September and October are among the most interesting months to explore southern Albania. The busiest part of the summer season begins to slow down, while the Albanian Riviera still offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, local food, historic sites and spectacular views over the Ionian Sea.
For travelers coming from Italy, Kosovo, the UK and other parts of Europe, this period can be an excellent opportunity to experience Albania at a more relaxed pace.
If you are planning a trip to the southern Albanian coast, four destinations deserve special attention: Sarandë, Ksamil, Himarë and Dhërmi.
Each destination has a different character. Sarandë is the practical coastal base, Ksamil is famous for its beaches and islands, Himarë offers a more relaxed local atmosphere, while Dhërmi combines mountain scenery, beaches and the modern side of the Albanian Riviera.
Here is how I would explore them.
1. Sarandë – The Coastal Gateway to Southern Albania
Sarandë is one of the main tourist centres of southern Albania and an excellent starting point for exploring the Riviera.
Its location makes it particularly convenient for travelers who want to combine beaches with day trips and cultural experiences. From Sarandë, visitors can explore destinations such as Ksamil, Butrint and the Blue Eye, while the city itself offers a long waterfront, restaurants, cafés and accommodation for different budgets.
Sarandë also has an important connection with Corfu, making it particularly convenient for travelers combining Greece and Albania in one trip.
What makes Sarandë special?
The biggest advantage of Sarandë is its combination of city life, transport connections and access to surrounding attractions.
If you are travelling without a private car, Sarandë can be a practical base because you can arrange trips to several nearby destinations from the city.
Things to do in Sarandë
One of the best places to visit is Lëkurësi Castle, located on the hill above the city. From here, you can enjoy wide views across Sarandë, the Ionian coastline and the surrounding landscape.
The Sarandë waterfront promenade is another place worth exploring, particularly in the evening. Restaurants, cafés and the sea create a lively atmosphere, especially during the warmer months.
You can also plan a day trip to the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s best-known natural attractions. The spring is famous for its striking blue water and surrounding natural landscape.
Sarandë is also a convenient base for visiting Butrint, which is around 20 kilometres from the city. Butrint is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with archaeological remains representing Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian periods.
Who is Sarandë best for?
Sarandë is particularly suitable for:
- Travelers who want a convenient base
- Couples looking for restaurants and evening activities
- Travelers without a car
- Visitors planning day trips around southern Albania
- Travelers combining Albania with Corfu or Greece
If convenience and accessibility are important to you, Sarandë is a strong place to begin your Albanian Riviera journey.
2. Ksamil – Beaches, Islands and the Butrint Experience
Ksamil is probably one of the most photographed coastal destinations in Albania.
Its turquoise water, small islands and beach scenery have helped make it internationally popular. During the peak summer months, the area can become very busy, which is one reason September can be particularly attractive for travelers who prefer a somewhat calmer experience.
What makes Ksamil special?
The main attraction is, of course, the coastline.
The small islands around Ksamil can be explored by boat, kayak or other water activities, depending on local conditions and availability.
But Ksamil is more than beaches.
One of the most important cultural attractions in the area is Butrint National Park. The archaeological site contains evidence of a long history, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian periods. UNESCO describes Butrint as an exceptional combination of archaeology, monuments and Mediterranean nature.
This makes Ksamil particularly interesting for travelers who want to combine a beach holiday with history and culture.
Things to do in Ksamil
Spend time exploring the beaches and small islands around the coast.
Take a boat trip when conditions allow.
Visit Butrint and explore its ancient theatre, baptistery, fortifications and other archaeological remains.
You can also combine your visit with nearby coastal beaches and enjoy fresh seafood in local restaurants.
Why September can be a good time for Ksamil
July and August are the busiest months on the Albanian Riviera.
In September, travelers can still enjoy the coastal atmosphere while avoiding some of the intensity of the main summer season.
For travelers who want photographs, swimming, coastal walks and relaxed evenings, September can be an especially attractive month.
3. Himarë – A More Relaxed Side of the Albanian Riviera
After Sarandë and Ksamil, Himarë offers a different experience.
Himarë is known for its combination of coastline, mountains, traditional settlements and a more relaxed atmosphere. The area includes several beaches and smaller coastal communities, making it a good choice for travelers who do not want their entire holiday to revolve around a busy resort town.
The Albanian tourism authorities also highlight beaches around Himarë such as Spile, Potami, Llamani, Livadh and Filikuri.
What makes Himarë special?
Himarë is ideal for travelers who want to slow down.
Instead of spending the entire day in a large resort environment, you can divide your time between beaches, local restaurants, walks and historical places.
The surrounding area also has a strong connection with the traditional culture of the Albanian Riviera.
Things to do around Himarë
Explore the old part of Himarë and the historic area around the castle.
Spend time at Livadhi Beach, known for its beautiful coastal setting.
Visit Llamani Beach for a more intimate beach experience.
For adventurous travelers, Filikuri Beach is another interesting option, although access can depend on sea and local conditions.
You can also explore the wider Himarë region, including Porto Palermo and other coastal villages.
Who should choose Himarë?
