Skip to content Butrint National Park is an absolute must-see when you’re in Albania, especially when visiting Ksamil. The fact that it’s just a quick 15-minute drive away makes it a no-brainer! This UNESCO World Heritage Site feels like stepping straight into a history book, but with way better scenery; lush greenery, serene wetlands and ancient ruins all rolled into one. Spanning 29 square kilometers, Butrint National Park is roughly the size of 4,000 soccer fields or about half the size of Manhattan.
The star of the show is the ancient city of Butrint, where you can wander through centuries-old ruins seamlessly blended with the surrounding landscape. Picture grand theaters, ancient Roman villas, and impressive castles. Don’t miss the Triconch Palace, a Roman villa that’s both intricate and brimming with history. One of the best parts? The park’s shaded paths make it a comfortable walk, even on hotter days. It’s an easy stroll suitable for all ages, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some turtles hanging out in the ponds (we did, and it was such a treat!). Parking is free, though it can get busy at peak times, so just keep that in mind.
We’ve got you covered with all the essentials; what to see, opening hours, how to get there, entrance fees, and the best time to visit. Plus, we’ll share tips to make your trip even better, like adding nearby gems such as Ksamil (often called the “Maldives of Europe”) or exploring other must-see spots like Gjirokastër and Berat. Let’s dive in!
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Butrint National Park is a breathtaking 29-square-kilometer haven of history and nature located just a 15-minute drive south of Ksamil in Albania. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ramsar Wetland of International Importance is home to one of the Mediterranean’s most unique archaeological treasures, blending ancient ruins with a stunning natural landscape. Once known as Buthrotum in antiquity, Butrint was a dazzling city in the Roman Empire, originally intended as a retirement haven for war veterans. However, in the 3rd century AD, a powerful earthquake devastated the city, leaving behind the ruins that now captivate visitors from around the world. After the quake, Butrint gradually faded into obscurity, but its legacy remains remarkably well-preserved.
The park offers much more than just history. Surrounded by wetlands, shaded by trees, and framed by a serene lagoon and majestic mountains, the scenery here is truly postcard-worthy. As you wander through the site, you’ll encounter remnants of ancient civilizations, including city walls, a Roman theater, a baptistery, and even two castles. Along the way, you can also admire the rich diversity of plants and animals that thrive in this protected environment.
Since you’ll likely spend a few hours exploring Butrint National Park, we recommend using Ksamil (4 km away), Sarandë (18 km away), or Gjirokastër (65 km away) as your base for the trip. These towns offer a variety of accommodations, from charming guesthouses and cozy apartments to stylish hotels with all the modern comforts. To make planning even easier, we’ve put together a list of our top 5 favorite places to stay in each of these locations. Check them out below!
The best properties in Sarande
TIP: Kerculla Resort on top of the hill
We suggest picking a spot right in the heart of the historic center. These our the top 5 accommodations in Gjirokaster:
Whether you’re after a cozy hostel, a charming boutique hotel, or something a bit more luxurious, you’ll find plenty of options that put you right in the middle of all the action!
One of the highlights of Butrint is its beautifully preserved Roman theatre, which once seated around 1,500 people. It’s a fantastic spot for photos, so hang around until the tourist groups move on to capture some truly stunning shots. Originally built in the 3rd century BC, the theatre wasn’t just for entertainment, it played a central role in religious ceremonies held by worshippers and priests at the nearby Sanctuary of Asclepius.
As one of the first ancient monuments uncovered in Butrint, the theatre is a testament to the site’s importance across history, serving as a space for spiritual, medical, and recreational activities through various eras. A visit here is like stepping back in time!
Built in the 6th century, this impressive structure was once the religious heart of the city and remains one of the best-preserved relics of early Christian architecture in the region. It’s big, beautiful, and packed with history! The basilica’s columns, arches, and even parts of the marble mosaic floor are still in remarkable condition. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere, there’s something mesmerizing about standing in a space that’s been around for so many centuries.
Don’t miss the mosaic in the middle section near the corner and look out for a small fresco on the ground that gives you a glimpse of how it all once looked. Pretty fascinating, right? The basilica’s design even includes crosses carved into the mortar near the apse, likely added by its builders to ward off the evil eye. Over the centuries, the basilica underwent several transformations, and it remained a functioning church up until the 18th century. There’s also text on-site that provides more details about the basilica’s history, so we recommend you take a moment to read up while you’re there.
