2025 Ksamil Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Nestled along the stunning Albanian Riviera, Sarandë is a breathtaking coastal town known for its crystal-clear waters, rich history, and laid-back Mediterranean charm. Located just a short ferry ride from Corfu, Greece, this hidden gem has become a favorite for travelers seeking sun-soaked beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant seaside culture. One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is the Lëkurësi Castle, a 16th-century fortress perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding countryside. The area is also home to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including an amphitheater, basilica, and Venetian tower. For those looking to unwind, Sarandë boasts some of the best beaches in Albania, such as Ksamil Beach, where powdery white sands and turquoise waters rival those of the Maldives. The town’s waterfront promenade is lined with lively cafes, seafood restaurants, and bars, perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail with a view. Whether you’re exploring hidden coves, diving into history, or indulging in fresh seafood, Sarandë offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination along the Ionian coast. #europetrip

Why should you visit Ksamil in the summer of 2025?!☀️🏖️🌊 Located in southern Albania, Ksamil is a gem of the Albanian Riviera and an ideal summer destination. Here are some reasons to visit Ksamil in the summer: 1. Enchanting beaches Ksamil is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, often compared to tropical destinations. The small islands near the coast are easily accessible by boat or swimming, offering a tranquil getaway. 2. Relaxed atmosphere Unlike some overcrowded Mediterranean hotspots, Ksamil retains a more laid-back vibe. It's a great place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of major tourist centers. 3. Fresh seafood and traditional cuisine Ksamil's restaurants serve delicious, fresh seafood and Albanian specialties like byrek and Tave Kosi. Dining by the sea adds to the charm. 4. Proximity to Butrint National Park Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a short drive from Ksamil. The park combines ancient ruins, natural beauty, and fascinating history, making it a perfect day trip destination. 5. Affordable paradise Ksamil offers an affordable alternative to other Mediterranean destinations. You can enjoy high-quality services and experiences at a fraction of the cost. 6. Perfect for water activities Summer is ideal for activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The calm and warm Ionian Sea is perfect for exploration. 7. Stunning sunsets Ksamil's sunsets are magical, with vibrant colors reflecting on the clear waters. You can enjoy them at a beach bar or while dining al fresco. 8. Convenient location Ksamil is close to other popular destinations like Saranda and Corfu (accessible by ferry), making it easy to explore the region. Visiting Ksamil in the summer allows you to fully experience its beauty and charm, ensuring you have an unforgettable trip!

#tripaway Pema e Thate is a small beach near Ksamil. A big sign in Ksamil says that Pema e Thate is just one km away, but it is about five km away. It faces Corfu Island and it’s also the closest point between Albania and the Island. This beach is different from the other beaches in southern Albania due to its shallow waters, a fact that makes it a perfect bathing place for children. #visitalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Ksamil is located in the south of Albania opposite the island of Corfu, and has an extraordinary sea, but very few people know this corner of paradise. Ksamil is one of the greatest beauties of Albania, and is even described as a place resembling paradise, even though European tourists do not have much knowledge.#visitalbania #tripaway

#mydailycommuteKsamil, Albania, is a stunning coastal village located in the south near the Greek border, part of the Albanian Riviera. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, it's a popular summer destination. Just off the shore are three small islets accessible by boat or even swimming. Ksamil is also close to the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town offers fresh seafood, vibrant local culture, and scenic views of the Ionian Sea. Despite its growing popularity, Ksamil still retains a relaxed, laid-back charm that attracts travelers seeking natural beauty and tranquility.

