Albanian Riviera Guaranteed excursion from Saranda

This tour starts in the city of Saranda, located on the coast in the southern part of Albania. It was named in honor of the Byzantine monastery of the Agioi Saranda (Forty Martyrs of Sebaste). The Venetians called it Santa Quaranta when they controlled it. During its annexation by the Italians in World War II, Saranda was renamed “Porto Edda” in honor of Mussolini’s daughters. Saranda is included in some cruise itineraries. This is a perfect shore excursion if your cruise includes this lovely destination.

You will travel north along the coast for about 1 hour to the coastal town of Himara. This lovely town sits between the Ceraunian Mountains and the Ionian Sea and is part of the Albanian Riviera. There are long white sandy beaches and the few hills close to the sea are terraced and planted with olive and citrus trees. Its population is mainly ethnic Greek. The region has several Orthodox churches and monasteries, built in traditional Byzantine architecture. Some are located inside the castle of Himarë.

You will visit Porto Palermo Castle in the bay of Porto Palermo, south of Himarë along the Albanian Riviera. Huffington Post ranked Porto Palermo first among 15 Undiscovered European Destinations for 2014. Sometimes known as the Castle of Ali Pasha, it was probably built by the Venetians when they ruled the area. It is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land and formerly served as a Soviet submarine base.

You will have time to tour Himara’s old town, including a coffee break with a local village family.

You will travel to Borshi, where you will have free time for lunch and sunbathing on Borshi Beach, the largest one in the Albanian Riviera. This small town is known for the beauty of its beaches and its friendly people.

Our vehicle will be waiting for you for to travel back to Saranda.