There’s no doubt about it – Europe’s southern coastlines and rivieras have gathered the attention of far too many tourists. Beaches are crowded, prices are soaring, and the allure of a unique vacation in a hidden spot has totally fallen away.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
There are plenty of lesser-known places that offer just the same energy and beauty. Take Saranda (officially known as Sarandë), for example – an Albanian Riviera gem that has turquoise water, fresh seafood, and sunsets so beautiful they don’t seem real.
Interestingly enough, Saranda is just across the bay from Corfu, one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.
But like any summer destination, picking the right place to stay in Saranda is important. You might want to be within walking distance of the best beaches, or prefer to be up in the quiet hills for a more authentically local experience.
Whatever your preferences, here’s the lowdown on the best parts of Saranda to stay in, and some accommodation recommendations for each neighbourhood.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Saranda?
Before we really get into the thick of things, here is my super-summarised list of the best accommodations in the city for every type of traveller and budget, so everyone can make the most out of their trip to Albania.
Elar Hotel | Best Hotel in Saranda
There is something about Elar Hotel that feels polished yet welcoming. It’s like a boutique retreat where every corner feels carefully curated. Clean lines, sleek interiors, and neutral tones shine through the wooden furniture and rattan-style lighting fixtures. It’s minimalism at its finest, paired with top-class sea views, delicious breakfast spreads, and even private beach access.
Vega 43 Hostel | Best Hostel in Saranda
If you’re in need of an affordable place to stay in Sarandë and don’t mind sharing your space with some friendly fellow travellers, Vega 43 is one of the few hostels in the city up for the task. Everything in this Albanian hostel is new and fresh, from the industrial-style kitchen fit for a chef to the dorm rooms with privacy curtains and personal lighting.
Located in one of the most prime locations in Qender, this quality hostel is within walking distance from the beach, promenade, and the best nightlife in the city.
The Flipside: Retro Seaside Getaway with Ocean View | Best Airbnb in Saranda
As far as apartment rentals go, this one hits all the nails on the head. It’s excellently equipped, with all the essentials for cooking, cleaning, and living a classic day-to-day life in Sarandë. It’s well located, overlooking the stunning Ionian coastline from the balcony, and just a short drive into the city centre (just take note that you need to climb a few flights of stairs to get to the entrance of the building). It’s beautifully decorated with a distinctly retro feel – think colourful walls, bespoke furniture, and quirky art.
Saranda Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Saranda
Qender (City Centre)
Qender is the busiest part of the city. It’s an area that includes Sarandë’s port and the main boardwalk. Wherever you choose to stay here, you won’t be too far away from the action.
Upper Qender (The Mountain Above Qender)
Upper Qender isn’t technically a defined suburb, but for the sake of this article, let’s consider it one. It’s located on the hills above the city centre (Qender), but has a much more family-oriented, relaxed vibe.
Kodrra
Koddra is Sarandë’s upscale neighbourhood, where boutique resorts and high-end hotels form a cluster of sophisticated accommodation along the coastline.
Qafe E Gjashtes / Rruga Skenderbeu
Tucked away in the hills, Qafe E Gjashtes and Rruga Skenderbeu are adjacent Sarandë neighbourhoods that attract most of the city’s long-term visitors and digital nomads.
Coastline Between Sarandë and Ksamil
If your idea of a dream vacation involves laying a towel out on white sand beaches and dipping in the clear turquoise sea, the coastline between Sarandë and Ksamil is unbeatable.
Albania is one of those countries that sneaks up on you. It’s never really talked about as much as the Greek and Turkish holidays, but located in the same geographic area, with similar beaches and weather, it really should be. One thing you won’t expect is how different each part of Sarandë feels. Depending on where you book accommodation, you could have a completely different trip. This is why picking the right home base is so important.
If this is your first visit to Sarandë, I recommend staying in the city centre, known as Qender. It’s the obvious choice, but it’s still the heart and soul of the city, filled with bars, cafes, and a busy promenade where locals and travellers coexist happily. I loved being able to walk everywhere without needing to organise transport.
Just above the city centre is an extended Sarende neighbourhood of Qender, but it feels totally different. For the sake of convenience, I’ve referred to it as Upper Qender. Here, you’ll find budget-friendly guesthouses and apartments climbing the hills. The views of the bay are worth the uphill trek, plus, you’re likely to save some cash on accommodation compared with staying right by the sea.
For a little bit of indulgence, Kodrra is where Sarandë’s fancy hotels and resorts reign supreme. This stretch of coastline feels quieter and more polished than the city centre promenade. Meanwhile, Qafe E Gjashtes and Rruga Skenderbeu have become a hotspot for digital nomads and long-term visitors. It’s home to affordable rentals and has a solid community vibe. Plus, bonus points for its hilly location offering incredible views.
