Why rent in Sarande
Pickup & getting here
Most hosts pick up in the Sarandë town center or near the seafront promenade. If you're arriving by ferry from Corfu (45-min crossing), confirm the exact pickup point near the ferry terminal — some hosts meet you dockside. The Tirana-to-Sarandë drive is 280 km and takes about 3h 30 min; many travelers combine a TIA airport pickup with the scenic drive south.
Driving & parking
The road to Ksamil (14 km south) and Butrint (18 km south) is paved and straightforward. The Blue Eye spring (Syri i Kaltër) is 22 km inland on a paved road accessible in any vehicle. Parking in Ksamil is very limited July–August — arrive before 09:00 or expect a 20–30 min walk from wherever you can park.
Day trips from here
Butrint ruins (18 km, 25 min — UNESCO World Heritage Site). Ksamil beaches (14 km, 20 min — three small islands accessible by paddle). Blue Eye spring (22 km, 35 min). Porto Palermo castle (67 km north, 1h 15 min). Gjirokastër is 74 km north (1h 10 min via SH99) — a full-day side trip.
Best time to visit
July and August are extremely busy — book minimum 3 weeks ahead and expect limited parking in Ksamil. Prices drop 30–40% in June and September, when weather is still excellent and beaches far less crowded. The ferry from Corfu runs April through October.
Why hosts and renters trust Rental Auto
- Verified local hosts in Sarande