The Lion Gate is one of the most fascinating highlights of Butrint, located along the ancient walls of the site. Its name comes from the carving of a lion devouring a bull’s head, positioned above the entrance. While the walls themselves date back to the 6th century BC, this relief was added much later, in the 5th century AD, to make the gate smaller and easier to defend. The relief is thought to have originated from an older temple building, showcasing how elements from different eras were creatively repurposed.
The name Butrint is even said to derive from the myth of Butrutos, meaning “wounded bull,” tying the lion-and-bull imagery to the city’s origins. Whether or not the myth is true, the relief itself is unique and priceless, a small yet striking piece of ancient art that adds a touch of drama to the site. As you pass through the gate, take a moment to explore the Roman spring just behind it, often called the nymph well. In Roman times, this spring was linked to the cult of nymphs, and a nearby inscription in Greek reveals that a local citizen, Junia Rufina, renovated the well in the 2nd century AD, describing herself as a “friend of the nymphs.” In later centuries, Christian symbols were carved into the back wall, suggesting the spring was adapted for Christian use around the 5th or 6th century AD.
Perched on a hill and built in the 14th and 15th centuries, the Venetian Acropolis Castle in Butrint is a must-see! This castle played a key role during Venetian rule, strategically positioned to oversee and protect the ancient city below. It’s the perfect final stop after exploring the rest of Butrint National Park. Surrounded by lush greenery, the castle offers a peaceful and historic atmosphere. To make the most of your visit, plan to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. The entrance is tucked behind the restaurant and parking lot, near the car ferry, so keep an eye out.
Once inside, be sure to head to the top for panoramic views of Butrint’s stunning landscape. The sweeping scenery is not only breathtaking but also offers a moment to reflect on the centuries of history beneath your feet. It’s a great spot for photos or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings. Here’s a bit of history for you: The Venetian Republic, a dominant maritime power from the 11th to the 18th centuries, acquired Butrint along with Corfu in 1387 to secure control over key trade routes in the Adriatic. To safeguard this strategically important region, they built the castle as a defensive stronghold. Butrint wasn’t just valuable for its location, it also supplied essential resources like fish, timber, olives, and even grazing land for the horses of the Venetian garrison stationed on Corfu.
Albania is a great destination for families and kids under 12 often get free entry to places like this. Bonus points for the leaflets being available in multiple languages, gotta appreciate the extra effort!
Situated within the Acropolis Castle, the Archaeological Museum of Butrint is a fascinating highlight of the national park. Despite its modest size, the museum offers a perfectly curated and digestible overview of Butrint’s rich history, spanning from the Iron Age to the Late Middle Ages. Reopened in 2005, it displays a variety of artifacts uncovered in the area, including sculptures, mosaics and other archaeological treasures that vividly bring the city’s past to life.
To reach the museum, follow the scenic path that winds through the trees up to the castle. Along the way, you’ll find clear and informative signs in both English and Albanian, making the journey as engaging as the destination. Once at the top, the reconstructed 13th-century Venetian Castle adds an extra layer of historical charm, housing the museum in a setting that perfectly complements the story of Butrint.
Just 4 km north of Butrint National Park, Ksamil is a little slice of paradise often nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe.” And honestly, it lives up to the hype. Think crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, and stylish beach clubs where you can kick back and soak up the sun all day. Spend your time swimming in those picture-perfect waters, sipping on a cocktail at a beachfront bar, and finishing off with a delicious seafood dinner at the famous Mussel House.
But Ksamil isn’t just about its stunning beaches, there’s plenty more to see and do. Visit the magical Blue Eye spring or even take a quick boat ride to Corfu for a little island-hopping adventure. Whether you’re after relaxation, fun, or incredible food, Ksamil has much te offer! Ready to discover this beautiful place? Check out our full guide to Ksamil for all the tips!
Just 17 km north of Butrint National Park, you’ll find Sarandë, a lively coastal town where sunny beaches meet a dash of history. Take a stroll along Rruga Jonianet, the town’s bustling seaside promenade, and you’ll be greeted by a mix of bars, seafood restaurants, and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Whether you’re after a chilled afternoon or a fun night out, Sarandë has you covered! Especially when the cruise ships roll in and add an extra buzz to the atmosphere.
