Practical Information for the Riviera

Transport along the Riviera

The infrastructure along the Riviera has improved but is still not up to Western European standards:

• Rental car: The most flexible option. The coastal road SH8 is well-developed but winding. Parking in summer: scarce in Ksamil and Dhermi. Rental cars from Tirana: 20–40€/day.
• Buses: Buses run daily from Tirana to Saranda (5–7h, 10–15€). From Saranda to Ksamil: minibuses (15 min., 100 Lek). Local minibuses (Furgons) run between Riviera towns in summer, but frequency is irregular.
• Boat: In summer, boat shuttles operate between the beaches — the most beautiful way to explore the coast. Himara–Gjipe Beach: approx. 1,000 Lek (10€) per person.
• Taxi: From Saranda to Ksamil: 1,000–1,500 Lek (10–15€). From Saranda to the Blue Eye: 2,000–3,000 Lek (20–30€) including waiting time.

Accommodations

The Riviera offers everything — from campsites to guesthouses to boutique hotels:

• Ksamil: Many family-run guesthouses (20–50€ double room). Book early in summer!
• Saranda: Hotels in every price range (15–100€). Best location: with sea view on the Lungomare.
• Himara: Charming boutique hotels in the old town (30–80€). Quieter than Saranda.
• Dhermi/Drymades: Beach hostels (10–20€), apartment rentals, and increasingly chic resorts (80–200€).

Dining on the Riviera

Fish and seafood are a must on the coast: fresh grilled fish (sea bream, sea bass), octopus salad, mussels, and squid. A complete fish dinner with salad and wine: 10–20€. Plus, the Albanian classics: Tavë Kosi, Qofte, and fresh salads with the best olive oil you've ever tasted.