Sarande, Albania

[MJN1]

We have some 7h in this port end June. Any suggestions what we "must" see or do there?

I have found very limited reviews on CC, primarily suggesting a trip to an old Roman city nearby and/or being critical of the roads and beaches there.

Any one who has recent experiences to share or recommendations?

Any advice is much appreciated!

MANY THANKS!

[carlmm]

Butrient is the Roman City to see. Anothet option is Gjirokastra, a world heritage site. This city is further swa but I thought it be worthwhile.

Sarande itself is a lind of sea side resort with a promenade long the beach bars and so on, albeit it reminded me, a visitor from Western Europe, of maye Italy 50 years ago or so. No wonder given the much younger history of freedom and tourism.

[carlmm]

I should add: reminded in a positive way.

[MJN1]

Many thanks, very helpful!

[cruisemom42]

I've been to Sarande twice, the more recent visit was 2018. 

 

I thought the area of the city near the port was terrible -- built up with cheaply constructed hotels and the like. No charm whatsoever. Perhaps there are other areas more prepossessing...

 

Both times there I went to Butrint (the late Roman city) and enjoyed it very much. Even if you're not an archaeological devotee, it is a very pretty site and located right on the water.

 

[MJN1]

Cruisemom42,

many thanks. We will look at organizing our own excursion to Butrint.