Saranda is smaller than the neighbouring city of Vlora yet has a lot more to offer than Ksamil making it the perfect place to base yourself to explore the south of Albania.
Choosing the best hotel in Saranda is crucial to ensuring you make the most of your Albania holiday. Each area of Saranda has a different vibe, and depending on what you’re looking for, you can be sure to base yourself in the most convenient location.
Book a hotel on Saranda’s beachfront promenade for easy access to the beach
Do you want to wake up with the beach at your doorstep? Do you want to be within walking distance from the main supermarkets, restaurants and bars? Or do you prefer a luxury resort with an infinity pool and all the amenities? These are all things to take into consideration.
In this guide to finding the best hotels in Saranda I share my best tips and recommendations based on my long-term stay in 2023. I spent 3 months living in Saranda and during that time I explored all the different areas of town and discovered what makes each one special.
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or extended stay in the south of Albania, my guide to choosing the best Saranda hotels will set you in the right direction when it comes to booking a place that suits your needs.
Where to Stay in Saranda – Which Part of Town is Best?
Map of the three main areas to stay in Saranda
Qender – This part of Saranda is considered the town center. With many shops, bars, restaurants and the Port of Saranda within walking distance, this is the place to stay if you’re seeking convenience. There is also a bus station offering bus routes all over Albania and some parts of Greece.
The beachfront promenade runs from the Port of Saranda to the other side of town. Some of the best hotels in Saranda are located along the promenade boasting spectacular views across the Ioanian Sea to the Greek island of Corfu.
The Qender area consists of a slope that ascends from the promenade to the top of a steep hill with each street higher than the one below. This makes for some amazing ocean views no matter what street you choose to stay on.
When choosing your ideal hotel in Saranda, this is something to consider if you want to avoid walking up and down a big hill everyday. My Saranda apartment was located at the very back of town on 5th street which required a steep 15 minute walk from the center of town.
I personally liked the location as it helped me to stay active and reach my step goal each day but I know that doesn’t appeal to everyone. Bear in mind that most of the hotels in the center of Saranda don’t have a pool or private beach access. Don’t worry, there are plenty of those in the next two locations.
Postcard-worthy views on the beachfront promenade
Kodrra – The Kodrra neighbourhood is nestled in to the west of Saranda’s town center. You’ll find the Port of Saranda here as well as many oceanfront hotels, some with private beaches. There are a number of apartment buildings, which are ideal if you’re planning a long-term stay in Saranda.
This part of town has a more laidback and quiet vibe to it with many locals residing among the hotels and restaurants that cater to tourists. There are some nice beaches here located at the front of several hotels however they are also open to the public at the cost of renting a beach chair for the day.
Era Beach in the Kodrra neighbourhood
Rruga Butrinti – The road that leads to Ksamil and Butrint follows the coast south from town. This area is home to many luxury hotels in Saranda as well as apartment complexes, restaurants and more. If you’re planning to stay in a luxury resort with a pool, you’ll find a wide selection to pick from here.
If you’re traveling to Saranda outside of the peak season I would advise to avoid this part of town. When the summer ends in September, the entire strip becomes a ghost town with most of the restaurants and grocery stores closing their doors. Many of the hotels in this area are simply too far from the town center to get there by foot.
With some of the best beaches in Saranda close by, this is a fabulous area to stay in for those seeking a laidback holiday of sun, sea and sand. Wake up with the beach at your doorstep and end the day with a dreamy sunset directly from your hotel room.
Mango Beach, Saranda
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Hotels in Saranda
This basic but clean accommodation is located in the heart of Saranda’s town center only steps from the main bus station and an easy 10 minute walk to the port. With comfy beds, a fridge and a private bathroom, it’s the perfect guesthouse for the budget conscious traveller.
Things to keep in mind: no aircon (fan only), no available parking on site, easy walking distance to restaurant, shops, beach.
These spacious airconditioned units are equipped with comfy beds, a small kitchen and a balcony featuring beautiful ocean views. Located several streets back from the beachfront promenade, you’ll need to either take a short taxi ride or be prepared to walk uphill to reach the apartment.
Things to keep in mind: very basic kitchen including a fridge (not suitable for cooking), a very steep 15 minute walk is required from the center of town (take a taxi if traveling with luggage), this apartment is in a central location and offers great value for money.
