Last Updated on 9 August 2025 by Johan
Situated within the enchanting setting of Butrint National Park in southern Albania, the ancient city of Butrint lies approximately 14 to 18 km south of Sarandë and near the coastal village of Ksamil. Its rich history stretches across millennia, with evidence of habitation stretching back to between the 10th and 8th centuries BC, and possibly earlier.
Initially established by the Chaonians, a Greek tribe, Butrint transitioned into a Roman colonia under Julius Caesar in 44 BC and expanded significantly under Augustus, who introduced public structures such as an aqueduct, baths, a forum, and a nymphaeum. Despite a decline triggered by a catastrophic earthquake in the 3rd century AD, the site endured into late antiquity as a vital port and early Christian bishopric before eventual medieval abandonment . In more recent history, Butrint passed under the control of successive powers—including Byzantine, Angevin, Venetian, Ottoman, and briefly French—each leaving visible marks on its fortifications and architecture.
Recognized for its exceptional cultural, historical, and natural significance, Butrint was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992 and officially designated as a national park in 2000. Today, Butrint National Park covers over 9,000 hectares and protects not only the archaeological treasures but also wetlands, freshwater lakes, salt marshes, and diverse ecosystems rich in flora and fauna.
Among the site’s most striking features are the exceptionally well-preserved Greek theatre, the Temple of Asklepius, Roman baths, a mosaic-decorated baptistery, the Lion Gate, the Venetian acropolis, and the so-called Triconch Palace from late antiquity. The Venetian Acropolis, now hosting the on-site archaeological museum, offers sweeping views over the Vivari Channel and surrounding plains.
Visiting Practicalities
The archaeological site of Butrint is open every day from around 9 AM until about sunset or as late as 7 PM in summer months. Admission currently stands at approximately 1,000 Lek for adults, around 500 Lek for youths (12–18 years), with children under 12 often admitted free of charge. These fees support ongoing preservation and management of the site.
Visitors from Sarandë can easily reach Butrint by public bus from the ferry port or central square, with journeys lasting around 30 to 45 minutes and costing between 100 and 200 Lek (approximately €1–2) . Buses travel hourly; alternatively, taxis are available—it’s advisable to agree on the fare in advance . From Ksamil, buses also connect to the site on demand . Many visitors from Corfu opt for a one-day excursion, combining a ferry journey to Sarandë with onward travel to Butrint.
To enjoy the site at a quieter pace—despite your original suggestion to visit in the early afternoon—arrival in the early morning or late afternoon tends to be less crowded and more atmospheric.
Sources and Further Reading
- UNESCO World Heritage and Albanian national designation information via Wikipedia
- Butrint National Park’s area, ecological importance, and description by the Albanian national parks authority
- Official admission prices, opening hours, and transportation details from the Butrint Foundation
- Comprehensive travel guide insights including site highlights and navigation from Slow Travel Blog and other verified sources
- Local tourism site descriptions outlining archaeological features and accessibility