The Best Things To Do in Ksamil, Albania

Tucked away on the stunning Albanian Riviera, Ksamil is a less-travelled destination that’s slowly getting the attention it deserves. Often overshadowed by more popular European spots, this place has emerged as a more budget-friendly option and has earned its nickname the Maldives of Europe. And trust us, when it comes to the best things to do in Ksamil, there’s no shortage of options to keep you busy.

With its sun-drenched beaches, sparkling crystal-clear waters, historic sites and Greek-influenced cuisine, Ksamil offers a little bit of everything. This guide will take you through the best things to do in Ksamil, Albania and help you plan a memorable adventure on the Albanian Riviera.

Ksamil Travel Essentials

Before we dive into the best things to do in Ksamil, let’s make sure your Albania trip is smooth and safe.

First things first, have you thought about how you’ll get around Ksamil?
🚗 If you’re comfortable driving, renting a car in Albania is one of the easiest ways to travel. You can book your car rental here. You will need to be 21 or over and have a valid driving license, International Driving Permit and a credit or debit card in the driver’s name.
🚙 If you prefer to have a private driver and tour guide, you can book this full-day private tour option here.

✈️ Arriving in Albania? Ksamil is about 4 hours away from Tirana Airport. Save time and stress by booking a private transfer here.

😴 Still need a place to stay? You can book your Ksamil accommodation here.

✋ And don’t forget about travel insurance. It’s super important to be covered for any unexpected events. Grab your travel insurance here.

The Best Things To Do in Ksamil, Albania

1. Visit Ksamil’s Best Beaches

Ksamil’s beaches are the crown jewels of the Albanian Riviera, and visiting a few of them during your trip is definitely one of the best things to do in Ksamil. There’s a beach for every type of vibe you’re looking for. If you’re into sun loungers, bars, and DJs, you’re covered. If you prefer a more relaxed and quiet atmosphere, you’ll find that too.

Here are some of the best beaches in Ksamil you should check out:

Ksamil Beach (Bora Bora Beach)

Visiting Bora Bora Beach is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Ksamil. This beach is like the poster for the region. It’s crescent-shaped spot, lined with sun loungers and umbrellas and famous for its pristine white sand and shallow, clear, turquoise waters.

It’s great for families and if you like a bit of a busy atmosphere, with plenty of bars and restaurants around, some with DJs and music blasting.

It gets really busy here and you’re unlikely to find any areas of sand that aren’t occupied by loungers and umbrellas (which you’ll have to pay for), so be prepared for that.

🎒 If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the Albanian Riviera coastline, this 5-star Jeep safari tour takes you across the rugged landscapes of Ksamil and Saranda to explore unspoiled shores and hidden beaches, stone villages, castles and the Blue Eye. Pick up and drop off from your accommodation is included, as well as lunch.

Pasqyra Beach

Pasqyra Beach, also known as Mirror Beach, is a hidden gem beach in Ksamil, very different to the main beach with its beautiful and secluded setting. It’s here where you can unwind and hide from the hustle and bustle of the main town beaches.

The easiest way to get to Pasqyra Beach is by travelling by car as it’s only a 13-minute drive from the centre of Ksamil, and you can get here by bus too, which is a good option if you’re on a budget in Albania. However, buses only run every hour, the walk down to Pasqyra Beach from the bus stop is a bit steep and can be exhausting, especially in the Albanian heat.

Read more: Albania Travel Guides

Plazhi Ksamil 9 (Bella Vista Beach)

Plazhi Ksamil 9, also known as Bella Vista Beach (the restaurant on this beach is called Bella Vista), is one of our favourite beaches in Ksamil. When we visited, a few rows of sunloungers lined the oceanfront, but this is one of the only Ksamil beaches with space to lay out your towel towards the back of the beach. We opted for a sunlounger (which we don’t normally do) because we wanted to be by the water, and it was later in the day so we didn’t pay full price!