Finally, if you’re here purely for the beach, the sea, and the soft sand, the coastline between Sarand and Ksamil is unbeatable for your Albania itinerary. The water is clear, the beaches are calmer than near the city, yet you’ll be just a short drive from both Sarandë and Ksamil’s famous white beaches.
Saranda’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a closer look at what makes these neighbourhoods special. I’ve also pulled three of the top accommodations in each area, each one suitable for different budgets and travel styles.
1. Qender (City Centre) – Where to Stay in Sarandë for Your First Time
Qender is the busiest part of the city. It’s an area that includes Sarandë’s port and the main boardwalk. Wherever you choose to stay here, you won’t be too far away from the action. The central promenade runs right along the sea, lined with shops, ice cream stalls and uninterrupted sea views. Accommodations in this Sarandë neighbourhood range from boutique hotels to apartments. Plus, this neighbourhood is one of the only in the city with a hostel. It’s a social hub where expats, tourists and locals cross paths, making it perfect for travellers who like to feel immersed in local life.
Hotel Vale | Most Luxurious Hotel in Qender
Hotel Vale is one of those sleek and elegant hotels that are so comfortable, it makes it hard to leave. The building itself is an architectural wonder, with curved balconies wrapping around the property and ergonomic angles and colours interesting enough to land it on the pages of Architectural Digest.
It’s got five-star service, hospitality, and views over Sarandë’s promenade. The rooms feel expansive and impeccably clean, making it a dreamy choice if you want to be pampered in the heart of Qender.
Vega 43 Hostel | Best Hostel in Qender
When it comes to affordable places to stay in Sarandë, surprisingly, the city doesn’t have tons of hostels. Vega 43 Hostel is one of the few, and is loved for its friendly vibe, new interiors, and cleanliness – three factors that take priority when looking for a great hostel. The entire interior has been refurbished, beautifully lit and organised with a shared kitchen and balcony, and private dorms that elevate the traditional dorm bed to a higher tier.
Homey 1-Bed Apartment with Stylish Interiors | Best Apartment in Qender
Without even getting into the amenities, the light streaming into this homey apartment will make you instantly feel at ease. Liza’s Apartment truly feels like an easy-going home away from home. It’s clean and well-equipped with everything you need (take the kitchen and spacious balcony, for example), yet has a touch of personality you’ll struggle to find in a hotel.
Things to See and Do in Qender
- Get your hike on along the seaside promenade at sunset
- Visit the old Synagogue complex, an archaeological site in the city
- Visit the Sarandë Museum of Archaeology on a walking tour of the city
- Browse the local markets for crafts and fresh produce
- Take a trip to the Butrint National Park
- Join the crowds for a fun day at Sarandë Beach
2. Upper Qender (The Mountain Above Qender) – Best Place to Stay in Sarandë on a Budget
Upper Qender isn’t technically a defined suburb, but for the sake of this article, let’s consider it one. It’s located on the hills above the city centre (Qender), but has a much more family-oriented, relaxed vibe. It’s best known for its gorgeous views of the bay, but without the heavy price tag of staying right in the centre. The atmosphere is more local and authentic, with plenty of hotels and apartments that allow you to really stretch your budget. The only downside would be the (ironic) uphill walk to get to the neighbourhood. But once you’re up there, the views make the climb well worth it.
Almar Apartments | Best Aparthotel in Upper Qender
Almar Apartments are one of the most spacious apartments in this Sarandë neighbourhood, and as expected, are much more affordable than the average self-catering rental. They offer options ranging from a one-bedroom apartment to a deluxe suite, all of which are equipped with additional sleeper couches in the living rooms. The apartments are fitted with everything you need for cooking, cleaning, and living a relatively normal day-to-day life while in the heart of Sarandë.
KRONOS Hotel Sarandë | Best Hotel in Upper Qender
Kronos Hotel is one of those crisp, modern hotels that feel like a refreshing break from the busy streets of a new city. It’s got bright interiors with plenty of sunlight and a quietness that makes you feel calm and relaxed.
And let’s not ignore the amazing service, managed by friendly and helpful staff that make every interaction feel personal and warm. The rooms are spotless, with new furniture, modern lighting, and balconies that offer a little peek at the hills of Upper Qender.
Bert’s Apartment | Best Apartment in Upper Qender
Bert’s Apartment is unique in that it feels like staying in a cabin nestled in the pine trees. It’s peaceful, grounded, and private, surrounded by nature yet still offering the same ease of access to get into the centre of Sarandë. The apartment is clean and organised, with the star of the show being the incredible bay and city views from the balcony. It’s got a small kitchen perfect for simple meal prep, and ideally includes access to an outdoor BBQ grill and alfresco dining area.
