Albania Day Trip: Sarandë and Butrint
Overview
Albania is so close to Corfu that you can see it from the beach, and a day across the strait is one of the island's most memorable trips. A fast ferry takes you from Corfu's port to Sarandë, a seaside town on the Albanian Riviera, in as little as half an hour.
From Sarandë, a coach drives about 14 km south to Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. The ancient city sits on a wooded peninsula by a lagoon, and a local guide leads you past a Greek theatre, Roman baths, an early Christian baptistery with mosaic floors, the Great Basilica and the Lion Gate, up to a Venetian castle with views over the lagoon.
Afterwards there's time in Sarandë for lunch and a walk along the seafront promenade before the ferry back to Corfu. Remember Albania is outside the EU, so bring your passport, and set your watch back an hour.
Highlights
- Fast ferry across the strait to Albania
- Guided visit to UNESCO-listed Butrint
- Greek theatre, Roman baths and the Lion Gate
- Lagoon views from the Venetian castle
- Free time on Sarandë's seafront
What's included
- Return ferry Corfu–Sarandë
- Coach from Sarandë to Butrint
- Local guide at Butrint
- Tour escort
- Butrint entrance fee (unless stated)
- Lunch and drinks
- Hotel transfers to Corfu port where not offered
Request this tour
Send us your dates and a SkyRay advisor will confirm availability and price.
Itinerary
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Albania is outside the EU and you'll pass through passport control in both directions. Check GOV.UK for current entry rules before you go.
The Butrint visit is about two hours on foot, on uneven paths with some steps. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and a hat.
Albania's currency is the lek. Many places in Sarandë that deal with visitors also take euros, but a card or some small change helps.