We also found this to be the perfect sunset spot. We sat on a wall at the entrance to the beach and watched the sun gradually fall out of the sky. There was no one else around at this time, the water was super calm and it was incredibly peaceful.

⛵️ If you want to head out onto the water, this Mussel sailing tour and lunch is an amazing way to enjoy the coastline and immerse yourself in local culture. You’ll experience mussel farming and cultivation, hands-on preparation, cooking and a sunset sail. Two mussel dishes, vegetables, homemade bread, white wine and water is included.

Gjiri i Hartes

A short drive from the centre of Ksamil, Gjiri i Hartes is another hidden gem and our favourite beach in Albania. The water is incredibly calm, perfect for swimming and with gorgeous views over the Albanian Riviera, Corfu and the Ionian Sea.

Gjiri i Hartes is also the best beach for bringing your own towel and avoiding paying for sunbeds. There’s also a delicious restaurant on the beach, so you don’t have to go far when you need a drink or snack on your beach day.

Tip: To get to Gjiri i Hartes, follow your GPS to the Local Fish Market, then continue for a few hundred meters to find free parking behind the beach.

Renting Sun Loungers and an Umbrella on Ksamil Beaches

Most of the beaches in Ksamil are lined with sun loungers and umbrellas. The cost for two sun loungers and one umbrella typically ranges from 1000 LEK (10 USD/8 GBP) to 2000 LEK (20 USD/16 GBP) for the day.

These prices can depend on the season, the specific beach and how busy it is. 

Tip: arrive early to secure the best spots as these beaches fill up quickly. Although, you could do what we did and arrive late afternoon (around 4pm) and snag sun loungers for half the day price.

2. Marvel at Albania’s Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter)

When planning your list of the best things to do in Ksamil, the Blue Eye, or Syri i Kaltër, should be at the top. Just a 45-minute drive from Ksamil, this fascinating natural spring is famous for its vibrant blue-green waters that bubble up from the depths of the earth. Surrounded by dense forest, the Blue Eye is one of the more popular things to do in Ksamil, but it’s definitely one of those places that lives up to the hype and is well worth the short drive or (half) day trip.

Although the water is ridiculously cold and refreshing (10 degrees Celsius, even in summer!), there will be people taking a dip, however, you’re not supposed to swim here – you’ll see plenty of signs and notices advising against it. During our visit, we noticed many people ignoring these warnings and taking a plunge anyway. Don’t be one of those people! There are also some walking trails nearby and places to relax and grab a drink and snack next to the Blue Eye.

We really recommend getting here early! This is probably the top of many people’s list of things to do in Ksamil, so it’s no surprise that it gets pretty crowded later in the day.

The walk to the Blue Eye from the car park is approximately 2km down a paved road. You can rent electric scooters at the entrance if you prefer to not endure a sweaty walk.

Tip: If you’re travelling by car in Albania, instead of parking at the first designated and paid car park, continue up the road another few hundred meters and park on the side of the road, directly outside the entrance – it’s free!

Entrance cost and opening times: The price to enter Blue Eye is 50 LEK (0.55 USD/0.43 GBP). The site is open all year round from 7 am to 7 pm.

🩵 On this (5-star) 4-hour tour, you visit the Blue Eye, the ruins of and views from Lëkurësi Castle, the Ottoman town of Gjirokastër, and get time at the beach in Ksamil. Pick up and drop off from your accommodation is included as well as a private tour guide at all of the spots.

🎒 Alternatively, on this all in one day trip, you visit all of the above and explore the Butrint National Park.

How far is the Blue Eye from Ksamil?

The Blue Eye is about a 45-minute drive from Ksamil, making it a quick and easy day trip.

