Saranda (SR) Backpackers

Welcome to Saranda! Mireserdhet ne Sarande!

Tomi, he is Albanian and local from Saranda and Meike, the German half of the hostel, welcome you for a visit. Both we are fluent in English and Tomi knows Italian and Greek as well!
Our now 4 years running hostel is located on the second floor of a secure contemporary apartment building just opposite to Saranda's ferry port. All of the rooms have big balconies overlooking the picturesque Ionian Sea.

After a day out on the town, Saranda Backpackers Hostel offers many amenities that will help you to relax. Some of the hostel's benefits include hot showers, free wifi, washing machine, and balconies with stunning views of the bay. You will have access to a full kitchen, where you can make your own lunch/dinner. The hostel is located right around the corner from the farmer's market and the town's super big air conditioned supermarket (Alfa). Don't worry about breakfast, it's included!

Mornings begin with a continental breakfast with fresh tasty bread, homemade jam, organic coffee or tea, fresh boiled eggs, tasty tomatoes and watermelons from the farmers market. Or will you try out the typical Albanian breakfast with byrek? Tell us!

We are at your disposal 24/7 and can give you an insider's view of Saranda and the history of Tomis homeland. We can recommend cheap traditional restaurants as well as arrange tours, help navigate your next destination, and point out all of the nearby hot spots including: The Blue Eye, The Castle of Lekursi, the antic excavation of Butrint or the amazing beaches of Ksamil or Paskyra Beach south to Saranda!

Walk around the corner and catch the city bus, it leaves every hour (from 7am to 6pm) and the bus stop is only 50 meters from the hostel.
Visit Butrint and stop in Ksamil on the way back and take a swim or paddle boat ride to the islands.

Located just 50 meters from the port (ferry service to/from Corfu) and a quick walk from the central bus station, Saranda Backpackers Hostel is not only close to all the major transportation hubs, it's also a short walk to the promenade which is lined with bars, discos, and restaurants (be sure to try the famous mussels). As you stroll along the promenade, stop to have a coffee or a shot of raki, enjoy the sea view and live in the moment as the locals do. Last but not least, the main beach is in front of the hostel. Grab some homemade byrek (spinach pie) or a tasty treat from the corner bakery on your way. Soak up the sun, rent a paddle boat, or float the day away in the clear refreshing sea.
We are here open for all your questions and try to help you with all your travel needs - day trips around Saranda and travelling around Albania too!

You want to rent a bike or a car, just ask us!


Our Hostel Events 2013

Albanian Culture night:
Learn how to cook delicious local cuisine, afterward watch an Albanian film, learn some useful phrases and Albania's Communist past.

Dinner in Town:
Take a xhiro along the promenade, and see what Saranda has to offer. Many activities and beautiful people line the promenade in the evenings. Eat at one of several local pizza places for dinner and have time for drinks and ice cream.

Beach BBQ Night:
On nights when we have 8 or more guest, we can arrange a BBQ on the beach, with local food and local drinks. There is no better way to get to know your fellow guests and enjoy a beautiful Saranda night.
Kebabs, Grilled Veggies, and even Mashed Potatoes cooked on the grill right on the beach in front of the hostel! After dinner you may even desire a moonlight swim!

Saranda Walking Tours:
Walk to Lekursi Castle and the Monastery of the Forty Saints, the namesake of our town Saranda. Don't forget to bring some leke for a coffee and ice cream. You can sit and watch the sunset over the bay of Saranda.

Blockbuster Night (mostly in winter time)
It starts with a homemade Albanian dinner. Then you may choose a movie from our collection to watch.

Seafood Night:
Take a trip to one of the best local seafood restaurants overlooking the Bay!

*if you would like to request a particular event during your stay, we will do our best to accommodate you.

Greetings from Saranda
summer 2013!

Tomi & Meike