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Butrint

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Butrint (Albania)

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Butrint is Albania's most significant archaeological site, situated on a peninsula between Lake Butrint and the Vivari Channel. Inhabited since prehistoric times, it became a major Greek colony and later a flourishing Roman city. The site features a well-preserved 3rd-century BC theater, a massive 6th-century Paleo-Christian baptistery with intricate mosaics, and the imposing Lion Gate. Walking through the ruins, visitors encounter Roman villas, Byzantine basilicas, and Venetian defensive towers. The surrounding National Park is a haven for biodiversity, protecting Mediterranean forests and wetlands. The hilltop acropolis houses a museum detailing the city's evolution through the centuries. Located just 18 km from Sarandë, it is easily accessible and best visited in the early morning to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the ancient stones amidst the shaded trees.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

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📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Butrint is open year-round as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ruins are extensive and partly shaded by trees.
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Typical hours
Hours are typically 9:00-19:00 in summer, shorter in winter. Check exact times on site.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the archaeological park. Avoid flash in covered areas.
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Time needed
Allow at least 2 to 3 hours for a full walk. The park contains Greek, Roman, and Byzantine structures.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby coastal town of Saranda. The beaches of Ksamil are also worth a detour.
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Getting there
Butrint is about 18 km south of Saranda, reachable by car or bus (Saranda-Butrint line). Parking is available.
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Insider tip
Visit the park early in the morning to enjoy the cool shade. Wear sturdy shoes as paths are uneven.

Geography

Population
2,994 (2023)
Coordinates
39.74613, 20.02121

Facts

  • UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992
  • Ancient theater seating 2500 people
  • 6th-century mosaics in the Baptistery
  • Massive Byzantine basilica ruins
  • Venetian castle housing a museum
  • Iconic 4th-century BC Lion Gate
  • Part of a diverse National Park
  • Strategic location by Vivari Channel

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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Sights in the town Butrint (6)

Venetian Acropolis Castle🏰 castle

Venetian Acropolis Castle is a Venetian castle on the acropolis of the ancient city of Butrint.

Baptistery of Butrint🏺 historical

The Baptistery of Butrint is an early Christian structure and important archaeological site in Butrint.

Buthrotum📍 landmark

Buthrotum was an ancient Greek and later Roman city located in modern-day Butrint.

🕒 Mo-Su 08:00-17:00💶

Butrint National Park🌿 nature

National park established in 2013, featuring archaeological sites and nature in Butrint.

Great Basilica🏺 historical

6th-century Byzantine basilica in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint.

The Lion Gate🏺 historical

The 4th-century BC ancient stone gate of Butrint, adorned with a lion relief.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How much is the entrance fee for Butrint?
The entry fee for foreign tourists is about 1000 ALL (approx. 10 Euro). Locals pay significantly less.
What are the opening hours of Butrint?
The national park is open daily from 08:00 AM until sunset. The museum usually closes around 04:00 PM.
How much time should I plan for Butrint?
You should plan at least 2 to 3 hours to see the main ruins and the museum comfortably.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Only partially. Many paths are uneven and paved with ancient stones, which can be difficult for wheelchairs.
Can you take a bus from Sarandë to Butrint?
Yes, a local bus runs every hour between Sarandë, Ksamil, and Butrint. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes.
Butrint: where is it located?
Butrint is located in Albania.
Butrint: what is there to see?
Highlights include Venetian Acropolis Castle, Baptistery of Butrint, Buthrotum.
Butrint: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Butrint: why is it worth visiting?
Butrint is Albania's most significant archaeological site, situated on a peninsula between Lake Butrint and the Vivari Channel.
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