If you’re planning a trip to southern Albania, Butrint is a destination you simply can’t miss. Located among the greenery of Mediterranean forests and the tranquil waters of the lake of the same name, this UNESCO archaeological park is like an open history book, where every step takes you centuries back in time. From the ancient theatre and stunning mosaics to Venetian castles with panoramic views, Butrint offers an experience that combines culture, history, and nature in the most magical way. In this practical guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know before visiting this gem of Albania, step-by-step, with tips and information to make your trip easier and more enjoyable.
Discover the history of Butrint
Before you head to Butrint, it’s worth knowing a bit about its millennia-old story, a history stretching from the Illyrians to the late Middle Ages. This city has been everything: an Illyrian settlement, Greek colony, Roman city, Byzantine episcopal center, and Venetian fortress. Every era has left its mark, turning Butrint into a “microcosm” of Mediterranean history.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, the area was expanded and declared a National Park in 2000, including not only the ruins but also the rich ecosystem of the lake and the Vivari Channel. Today, visiting Butrint feels like walking through an open-air museum, where every stone has a story to tell – from the ancient theatre to the baptistery mosaics, and the old walls that still protect the city.
Must-See Attractions:
Butrint is full of fascinating spots that make it impossible to leave without taking dozens of photos. Here are some of the attractions that should be on your list:
- Ancient Theatre – Built in the 3rd century BC, the theatre sits on the hillside and has a typical Hellenistic shape. With a capacity of about 1,500 spectators, it hosted plays, public ceremonies, and city gatherings. During the Roman period (2nd century AD), it was rebuilt and expanded, adding new architectural elements. In the wet season, the orchestra often fills with water, creating a magical photo opportunity.
- Baptistery – One of the largest baptisteries of the late antiquity in the Mediterranean (6th century AD). It features a circular plan with two rings of columns and a floor covered in colorful mosaics depicting animals, fish, and geometric motifs. Most of the year, the mosaics are kept covered for protection, but during certain periods they are revealed to visitors – an unmissable sight.
- Great Basilica – Built at the end of the 5th century, this paleochristian church is one of the most monumental buildings in the park. Its three-nave structure, high walls, and semicircular apse reflect its importance. Today, the basilica’s walls and columns still stand amidst greenery, making it one of the most photogenic spots in Butrint.
- Lion Gate – One of the most iconic entrances to the ancient city, named after a stone relief depicting a lion attacking a bull. This symbol has caught visitors’ attention for centuries. The gate is part of the Hellenistic city walls, later reinforced in the Middle Ages.
- Acropolis and Venetian Castle (Archaeological Museum) – At the top of the hill lies the castle, rebuilt by the Italians in the 1930s on the foundations of a Venetian fortress. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the park and the Vivari Channel. Inside, the Archaeological Museum houses sculptures, coins, tools, and other artifacts unearthed during excavations.
- Venetian Tower and Triangular Fortress – These two structures face each other at the entrance to the Vivari Channel. The Venetian tower (16th century) and the Triangular Fortress (rebuilt by Ali Pasha Tepelena in the 19th century) controlled access to the lake. Today, you can take a short boat trip to visit them up close.
Every attraction in Butrint is like a unique chapter of its history – so take your time to experience them all.
Hours and prices:
📅 Summer Season (April 1 – October 31)
- Opening: 08:30
- Last Entry: 18:00
- Closing: 20:00
Perfect for making the most of long summer days and visiting when the sun begins to set, casting magical light over the ruins.
📅 Winter Season (November 1 – March 31)
- Opening: 09:00
- Last Entry: 15:00
- Closing: 17:30
Shorter hours, but fewer tourists mean you can explore at a relaxed pace.
💰 Ticket Prices (2025)
- Adults: 1,000 ALL
- Groups: (≥10 people): 800 ALL
- Reduced ticket (pensioners, disabled, orphans): 500 ALL
- Albanian students: 500 ALL
- Youths:12–18: 500 ALL
- Children under: 12: Free
💡 Tip: You can buy tickets online at MyTicket.al to skip the queues.
Tours & Activities
One of the best ways to enjoy Butrint is to visit it with a guide, either a human or an audio device.
- 👩💼 Local guides: Professional guides at the park entrance offer tours in multiple languages, sharing not only historical facts but also legends and hidden details you might miss on your own.
- 🎧 Audio guides – Rent an audio guide or download a dedicated app for detailed explanations at your own pace.
- 🎭 Cultural events – In summer, the ancient theatre hosts the “Butrint 2000” International Theatre Festival. Occasionally, concerts, exhibitions, and educational activities are also held.
- 🌿Ecotourism & nearby adventures – Walk around Lake Butrint or take a short boat trip along the Vivari Channel to visit Ali Pasha’s Castle. From Saranda and Ksamil, you can join combined tours that include Butrint and beach stops.
Useful tips before visiting
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. In summer, visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- What to wear: Comfortable walking shoes (paths are uneven), sunhat and sunscreen in hot weather, or a light jacket in cooler months. Bring water – there are few purchase points inside.
- Getting there: From Saranda, it’s just an 18-minute drive or local bus ride. From Ksamil, you can even bike or walk. From Corfu, there are day trips with ferry connections to Saranda, often including Butrint in the itinerary.
- Photography: Soft morning or late afternoon light is perfect for photos, especially at the ancient theatre and Lion Gate.
Butrint awaits you
Butrint is not just a place to visit – it’s an experience to live with all your senses. From ancient ruins telling millennia-old stories to the calming natural scenery, every step inside the park is a journey through time.
➡️ Visit, tell your friends, and share this article so more people can discover this southern Albanian gem.
If you want to discover more UNESCO destinations in Albania, check out our guide to Berat and Gjirokaster.
