ksamil vS saranda – How To Get There and Where to Stay

The Albanian Riviera has been blowing up on social media—and if you’ve been Googling “Saranda Ksamil,” wondering if they’re the same, neighbors, or locked in a coastal battle of who wore turquoise better… this blog is for you.
I recently visited both during my summer travels, and let me tell you: they each bring something different to the table, like espresso vs cappuccino. You could pick one. But why would you? Lets chat Ksamil vs Saranda.

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📍Where Are Saranda and Ksamil?

Let’s clear this up first. Saranda and Ksamil are both located in southern Albania, a short ferry ride from Corfu, Greece. Ksamil is approximately 15 kilometers (20 minutes) south of Saranda, nestled within the lush Butrint National Park.

It sounds close—and it is—but the shift in vibe between the two is fundamental.

🏨 Where I Stayed in Saranda

I stayed in Saranda, but not smack dab in the city center. I was up on the hill, at the end of town—close enough to walk to the ferry and the promenade but far enough to avoid the summer madness. It was called Villa Makla and it was a highlight of my trip. I met a wonderful family that runs the stay and their grandson, Erkan. He was such a pleasure to be around that we filmed him for my YouTube channel, and I’m excited to share more about this amazing family story and their passion. This was also where we ate the best fish and food in Sarandë, period! The great-uncle fished every day, and the grandfather served us BBQ fish called Kos, which was superb.

Pros? Excellent access, more local feels, and stunning sea views.

Cons? The beach near the ferry? Yeah… hard pass after I watched a ferry empty waste into the water. This was not the saltwater spa day I had anticipated. But even before arriving there, I knew I would be visiting beach clubs instead of going to the beach in the city.

At night, the promenade is buzzing—great for people-watching, gelato runs, and sunset strolls—but we did witness some pickpocketing attempts by foreigners, so watch your bag and maybe leave your Cartier dupe at home.

We also ate amazing pizza at Proper Pizza. And yes, it was better than the one in Naples.

🏖️ Beaches: Saranda vs Ksamil

🏖️ Beaches: Saranda vs Ksamil (It’s Closer Than You Think)

It’s easy to assume Ksamil wins the beach contest based on Instagram alone—but don’t count Saranda out just yet. While the central Saranda beach near the ferry isn’t ideal for swimming (🚫 shoutout to the poop ferry incident), there are beautiful beach spots just minutes away.

In Saranda:

• Mucobega Beach (Highly Recommended): Soft pebbles, crystal-clear water, comfy loungers, and a private-hotel-beach feel without the crowd.
• Santa Quaranta Beach Club: Great for a more polished experience with food and drinks.
• Mirror Beach & Pulebardha (South of town): Technically on the way to Ksamil, but a short drive from Saranda. Gorgeous water and fewer people.

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Check out Sarande Beaches.

In Ksamil:

• Poda Beach Club: We spent the day here and loved it—relaxed but chic, ideal for families and couples.
• Ksamil Islands: Rent a paddle boat or kayak and float out to these tiny gems.
• Lori Beach & Bora Bora Beach: Popular, beautiful, and buzzing in summer.

💡 Fuse’s Take:
It’s not that Ksamil’s beaches are “better”—it’s that many of the best beaches are scattered around both towns, and you’ll need a car to get to them anyway. If you’re seeking a combination of convenience and relaxation, the Mucobega Hotel in Saranda is an excellent choice. If you want that island-feel and don’t mind paying for loungers, Ksamil delivers.

👪 Vibe Check: Who Should Stay Where?

Saranda:

• More nightlife, restaurants, and affordable accommodations.
• Best suited for those seeking an active trip with ferries, local cuisine, and day trips.
• But not ideal for swimming in town (see poop story above).
• Be cautious of pickpockets and traffic congestion during the summer.

Ksamil:

• Better for couples and families.
• Quieter at night, more exclusive beach clubs.
• Fewer hotels, more villas and guesthouses (book early).
• Perfect if you want to be on the beach, eat, and repeat.

🌅 Don’t Miss: Sunset at Lekuresi Castle

Whichever town you base yourself in, do not skip sunset at Lekuresi Castle above Saranda. Grab a drink, watch the sea light up in shades of orange and pink, and thank yourself for not skipping Albania.