Things to See and Do in Upper Qender
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Explore the unmarked hillside chapels and local churches in the mountains
- Take a day trip to the Blue Eye water hole, passing the ancient city of Gjirokaster along the way
- Spend the day learning to cook local meals on a farm
- Discover Sarandë on a quadbiking excursion
- Spend a day exploring Kroreza Beach and its hidden caves on a boat trip
- Kayak through the Lukova Caves
3. Kodrra – Best Area in Sarandë For a Luxury Stay
Koddra is Sarandë’s upscale neighbourhood, where boutique resorts and high-end hotels form a cluster of sophisticated accommodation along the coastline. It’s located just west of Qender and is often considered the touristic centre of the city, since it’s where you will find the Port of Sarandë and the local ferry terminal to catch the ferry over to Corfu.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
In terms of accommodation, this is the kind of place with hotels with infinity pools, cocktail bars, and direct beach access. The area attracts more affluent travellers and couples on romantic getaways, where splurging is expected. The beaches here are cleaner and usually less crowded than Qender, often lined with sun loungers and umbrellas.
Elar Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Kodrra
Consider Elar Hotel your polished seaside sanctuary. It’s the perfect example of luxury on the Kodrra coastline, with crisp linens, modern decor and lighting, and iconic views of the sea and beach through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Included in your stay, guests can enjoy an exceptional breakfast, access to a private beach with umbrellas and loungers, and a bar and restaurant on site. It’s the perfect opulent stay for anyone who likes to spend the majority of their time enjoying a hotel and its amenities.
Hasta La Vista Sarandë | Best Hostel in Kodrra
One of the few hostels in Sarandë, Hasta La Vista offers an affordable place to stay in this typically lavish neighbourhood. The hostel feels like a bright and open home turned into affordable accommodation.
It’s got high ceilings, open rooms, and more sunlight than you can imagine streaming through the large windows. The shared kitchen is impressive enough even for a private chef, and the rooms range from shared dorms to private en-suites – all located a few steps from the beach in Kodra.
azure blue | Best Condo in Kodrra
If you prefer a bit of privacy and more space than the average hotel, you might want to consider looking for a place with its own kitchen when figuring out where to stay in Albania. This private apartment offers an elevated, luxurious experience, with sleek surfaces, a balcony overlooking the sea, and a kitchen equipped with all the basics and more. It’s an open concept apartment, yet has plenty of space for two guests and even a pet (yup, it’s pet-friendly).
Things to See and Do in Kodrra
- Charter a yacht and cruise through the Albanian Riviera
- Go horse riding along the coastal trails around Sarandë
- Take a guided kayaking trip to hidden coves
- Up the chill-factor with a boat tour around the harbour
- Venture around the Ionian Coastline on a private boat trip
- Spend the day at one of the resort spas for an indulgent day out
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Grab an eSIM!4. Qafe E Gjashtes / Rruga Skenderbeu | Best Area in Sarandë for Digital Nomads
Tucked away in the hills, Qafe E Gjashtes and Rruga Skenderbeu are adjacent Sarandë neighbourhoods that attract most of the city’s long-term visitors and digital nomads. These areas are quieter than Qender but still easily accessible and close to the action. It’s got a fair share of spacious apartments available for affordable prices, usually equipped with Wi-Fi and great views – perfect for the work-from-home employee or budding entrepreneur.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
Cafes and co-working spots are on the rise, and being a close walk or drive to the centre, this peaceful environment is a great option for digital nomads who need to get things done but still like to be close to the city.
Villa Green Garden | Best Hotel in Qafe E Gjashtes / Rruga Skenderbeu
From the moment you step into Villa Green Garden, you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a secret garden. Morning light filters through the leafy branches, and the floral scent overshadows the city buzz of Sarandë.
The rooms are spacious and simple, but the star of the show has to be the garden, and the world-class breakfast served beneath its trees. This is the garden oasis in Gjashtes you never knew you needed.
One Bedroom Apartment with Balcony Sea View | Best Apartment in Qafe E Gjashtes / Rruga Skenderbeu
Sometimes all you want is a simple self-catering apartment with a good view. And that’s exactly what this one-bedroom apartment has to offer. Located in a modern building with gorgeous sea views, this apartment feels like a classy hotel room, just with an added bonus of a private kitchen, living, and dining area, and a breezy balcony. For extra convenience, the hosts can supply breakfast for an additional charge.
