If you love history or exploring ancient ruins, Butrint National Park in Albania is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning landscapes and rich archaeological wonders. Easily accessible from Saranda, it’s an unforgettable and affordable day trip from Saranda.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know—why visit, when to go, how to get there, costs, and tips to make the most of your visit. Let’s dive into the past!
Table of Contents
- Why You Should Visit Butrint
- Best Time to Visit Butrint
- How to Get There
- Entry Fee and Costs
- How Much Time to Spend at Butrint
- What to Bring
- Where to Stay
1
Why You Should Visit Butrint
Butrint isn’t just another historical site; it’s an incredible journey through time, dating back over 2,500 years. This ancient city has been shaped by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians, leaving behind impressive ruins and stories in every corner.
- Rich History: Walk through ancient theaters, Roman baths, basilicas, and fortresses, all while imagining life in this bustling city centuries ago.
- Stunning Natural Setting: Butrint sits on a peninsula surrounded by lush greenery, the blue waters of the Vivari Channel, and scenic views of Lake Butrint—making it just as beautiful as it is historic.
- UNESCO Status: Recognized for its cultural and natural importance, Butrint is one of Albania’s most visited landmarks and a must for anyone traveling through the region.
2
Best Time to Visit Butrint
The best time to visit Butrint is during the spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is warm but not overwhelmingly hot. Here are a few tips for the perfect visit:
- Early Morning: Arrive early (before 10:00 AM) to avoid the heat and crowds, especially during the peak summer months.
- Avoid the Midday Sun: The site has limited shade, so try to explore either in the morning or later in the afternoon.
- Weekdays: Weekends can be busier, especially in summer, so aim for a weekday visit for a quieter experience.
3
How to Get There
Butrint is located about 18 kilometers south of Saranda and is incredibly easy to access. Here’s how to get there:
From Saranda
- By Car or Scooter: Renting a car or scooter is the most convenient option. The drive takes around 25–30 minutes, following the scenic coastal road towards Ksamil. Signs will clearly direct you to Butrint.
Car rentals cost around €30–40 per day, while scooters are about €10–20 per day. - By Bus: Take the local bus to Butrint from Saranda, which departs roughly every hour during the day. The fare is about 100 Lek (€1), and the journey takes about 40 minutes.
- By Taxi: Taxis are available from Saranda and cost about €20–25 for a one-way trip.
From Ksamil
If you’re staying in Ksamil, Butrint is just 10 minutes away by car, scooter, or taxi. You can also hop on the Saranda-Butrint bus, which passes through Ksamil.
Pro Tip: If you don’t want to worry about transportation, several Butrint tours from Saranda are available, often combining the site with stops like Blue Eye or Ksamil’s beaches.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here is an option we believe is among the best.
4
Entry Fee and Costs
Visiting Butrint is not only an incredible experience but also very affordable:
- Entrance Fee: 1,000 Lek per person (€10 / 15$ CAD). This includes access to the entire site and the on-site museum.
- Parking Fee: If you’re driving, there’s a small parking fee of about 100 Lek (€1).
- Pro Tip: Bring cash, as credit cards are not always accepted at the entrance.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM until dusk, with closing times varying depending on the season.
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5
How Much Time to Spend at Butrint
Plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring Butrint at a leisurely pace. Here’s how you can make the most of your time:
- Start at the Entrance Museum: Get an overview of Butrint’s history and key landmarks before diving into the ruins.
- Explore the Highlights: Don’t miss the Ancient Theater, the Great Basilica, the Baptistery with its mosaics, and the Venetian Castle offering panoramic views.
The Venetian Castle was without a doubt the highlight of my visit. The views from the top were absolutely breathtaking, offering a stunning panorama of the surrounding landscape. The castle itself was equally captivating, with its charming architecture brought to life by the vibrant colors of the flowers blooming all around.
- Enjoy the Scenery: Take time to appreciate the natural beauty around the site, including the Vivari Channel and Lake Butrint. The views are incredible!
- Relax and Take Photos: Butrint has countless photo opportunities, so bring your camera or phone to capture the ancient ruins against a stunning backdrop.
6
What to Bring
To make the most of your visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, here’s what you’ll need:
- Comfortable Shoes: The ruins have uneven paths, so sturdy walking or sport shoes are a must.
- Hat and Sunscreen: The Albanian sun can be intense, especially in summer.
- Water and Snacks: Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, as there are limited options inside the site.
- Cash: For entry fees, parking, and any small purchases nearby.
7
Where to Stay
The best place to stay when visiting Butrint is Saranda, which offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Since there are no accommodations directly at the Butrint site, Saranda is the most convenient base. Its proximity, just a 25–30 minute drive away, makes it easy to explore Butrint while enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Budget Stay: Hostels and guesthouses start at around €10–15 per night.
- Mid-Range: Hotels with sea views range from €40–70 per night.
- Luxury Options: Upscale beachfront resorts can cost €100–150 per night.
Alternative: For a quieter stay, hotels in Ksamil near Butrint offer beautiful beach access and a relaxed vibe just minutes away.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Butrint feels like stepping back in time, with ancient ruins set in stunning natural surroundings. This Albania UNESCO World Heritage site near Saranda and Ksamil is easy to reach and affordable. Whether you’re into history, nature, or unique adventures, Butrint won’t disappoint.
So lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Albania’s ancient past!
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What’s Next?
Now that you know everything about this day trip, it’s time to plan your trip! Here are some articles that could be helpful:
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