (minibuses) connect major points, having your own vehicle makes exploring significantly easier. Renting a car in Tirana costs from €25-40 per day.
Essential Tips for Your Albanian Riviera Trip
Cash remains king throughout Albania—while larger establishments in Saranda accept cards, most beach bars, small restaurants, and local shops deal only in lek. ATMs are available in all major towns. The Albanian lek trades at approximately 100 lek to €1, making mental math relatively simple.
Mobile data works well along the coast, and most cafes offer free WiFi. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, particularly by younger Albanians, though learning a few Albanian phrases earns genuine appreciation from locals.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes for pebbly beaches, and a good book—the pace here encourages lingering over long lunches and lazy afternoons. The Albanian Riviera rewards those who slow down and embrace its unhurried rhythm.
Your Albanian Adventure Awaits
Three days on the Albanian Riviera offers just a taste of this remarkable coastline, and I guarantee you’ll leave already planning your return. Whether it’s the warmth of the local hospitality, the untouched beauty of beaches like Gjipe, or simply the joy of discovering somewhere that still feels undiscovered, Albania’s coast delivers an experience increasingly rare in modern Mediterranean travel. The secret is getting out—visit now while the magic remains intact.
Some links in this article are affiliate links — we only recommend things we would use ourselves, at no extra cost to you.