SkirtSide Apartments | Best Apartment in Qafe E Gjashtes / Rruga Skenderbeu
SkirtSide Apartments are a comfortable, modern retreat with just the right amount of minimalism. Everything at this place to stay in Sarandë has been recently refurbished with stylish interiors, sleek countertops and fittings, and bespoke lighting. The highlight of the property is the covered balcony. With views of the mountain and a four-seater dining table, it’s the perfect spot for an alfresco meal.
Things to See and Do in Qafe E Gjashtes / Rruga Skenderbeu
- Visit the Monastery of the 40 Saints
- Explore the city and the surrounding region on a full-day 4X4 tour
- Enjoy 360-degree views from a rooftop cocktail bar
- Explore the ancient ruins at Lekuresi Castle at sunset
5. Coastline Between Sarandë and Ksamil – Best Area in Sarandë for a Beach Trip
Suppose your idea of a dream vacation involves laying a towel out on epic Albanian beaches and dipping in the clear turquoise sea. In that case, the coastline between Sarandë and Ksamil is unbeatable. This stretch, although on a busy road, is quieter than the touristic centre of Kodrra, and is lined with hotels and some of the best self-catering homes I’ve found in the area.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
The water here is clean and calm, and the beaches are perfect for those who prefer to spend their days by the water rather than in a busy city. That said, if city life does call your name, know you’re just a short drive from the heart of Sarandë.
Jako Premium Hotel | Top Luxury Hotel along the Coastline Between Sarandë and Ksamil
Jako Premium Hotel is a four-star hotel that features its own spa with an indoor pool, rooftop terrace with a second pool, and an on-site restaurant. It’s a classic business-chic hotel with a personable twist.
Think sweeping views of the sea through floor-to-ceiling windows, chic neutral colours, and outstanding service. The hotel offers a variety of rooms, ranging from double rooms to triple rooms with sea views.
Sketchbook Hygge Home with Sea View and Free Parking | Unique Apartment along the Coastline Between Sarandë and Ksamil
Arguably one of the quirkiest places to stay in Sarandë, it’s clear that this colourful home has been curated and decorated with passion and love. Brightly colored walls, hand-painted wallpapers, greenery, and eclectic books and art bring the space together in a way that feels homey and authentic.
It might not be everyone’s style, but there is something undeniably charming about the unique touches and mismatched crockery that makes me want to book this spot time and time again. And on top of all that, it also has a little balcony with views across the city and the bay of Sarandë.
The Flipside: Retro Seaside Getaway with Ocean View | Most Retro Apartment along the Coastline Between Sarandë and Ksamil
You know those spaces in foreign cities that make you feel like you never even left home? This is one of them. It’s a colourful apartment inspired by retro furniture, mid-century interiors, and hippie-style touches. But instead of coming across tacky, this space is eclectically stylish.
You can spend days exploring the ins and outs of this apartment, from the unique art that hangs on the colourful walls, to the eccentric red tiled bathroom, to the hand-woven fabrics covering the couches. Details aside, the apartment has a small outdoor terrace with a sneaky view of the sea, perfect for a budget-friendly seaside vacation.
Things to See and Do along the Coastline Between Sarandë and Ksamil
- Visit the Monastery of St. George
- Explore the islands of Ksamil on a stand-up paddleboard
- Take a day trip to explore the Mussel Farm of Lake Butrint
- Take a trip north to the Bistrica River for a river rafting adventure
- Lounge about under the reed umbrellas on Mango Beach
FAQs About Where to Stay in Sarandë
It’s overwhelming, I know. If it all feels like a bit too much to unpack, these frequently asked questions might be a good place to start:
What To Pack For Saranda
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Saranda
Albania is a super safe country to visit on the whole…but that doesn’t mean that things can’t go wrong! One more thing, remember, you’ll need good travel insurance for your trip! I mean, those white water rapids can be unpredictable, right!?
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Saranda
So there you have it, where to stay in Sarandë in a nutshell. This little beachy city really does offer something for every type of traveller. Stay in Qender for the city vibe, or head up to Upper Qender for a more budget-friendly accommodation experience.
Kodrra delivers when it comes to class and luxury, while Gjashtes suits digital nomads and long-term stays with great views and easy accessibility. For pure, uninterrupted beach time, the coastline between Sarandë and Ksamil has something for every budget.
My personal favourite spot has to be the Sketchbook Hygge Home between Ksamil and Sarandë. You just can’t beat the combination of colourful interiors and practical amenities here. Wherever you land, just know there is a wonderful Sarandë neighbourhood calling your name.
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Albania.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Albania
- Planning out an itinerary for Albania is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Balkans backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
