Butrint National Park: Day Trips and Tours from Corfu

Butrint National Park is home to one of the most important archaeological sites in Albania, and showcases evidence of several civilizations over a period of more than 2,500 years.

Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, the park is also a haven for nature lovers who can explore over 1,200 varieties of flora and fauna, as well as several ecosystems.

A day trip to Butrint National Park from Corfu is a must for everyone traveling to this corner of Europe.

Here's everything you should to know about visiting the Butrint National Park, one of the most exciting day trips from Corfu.

How to get to Butrint National Park from Corfu?

Butrint National Park is located in Vlöre County in the south of Albania, just a stone's throw from the city of Saranda. It is approximately 50 kilometers from Corfu Old Town where you'll begin any excursion.

From Corfu to Butrint National Park by public transport

To make the jaunt to Butrint National Park via public transport, you’ll board a ferry at Corfu Port, located in Corfu Old Town, and travel to Saranda Port.

From here, you can hop on a local bus to the national park, which runs a regular service throughout the day. The entire journey takes between 1.5 and 2 hours.

Guided tour to Butrint National Park from Corfu

Alternatively, you can make the journey to Butrint National Park via a guided excursion. These typically last 10 hours and leave Corfu between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM, and handle all of your travel arrangements for you.

How much does the entrance ticket to Butrint National Park cost?

To visit Butrint National Park, the fees at the counter are as follows:

• Adult: ALL1,000 (US$10)
• Children (12-18): ALL300 (US$3)
• Child (0-12): Free

What is does a typical itinerary include?

Butrint National Park day tours usually follow the same itinerary and begin with a convenient hotel pickup. Alternatively, you may choose to meet your group at Corfu port with plenty of time to spare before your ferry journey. You’ll make the crossing to Saranda port and travel in the direction of Butrint National Park, less than 30 minutes away, after stopping for refreshments.

You’ll be led around the archaeological site located in the park by your knowledgeable guide, who will share the ancient history of Albania, before returning to Saranda for the rest of the day. You can dine, shop and sightsee both with and without your guide, and once you’ve explored the city thoroughly, you’ll return to Corfu where your excursion ends.

What are the best Butrint National Park tours?

Butrint National Park day tours typically include the charming coastal city of Saranda.

Day trip to Butrint National Park plus Saranda from Corfu

Leaving Corfu behind, you’ll hop onto a ferry and make the short journey across to Albania. With your feet back on solid ground, you’ll head into Saranda for a coffee break before journeying to Butrint National Park. Here, you’ll participate in a walking tour of the archaeological site.

After wandering the fascinating ruins, including temples, fountains and an ancient Roman theater, you'll explore the nearby 14th-century Acropolis Castle. Travel back to Saranda for a local lunch, followed by a tour of the main attractions and some leisure time to discover the city at your own pace.

How much does a day trip to Butrint National Park from Corfu cost?

Butrint National Park day trips typically cost between €50 and €60 per person, and include all admission fees, as well as a professional guide. Port taxes are at your own expense and cost €15 per person.

What are the highlights?

Butrint National Park perfectly combines nature with history, and is filled with glistening lakes, wetlands and ancient ruins.

This land has been inhabited for over 50,000 years and is home to an archaeological site that shows evidence of life from several time periods, including the Iron Age. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has been historically occupied by Venetians, Romans and Greeks.

While naturally the buildings have weathered over the centuries, there is still plenty to see on site, including the remains of a Roman theater, a baptistery, a Venetian tower and Acropolis.

Butrint National Park is also a natural haven, where you will encounter numerous species of fauna and flora. Take your time to appreciate its rich cultural and ecological heritage.

When is the Butrint National Park open?

Butrint National Park is open from 9 AM to 4 PM every Tuesday to Saturday, and from 9 AM to 2 PM on Sunday.

When is the best time to visit the Butrint National Park?

You'll find that the best time to book your Butrint National Park day trip is during the summer months when temperatures average 30 degrees Celsius, and you can enjoy exploring both the ruins and natural areas.

What other day trips can you do from Corfu?

• Paxos Island day trips from Corfu
• Antipaxos Island day tours from Corfu
• Sivota day trips from Corfu
• Corfu day tours to Parga
• Blue Lagoon day trips from Corfu

Travel tips

• Bear in mind that the site can get busy during the middle of the day, so plan your Butrint National Park day trip during the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience.
• Pack a hat and sunscreen to shield yourself from the sun, as the site can be exposed.
• Exploring the ruins can take over an hour. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.