Saranda is the Riviera of Albania — a coastal city on the Ionian Sea, just across the channel from the Greek island of Corfu, famous for its beaches, its ancient ruins, and its rapid transformation from a sleepy fishing village into one of the most popular destinations in the Balkans. It is a city of extraordinary natural beauty, with a horseshoe-shaped bay, turquoise water, and a backdrop of mountains covered in olive groves and citrus orchards. The nearby Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Hiring a car here lets you explore the Albanian Riviera, the ancient sites, the Blue Eye spring, and the Greek island of Corfu.
We compare local operators in Saranda. Compact cars start around €18/day. The city is 280 kilometres south of Tirana.
Why Hire a Car in Saranda
- The Beach: Saranda has a long beach of pebbles and sand, with clear water, beach bars, and a promenade that is the social heart of the city. The sunsets over Corfu are spectacular.
- Butrint: 30 minutes south. A UNESCO World Heritage site with ruins from the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. The theatre, the baptistery, and the castle are highlights.
- The Blue Eye: 30 minutes northeast. A natural spring of extraordinary beauty, where crystal-clear water bubbles up from the depths of a pool, creating a blue centre that looks like an eye. The water is cold and the setting is magical.
- Ksamil: 15 minutes south. A beach village with three small islands just offshore, white sand, and turquoise water. It is often called the “Maldives of Albania.”
- Gjirokastër: 1.5 hours northeast. A UNESCO World Heritage city of stone houses, known as the “City of Stone.” The castle and the old bazaar are highlights.
- Corfu: 30 minutes by ferry. The Greek island is a short hop from Saranda, with its Venetian old town, beaches, and olive groves.
- The Riviera: The coast from Saranda to Himara is a string of beaches, cliffs, and villages — Borsh, Qeparo, and Dhermi are the most beautiful.
Driving in Saranda and Albania
Albania drives on the right. The roads around Saranda are generally good, but rural roads can be narrow. The coastal road to the Riviera is scenic but winding. The road to Gjirokastër is mountainous.
Parking in Saranda is along the beach road — free but limited in summer. At Butrint, use the designated car park.
Booking Tips for Saranda
- Book 3–4 weeks ahead for summer.
- If visiting Corfu, check ferry schedules — they run frequently in summer.
- GPS is useful — road signs in Albania can be confusing.
- If combining with Tirana, the drive is 5 hours north.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire in Saranda
Is Saranda safe? Yes — it is a popular tourist destination and generally safe. Normal precautions apply.
Do I need an SUV? No — a compact car is fine for the city and the coast.
When is the best time to visit? June and September are ideal. July–August are hot and busy.