Traditions That Still Thrive in Modern Albania

Written by someone who truly lives and breathes the Albanian Riviera  

There’s something magical about living in a place where tradition and modern life somehow manage to blend so effortlessly. I’ve lived in Saranda for years now, and I still find myself surprised at how many customs from my grandparents’ time still shape daily life here. Especially in the south.  

Last week, I showed a client a stunning seaview apartment in Ksamil —you know the kind where the Ionian Sea just stares back at you from the living room? Their jaw dropped. Not just because of the view (although yes, it was breathtaking), but because a local neighbor brought over figs and fresh bread within 20 minutes of us arriving. That moment captured so much of what Albania still holds onto: genuine hospitality, warmth, and that feeling of being seen .  

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Coffee Is a Lifestyle, Not a Drink  

Let me start with the most sacred of all Albanian traditions: coffee.  

If you’re not used to it, you might think, “How do these people get anything done?” We sit for hours, sipping tiny espresso cups or Turkish coffee, talking politics, family, or just watching the world go by. It’s not about caffeine—it’s about connection.  

I remember taking a German couple to view beachfront properties in Saranda last spring. We had four viewings scheduled. But after the first one, the neighbor invited us for coffee… and then we got invited by another neighbor. Two hours later, we were still sitting on a sunlit terrace, talking about life in Albania and listening to old tales about the village before it became part of Saranda’s growing coastline. Needless to say, we saw just one property that day—but they still bought it. No rush. That’s the Albanian way.  

If you’re ever near the old lagja nr. 4 in Saranda, there’s this tiny corner café—no sign, just plastic chairs and a view of the port. I swear they serve the strongest coffee in town and the best local gossip.  

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Besa Still Matters (Even in Business)  

One thing that shocks a lot of foreign investors is how powerful a promise is here.  

In Albania, we have a concept called besa —it’s a word that doesn’t quite translate, but it means a sacred promise. Your word is your bond. And believe it or not, in real estate, it still counts.  

I’ve had handshake deals that moved smoother than notarized contracts in other countries. Of course, we still follow all the legal procedures (don’t worry!), but the trust, the personal respect—it’s real. It’s why many of our clients feel so at ease working with us.  

Actually, one of the Saranda apartments for sale right now is a good example. The owner’s grandfather built it stone by stone, and now, instead of rushing to sell to the highest bidder, they asked us to find “the right person.” That says a lot.  

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Family Comes First. Always.  

This one’s not just a saying here. It shapes everything—from how we celebrate holidays to how we build our homes.  

You’ll notice a lot of affordable properties along the coast are actually two- or three-floor houses with separate entrances for each generation. It’s intentional. We build with the idea that children, parents, and grandparents might all live under one roof. Or at least share the same yard.  

Sometimes when I take clients to view these types of homes, they ask, “Why so many kitchens?” I laugh. Because grandma needs her own cooking space, of course. She’s not giving up control of the byrek anytime soon.  

There’s a lovely village villa just outside Saranda that’s still owned by three brothers who only meet there in the summers. It has grapevines, a fig tree, and the original wood-burning oven from the 1960s. If walls could talk…  

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Celebrations That Shake the Mountains 

Okay, if you’ve ever been here during a wedding or national holiday—you know. 

We’re loud. We dance. We roast entire lambs. We light fireworks (sometimes too early and too often). And we play music that echoes through the valleys until sunrise. 

Even today, in this modern, tourism-driven version of Albania, you’ll find feast tables in the villages of Lukovë or Borsh , lined with raki, olives, roasted peppers, and trays of baklava . And everyone is invited. Even tourists. 

Side note: there’s a small taverna near Borsh beach—no menus, just home-cooked whatever-they-have. I always bring clients there after viewings because the owner’s wife makes the best stuffed peppers on the entire coast. No exaggeration. 

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A Minor Tangent: Why I Love Winter in Saranda 

Most people fall for Saranda in summer. I get it. The beaches, the vibe, the nightlife. But can I let you in on a secret? 

Winter here is my favorite. 

You walk along the promenade, no crowds, no rush. The sun still shines, and locals are out with scarves and sunglasses, sipping warm macchiatos. It’s quiet enough that you hear your thoughts—but not so quiet that it feels empty. Some of the best deals on beachfront property happen this time of year. No competition, more negotiation room. 

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Where Tradition Meets Investment 

The beautiful thing about real estate here is that it mirrors the country’s soul. Old and new, hand in hand. 

You’ll find modern Saranda apartments for sale in newly built complexes with elevators, sea views, and private parking. But walk just a few meters and you might stumble on an old stone home with hand-carved shutters and grapevines hanging over the balcony. 

Two great examples I always recommend: 

• Fabeno Residence in Saranda , a modern complex with amazing seaview units, right on Butrinti Street. 

• And White Residence in Ksamil , which blends elegance with walking-distance beach access—great for both living and renting out in peak season. 

Or if you’re looking for something truly luxurious, this duplex near the Ksamil beach is one of the nicest new builds I’ve seen this year. Private pool, top-quality finishes, and just a short stroll from the water. 

I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast . You’re not just buying square meters—you’re buying into a way of life that’s generous, warm, and still deeply rooted in tradition. 

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Final Thoughts (and a Little Advice) 

If you’re thinking about buying in the Albanian Riviera , keep this in mind: you’re not just investing in property. You’re investing in a community, a lifestyle, and a place where the old ways still live on—just with better Wi-Fi now. 
Whether you want a sleek seaview apartment in Ksamil, a family home near Butrint, or a cozy affordable property tucked into the hillside, we’ve got options. And if you ever want to talk over coffee (we’ll sit for a while, promise), my door’s always open.

Check out a few more listings here:

VivaView - Saranda Real Estate

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If you made it this far, thank you. Truly. And next time you’re in Saranda, let’s grab a coffee—and maybe a slice of byrek too.