Private Tour
Hidden Stories of Saranda Communism
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Discover a different side of Saranda—beyond the beaches.
Join this meaningful and compact tour that combines stunning views, hidden communist-era bunkers, spiritual landmarks, and powerful stories. We begin with a short drive to a panoramic hilltop above Saranda, where you'll enjoy incredible views of the city, the Ionian Sea, and even Corfu through binoculars.
We then explore a secret anti-aircraft base from Albania's communist period, complete with hidden tunnels and artillery sites that reveal the paranoia and control of that era. After a short snack break, we walk to the 6th-century Monastery of the Forty Saints, the sacred place that gave Saranda its name—full of silence, history, and beauty.
The tour ends with a respectful visit to a local mosque, where you'll gain insights into how Islam is practiced in modern, secular Albania.
This is not just a tour—it's a journey through time, belief, and landscape.
Small groups, personal guidance, and time to reflect at each stop.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Air-conditioned vehicle
40 saints minastery ticket for entrace
What To Expect
Gjashte
Inside Albania’s Cold War: Explore Secret Communist Bunkers Travel back to Albania’s communist era with a guided visit to a hidden anti-aircraft military base above Saranda. Tucked into the hillside, these abandoned bunkers, tunnels, and artillery positions reveal the deep fear and isolation of Enver Hoxha’s regime. As we walk through the site, you’ll hear stories of paranoia, control, and survival—when Albania was one of the most closed-off countries in the world. The setting also offers panoramic views, creating a stark contrast between beauty and the past’s harsh realities. This experience is ideal for history lovers and curious minds who want to understand Albania’s Cold War chapter up close. Includes transport, guide in English/Italian, binoculars, and light refreshments
Gjashte
A Peaceful Encounter: Discover Islam in Saranda Step into a different side of Saranda with a guided visit to a local mosque. Learn how Islam is practiced in modern Albania—a secular country known for its peaceful religious coexistence. In this respectful and insightful experience, you’ll explore the architecture of the mosque, understand its role in the community, and gain a deeper perspective on Albania’s multi-faith identity. Whether you’re curious about Islamic traditions or interested in local culture, this short visit offers connection, understanding, and thoughtful conversation. Includes guided explanation in English/Italian, time for questions, and a welcoming atmosphere
Options
Hidden Stories of Saranda Communism
Reviews
8 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great excperience!
420memal,
Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I really enjoyed this tour. We were in Saranda and chose Hidden Stories because we are very interested in the past history of Albania. The guide was friendly and had a lot of knowledge about the places we visited. I recommend it
Off The Beaten Track Tour
eileensQ82LC,
Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing tour with a lovely local father–daughter duo who took us through a communist-era military bunker perched above Saranda. The spot itself is incredible — with sweeping views over the city and a panoramic look across to Corfu — but what really made it special was their deep knowledge and personal insight. They brought Albania’s communist history to life, answering all our questions about what it was like to live in a completely cut-off state. It was equal parts fascinating, eerie, and eye-opening — a wonderfully weird, off-the-beaten-track experience that we’ll never forget! Highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to understand Albania beyond the beautiful beaches.
Good experience
285landis,
Sep 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Good experience. Beautiful view. Best staf and friendly. Good and fast service it was nice day in Saranda. I recommend it to others.
A different view of Sarandë
Jenny P,
Sep 20, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A wonderful private tour led by a father/daughter duo which rewards patience and interest in Albanian history. We explored the ruins of the C6th monastery and Cold War bunkers and finished with a peaceful visit to the mosque. Ermal confirmed pick up time/place by WhatsApp the day before and the tour lasted a little under 2 hours. Recommend good shoes as the sites are very crumbly.
Brilliant experience.
Ermal B,
Sep 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an amaizing experience.The Islam history was something new to me .It was was very courageous to enter underground spaces
Great Experience!
enea B,
Sep 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great time visiting the Monastery and the old military ruins from the communism. The view from the Monastery is also breathtaking
Very nice and beautiful.
deljanv,
Sep 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The “Hidden Stories of Saranda” experience was absolutely fascinating! It combined history, culture, and stunning views in the best way possible. Learning about Saranda’s communist past gave real depth to the city’s story, while the visits to the monastery and mosque added a unique spiritual and cultural touch. The panoramic viewpoints were breathtaking – definitely a highlight for anyone who loves photography or simply wants to admire the beauty of Saranda from above. Everything was well-paced, informative, and engaging, making the tour both educational and enjoyable.
Panoramic view. The history of communism was very original. The tunnels and shelters were fantastic. A good experience.
444ermalb,
Sep 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic view. Impressive story. We spent a day in good company. The history of religion in Albania is fantastic. Entering the war shelters was an unforgettable experience. A fantastic place to take beautiful photos.
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