How to Get to the Blue Eye from Ksamil

Getting to the Blue Eye from Ksamil is pretty straightforward, and you’ve got a few options depending on your preferences:

• Bus – Local buses are a budget-friendly option, albeit a slower one. You’ll need to catch a bus from Ksamil to Saranda, and then transfer to another bus heading to the Blue Eye.
• Taxi – If you’re looking for a faster and more direct option, you could get a taxi to the Blue Eye. They’re more expensive, but offer comfort and convenience, especially if you’re not on a tight budget.
• Tour – Booking a private tour to the Blue Eye is a hassle-free option that’s great if you prefer a structured itinerary as they often combine a visit to other places to see. Check the tour includes transportation and a guide (this one does).
• Rental Car – Our top recommendation is renting a car. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, not just the Blue Eye, but also the other best things to do in Ksamil Albania. It’s the best way to make the most of your visit.

3. Explore Butrint National Park

Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the top things to do in Ksamil, especially if you’re into history. Just a short drive (10 minutes) from Ksamil, the park is packed with ancient ruins from the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Venetians.

While you’re exploring the park, you’ll find a Greek theatre, Roman baths, a Byzantine basilica, a Venetian castle and lots more. It’s honestly like walking through a history book!

However, it’s not just about the ancient ruins. The park is set around a beautiful lake and the Vivari Channel, which links the lake to the Ionian Sea. The mix of fresh and saltwater here creates a unique environment for wildlife, so keep an eye out for herons, egrets and maybe even some turtles. The channel also had historical importance, connecting Butrint to the sea for trade back in the day. Now, it adds a peaceful vibe to your visit as you explore the park.

You can easily spend anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours exploring Butrint National Park, and it’s open all year round. No matter when you visit, this is one of the best things to do in Ksamil, Albania. 

Entrance cost and opening times: The entry price for Butrint National Park is 1000 LEK (10.90 US/10 EUR). The park is open from 8 am until sunset, and the museum from 9 am to 4 pm.

Tip: We recommend visiting early in the day to beat the crowds and avoid the heat (it gets stupidly hot in summer).

🎒 Explore Butrint National Park as well as the stunning Blue Eye, the ruins of Lëkurësi Castle, the Ottoman town of Gjirokastër, and have some beach time in Ksamil on this full day trip from Ksamil with return transportation included.

4. Take a Day Trip to Gjirokaster

Another one of the best things to do in Ksamil is to take a day trip to the nearby city of Gjirokaster. While Ksamil itself has plenty to offer, its location also makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of Albania. Gjirokaster is about 90 minutes away from Ksamil and is another UNESCO World Heritage site that’s totally worth the visit.

Gjirokaster is known as the “City of Stone” because of its distinctive Ottoman architecture, with stone-roofed houses cascading down the hillside. It feels like stepping back in time. The Gjirokaster Castle is a great place to start, sitting high overlooking the town and offering incredible panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The views are incredible, and you can wander around the castle grounds, checking out old weapons and learning a bit about the area’s history.

From the Castle, wander into the Old Bazaar (town), where the cobblestone streets are lined with boutique shops, cafés and restaurants. It’s a great spot to spend a few hours. When you’re walking around and taking it all in, you’ll find it easy to see why a day trip to Gjirokaster is one of the best things to do in Ksamil.

If you’re into museums and history, the Ethnographic Museum is housed in the childhood home of Albania’s former dictator, Enver Hoxha. Also, you could visit the Zekate House, a beautifully preserved Ottoman-era home that gives you a peek into what life was like back in the day, and there’s a little cafe run by a local couple on the terrace. The Skenduli House is another great spot to see traditional architecture and culture up close.

🎒 You can book a tour to Gjirokaster with return transportation included.

5. Go on a Day Trip to Corfu, Greece

Did you know, you can see Corfu from the Ksamil coastline? It looks so close it will feel like you can swim there (you can’t, but you can take a ferry). With that said, one of the best things to do in Ksamil is to hop over to Corfu for the day and explore a whole new country!