Dreaming of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and a bit of history? Sarandë and Ksamil make the ultimate duo on Albania’s Riviera — and they’re only 20 minutes apart. Here's how to combine both in a single (perfect) day or over a relaxed weekend: ☀️ Morning: Start in Sarandë 🏖️ Take a Seaside Stroll Begin your day along Sarandë’s promenade. Grab a coffee with a sea view — locals love places like Haxhi or Mare Nostrum — and soak up the laid-back vibes. 🏛️ Optional: Lekuresi Castle If you are up for a quick panoramic view, head to Lekuresi Castle (10-min drive uphill). You’ll get a stunning vista over both Sarandë and Ksamil — perfect for early photos before the heat hits. 🚐 Midday: Head to Ksamil 🚌 How to Get There: By bus: Every 30–60 minutes in summer from Sarandë (approx. 100–150 lek) By car or taxi: 15–20 minutes, super easy (taxis may charge €10–15) By scooter or bike: Ideal for flexibility, but it can be hot in summer 🏝️ Ksamil: The Beaches You Came For Now for the main event — Ksamil’s famous beaches. Think crystal-clear waters, beach bars, and tiny islands you can swim or kayak to. Top Beaches to consider: Ksamil Beach 9 & 10 – good mix of crowds + views Bora Bora Beach – chill vibes, soft sand, bars nearby Lori Beach – more local and relaxed Private beach clubs (like Guvat or Cori) if you want comfy loungers 🛶 Tip: Rent a kayak or paddle boat to explore the Ksamil islets just off the shore! 🌅 Evening: Back to Sarandë Return to Sarandë in the late afternoon. Walk the promenade at sunset Enjoy seafood dinner at places like Taverna Fish Filipi or La Petite Grab a drink at rooftop bars like Sunset by the Sea or Jericho Cocktail Bar 📌 Final Tips Time your trip: Ksamil gets crowded in July–August, so go early or off-season if you can Transportation: Buses are cheap but irregular, so renting a car/scooter gives freedom Stay overnight? Definitely worth it if you want to relax — Ksamil is quieter at night!

#historicallandmarks

This unpopular European country Prices are 1/3 of Italy but the scenery is not inferior to Greece Chinese passports are directly in vain! ✈️ Transportation Guide: ▪️No Schengen Sign: Luton, London → Tirana (2h) ▪️With Schengen visa: Corfu, Greece → Salanda (1h boat ride) ⚠️Airport Warning: Tirana Airport is small like a passenger terminal 🌊Three must-visit places: 1️⃣Ksamil Beach 💎Jelly Sea Plain Replacement Santorini 🚣‍♀️ Pedal boat 10 euros/hour (remember to bargain) 2️⃣ Ginocastle 🏰Stone City + Millennium Castle 📸 Ottoman architecture from "Thousand and Away" 3️⃣Theth National Park ⛰️ ``Alpine Eastern European Minutes'' 💦Blue Eye Spring (Hiking Lovers Paradise) 💰 Price Shock Record: ▪️ Seafood feast 15 euros full to cry ▪️Four-star hotel 50 euros/night ▪️ Coffee 1.5 euros and what bike 🚗 Traffic Blood and Tears History: ▪️Bus system = no system ▪️ Rent a car and drive yourself (more mountain roads) ▪️Tirana → Salanda recommends taking the night bus ⚠️Safety Guide: ▪️Asian faces will be noticed (pure curiosity) ▪️ Girls are recommended to go together ▪️Avoid remote alleys (less street lights) 💡 Trivia: 1️⃣ You can wear short sleeves in December (Mediterranean climate is great) 2️⃣ Hocha's former residence has Chinese explanation 3️⃣ Locals do not accept coins (prepare notes)

Ksamil is one of Albania’s most stunning beach destinations, often compared to the Maldives for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand. Located near the Greek border and within the Butrint National Park, this small coastal village offers a dreamy mix of natural beauty and relaxed summer vibes. Rent a paddle boat or kayak to explore the nearby Ksamil Islands, dine on fresh seafood right by the water, and take in some of the most beautiful sunsets on the Ionian coast. With its blend of untouched nature and Mediterranean charm, Ksamil is a true hidden gem of the Albanian Riviera. #ksamil