This beachfront hotel is located in a quiet spot within the Kodrra neighbourhood just steps from the beach. With affordable rooms that include aircon, a private bathroom and a balcony with sea views, you can’t go wrong!
There is a restaurant on-site that serves a delicious breakfast from the outdoor terrace facing the sea; a perfect way to start your day! This is a great hotel in Saranda as a base for taking day trips or simply spending the day lounging on the beach.
Things to keep in mind: breakfast is included, free private parking is available, it’s a 20 minute walk or a 5 minute taxi ride from the center of town, family rooms are available.
This lovely little 3-star hotel is situated in a very convenient spot in the center of Saranda. It’s only an 8 minute walk from the beach and just around the corner from the main bus stop in town.
The clean and cozy rooms are styled in traditional southern Albanian décor giving it a homey atmosphere. The rooms include aircon, a fridge, balconies with sea and city views, wifi and private ensuite bathrooms.
Things to keep in mind: a delicious breakfast is included in your stay, option to include dinner at an extra cost, free parking available, restaurant on-site.
Perched on a hilltop, this gorgeous 4-star hotel offers a breathtaking view over the Ionian Sea and the entire city of Saranda. With comfy beds and a quiet location away from the town center, this hotel is great if you’re seeking some relaxation away from the hustle and bustle.
Wake up to a delicious breakfast each morning and enjoy daily housekeeping service while you’re out sightseeing. Each room is very spacious and has aircon, a fridge, private bathrooms and a balcony with an epic view.
Things to keep in mind: no beach access, road to the hotel is steep and bumpy, free parking on-site (ideal for those traveling by rental car), great breakfast included, daily housekeeping, room service.
This beautiful beachfront hotel in Saranda is conveniently located only 10 minutes by foot from the town center. It’s easy to reach all of Saranda’s top restaurants, bars and cafes. You’ll feel right at home in the large and tastefully decorated rooms that overlook the ocean.
This highly-reviewed hotel features a private beach area for guests and a seaside restaurant serving great food all day. Celebrating something special? Check out their VIP room which has a private jacuzzi on the balcony!
Things to keep in mind: good location, private beach, excellent breakfast included, stunning ocean views, large rooms, free parking available, room service, very popular on Booking.com.
Tucked away in the Kodrra neighbourhood, this reasonably priced seaside hotel is an easy 5 minute walk from the Port of Saranda. Hotel Piccolino’s rooms cater to every style of traveller, ranging from a basic double room to deluxe suite and several choices in between.
The beautiful Era Beach is only steps from the hotel, a bonus for those planning a lot of beach time. If you’re looking for ocean views, clean modern rooms, friendly staff and a quiet beachfront location don’t miss this gem!
Things to keep in mind: breakfast included, free parking on-site, near the Port of Saranda, great location away from the busy promenade yet still within easy walking distance, rooms with balconies.
This popular hotel is in a prime spot on Saranda’s beachfront promenade surrounded by all of the best restaurants and shops. For a fair price you can base yourself right in the action and have a quiet room to retreat to at the end of the day.
The rooms at Sun N Blue Hotel are clean, comfortable and have everything you need for a great stay in Saranda. The best part of staying here is waking up to a spectacular ocean view from your own balcony. The main bus station in Saranda is only a few minutes away and the bus stop for Ksamil is also very close.
Things to keep in mind: breakfast is not included, free parking available, excellent location, great value for money, very popular (book ahead of time for summer months).
This small and centrally located hotel is only steps from the promenade, the beach, the Port of Saranda and the bus station. The rooms are basic but clean, spacious and have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
The balcony with ocean views are an added bonus to this budget friendly hotel. Hotel Piazza is the perfect base for those who plan to spend most of their time taking day trips from Saranda.
Things to keep in mind: no elevator, parking not provided (must find street parking), breakfast not included, very high ratings on Booking.com, ideal for those on a budget, good value for money.
This lovely waterfront hotel is in an excellent location across from the Port of Saranda. With fantastic ocean views, friendly welcoming staff and a delicious breakfast served daily from the hotel’s restaurant, you can’t go wrong with a stay at Hotel Mano.
The rooms are nicely decorated with plenty of space, comfy beds, balconies and private bathrooms. Some rooms have an ocean view, be sure to select this option while booking your room.
