Visiting Ksamil, Albania
Located along Albania’s stunning Ionian coast, Ksamil is a true Mediterranean gem known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and relaxed island vibe. Ksamil is the perfect destination for beach lovers and travelers seeking sun, sea, and serenity. Check out this guide for top on how to make the most of your paradise vacation on the Albanian Riviera.
Getting to Ksamil for your visit
Ferry
Getting to Ksamil from Corfu, Greece is a breeze. In fact, if you are only interested in visiting the Albanian Riveria portion of Albania this is the way I would go. There are fast and slower ferries from Corfu to Sarandë. Then you can easily grab a taxi from the ferry to Ksamil which is about a 30 minute drive.
Taxi from Tirana
You can hire a private taxi from Tirana to Ksamil. The ride is about 4-5 hours depending on traffic and your stops.
Bus
There is no direct bus from Tirana to Ksamil. You must take a bus from Tirana to Sarandë and then take a local bus from Sarandë to Ksamil. The local buses run approximately every 30 minutes and take about 25 minutes and cost about 200 LEK or €2.
where to stay while visiting ksamil
On the beach
There are so many hotels and accommodations to choose from. One thing you want to look at is whether or not the property is on or near the beach. Some hotels offer lounge chairs for their guests while most beaches you have to pay for a lounge chair. Look at the length of walk.
In town
You will definitely get more affordable hotels in the town. All of these are also very close walks to the beach. Some may offer views depending on the room you select. There may be a little more noise at night at these properties.
Where we stayed
We stayed at a newer property the Euro Hotel. It looks removed however it is right across from the beach (beach chairs not included). Of note there is a pedestrian walkway that wraps around to Ksamil Beach and walk is not as far as advertised on google maps. It had an excellent breakfast and was modern and clean.
Things to Do
Relax on the Beaches
The beaches here are the main draw. Each one offers crystal-clear water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Popular spots include Ksamil Beach, Bora Bora Beach, and Lori Beach, all offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars.
Check out the Bars
There are so many amazing bars with different vibes. Lots of different places have different cocktails, views and vibes. Some of our favorites included Foga Beach, Poda, Greg Lounge and Nysa Ksamil. There are some great places off the beach as well including Vamos Cocktail Bar and Lounge BERMUDA.
Ksamil Islands
Just off the coast are four small, uninhabited Ksamil Islands, easily reached by kayak, paddleboard, or a short boat ride. The islands offer a more secluded, tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds.
Watch Sunsets
Sunsets are absolutely incredible on the Ionian coastline. You can grab a drink at several beach bars to enjoy the sunsetting over nearby Greece. We caught some incredible sunsets at Foga, Nysa and just along the beach near our hotel.
Visit Butrint National Park
Only a few kilometers from Ksamil, Butrint is one of Albania’s most important archaeological sites. Stroll through ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins surrounded by lush forest and scenic lakes. You can take a short bus ride there or go as part of tour. We unfortunately, did not make it here on this visit but when I come back I definitely will.
Visit the Blue Eye
The Blue Eye -Syri i Kaltër- is a natural wonder that attracts a lot of visitors. It is a 30-minute drive from Ksamil and can be visited on your own or with a tour. The natural spring dazzles visitors with its deep, bright blue water and serene surroundings.
On our trip, we did it as part of a full day tour that visited the Blue Hole, St. Nikolas Monastery, Gjirokastër and Lëkurësi Castle.
Lëkurësi Castle
Lëkurësi Castle located in nearby Sarandë is a great place to visit for epic views of the Ionian Sea and panoramic views of islands including Corfu, Greece. You can see the Ksamil Islands and the town as well on a clear day. You can grab food and drinks up here though reviews report not great service. We stopped as part of a tour so can’t comment on that but I think it is definitely worth the view.
Take in the views
Walking around the beach area is a great way to take in views of the beaches. When we walked around we stubbled into Africana Beach Club which had great views over Bora Bora Beach and the Ksamil Islands.
Plan your trip to Ksamil
If you haven’t made it to Albania yet, consider this your inspiration to go. It is beyond beautiful and you will not be disappointed. Tirana was just a part of our epic itinerary but definitely a place to visit. Whether you’re lounging on its white beaches, exploring ancient ruins, or savoring fresh seafood by the sea, Ksamil promises a relaxing and unforgettable Mediterranean getaway. You will love this still hidden gem in Europe!