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💰Average Price per Person: from London to Albania, it will cost you around 350£ per person including all for a 4 night 5 days trip 🗓️Itinerary Scheduling: Tirana - Vlora - Sarande - Ksamil - Himare - Berat - Tirana 💞Reasons to Recommend: Best road trip you can experience. We had rented a car for self drive for 5 days. Huge roads and a paradise for those who love driving cars outside their home country

This small and unpopular country, known as the "Eagle Country", is said to be the poorest country in Europe. It has the same coastline as its neighboring countries Italy and Greece, but the prices are more than half cheaper. transportation 1. London Luton Airport to Tirana 2. Fly to Corfu Island in Greece, which is half an hour away from Saranda by express boat and one hour by ordinary boat. You don’t have to go through the capital Tirana. Before traveling, you can check the hidden trains in the UK and Europe + railcard ! Tirana Airport is small and public transportation is chaotic, so be prepared I was a little worried before coming here because there were so few guides and the reviews were as polarized as the gap between the rich and the poor in this country. After I went there myself, I felt that the people and the scenery were nice, but the transportation was really bad. It is recommended to rent a car, it will be much more convenient The average temperature in December is 15 degrees. It is really comfortable to wear short sleeves and a jacket. Asians are rare in the area. You will be stared at when you walk. Remember to bring an umbrella. Personally, I feel that compared to other European cities, thieves are not that rampant. After arriving at the airport, I quickly went to Saranda, which was a 4-5 hour drive away. It seemed to be the most popular city. There were many European tourists, so the prices were a bit higher, but still lower than other European countries. Ksamil: One of the most beautiful beaches, not far from the center of Saranda, a 20-minute drive The water is very good and clear, the depths are very blue, and you can rent pedal boats Gjirokaster: The world cultural heritage is also the hometown of Hoxha, an "old friend of the Chinese people". The town has an Ottoman Turkish style. Theth: An isolated small village with Alpine scenery along the way. The famous Blue Eyes Spring is here (low-end Jiuzhaigou) Recommended for hiking enthusiasts, not recommended for children The capital can be put last. If you have time, go there. If you don’t have time, forget it. The attractions are not that amazing. !Local electronic payment is not very popular, you need to prepare cash, Euros and US dollars are acceptable

#springwander Vlorë is a vibrant coastal city in southern Albania where history, sea, and mountains come together. It’s where Albania declared independence in 1912, and you can feel that significance when visiting the Independence Monument and Museum. Strolling along the lively Lungomare promenade, lined with palm trees and beach cafes, is the perfect way to soak in the local atmosphere. The beaches near Vlorë offer crystal-clear water and views of the Karaburun Peninsula. While the city’s main beach is great for a quick dip, nearby spots like Radhimë or Zvernec Island provide a more peaceful experience. Don’t miss the Zvernec Monastery, set on a small island surrounded by a tranquil lagoon – it’s a peaceful retreat just outside the city. Vlorë is ideal for a mix of culture and relaxation, especially in spring and early summer before the crowds arrive. #Vlore #VisitAlbania #IonianCoast #ZvernecIsland #AlbanianRiviera #LungomareVlore #BalkanTravel

Ksamil is a peaceful village on the Albanian Riviera, offering pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters without the crowds or high prices of more famous Mediterranean spots. It’s the perfect escape for travelers seeking natural beauty on a budget. The beaches are the main draw, with soft sand, warm waters, and nearby islands just a short swim or boat ride away. Sunbeds and umbrellas are affordable, and the relaxed vibe adds to its charm. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood and Albanian specialties at wallet-friendly prices, making dining here a highlight. Try the daily catch or traditional dishes like tavë kosi while enjoying seaside views. For activities, visit the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site nearby, or explore the islands by kayak or boat. Accommodation options are also budget-friendly, ranging from cozy guesthouses to seaside hotels. Ksamil remains under the radar compared to other European coastal destinations, offering an authentic and affordable experience perfect for laid-back travelers. #Ksamil #AlbanianRiviera #HiddenGem #BudgetTravel #CheapDestinations #MediterraneanEscape #UnderratedPlaces #AffordableTravel #TravelAlbania #BeachParadise #SeasideRetreat #IonianSea #OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreEurope #CoastalVibes #TravelOnABudget #AlbaniaAdventures

