I have a German client who works as a software developer. Last year, he decided to relocate to Sarandë for a year. His first question wasn’t about the price of the apartment. It was: “How reliable is the internet connection?” And this is the question every remote worker should ask before renting or buying in Albania.
Foto: Jarosław Lichoń — Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
Sarandë is becoming an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers. The reasons are clear: the cost of living is much lower than in Western Europe, the climate is mild for most of the year, and Albania offers a one-year visa for citizens of many countries. But working from Sarandë isn’t the same as working from Berlin or London.
Internet: The Deal-Breaker
Internet access is the most critical factor. In central Sarandë and in the newer tourist zones, fiber-optic connections are available and reliable. But in higher areas, on hillsides, or in the outskirts, you may need satellite internet or a 4G router. Ask the owner or agency for the actual internet speed, not the advertised one. And if your work depends on a stable connection, consider a backup—a local Albanian SIM with unlimited data costs around €15–20 per month.
A Real Workspace
Workspace is the second factor. Not all apartments in Sarandë have a separate room that can be used as an office. Many are designed for tourist rentals—small studios or 1+1 units with open-plan kitchens. If you work eight hours a day from home, you need a dedicated space, not just a kitchen table.
Winter Community
Then there’s the matter of community. Sarandë in winter is quiet—very quiet. If you’re used to the social life of a big city, the winter isolation in Sarandë can be tough. Some digital nomads choose to stay only from April to October and spend the winter in Tirana, where urban life remains active year-round.
Healthcare Access
Finally, healthcare. Sarandë has a public hospital and a few private clinics, but for serious medical issues, you’ll need to travel to Tirana or Vlorë. Make sure you have valid health insurance in Albania.
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