Sarande is a fantastic place to enjoy more than just a meal — it’s a hub for memorable lunch experiences that combine stunning scenery, local culture, and delicious food. The city’s diverse landscape, from mountain passes to sparkling coastlines, makes it perfect for tours that include meals as part of the adventure. We especially love the Full-Day 4×4 Saranda Safari with Lunch, which offers a full day of off-road exploration, breathtaking views, and authentic Albanian cuisine. It’s perfect if you want to combine scenic driving with cultural stops, including a traditional lunch in a charming village.
For those who prefer being on the water, Sarande also shines with boat tours that showcase the Ionian Sea’s hidden beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Secrets of Ionian Sea in Saranda, lunch included offers an all-inclusive day of boat riding, swimming, and eating on board — a great choice for relaxing travelers and beach lovers alike.
Below, I’ll walk you through these top lunch experiences in Sarande, highlighting what makes each one unique, who it’s best for, and practical tips to help you choose.
1. From Sarandë: Full-Day 4×4 Saranda Safari with Lunch
This full-day 4×4 safari is the crown jewel for travelers who want to see the real Albania beyond the main tourist spots. The tour includes a mix of mountain driving, cultural visits, and scenic stops, all with a comfortable SUV or jeep. The itinerary is packed with highlights like the Blue Eye, Borsh Beach, and Lekuresi Castle, plus charming villages like Shen Vasil. The most memorable part? The authentic Albanian lunch served in a village setting, giving you a taste of local flavors with stunning views.
What makes this tour stand out is the off-road adventure combined with expertly guided sightseeing. The driver-guide, with 25 years of experience, keeps the trip lively and informative. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating from 14 travelers who rave about the mountain views, the fun of dune-bashing, and the delicious lunch. The tour’s length of 6.5 hours makes it ideal for those wanting an immersive day without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: If you’re after a scenic, active day with a taste of local life and stunning panoramas, this safari hits all the marks. It’s especially good for couples or small groups who enjoy off-road driving and cultural stops.
2. Explore Secrets of Ionian Sea in Saranda, lunch included
This boat tour offers a completely different experience — spending the day on the water exploring Ionian Sea’s best beaches inaccessible by land. The all-inclusive package includes your boat ticket, a generous lunch onboard, and unlimited soft drinks or beer. For an extra touch of adventure, there’s a 20% discount on tours featuring the semi-submarine, which allows you to peek below the water surface without getting wet.
What makes this tour special is the combination of relaxation and exploration. You’ll glide past rugged coastlines, stop for swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy your lunch while anchored at a peaceful beach. The onboard food is notable for being great quality, and the atmosphere relaxed and family-friendly. The tour lasts about 7 hours, making it perfect for travelers who want to avoid strenuous activity but still see the best of Sarande’s maritime scenery.
The mixed reviews mention the value of the all-inclusive setup and the fun of the semi-submarine experience. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or anyone who prefers a leisurely pace on the water.
Bottom line: If you love the idea of lounging on a boat with stunning sea views and a fantastic lunch, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day at sea. It’s best suited for those who prioritize relaxation and water-based sightseeing.
How to Choose Between These Lunch Experiences in Sarande
Deciding between a land-based safari and a boat tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you enjoy off-road adventures, hilltop views, and cultural stops, the Full-Day 4×4 Safari provides an active, scenic experience that covers a lot of ground in one day. It’s great for those who want to see the mountains, castles, and countryside with a local guide.
On the other hand, if you prefer relaxing on the water, swimming, and enjoying a scenic cruise, the Ionian Sea boat tour offers a laid-back alternative with plenty of time to unwind and indulge in good food while soaking up ocean views.
Consider your budget: the safari is generally more expensive but includes a full day of exploration, while the boat tour is more affordable at $59 per person and includes lunch. Think about your fitness level — the safari involves some walking and off-road driving, while the boat tour is mostly sitting and swimming.
Finally, think about what you want to remember most: mountain vistas and village life or sea breezes and beach swims. Both tours are excellent choices, so booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Sarande offers a variety of lunch experiences that highlight its beautiful landscapes and local flavors. The Full-Day 4×4 Safari is perfect for active travelers eager to explore Albania’s mountains and villages with a hearty traditional meal. Meanwhile, the Ionian Sea boat tour suits those looking for a relaxing day on the water with excellent seafood and stunning coastal scenery.
For a well-rounded trip, consider combining a scenic land adventure with a boat cruise — but whichever you choose, early booking is recommended to ensure your spot. Whether you’re after panoramic mountain views or crystal-clear sea swims, Sarande has a lunch experience that will make your trip truly memorable.