Things to keep in mind: breakfast included, close to the port, no elevator (request a lower room if needed), a popular choice for those arriving in Saranda by ferry or those planning to take a day trip to Corfu.
This well-equipped 3-star hotel in Saranda offers direct access to the beach and free sunbeds for hotel guests. The beautiful beach has calm and clear turquoise water, perfect for swimming.
There is a little beach bar on-site so you can stay refreshed and hydrated throughout the day. This hotel is a great choice if you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday and don’t want to go far from the hotel.
Vila Era Beach Hotel is located in the Kodrra area which has plenty of restaurants and shops and it’s a short walk to the town center. My favourite traditional restaurant in Saranda, Kasandro’s, is only 4 minutes away!
Things to keep in mind: 15 minute walk from the center of town, direct beach access, free parking, great breakfast included, balconies with sea view available.
This lovely 4-star hotel is set in a quiet corner of the Kodrra neighbourhood and includes a pool and private beach access. With free sunbeds and umbrellas for guest use, Mucobega Hotel is ideal for families or those seeking a relaxing beach escape away from the bustle of town.
The cozy rooms at Mucobega Hotel all have private balconies where you can start and end your day with a breathtaking ocean view. The location of this hotel is more than a 30 minute walk from the center of Saranda making it a great choice if you have a rental car.
Things to keep in mind: pool on-site, private beach access, breakfast included, outside of the town center (10 min by car), free parking available for guests.
Sunset Suites is yet another fantastic oceanfront hotel in Saranda with a private beach area that includes a bar and restaurant. The style of this hotel is unique featuring traditional designs with a modern touch.
You are sure to feel right at home from the moment you are greeted by the friendly and attentive staff. Enjoy a short walk into town and end your day with a magical sunset and a cocktail in hand.
Things to keep in mind: excellent breakfast included, free parking, spacious rooms with balconies and ocean views, bar and restaurant, direct beach access, 5 minute walk from the Port of Saranda.
This beautifully decorated hotel features stylish rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean, be sure to select a room with sea view when booking! The private beach area and fantastic location are attractive features for guests. It’s an easy 20 minute walk into town.
Your stay includes a great buffet breakfast, sun loungers and parasols, a beach bar to enjoy a drink or two at sunset and much more! With all the amenities you could wish for, Hotel Apollon will suit any couple planning a romantic getaway.
Things to keep in mind: adults only, parking available, great restaurant, private beach access for guests, very popular and highly rated (be sure to book ahead for peak season).
If you’re looking for the best 5-star hotel in Saranda, the gorgeous Hotel Butrinti is a popular choice. Located in a prime spot only steps from the beachfront promenade, you’ll be well situated to enjoy all of the restaurants, bars and attractions that Saranda has to offer.
The facilities in Hotel Butrinti feature a beautiful outdoor poor, a spa with hot tubs and a sauna, a fitness center, bar and restaurant, and deluxe rooms with balconies overlooking the sea.
This fabulous 5-star hotel is the ideal choice if you’re looking to treat yourself to a luxurious stay in Saranda.
Things to keep in mind: parking available, continental breakfast included, convenient location near the town center and beach, room service, spa treatments available at an extra cost.
You’ll find this modern and highly-rated 4-star hotel in a fantastic beachfront location only 10 minutes by foot from the Port of Saranda. Andon Lapa Hotel is a true gem that offers outstanding ocean views from their tastefully furnished rooms.
The outdoor pool area is an attraction in its own right, located on a terrace boasting spectacular views of the Ioanian Sea. Private beach access is another perk of staying at Andon Lapa. If I was looking for a luxury hotel in Saranda, this hotel would be my top choice!
Things to keep in mind: daily housekeeping, room service available, free parking in a private garage, easy walk to the town, great breakfast included, friendly staff, family rooms, beautiful ocean views, spa and fully equipped gym.
If you’re craving relaxation, comfort and tranquillity, Bougainville Bay Resort ticks all the boxes. With well-appointed rooms, serene surroundings and staff that welcome you with warm hospitality, you’re sure to have a memorable stay.
The resort is tucked away in a quiet spot on Rruga Butrinti, about 5 minutes by car from the center of Saranda. Kick back and relax on the private beach and enjoy majestic sunsets from the infinity pool that looks out to the sea.
