How to Travel Albania on a Budget (From Someone Who Knows Every Corner of the South)

If you’ve been dreaming about the Albanian Riviera but think it’s out of reach—trust me, it’s not. I’ve lived in Saranda for years. I know every shortcut, every taverna where you can eat like a king for under €10, and every hidden spot the guidebooks still haven’t caught onto.

I run a real estate agency here, VivaView, but I spend just as much time helping curious travelers and future investors fall in love with this coast as I do showing apartments. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:

Albania is still one of the best budget destinations in Europe—especially if you know how to move like a local.

Let me show you how.

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1. Start in the South (Yes, Really)

Most guides will tell you to start in Tirana. Nothing against our capital—it has energy, for sure—but if your goal is a seaside experience without spending a fortune, you should head straight for the south.

From Tirana Airport, hop on a direct bus to Saranda. It takes around 5 hours and costs about €15. Or, do what some travelers do: take a short flight to Corfu and then catch the 30-minute ferry to Saranda. That’s often faster and surprisingly cheap if you book in advance.

Once you’re here, you’ll quickly see why people are investing in beachfront property and seaview apartments left and right. I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast.

And I’m not just saying that because I sell homes here.

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2. Where to Stay Without Breaking the Bank

I’ve met travelers who’ve paid €120 a night in Ksamil during August. Please don’t do that—unless you really want to. Ksamil is stunning, no doubt, but there are dozens of places within 10–15 minutes that offer the same sea breeze, without the tourist markup.

Try staying in the new part of Saranda instead—near Marina City Park, for example. We have budget-friendly apartments that many digital nomads and short-term renters use as home base during the summer. Like this one—perfect location, walkable to the beach and close to every café I love.

Honestly, one of the best decisions budget travelers make is staying just outside the hotspots.

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3. Eat Where the Locals Eat

This tip might sound cliché, but here in Albania, it really matters. In the middle of summer, beachfront restaurants in Ksamil can charge €15 for grilled fish. Head 5 minutes inland, and you’ll find the same meal—fresher, in my opinion—for €7 or €8.

Last week, I showed a client a stunning property in Ksamil and their reaction reminded me why I love this job. But after the tour, I took them to a small family-owned taverna tucked behind the main beach road. No flashy signs, no influencers. Just grandma in the kitchen and a charcoal grill outside. That grilled eggplant? Best I’ve had in months.

Oh—and if you’re ever near Borsh, look for the small taverna on the southern edge of the beach, just past the main hotels. It’s hidden under olive trees. Locals know the owner by name. Sit down, order whatever he recommends, and thank me later.

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4. Get Around Like a Local (Or Close Enough)

Renting a car gives you the most freedom, especially if you want to explore villages like Qeparo or the Llogara Pass. But it’s not the only option. Minibuses (called furgonë) run daily routes between most towns, and they’re super affordable—usually €2–€5 per ride.

If you’re staying put in Saranda, everything is walkable. I live close to the port, and from there it’s 15 minutes on foot to almost anything you’d need: groceries, beaches, bakeries, cafés, and even a few solid bars where you won’t pay €12 for a cocktail.

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5. Visit in the Shoulder Season (Shh… It’s the Local Secret)

Here’s a tip I always give my international clients: come in May or September.

You’ll find cheaper accommodations, quieter beaches, and honestly—better weather. No suffocating heat, no waiting in line for gelato, no full restaurants. The locals are more relaxed, too.

One of my favorite times of the year is mid-September. The sun sets slower, the sea is warm, and the vibe is pure peace. Plus, you might stumble on better deals if you’re considering buying a place. Just last month, we listed this seaview 1-bedroom apartment—high quality, full view, perfect for Airbnb.

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