Where to stay in Albania? Recommendations and advice appreciated!

Hi everyone!

I hope this is on-topic for this sub.

I hope you can help me with some recommendations. Its the first time Im visiting a country I have no knowledge of whatsoever (very exciting) and need to find an area in Albania to stay in this summer for a beach/pool vacation.

Details:

I can fly to either Tirana og go by boat to Saranda on arrival. I would like to avoid renting a vehicle, since I dont particularly feel safe driving in foreign countries. This means I need to stay relatively close to these cities.

My partner would like to feel some luxury (not like super intense, just a little bit) but we are still on a budget. We both really need a relaxing vacation with sun, swimming and good food, but we also want to be able to go for a day trip out and see some nature and do smaller hikes, or visit some of the old cities. We are planning to leave for 10-ish days.

I am really looking for specific advice for cities, beaches, hotels etc. (or the opposite if some places should be avoided). Advice on good hikes, good food etc is also very welcome - but might be difficult since I dont yet know what part of Albania we’re staying in.

I hope for your help, advice or tips! ☀️