Best Villages and Rural Areas to Live and Work as a Digital Nomad and Expat in Albania

l f you commute to Shelegar from Saranda and vice versa relying solely on public transport, you will need to know the following : ESSENTIAL INFORMATION: Bus ticket cost per person: 70 lek Timetable: every 30 minutes Earliest time: Latest time: Distance time: 7-10 minutes Bus stop in Shelegar: Off the road by the entrance to the village Bus stop in Saranda: In the city centre, where all buses line up. Opposite to the Partizani red building.  TIPS: You will need to wave to the bus driver in order to stop. You can pay when you board or at the end of the trip.

Tipping in Albania is very important and most hospitality customer service assistant expect a minimum of 100 or 200 lek for their service. If you are dinning in a fancy restaurant then it's normal to tip 10& of the total bill, obviously if you were satisfied from the service you received. Although tipping in Albania is not essential or mandatory, it is often perceived as lack of respect and not appreciationg towards the waiting staff. At the end of the day, it is entirely up to you how much you can afford and are willing to pay. Yes — it is perceived rude to leave no tip in Albania.  However, tipping should feel like a gesture of appreciation , not an obligation.

Vuno Village: Traditional Stone Village on the Albanian Riviera Vuno is a historic stone village located along the Albanian Riviera , perched above the Ionian Sea. Known for its traditional architecture and panoramic views, Vuno offers a glimpse into Albania’s rural coastal heritage. Visitors love Vuno for: Authentic village atmosphere Historic churches and stone houses Nearby beaches like Gjipe and Jala Vuno is ideal for travelers seeking culture, history, and quiet beauty away from party crowds. Rusan Village is a small, peaceful village near Sarandë, perfect for travelers looking to experience local life in southern Albania . Surrounded by farmland and hills, Rusan offers a calm environment while remaining close to beaches and main roads. It’s best suited for: Long stays Cultural travelers Visitors avoiding tourist crowds Rusan is not about attractions but about authentic everyday Albanian life . Delvinë Village: History, Mountains, and Local Life : Delvinë is a historic town located northeast of Sarandë, known for its Ottoman-era history and mountain scenery . Less visited by tourists, Delvinë offers insight into Albania’s traditional urban life beyond coastal resorts. Highlights include: Historic mosques and old town areas Mountain views Local markets and cuisine Delvinë works well as a cultural stop while exploring South Albania.

Ksamil is a small coastal village located just 15 minutes south of Sarandë , and it is one of Albania’s most famous beach destinations. Often called the “Maldives of Albania,” Ksamil is known for its white sand beaches, shallow turquoise waters, and small offshore islands that can be reached by paddleboat. Ksamil’s popularity comes from its unique combination of: Calm, crystal-clear Ionian Sea Family-friendly beaches Proximity to Butrint National Park Affordable beach clubs and restaurants The village transforms into a lively summer hotspot from June to September , while early mornings and shoulder season visits offer a quieter experience. Travel Tip: Visit beaches early in the morning to avoid crowds in peak season.

1. Where Is Shelegar Village Located Near Sarandë, Albania? Shelegar is a small rural village located in southern Albania, within driving distance of Sarandë, one of the country’s most popular coastal cities. Nestled in the countryside near the Ionian coast, Shelegar is surrounded by hills, olive groves, and traditional farmland. Unlike Sarandë’s lively seaside atmosphere, Shelegar offers a quiet village setting that reflects authentic southern Albanian life. Its location makes it ideal for travelers who want to stay close to Sarandë while experiencing a more peaceful and local environment. Many visitors search for villages like Shelegar when looking to explore hidden places near Sarandë that are untouched by mass tourism. 2. What Is Shelegar Village Known For? Shelegar village is known for its traditional rural lifestyle and natural surroundings rather than tourist attractions. Life here revolves around agriculture, family, and strong community ties, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic Albanian village culture . The village is characterized by: Stone houses and simple architecture Olive trees, vineyards, and small farms Peaceful atmosphere away from crowds Warm hospitality from local residents For travelers interested in slow travel, cultural immersion, or photography , Shelegar represents a side of Albania that many coastal tourists never see. 3. Things to Do in and Around Shelegar Village While Shelegar itself is not a tourist hub, it offers simple and meaningful experiences for visitors who appreciate nature and village life. Things to Do in Shelegar: Walk through the village and surrounding countryside Enjoy scenic views of hills and farmland Experience traditional Albanian daily life Take photographs of rural landscapes Because of its proximity to Sarandë, visitors staying in Shelegar can easily combine village life with coastal activities such as Sarandë beaches, Ksamil, Butrint National Park, and the Blue Eye . Shelegar works best as a peaceful base near Sarandë , rather than a standalone tourist destination. 4. How to Get to Shelegar Village from Sarandë Shelegar village can be reached from Sarandë by road , usually within a short drive depending on the exact route and traffic conditions. Transportation Options: Car or taxi: The most convenient way to reach Shelegar Local roads: Roads are generally accessible but may be narrow Walking or cycling: Possible for experienced travelers staying nearby Visitors are advised to use offline maps or ask locals for directions , as small villages like Shelegar may not always be well-marked on navigation apps. 5. Is Shelegar Village Worth Visiting or Staying In? Shelegar village is worth visiting for travelers who value peace, authenticity, and proximity to nature over nightlife and tourist facilities. Shelegar Is Ideal For: Travelers seeking quiet accommodation near Sarandë Digital nomads or long-stay visitors Photographers and cultural explorers Visitors avoiding crowded beach towns  In summary, Shelegar offers a calm rural alternative to the busy coastal atmosphere of Sarandë.

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