| This niche country has the world's cheapest beach resorts. South of Saranda is another coastal town, Ksamil, known as the "Turquoise Pearl." As early as the socialist period, it was famous for its olive oil, lemons, and oranges. Today, it is one of Albania's most popular holiday destinations and was once named one of the world's 20 cheapest beach resorts by The Guardian, making it a great alternative to the Greek coast. · So after we returned from Butrint, we arranged to stay here for one night. Ksamil is small, with almost no high-rise buildings around. The houses here remind me of Southeast Asia, with no European feel at all. · Our homestay is on a hill behind Ksamil Beach, with a small garden, and it's only a 10-minute walk to the beach. The rooftop of the homestay is a great place to have breakfast, with a good view overlooking Ksamil, but not facing the sea, only some side coasts. · Walking to Ksamil Beach, it was already crowded. Unlike Southeast Asia, with its vast beaches, this place is made up of many small beaches. Walking on the beach, the sand is clean and delicate, and the blue sea is not bone-chilling, much better than the stone beaches of the Mediterranean countries. · But what shocked me the most was the beach chairs and umbrellas all over the beach, which really filled the beach as far as the eye could see, making me feel a little claustrophobic. But there are indeed many tourists here in the summer, and the reputation of being an alternative to Greece is well-deserved. This is probably the place where I met the most tourists in Albania. · But I personally don't think the cost here is cheap, only that it's okay in Europe. Beach chairs range from 15 to 30 euros depending on the location, and dining by the beach is even more expensive, with a casual pasta costing 20 euros per serving. · At dusk, I wanted to find an open place on the mountain to take pictures of the sunset, but it was either blocked by trees or private property, so I only managed to take a silhouette. · In general, Ksamil doesn't have any great scenery, but it is more suitable for a short holiday, but only for Europeans, and it can't be compared to Southeast Asia.

Vendi me I bukur ku gjen uj me te paster se ne jugun e shiperise sidomos tani qe nk ka shum njerez dhe turist. Esht pak e lodhshme rruga po ja vlen cdo sekond ne ate vend te mrekullueshem. Ushqimi dhe pamjet qe te ofron jugu shqiperise jan te mrekullueshme dimer behar me mungon kaq shum ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ me zi pres te rikthem perseri #ksamil bashk me familjen time . See you next year .

The Albanian Riviera, with its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, is an emerging gem in Europe’s travel scene, and Ksamil stands out as its crown jewel. Nestled near the Greek border, Ksamil boasts some of the most pristine beaches in the region, with soft white sands and turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean. The small islands just off the coast are perfect for a short boat ride, offering secluded spots for sunbathing and swimming. The waters here are calm, making it ideal for families and those looking to relax in a peaceful setting. Beyond the beaches, Ksamil also offers a taste of authentic Albanian culture. The local cuisine is a delightful mix of Mediterranean flavors, with fresh seafood, olive oil, and locally grown produce taking center stage. Don’t miss trying "byrek," a savory pastry, or fresh-caught grilled fish. Exploring nearby attractions like the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds a historical depth to your visit. The Albanian Riviera, especially Ksamil, is a paradise waiting to be discovered.#ksamil #Albania

beautiful bays , within 100 metres of hotels warm seas , table service food and drink day beds from 10 euros boats trips and water sports available too

