Located on the Ionian coast, the city has many of its own wonderful beaches but can serve as a great spot from where to go off exploring the rest of the beautiful Albanian Riviera. With great restaurants and a vibrant nightlife, Saranda’s spirit instills a joie de vivre in each visitor. Only a few kilometers away, stands the ancient city of Butrint, one of the most well-preserved in the Balkans and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Within the National Park of Butrint, you will find the ruins of the Greek and Roman past, including a functional open theater. The nearby islands of Ksamil are a top destination in many international travel list while Albania’s own tropical paradise, the Blue Eye, rests halfway between Saranda and Gjirokastra.

The "Blue Eye" is a water spring and natural phenomenon occurring near Saranda. A popular tourist attraction, the clear blue water of the river bubbles forth from a depth of more than fifty metres. Divers have descended to fifty meters but it is still unclear what the actual depth of the karst hole.

Gjirokastra is known as “The Stone City”, part of UNESCO World heritage. Free afternoon in Gjirokastra. Overnight in Gjirokastra.