Ksamil may be a beach lover’s dream, but beyond the soft white sand and turquoise water are some incredible day trip destinations just waiting to be explored. Whether you're after history, natural wonders, or mountain towns full of charm, these spots offer a whole new side of Albania, all within a day.

You can easily access these locations if you rent a car or book an experience with a tour provider. In this blog we will include links to GetYourGuide, which is an online platform where travellers can book tours, activities, and attraction tickets around the world. It offers everything from skip-the-line passes to unique local experiences. The service is available via website and app, making travel planning easy and flexible.

Let’s get into some of our top picks for day trips from Ksamil that are totally worth adding to your itinerary.

Butrint National Park – A Step Back in Time

Just 15 minutes from Ksamil, Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient city surrounded by greenery and rich history. The ruins here date back to the Greeks and Romans, and it’s honestly one of the most underrated archaeological sites in Europe. Wander around amphitheatres, temples, and even a Venetian castle. Just make sure to bring comfortable shoes to walk around in.

Amphitheater at the archeological site of Butrint in Albania. — Image by Marie Volkert / Reiseblog Worldonabudget

Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) – Nature’s Wonder

A 45-minute drive through winding mountain roads brings you to one of Albania’s most mesmerising natural sights. The Blue Eye is a crystal-clear natural spring that seems to glow from below. You can’t swim in it anymore due to safety risks, but it’s still worth a visit just to see the colours and chill at the riverside cafes.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Gjirokastër – The Stone City

A bit of a longer day trip (about 2 hours by car), but totally worth it if you’re into culture and mountain vibes. Gjirokastër is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobbled streets, Ottoman-style houses, and a massive hilltop castle. It’s full of character and makes for a beautiful contrast to coastal Ksamil. Just make sure to head out early to make the most of the day.

Daylight at Gjirokastër UNESCO Heritage Site Ottoman-style houses on hilltops — Image by Nacho Gimeno Guerrero

Lëkurësi Castle – Epic Sunset Views

Perched above Sarandë (just 25 mins from Ksamil), this 16th-century castle offers panoramic views of the Albanian Riviera. The views stretch across the Ionian Sea, and on clear days, you can even spot Corfu in the distance. Head up for sunset, grab a drink at the restaurant, and soak in the incredible scenery.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Dhermi Beach – If You’re Craving a Mini Road Trip

Fancy exploring a bit more of the coastline? Dhermi is more off-the-beaten-path, with crystal-clear water and far fewer tourists than Ksamil. It’s around 3 hours away, but the drive itself is part of the adventure. Expect winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and quiet stretches of turquoise water once you arrive.

Daylight Blue Sky at Dhermi Beach Crystal Clear Water Albania — Image by Jani Godari

Corfu, Greece – A Quick Change of Scenery

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add another country to your itinerary? From the port in Sarandë, you can hop on a ferry and be in Corfu, Greece in under an hour. It makes for an easy day trip with a totally different vibe. Think cobbled streets, colourful Venetian buildings, and Greek food everywhere. Just don’t forget your passport! If you want to know more than don’t miss our blog “How to Take a Day Trip from Ksamil to Corfu, Greece”