Sarande is quickly becoming a favorite stop for travelers craving authentic Albanian experiences, especially when it comes to wine. With its stunning coastline and proximity to scenic countryside, Sarande offers a variety of wine-related adventures that combine natural beauty, local flavors, and cultural insights. We love the sunset boat tours, like the one here, for the breathtaking views and relaxed vibe, and the wine tastings at traditional wineries provide a deeper taste of Albanian viticulture. The tours blend scenic settings, local wines, and unique experiences — perfect for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.
In this list, you’ll find a diverse mix of boat excursions, cultural tours with wine tasting, and local product sampling. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset sail, a visit to historic sites paired with wine, or sampling local raki and olive oil, there’s something for all. Let’s explore each of these top options in detail, helping you decide which will suit your interests and schedule best.
1. Sarandë: Sunset boat tour with local wine
This 2-hour sunset boat tour offers a chance to enjoy Sarande’s stunning coastline from the water, with the added bonus of local wine. Starting from Kristal Boat Tours, this trip takes you along the Ionian Coast, where you can capture the vivid colors of the sunset. Along the way, you’ll make stops at Shpella e Milotit, where you can take photos and swim for about 10 minutes, and at Sarande’s coast, where you’ll have around 80 minutes to relax, swim, and soak in the sunset views.
What makes this tour special is its combination of a scenic speedboat ride and a peaceful, group atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how memorable the sunset is, with one guest noting, “Watching the sunset from the secret beach was amazing… water looked so clear and blue.” The tour also includes a glass of local wine aboard the boat, complementing the tranquil environment. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who wants a quick, memorable escape from the buzz of the town.
Bottom Line: This tour offers spectacular sunset views combined with a relaxed boat ride and a taste of local wine. It’s an excellent choice if you want a short, scenic, and intimate experience with friends or a partner.
2. Sarande: Sunset Boat Tour with Local Wine
This exclusive 2-hour sunset boat tour takes you from Sarandë to a secluded beach, where swimming in clear waters is part of the fun. Meeting at Saranda Boat 1, you’ll make a stop at Shpella e Milotit for a quick photo and swim, then head to a less crowded spot for about 20 minutes of swimming and relaxation. The highlight is the delicious charcuterie board paired with local wine, which is perfect for unwinding as the sun dips into the sea.
What sets this tour apart is its intimate setting — limited to just 10 participants — making it ideal for couples or small groups looking for a quiet, personal experience. Many travelers praise the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to swim in calm waters away from crowds. The guide ensures safety while sharing insights about the area, so you get both relaxation and local knowledge.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a private, leisurely boat ride with great wine, swimming opportunities, and incredible sunset views, this tour delivers a memorable experience with a personal touch.
3. Sarande: Blue Eye & Lekuresi Tour w/ Wine Tasting
This 4-hour guided tour combines natural beauty with cultural history and wine. It starts at the Blue Eye, a stunning natural spring whose deep blue waters captivate visitors. Next, you’ll visit Lekuresi Castle, which offers panoramic views of Sarande and the Ionian Sea, and learn about its history from your guide. The tour then continues to a local winery, Kantina e Verës ISAK, where you can sample Albanian wines, including reds, whites, and rosés, while learning about the wine-making process.
What makes this experience stand out is its mix of outdoor exploration and culture. Visitors often comment on how the views from Lekuresi Castle are breathtaking, and the wine tasting provides insight into Albania’s growing wine scene. The guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, making it more than just sightseeing. It’s suited for travelers interested in nature, history, and local food and drink.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those wanting a broader experience—nature, history, and wine—packed into a manageable four hours, with a focus on authentic Albanian wines.
4. Sarande: Wine and raki tasting, local products
For wine enthusiasts eager to try a variety of local spirits and products, this 3-hour tasting tour offers a rich experience. You’ll sample three different wines — red, white, and rosé — all made from grapes, along with raki, a traditional Albanian spirit. The tour includes a visit to a local farm or greenhouse, where you can see how the olive oil and other products are produced. The tasting session is relaxed, informative, and designed for those who want to deepen their understanding of local produce.
Reviews mention how fresh and authentic the products are, with the chance to learn directly from producers. At $65 per person, it offers good value for those interested in sampling multiple local drinks and learning about their production. It’s best suited for travelers who want an immersive experience and aren’t shy about trying new flavors.
Bottom Line: If you want a hands-on, tasting-oriented tour with a variety of local wines, raki, and olive oil, this is a solid choice. It’s ideal for curious foodies and those keen on understanding Albanian local products.
5. Mesopotam Monastery, Winery & Lekursi Castle Tour
This 6-hour tour is the most comprehensive on our list, combining cultural sites, a winery visit, and scenic views. It begins with a visit to the Mesopotam Monastery, a Byzantine landmark that offers insight into the region’s religious past. Then, you’ll proceed to Kantina Isak, where you’ll enjoy a wine and rakia tasting paired with a traditional Albanian lunch made from organic farm ingredients. The day rounds out at Lekuresi Castle, where panoramic views of Sarande and the Ionian Sea await.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on local culture and cuisine — it’s not just a sightseeing tour but an in-depth exploration of the region’s history, wine, and food. Travelers praise the guide’s storytelling and the opportunity to relax over a full meal with wine. It’s suitable for history buffs, wine lovers, and those wanting a full-day experience.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a full immersion into Albanian culture, history, and wine, this tour offers a well-rounded, enriching day out.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour in Sarande
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, time availability, and what interests you most. If a short, romantic sunset is your goal, Tours #1 and #2 are perfect. For a mix of natural beauty, history, and wine, Tours #3 and #5 offer deeper cultural insights. Those who love tasting a variety of local spirits should go for Tour #4, while a full-day adventure might be best with the Mesopotamam Tour.
Booking early is recommended, especially during high season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Think about your activity level and preferences — if swimming and water activities are a must, the boat tours deliver. For a more cultural experience, the sightseeing and tasting tours provide rich stories and local flavors.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a quick sunset sail, a wine tasting in scenic countryside, or a comprehensive cultural tour, Sarande has options suited to all tastes. The sunset boat tours stand out for their relaxing atmosphere and stunning views, perfect for romantic evenings. Meanwhile, the wine and raki tastings give a taste of local traditions, especially if you enjoy sampling multiple drinks and learning about their origins.
If you’re planning your trip, consider your interests and schedule to pick the best tour. Many of these experiences are popular, so booking early ensures you won’t miss out. With this variety of wine tours, Sarande proves it can satisfy both your palate and your sense of adventure.