Saranda vs. Dhermi: Where Should You Buy a Vacation Home?

So, you’ve decided to buy a vacation home on the Albanian Riviera—great choice! Now comes the tricky part: Saranda or Dhermi?

Both are breathtaking. Both have that perfect mix of blue water, white beaches, and mountain views. Both are great investments.

But they feel completely different.

Saranda is a lively, growing city where you can enjoy the beach and have all the conveniences of modern life.

Dhermi is quieter, more exclusive, and all about peace, privacy, and nature.

So, which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.

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Saranda: A Seaside City with Year-Round Buzz

If you love the idea of a real city by the sea, with restaurants, cafés, and nightlife, Saranda is the place to be. It’s not just a summer destination—it’s alive all year round.

Why Buy in Saranda?

✔ Everything is open year-round – supermarkets, doctors, banks, and plenty of restaurants.

✔ Easy to get to – hop on a 30-minute ferry from Corfu, or drive from Tirana.

✔ Great for Airbnb – it’s a tourist hotspot, so rentals do really well.

✔ Still affordable – you can find seaview apartments for a fraction of the price of Greece or Italy.

What Life is Like Here

Imagine waking up in your beachfront apartment, walking down the promenade for a coffee, then heading to Ksamil’s white-sand beaches (just 15 minutes away). In the evening, you grab dinner at a seafood restaurant while the sun sets over Corfu.

If you’re looking for a vacation home that can also make money as a rental, Saranda is the better choice.

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Dhermi: A Peaceful, Luxury Escape

Dhermi is a completely different vibe. It’s not a city—it’s a secluded coastal village with some of the best beaches in Albania. If you want peace, privacy, and an exclusive retreat, this is where you’ll find it.

Why Buy in Dhermi?

✔ Less crowded – even in peak season, it feels more private.

✔ Absolutely stunning beaches – crystal-clear water, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs.

✔ High-end market – fewer properties, more exclusivity.

✔ Perfect for those who want to disconnect – no traffic, no noise, just nature.

What Life is Like Here

Picture this: You wake up in your hillside villa with a panoramic sea view, spend the day at Gjipe Beach, and finish with a sunset cocktail at a stylish beach bar.

It’s not for everyone—if you like having shops and services close by, you might find it too remote. But if you’re looking for pure relaxation in a luxury setting, Dhermi is a dream.

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How Do Property Prices Compare?

Saranda has a bigger real estate market with more options. Dhermi, being smaller and more exclusive, has fewer properties, and they tend to be more expensive.