@fusetravels 🌅 We went to Lekursi Castle for the sunset… …but missed it and made Brazilian friends instead 🇧🇷🍷 You can eat there (and the food was 🔥), not just drinks. Live music? ✔️ Epic views? ✔️ Pro tip: arrive early—parking fills up fast. #SarandaAlbania #LekursiCastle #SunsetDinnerVibes #TravelTwist #AlbaniaTips #BrazilianAbroad #FuseTravels ♬ THIS 10 OUT OF 1010 – GOAT THAM

🛏️ Where to Stay: My Faves

Saranda:

• 🛎️ Mucobega Hotel – beachy, comfy, and cleaner waters than the center
• 🛏️ Makla Village Charming B&B run by a local family I adored .

Ksamil:

• 🏖️ Poda Beach Club – you don’t have to stay there to enjoy the beach, but if you can, do!
• 🏠 Budget-friendly villas with sea views – search here

🚗 How to Get Between Saranda and Ksamil (Spoiler: I Don’t Recommend the Bus)

Yes, public transportation technically exists. There’s a local minibus (furgon) that goes between the two for less than €1. But let’s say… It’s an adventure—and not the cute kind. I don’t recommend taking public transportation in Albania, especially as a solo woman traveler.

My recommendation? Rent a car, We used Flexways and loved it. or ask your hotel or B&B for a trusted taxi driver. We rented a car from Flexways, and the service was excellent!

📸 Top Things to Do in Each

In Saranda:

• Lekuresi Castle at sunset
• Day trip to Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)
• Ferry to Corfu
• Dinner along the promenade

In Ksamil:

• Poda Beach Club
• Ksamil Islands via paddle boat or kayak
• Butrint Archaeological Site (UNESCO!)
• Cocktails by the water at a quiet beach bar

💸 Price Comparison: Ksamil vs Saranda

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

• June & September: Perfect balance of warmth and space
• July & August: Busy and beautiful (but crowded)
• May & October: Quiet and affordable, but some beach clubs close

🍷 Best Restaurants in Saranda

1. Taverna Labëria – For Grilled Goodness & Local Charm

A favorite among locals and travelers alike, this family-run gem is known for perfectly grilled meats, raki toasts, and that classic Albanian hospitality.

💡 Tip: Try the lamb or qofte—best paired with a side of village salad and that smoky house-made yogurt.

2. Haxhi – Cozy, Creative & Vegetarian-Friendly

Blending Albanian and Mediterranean flavors, Haxhi serves up seafood, stuffed peppers, and plenty of vegetarian options in a cozy, colorful setting.

💡 Fuse’s tip: They often bring complimentary appetizers and house treats—so come hungry and stay grateful.

3. Fish Restaurant Ladi – Dinner with a View

A lovely waterfront spot with killer seafood risotto and pasta. It’s small, quiet, and the bay view does half the work for your Instagram Stories.

💡 Go at golden hour for that dreamy light-on-the-water backdrop.

4. Taverna Peshkatari – For the Seafood Obsessive

If your love language is grilled octopus and fresh-from-the-boat fish, this is your place. Great service, laid-back vibe, and generous portions make this a local standout.

🌊 Best Restaurants in Ksamil

1. Guvat Restaurant – Seafood with Romance

This seaside stunner checks all the boxes: fresh seafood, a romantic setting, and views so good you might forget to check your phone.

💡 Perfect for couples, anniversaries, or just treating yourself to a slow lunch with white wine.

2. Korali Beach Bar & Restaurant – Mussels + Beachfront Vibes

Located right on the sand, Korali serves some of the best mussels in Ksamil, along with pasta, grilled meats, and cocktails. It’s casual but delivers on taste and scenery.

3. Brothers Fish & Meat Tavern – Big Flavors, Low Key Setting

Come here for grilled meat platters, traditional Albanian sides, and a warm, no-frills experience. Great for families or travelers on a mid-budget looking for serious flavor.

4. Mëndra Traditional Albanian Restaurant – Hidden Gem for Heritage Dishes

With only a handful of tables and a passion for slow-cooked Albanian classics, Mëndra feels more like a local secret than a restaurant.

💡 Try their Tavë Kosi or Lakror—you won’t regret it.

🦪 Bonus Pick: The Mussel House (Between Saranda & Ksamil)

If you’re driving between the two towns, make a stop here. The mussels are farmed on-site, and the setting—on a quiet bay with views of mussel beds—is peaceful and unique.

💡 The service isn’t always fast, but it’s worth the wait for ultra-fresh seafood.

🧳 Final Verdict: Saranda or Ksamil?

Here’s my take:

If you’re short on time and want beach bliss, go straight to Ksamil. If you like more options, enjoy a buzzier vibe, and want to explore by car or ferry, Saranda is a great base.

Or better yet? Do both.

Base in Ksamil, rent a car, spend your beach days in Ksamil, and also visit some beach clubs in Sarande.