The Sea Is Just the Start: 10 Reasons to Relocate to Southern Albania

People often think it’s just about the sea. 

Don’t get me wrong—the turquoise water here in Saranda and Ksamil is something else. I’ve lived in this part of Albania for years now, and I still catch myself stopping mid-walk just to admire the light bouncing off the Ionian. But the truth is, the sea is only the beginning. 

Southern Albania has layers. Charm, character, warmth—you feel it in the air and in the way the old man at the local bakery insists you take a free byrek if he likes you. 

If you’ve been dreaming about a fresh start, a second home, or a place where your money goes a lot further than it does in Italy or Greece… well, let me show you why I believe this region is something truly special. 

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1. That Blue, Blue Water (Obviously) 

You’ve seen the photos. But they don’t even begin to capture how clear the sea is here. Especially in Ksamil—it’s like swimming in liquid glass. And unlike the Med’s more famous neighbors, many beaches here are still quiet in the shoulder seasons. 

Last week, I showed a client a stunning two-bedroom seaview apartment in Saranda , and their jaw literally dropped when they saw the balcony. “This looks like the Amalfi Coast—without the crowds!” they said. And they were right. 

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2. It’s Actually Affordable 

Let’s talk numbers for a second. You can still find modern, high-quality seaview apartments in Saranda starting from €85,000. That’s with a sea view. Try that in Spain. Or even Montenegro these days. 

And if you’re looking for a bigger investment, something like this luxury villa in Saranda with panoramic views can give you both a dream home and an income stream. Rentals here in the summer are no joke. 

I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast right now. And I don’t say that lightly. 

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3. People Are Warm—Like, Really Warm 

Albanians have this habit of treating strangers like long-lost cousins. You ask someone for directions and 15 minutes later, they’re giving you restaurant recommendations, telling you how many kids they have, and insisting you come over for rakia. 

There’s something comforting about it. I’ve had clients from Germany and the U.S. tell me, “I’ve never felt this welcomed anywhere.” It’s just the culture. We see people here. 

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4. The Food? Unreal. 

I always warn new buyers—your waistline might not survive your first summer here. Between the grilled seabass, the fresh figs, the honey-soaked desserts, and the tomatoes that actually taste like tomatoes… well, good luck. 

There’s a small taverna near Borsh beach that most tourists overlook. I usually stop there after viewings in the area. No menu, just the owner grilling whatever he caught that morning. It’s simple. And better than 90% of the “fine dining” I’ve had abroad. 

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5. Nature All Around You 

It’s not just the sea. We’ve got mountains, olive groves, wildflowers, and national parks. Drive 30 minutes inland and you’ll think you’re in another world entirely. 

Sometimes I’ll take a little detour after work and hike up to Lekursi Castle just to breathe and watch the sun dip behind Corfu. That view? It never gets old. 

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6. A Slower, Sweeter Pace of Life 

Life moves differently here. Mornings are for espresso. Afternoons are for beach strolls or long lunches with friends. Things happen… when they happen. 

For some, it takes adjusting. But once you lean into it, you’ll never want to go back. One of my buyers from London said, “I came for a holiday apartment, and now I’m figuring out how to live here full-time.” True story. 

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7. There’s Real Community Here

This isn’t a place where people come and go without saying hello. Locals know your name. Expats get folded into the mix pretty quickly too. Whether it’s chatting with neighbors over Turkish coffee or helping someone repaint their balcony, there’s a strong “we’re in this together” vibe.

There’s even a little Sunday market near the main promenade where you’ll see everyone—from old grannies selling herbs to tourists buying homemade olive oil.

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8. It’s Still Off the Radar (Kind Of)

Sure, more people are discovering Saranda and Ksamil each year. But we’re nothing like Dubrovnik or Santorini in terms of crowds. And personally? I hope it stays that way.

I remember one summer evening in Ksamil, I walked down to the water around 7 PM, and there was hardly anyone there. Just golden light and the sound of waves. Try doing that in Mykonos.

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9. The Mix of Old and New is Beautiful

You’ll see a modern beachfront apartment building right next to a tiny stone church with hand-painted icons. Or a luxury villa up the hill from a shepherd tending goats.

It’s a blend of tradition and growth, and somehow it works. I always tell people: if you want soul, southern Albania has it. And it’s not trying to be anything else.

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10. It’s Just the Beginning

This region is changing fast—in a good way. New roads, better infrastructure, more flights into Tirana and Corfu. More people are realizing that the Albanian Riviera isn’t just a summer destination—it’s a place you can live.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy Saranda apartment for sale, a beachfront property to rent out seasonally, or a long-term base to enjoy the good life… the opportunities here are real.

And if you ever want a local’s perspective, I’m always happy to share what I know. Whether it’s recommending the best time to buy or telling you which balconies get the best light in the morning.

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Let’s find your place by the sea—and everything else that comes with it.

You can check out some of our handpicked listings here:

• Luxury Seaview Apartments in Saranda

• 2-Bedroom Seaview Apartment in Prime Location

• Panoramic Villa in Saranda – Investment Gem

Feel free to reach out if something catches your eye. I’ll probably be out showing a place or grabbing a quick espresso on the promenade—but I’ll get back to you.

Because here in Saranda, we keep things personal. Always.