Written by someone who actually lives here, walks these hills, and helps people find more than just a view
I’ll start with this — not every beach town in Albania is right for everyone.
Some people want sunsets and silence. Others want to walk 3 minutes to a cocktail bar. And then there are those who want a house on a hill with just goats for neighbors (true story, had a couple from Norway ask for that last year).
So, what’s the best place to buy property along the Albanian Riviera in 2025?
Well, it depends. But after years of helping clients — from first-time investors to retirees looking for peace — I’ve built a mental map of which towns offer what. And I want to share it with you.
I’m not just throwing out tourist names. I’m talking about real, livable, investable places. The kind you fall in love with even when the beach chairs are gone and the village is quiet.
Let’s walk down the coast, shall we?
Saranda: The Heart of It All
If you’re looking for the sweet spot — walkable city life, seaview apartments, ferry to Corfu — Saranda is where most people start. And honestly? For good reason.
I live here. And every time I walk past the port at sunset or take clients up Rruga Skënderbeu to view a new apartment, I’m reminded why this place keeps growing.
There’s energy. But also moments of stillness, especially if you know the side streets. The city has matured — new developments are better planned, restaurants stay open year-round, and neighborhoods like Kodër and Rruga Panorama offer some breathing room from the summer buzz.
Take this Gold Residence apartment we recently listed — 91.5m², two bathrooms, modern layout, and one of the most generous balconies I’ve seen for under €250,000. If you’re after a beachfront property that still feels residential, it checks a lot of boxes.
That said, not all Saranda apartments for sale are created equal. Some older buildings lack insulation or proper documents. That’s why working with someone local matters. We’ve seen what holds value over time and what doesn’t.
Ksamil: Small Town, Big Demand
Just 20 minutes south, Ksamil feels like a different world.
It’s tiny, yes — but exploding in popularity. Tourists love it. Investors love it. I’ve had clients tell me it reminds them of Greece 30 years ago. The beaches are spectacular, and when it’s quiet, you really feel the magic.
I recently showed a family a modest one-bedroom apartment with a view of the Butrint lagoon. They were stunned — not just by the view, but by the peace. It was a Tuesday afternoon in March and we could hear birds and church bells, nothing else.
But a word of advice: if you’re looking to live there full-time, know that Ksamil in winter can feel like a ghost town. That’s not necessarily a bad thing — some clients love it for exactly that reason. But it’s worth experiencing both seasons before deciding.
Prices here are going up fast. If you’re looking for an affordable property with good Airbnb potential, Ksamil is a strong contender — for now. But be quick.
Borsh: Raw, Wild, Underrated
Ah, Borsh .
If you’ve been, you know it’s unlike anywhere else on the coast. A massive stretch of untouched beach, dramatic mountains, olive groves that go on forever. It’s where I go when I need to breathe.
Not many real estate agencies talk about Borsh yet, but we do — because we see the potential.
It’s not for everyone. The infrastructure is still developing. There aren’t many cafes. No big hotels (yet). But the land is legal to buy, the views are insane, and the community? Genuine. Salt-of-the-earth kind of people.
The road from Himara to Borsh used to be a pain, but with improvements happening, I think this area is next. Boutique villas, eco-lodges, slow tourism — it’s coming.
And if you’re someone who dreams of a stone villa with sea views, away from the noise? Borsh is where you should be looking now , before it’s priced like Ksamil.
Panorama Street, Saranda: The Underrated Goldmine
Let me circle back for a moment — because I want to talk about one street.
Rruga Panorama in Saranda is one of those places that doesn’t look like much on Google Maps. But it’s where locals and smart buyers are quietly buying up properties.
Why?
Because it’s close enough to town, but elevated. You get the view. You get peace. And you’re still 7–8 minutes from the promenade by foot. No need for a car if you don’t want one.
We currently have a 1-bedroom apartment listed there — compact, efficient, already finished. A balcony where you can sip your morning coffee while watching the ferries glide into port.
These kinds of apartments don’t stay long on the market. And honestly, this area offers some of the best seaview apartments at still-affordable prices.
Minor Tangent: The Map People Forget
Sometimes I wonder why no one talks about Lukovë anymore.
Just a short drive from Saranda, this small hillside village overlooks the sea and has real estate opportunities — especially for those who want to build from scratch. It’s quiet. You’ll probably get a rooster as a neighbor. But you’ll also get an unobstructed sea view, clean air, and land for half the price of Ksamil.
The baker there still uses a wood-fired oven. I once waited 30 minutes for a loaf, and it was worth every second.
Anyway, back to the coast…
So, Where Should You Buy?
If you want:
• Convenience and infrastructure: Saranda
• High-demand summer rentals: Ksamil
• Raw nature and long-term potential: Borsh
• Quiet city living with views: Rruga Panorama
• L and opportunities: Lukovë and surroundings
Everyone wants the “perfect” location. But honestly? The right one is the one that fits your lifestyle — not just your wishlist.
I truly believe that the Albanian Riviera still offers the best value on the Mediterranean. You just have to know where to look — and when.
Looking for more personalized help?
I’d be happy to walk you through these spots in person. We can visit a few listings, grab lunch near the beach (I’ll take you to that hidden seafood place locals love in Borsh), and figure out what fits you .
Who knows — maybe that sea view you’ve been dreaming of is closer than you think.
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VivaView Real Estate
Local knowledge. Real connections. Homes with a view.
(The photo on this blog is captured in Saranda, Albania)
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