Butrint
★ 4.7🇦🇱 SarandaSuggested visit 2-3 hoursBest season April to June and September to October, with mild weather
World HeritageArchaeological siteHistoric site
A layered archaeological site from Greek to Roman to Byzantine, shaded by lakeside greenery.
Overview
In southern Albania close to the Corfu strait, Butrint is unusual in layering Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian remains in sequence. A Greek theatre, Roman baths, the mosaics of the baptistery and a Venetian tower stand among dense vegetation. It joined the World Heritage List in 1992, with the protected area extended in 1999.
History
Founded by Greeks in the 7th century BC, it passed through Roman and Byzantine periods, was gradually abandoned in the Middle Ages and has been excavated systematically since the 20th century.
Highlights
- •The Greek theatre
- •The baptistery mosaics
- •Roman baths and the forum
- •The Venetian tower and lake views
Practical tips
- •Vegetation is dense — bring insect repellent
- •Midday heat is strong in summer; mornings are better
Practical information
- Best time
- April-June, September-October
- Tickets
- About ALL 1,000 for adults
- Opening hours
- 8:00-19:00 (earlier closing in winter)
- Local food
- Albanian grilled fish, yoghurt lamb, olive oil salad
- Getting around
- About 18 km from Saranda, roughly 25 minutes by road.
- Visa
- Visa-free for stays up to 30 days with a valid passport.
Traveller reviews
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