This beautiful, charming Greek island is known for its Venetian fortresses, the scenic Old Town and stunning beaches like Glyfada and Paleokastritsa, which have clear, turquoise waters. You could also treat yourself to some Greek food at a local taverna. Fresh seafood, moussaka, and baklava are all must-tries when visiting Greece.

To get the ferry to Corfu, you’ll have to head north about 30 minutes to the Port of Sarande, another popular beach town on the Albanian Riviera. The ferry crossing from Sarande to Corfu can take between 30 minutes – 1 hour 10 minutes, depending on the ferry company you choose and the weather. You can check out the ferry timetables here.

6. Visit the Ksamil Islands

Just a quick swim or paddle away from the coast, the Ksamil islands are some of the best things to do in Ksamil. There are three of them, and they’re all super close to the shore – you can swim to two of them from the beach!

The first two islands are really close, so grab your snorkel and swim over. They’re small enough to explore quickly, so you can wander around and see everything without breaking a sweat.

Now, if you want to really get away from it all, rent a kayak or paddleboard and head to the third island. It’s a bit further out, but totally worth it. This island has a cool rocky coastline and a beautiful beach called Isole Gemelle di Ksamil. It’s like your own private paradise and definitely one of the best things to do in Ksamil.

🏝️ Join this 5-star paddleboarding tour to Ksamil islands that goes morning and afternoon and is suitable for beginners.

The water here is insanely clear and blue, and you’ll have an awesome view of Corfu in the distance. This spot gets busy in the summer, so try to get there early to snag a good spot on the beach.

Whether you’re swimming, paddleboarding or just chilling on the beach, the Ksamil islands are a must-see and need to be on your things to do in Ksamil list. They’re a great way to add a little adventure to your trip and enjoy some amazing scenery.

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7. Eat at Some of the Best Restaurants in Ksamil

After exploring all the best things to do in Ksamil, there’s nothing better than digging into some delicious local food. Ksamil’s restaurants have a great mix of traditional Albanian dishes, fresh seafood and international options, so there’s something for everyone.

Here are some of our top picks of the best restaurants in Ksamil:

Pizza Rei & Rai

This pizzeria is popular with locals and tourists – outside of Italy, these are some of the best wood-fired pizzas we’ve had. It’s super central too, so it’s a great pitstop on the way to or back from the beach. The cosy vibe and friendly service at Pizza Rei & Rai should also help to convince you to visit this restaurant.

🥘 If you love food and new adventures, this Mussel sailing tour and lunch is an incredible way to immerse yourself in local culture – you’ll experience mussel farming and cultivation, hands-on preparation, cooking and a sunset sail. Two mussel dishes, vegetables, homemade bread, white wine and water is included.

Grill Zone

We, for sure, think Grill Zone is one of the best restaurants in Albania! For authentic Albanian grill, huge portions, and super friendly service, this is a must-visit chilled restaurant that we could’ve gone back to more than once.

Papu Gyros

If you’re in the mood for something quick and tasty, Papu Gyros has amazing gyros that you’ve got to try.

Ftelea Fish Taverna

Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. The fresh seafood dishes at Ftelea Fish Taverna are delicious and the place has a lovely vibe around dinner time as the sun is setting – it’s casual, beautifully lit and the outdoor dining is super inviting.

Grill House & Gyros

As the name says, Grill House & Gyros specialises in grilled meats and gyros. We loved this restaurant – the food arrives quickly, the portions are huge, it’s cheap and it’s open late.

How to Get Around in Ksamil

Getting around Ksamil is super easy. The town is small, so you can walk to most beaches, restaurants, and attractions. If you need to go a bit further, local buses are cheap and pretty reliable, making it easy to visit nearby spots.

Renting a car in Albania is a great idea if you want to explore more and have the freedom to go wherever you want. We recommend to rent a car in Albania through Discover Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.

If you prefer not to have your own transportation, you can book a private tour or taxis are around too, although they can be pricier so they’re best for short trips or if you have a lot of luggage.