#timetotravel 🇦🇱Bucketlist Albania: 🏖️ The Albanian Riviera surprised us positively! The colour of the sea was incredible, the price was excellent (we spent very little). Very welcoming and friendly people (it hurts the heart to see how humble and nice they are). Everything is very well structured: hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, petrol stations with snack bars and good toilets. 👴🏻 Although the older people didn't speak any other language, all the menus had options in English and the waiters knew how to speak it. We had no problem communicating. A funny thing is that on the local radio they seem to speak in Italian and the songs are all Italian, but when you speak Italian to people, nobody understands.🤔😂 💳 The local currency is the "Leek" but we had no problem paying for everything with apple pay or card. They always try to get you to pay in cash first, but once you've told them you have no other option, they take the little machine out of your pocket. So we didn't have to withdraw any money. 🚗 To get to the region called the Riviera (the region with the beaches, which is in the south of the country) there are two options: Get off at Tirana (the country's capital), hire a car and drive for 3.5 hours or get off at Corfu - in Greece 🇬🇷 - and take a boat (there are boats all day and they take about half an hour). We decided to arrive in Tirana. We found the road great, new, well signposted and the scenery beautiful. It was well worth the trip. 👧🏻 We also realised that the trip is good for all ages, there are lots of lively beach clubs for young people, many elderly people on the beach and plenty of options for children. The sea is calm and there are lots of toys for hire on the beaches (I thought this was very different!) Like lots of pedalos, inflatable slides and toys, we saw lots of families there with babies and young children. 🎶 Summary: put Albania on your wish list, because it's so worth it! ✨ #albania #whatdoesalbania #ksamil #ksamilalbania #sarande

These pristine natural beauty of Albania demonstrates at its finest. There are quite a few islands within vicinity of Ksamil , ones you can kayak to and even one you can walk to. I’d highly recommend this place despite super crowded beaches.

Getting There - From the Capital it takes 5 hours to Sarande and from there it takes another 40 minutes with a local bus to Ksamil Area Attractions - The main attractions are the numerous brach areas with crystal clear water and the island around it Hotels - There are many new Resorts and Spas, Hotels and Guesthouses Food & Restaurants - Local Albanian food is delicious especially the local seafood Shopping - there are many shops in this area #bucketlistreboot #passionpassport #staycation #gooutside #beachlife #beaches #naturalwonders #givethanks #nationalpark #awesomepic #summervacation

I will say that this is one of the best beaches in Albania, the water is so clear and blue. and we are so lucky that we came during the period where there were not lots of tourists. we’ve heard that this place is normally packed with tourists, but when we arrive, the place seems to be so calm and peaceful. there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, where you can grab a drink and watch sunset with your friends and families. it is definitely one of the best places to go with your partners. the only thing that we didn’t really appreciate is you have to pay sunbeds here. we decided not to pay for any sun beds, we just used our towel which was completely fine for us. overall, this is where you can find beautiful beaches in Albania, while it’s not as touristy as other beaches in Croatia, Italy and Portugal #passionpassport #gooutside #beach#summer

#sunset #view #beach #ksamil #treishujt #islandksamil #borabora #blackperl #albania

There is a comfortable and cheap hotel in the small town of Ksamil. We have already booked a hotel with a small garden and a 10-minute walk to the beach. When we arrived, we saw that the real thing was more real and comfortable than the picture. Two people stayed in a family room and only needed 120 yuan to stay in a clean hotel with a kitchen and a bathtub. Ksamil suddenly gave us a good impression. The walk from the hotel to the beach is all the flowers and plants grown by the locals. When you walk to the main street, the shops on both sides are closed, even the restaurant. Several locals who came to the beach were racing faster, and the children were playing football. There are no tourists, even under the umbrellas have been forgotten, but it is such a small town, let us more deeply enjoy the original flavor of the Mediterranean.

Sarand is located in the coastal city of southern Albania. It is a typical Mediterranean climate and is the most popular seaside resort in Albania, becoming the honeymoon capital of newcomers. The once-sleeping fishing village has become a prosperous city, with KSamil owning the most beautiful beach in Sarande, and in 2013 it was included in the Guardians 20 cheapest beach resorts. Many Greeks will take a boat ride. Going here for vacation, just because of the high quality and low price. ksamil is surrounded by mountains, quaint seaside country towns and beautiful beaches, June to September is the best season, the water turns turquoise, the underwater white beaches at a glance Unlimited, you can also play on the nearby islands and enjoy a swim between the island and the island.