Old Religious Sites in the Sorroundings of Saranda

Saranda , Albania

Old Religious Sites in the Sorroundings of Saranda

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About this experience

Day Tour: Ancient Religious Sites around Saranda
A 4-hour car tour starting from Saranda, exploring sacred landmarks of different faiths. Visit the 16th-century Gjin Aleks Mosque near Delvina, known for its domes and calm olive surroundings; the St. Nicholas Church in Finiq, a 17th–18th century Orthodox gem with stone walls and wooden icons; and the Monastery of St. Nicholas in Mesopotam, an 11th-century Byzantine masterpiece with carved symbols and serene beauty.

Available options

Old Religious Sites in the Sorroundings of Saranda

What's included

Transport

Detailed itinerary

After visiting the mosque, the route continues towards the village of Finiq, where the Church of Saint Kolli is located, an early object of Orthodox worship dating back to the 17th–18th centuries.
The church is built of limestone and has a typical southern architecture, with a low dome and a carved wooden iconostasis.
It is a beloved place for the locals and still preserves the peaceful spirit of the local religious tradition.

The last stop is the Monastery of Saint Nicholas in Mesopotam, one of the most famous monuments of the Byzantine period in Albania.
Built in the 11th century, the monastery preserves walls with rare reliefs, frescoes and mythological symbols carved in stone, such as the dragon and the lion.
Here visitors can enjoy a peaceful stop amidst history, art and nature.

The trip starts from Saranda in the direction of Delvinës, with the first stop at the Gjin Aleksi Mosque, one of the most important monuments of Islamic heritage in Albania.

Built in the 16th century, the mosque preserves unique architecture with small domes, carved arched windows and a slender minaret.

The surrounding atmosphere is calm and meditative, among the olive groves and fields of Delvinës.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Saranda hidden stories on google maps. In front of alpet gas station.
We will be waiting with a poster of their name

About Saranda

Saranda is a charming coastal town in southern Albania, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to the ancient ruins of Butrint. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Butrint National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a well-preserved theater, baptistery, and various temples.

Historical 2-3 hours €7

Lekursi Castle

A historic castle offering panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea. It's a great spot for sunset views.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Ksamil Beach

A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and small islands nearby. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free to €10 for sunbeds and umbrellas

Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

A natural spring with incredibly clear, blue water. It's a popular spot for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty.

Nature Half day €2 for parking

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian baked dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt.

Main Dish Contains dairy and meat

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat

Peshk në Zgarë

Grilled fish, often sea bass or sea bream, served with lemon and olive oil.

Main Dish Contains fish

Fërgesë

A traditional dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often served with bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Butrint National Park Scuba diving in Ksamil Boat tours to Ksamil Islands Sunbathing at Ksamil Beach Yoga on the beach Spa treatments Exploring Butrint National Park Visiting Lekursi Castle

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, ideal for beach activities and exploring the town. The sea is at its warmest, and the town is lively with various events and festivals.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Italian, Greek
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

GMT+1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Saranda is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport • 200 km from Saranda

By bus

Saranda Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Saranda. They are frequent and connect major points in the town.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Albania

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Ksamil Butrint

Day trips

Corfu, Greece

15 km from Saranda • Half day to full day

A beautiful Greek island with ancient ruins, historic sites, and stunning beaches.

Llogara Pass

80 km from Saranda • Full day

A stunning mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Albanian Riviera.

Gjipe Canyon

60 km from Saranda • Full day

A beautiful canyon with a hidden beach, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Saranda Summer Festival • July to August Butrint Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Butrint National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
Take a boat tour to the Ksamil Islands for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek for an authentic taste of Albanian cuisine.
Explore the town on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local secrets.
Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.