The Serene Beauty of the Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna

Getting There

• Walking

  Start from the Saranda waterfront promenade, where you can find restaurants and cafes. Walk along the promenade heading north until you reach the main road. Turn right onto the main road (Rruga e Flamurit) and walk straight for about 1 kilometer. You will pass by various shops and local attractions. Continue walking until you reach the traffic light at the intersection with Rruga Ismail Qemali. Cross the road and continue walking straight until you reach the bus station.

• Bus

  At the Saranda bus station, look for a bus heading to 'Butrint' or 'Ksamil'. The buses are frequent and will take you to the area near the Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna. Get off at the stop closest to the monastery, which is about 2 kilometers from the bus station. From the bus stop, you can walk towards the sea; the monastery is located on a small island that can be reached via a footbridge.

• Bicycle

  If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops along the promenade. Head north on the promenade and then turn right onto Rruga e Flamurit. Follow this road until you reach the traffic light at Rruga Ismail Qemali. Keep straight, and you will eventually find a cycle path leading towards the area of the Holy Monastery. It is about a 10-15 minute ride to the monastery.

• Taxi

  If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from anywhere in Saranda. Simply tell the driver 'Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna'. The taxi will take you directly to the vicinity of the monastery, which is located on a small island accessible by footbridge. The ride should take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic.