Another option for an excursion is Gjirokastra, a world heritage site. This city is further away but historically and culturally interesting with both an important huge castel and small museum converted traditional homes.
About Sarande itself I have a much more favourable opinion than some of the above posters:
Sarande is a kind of sea side resort with a promenade along the beach, small bars and so on, albeit it reminded me, a visitor from Western Europe, of maye Italy 50 years ago. No wonder given the much younger history of freedom and tourism. Still not overdeveloped, relaxed, friendly and joyful.