Things to keep in mind: valet parking is available for €12 per day, three swimming pools (one indoor), gym is fairly small with outdated equipment, spa and wellness center, 2 restaurants, breakfast included, family rooms available, 20 minute walk to town.
A little further along the same road will bring you to the sumptuous Santa Quaranta Premium Resort. Located in a picturesque spot right on the beach, this is easily one of the best 5-star hotels in Saranda.
This beautiful high-end resort features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool with ocean views, air-conditioned rooms with comfortable beds and balconies, and a terrace with sun loungers and parasols.
The resort is located away from the bustle of town yet still a short 10 minute drive away. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets within close proximity.
Things to keep in mind: free private parking, breakfast included, restaurant and bar on-site serving top quality food, family rooms, this area can be very quiet outside of peak season.
If you’re seeking a clean and fully-equipped apartment in a central location of Saranda, Eleana’s Apartament is a great choice. For a reasonable price you will get an entire apartment with a kitchen, private bathroom, and balcony facing the sea.
Things to keep in mind: free parking available, only steps from the promenade, WiFi included, great for couples or families with children.
This spacious apartment with modern furnishings is located in the heart of Saranda boasting sea views from its balcony. The kitchenette includes a fridge, kitchenware and a toaster, ideal for making breakfast and tea/coffee in the morning.
Things to keep in mind: friendly and hospitable host, parking is not available to guests (must find street parking which can be challenging during high season), the kitchen is small and minimally equipped (not suitable for cooking meals).
Choose from a variety of clean and well-kept seaside apartments in the Kodrra neighbourhood. Each unit has a fully-equipped kitchen, air-conditioning, washing machine and balcony with a view.
The apartment complex also has a private beach which is a highlight for guests. There is a great restaurant which serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails daily!
Things to keep in mind: free parking, breakfast included, restaurant on-site, highly-reviewed on Booking.com, 15 minute walk or 5 minute drive to the center of Saranda.
These small yet cozy apartments have all the amenities required for a great stay in Saranda. There is a complete kitchen with an oven, fridge, stove, and microwave which is great if you want the option to cook.
For an excellent price you will get an entire unit to yourself with a balcony and a free place to park. The hosts are kind, hospitable and ready to help with any needs that you may have.
Things to keep in mind: free parking, breakfast is not included, amazing view from balcony, 15 minute walk into town or 5 minute drive, plenty of supermarkets and restaurants/cafes nearby.
These comfortable seaside apartments have plenty of space for families traveling with children. As a bonus there is even a fabulous view of the ocean from the balcony.
The rooms at Hotel Erioni have all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay including a kitchen, private bathroom, air conditioning, and free parking. This accommodation is optimal for those who have rented a car as it’s a 25 minute walk into town.
Things to keep in mind: great value for money, perfect location with a rental car, free parking, free WiFi, family rooms, beachfront, breakfast not included.
This family friendly hotel is in a great location only 1o minutes walking distance to the beachfront promenade. The spacious and modern rooms are ideal for families, some of them even have a separate bedroom for kids.
Things to keep in mind: free parking, family rooms, balcony with sea views, great breakfast included, excellent location, helpful staff, no kitchen but there is a fridge included.
If you’re looking for a family friendly hotel in Saranda with an outdoor pool and great views, be sure to check out this one. Hotel Dodona is far removed from the chaos of the busy town center yet close enough to reach in a short drive.
With a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, close proximity to the beach, comfortable family-sized rooms and a fabulous buffet breakfast included, you can’t go wrong here. Hotel Dodona is a very popular choice for families.
Things to keep in mind: free parking (best suited for those with a rental car), fantastic beach and city views, air conditioned rooms, breakfast included, easy drive to Ksamil and Saranda, well-positioned for day trips.
Saranda is the largest town on the Albanian Riviera which sees an influx of tourist numbers through the summer months of June-August. Saranda becomes extremely crowded with restaurants and hotels at full capacity during peak season.
Based on my own experience, September/beginning of October is the best time of year for minimal crowds and beautiful beach weather. I would completely avoid visiting Saranda during the summer as I’ve only heard negative stories from the local people about how busy the town and the beaches get.
I have also heard good things about the south of Albania during spring (May/beginning of June). If you want to avoid crowds, save money with better hotel rates and still have a high chance of good weather, you should plan your Albania itinerary outside of peak season.
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