Read about: How much does car rental cost in Albania?

Where to Stay in Ksamil

Accommodation options in Ksamil cater to all tastes and budgets. This town is growing rapidly, with new developments constantly popping up. If you’re looking for high-end luxury hotels or self-catering apartments to suit any budget, then you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for in Ksamil. 

We stayed around 5 minutes walk from the main town, where there are lots of bars, restaurants and nightlife. We were close enough to all the action and some beaches, but it was quiet enough in the evenings to have uninterrupted sleep.

Tip: The peak summer months (June-August) is an especially popular time in Ksamil, so booking accommodation in advance is advisable. 

Best Time to Visit Ksamil, Albania

June, July and August are the peak summer months in Ksamil when the weather is the hottest and the waters are incredibly warm for swimming. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and busier beaches.

We, therefore, recommend the perfect time to visit Ksamil is May or September, particularly if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer people around. During these months, you can still enjoy sunny weather and warm sea temperatures, and you’ll have a better chance of enjoying the best things to do in Ksamil with more tranquillity and less hustle and bustle.

✈️ Book your flights to Albania

Other Things to Know about Travelling to Ksamil, Albania

As you get ready for your trip to Ksamil, here are some handy tips to keep in mind:

• Language – The official language is Albanian, but you’ll find plenty of people who speak English, Greek, and Italian, especially in tourist spots.
• Currency – Albania uses the Albanian LEK. It’s mostly a cash-only country, so make sure to have some cash on hand. ATM fees can be high, so keep that in mind.
• Take Cash – Most places operate on a cash-only basis, so always have enough LEK with you.
• ATMs – There’s only one bank in Ksamil, but you’ll find ATMs scattered around town for easy access to cash. We use this travel card to avoid foreign ATM fees.
• Internet – Internet access is pretty good, with free Wi-Fi available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafés. For added security, consider using a VPN when on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Accommodation – You’ll find a range of places to stay in Ksamil, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses, so there’s something for every budget.

FAQ for the Best Things to Do in Ksamil Albania

Is Ksamil, Albania worth visiting?

Absolutely! Ksamil is a hidden gem on the Albanian Riviera with stunning beaches, clear waters, historical sites and delicious cuisine. It’s a great budget-friendly destination compared to other destinations in Europe, and there are lots of things to do in Ksamil that suit couples, families and solo travellers.

How many days do you need in Ksamil?

You can get a good feel for Ksamil in 3 to 4 days. This gives you enough time to explore the beaches, visit nearby attractions like the Blue Eye and Butrint National Park, and even take a day trip to Corfu.

Is it better to stay in Ksamil or Sarande?

It depends on what you’re looking for. Ksamil is much smaller than Sarande and more relaxed, so it’s ideal for a beach getaway. Sarande, on the other hand, is a bit livelier with more dining and nightlife options. Both are close enough that you can easily visit one from the other on a day trip, or explore the rugged landscapes of both on a Jeep safari tour.

Is Ksamil walkable?

Yes, Ksamil is very walkable. The town is small and most beaches, restaurants and attractions are within a short walking distance from each other.

Does Ksamil have good nightlife?

Ksamil’s nightlife is more laid-back compared to bigger cities. You’ll find beach bars and a few lively spots, but it’s not a major nightlife destination. For a more vibrant scene, you might want to check out nearby Sarande.

Is Ksamil safe at night?

Yes, Ksamil is generally very safe at night. It’s a small town with a friendly vibe and you should feel comfortable walking around after dark.

What is the best month to visit Albania?

The best time to visit Ksamil is from June to August for the hottest weather and perfect swimming conditions. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, we recommend May and September as the best months to visit, when the weather is still nice and warm with pleasant sea temperatures.

Is Ksamil too busy?

During the peak summer months (June to August), Ksamil can get very busy, especially on the beaches. If you prefer a quieter experience, you should definitely consider visiting in May or after summer (September or October).