Himarë is particularly suitable for:
- Couples looking for a quieter holiday
- Families
- Travelers interested in local culture
- Beach lovers who prefer a relaxed atmosphere
- Travelers who enjoy exploring smaller coastal areas
If Sarandë feels too urban and Ksamil feels too resort-focused, Himarë can offer a good middle ground.
4. Dhërmi – Mountains, Beaches and Dramatic Coastal Scenery
Dhërmi is one of the most recognisable destinations on the Albanian Riviera.
What makes it different is the landscape. Mountains rise behind the coast while the Ionian Sea stretches out in front, creating one of the most dramatic coastal settings in Albania.
The area is also known for its traditional mountain village, beaches, hiking opportunities and modern beach atmosphere.
Albania’s official tourism material highlights Dhërmi, Drymades, Gjipe and the surrounding coastal trail as important attractions of the southern Riviera.
What makes Dhërmi special?
Dhërmi combines two different experiences.
During the day, you can enjoy the beaches and coastal scenery. At another time, you can walk through the historic village and explore its traditional architecture and churches.
For travelers interested in walking and nature, the surrounding area also provides opportunities to explore sections of the Southern Coastal Trail. The official trail information describes a route connecting Dhërmi with beaches and villages along the southern coast.
Things to do in Dhërmi
Visit Dhërmi Beach and enjoy the Ionian coastline.
Explore Drymades Beach and the surrounding coastal area.
Take time to walk through Old Dhërmi Village, where traditional houses, narrow paths and historic churches create a completely different atmosphere from the modern beach area.
For adventurous travelers, Gjipe Beach and Gjipe Canyon are among the most memorable experiences in the region. Gjipe combines a beach setting with a dramatic canyon landscape and can be reached through a walking route or by sea depending on conditions.
Who is Dhërmi best for?
Dhërmi is a good choice for:
- Couples
- Nature lovers
- Beach travellers
- Hikers
- Travelers looking for scenic photography
- Visitors who enjoy a combination of traditional villages and modern beach culture
Sarandë, Ksamil, Himarë or Dhërmi: Which One Should You Choose?
Each destination offers something different.
Choose Sarandë if you want convenience, restaurants, transport and easy access to day trips.
Choose Ksamil if your priority is beaches, turquoise water, islands and the Butrint experience.
Choose Himarë if you prefer a slower pace, local atmosphere and a combination of beaches and traditional coastal life.
Choose Dhërmi if you want dramatic landscapes, beaches, mountain scenery and a mixture of traditional and modern Riviera experiences.
If you have enough time, you do not have to choose only one.
A road trip through Sarandë → Ksamil → Himarë → Dhërmi allows you to experience several different sides of southern Albania.
Why Travel to the Albanian Riviera in September and October?
The Albanian Riviera is strongly associated with summer, but September and early October can provide a different travel experience.
The busiest summer period starts to disappear, while the coast can still be enjoyable for beach activities, sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
It is also a good period for travelers who want to combine different types of experiences instead of spending every day at the beach.
You can start the morning with the sea, visit a historical attraction during the afternoon and enjoy local food in the evening.
For travelers coming from Italy, Kosovo and the UK, this can be an attractive period for a southern Albania escape.
A Suggested Southern Albania Route
If you are planning approximately one week, one possible route is:
Day 1–2: Sarandë
Arrive, explore the waterfront, visit Lëkurësi Castle and enjoy the city.
Day 3: Ksamil and Butrint
Spend time around Ksamil and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint.
Day 4–5: Himarë
Explore Himarë, Livadhi, Llamani and the surrounding coastline.
Day 6–7: Dhërmi
Enjoy Dhërmi, Drymades and, if conditions and fitness allow, explore the Gjipe area.
The exact itinerary can be adjusted according to your transport, budget, interests and the time available.
A Special September & October Offer from Sokol Rama
If you are planning to explore Sarandë, Ksamil, Himarë and Dhërmi in September or October, Sokol Rama is offering an additional benefit for travelers who pre-book their trip directly with Sokol Rama.
As part of this offer, each eligible person aged 18 or over will receive one complimentary spa session.
The spa experience is intended as a relaxing addition to your trip — a chance to take some time for yourself after travelling and exploring the Albanian Riviera.
The participating spa service provider is licensed and legally authorised to provide its services. Spa services are subject to the provider’s applicable terms, availability and local regulations.
Offer Conditions
- The offer is available only to travelers who pre-book their trip with Sokol Rama.
- The offer must be confirmed during the pre-booking process.
- Each eligible person receives one complimentary spa session.
- The minimum age for this offer is 18 years.
- Spa appointments are subject to availability.
- The offer is subject to the applicable travel and spa terms.
- The complimentary spa session is an additional benefit of the qualifying travel booking and is not a substitute for any medical or healthcare service.
If you are planning your September or October trip to the Albanian Riviera and would like more information about the destinations or this pre-booking offer, you can contact Sokol Rama directly.
Email: sokolramavlore@gmail.com
Plan your journey, discover the southern Albanian coast and experience Sarandë, Ksamil, Himarë and Dhërmi with a local travel expert.