Want to take it easy? Grab a gelato and settle into a shady spot under a palm tree for some well-earned relaxation. Or explore the charming little shops along the promenade, where you can pick up local goodies like fresh honey, olive oil and handmade jewelry. Hungry? Make sure to visit Haxhi, a cozy eatery tucked just off the main strip. With its welcoming vibe, stylish décor, and amazing food, it’s the kind of spot you’ll want to return to. If a drink with a view is more your thing, the promenade offers plenty of cafés and bars, though those postcard-worthy sea views might come with a slightly higher bill. Want to dive deeper into Sarandë? Check out our full blog for all the best tips and must-visit spots in Sarande!
Just 35 kilometers from Butrint National Park lies the mesmerizing Blue Eye, or “Syri i Kaltër” as the locals call it. This natural wonder is a must-see when visiting Albania. The spring got its name because it looks like (yep,) you guessed it, a bright blue human eye! With deep blue water at the center blending into vibrant greens and turquoise, it’s a sight that’ll leave you speechless.
Here’s the cool part: the spring pumps out a staggering 18,400 liters of water every second and stays a crisp 10°C all year long. It also feeds the Bistricë River and is thought to be over 50 meters deep, though no one knows its exact depth, which just adds to the mystery. With so many springs in the world, the Blue Eye of Albania truly stands out. Curious to learn more? Check out our full guide about the Blue Eye in Albania!
Looking to add more stops to your itinerary after Butrint National Park? Check out some of Albania’s incredible coastal gems like Himarë, Dhërmi, Palasë, and lively Vlorë. Himarë is the perfect place to unwind, with its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and hidden treasures like the stunning Gjipe Beach. A bit further up the coast, Dhërmi is a mix of chill vibes and lively fun, with its charming whitewashed houses, buzzing beach bars, and the famous Kala Festival that draws music fans every summer.
Up for an adventure? Palasë should be on your list. Its dramatic scenery, where mountains meet the sea, is unforgettable, and it’s also home to Albania’s only Blue Flag beach. Last but not least, there’s Vlorë, a vibrant city packed with energy. Walk along its colorful promenade, explore its rich history, or visit natural wonders like the Karaburun Peninsula. If you’ve got the time, try to visit as many of these spots as you can, they’re all worth it!
Getting to Butrint National Park is easy, no matter where you’re coming from. Whether you’re taking the bus, driving yourself, hopping in a taxi or booking a tour. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:
For a hassle-free experience, we recommend renting your car through Sunny Cars. They include free cancellation and full insurance, so you can hit the road with peace of mind. Book your car here and get ready for your Albanian adventure!
Butrint National Park is open year-round, and each season brings its own unique charm, from vibrant greenery in spring to a tranquil, mystical atmosphere in winter. If you’re visiting in the middle of summer, prepare for the heat! Temperatures often soar above 35°C, making it a toasty experience as you explore the ancient ruins. Summer also brings more visitors, especially around midday, so plan accordingly.
For the best experience, aim to visit between April and October. May, June, or September are ideal months, offering warm, sunny weather without the heavy summer crowds. If you’re visiting during peak season, consider exploring early in the morning or later in the afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and a more peaceful atmosphere.
The main archaeological site at Butrint National Park is open year-round from 8 AM until sunset, so you can enjoy it in almost any season. The museum, located in the Acropolis Castle, is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM. If you’re planning your visit, expect to spend around 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the park. With its stunning ruins, historic buildings, and beautiful scenery, there’s plenty to keep you engaged
At the entrance, you can ask for a guide if you’d like a more in-depth experience, or pick up a guidebook at the ticket booth for a self-guided adventure.
Entry to Butrint National Park costs 1000 LEK (around $10) for adults. Groups of 12+ pay 800 LEK ($8) per person, kids 12–18 pay 500 LEK ($5), and children under 12 enter for free.
Sorry, no swimming allowed in the park, but don’t worry, there’s still plenty to enjoy! Take a stroll down to the shoreline and soak in the stunning views of the marshlands that wrap around the archaeological site. And if you’re craving a swim, just pop over to the town of Ksamil for a refreshing dip in the Adriatic Sea.
Heading to the Butrint National Park? Check out the map below for everything you need to make your trip easy and fun. It’s got all the must-see spots and the best places to stay nearby, whether you’re coming from Ksamil, Sarandë, or Gjirokastër. You’ll find photos, prices, reviews, and quick links to book your stay. Just tap on a marker to get more info and book in no time. Enjoy exploring!
