July 15, 2025 · Updated: April 15, 2026 · By Finikas Cruises Team
Albania to Discover - A Unique Day Trip from Corfu
The Albania to Discover tour gives you the rare chance to visit another country during your stay in Corfu without complicated travel planning.
Why this trip stands out
Most day trips from Corfu focus on island scenery and swimming. This one is different. It takes you across the strait to Albania for a day centered on culture, history, and local life.
If you want variety during your holiday, this is one of the most interesting excursions available from Corfu.
Albania to Discover
€61 adult / €30 child · Approx. 9 hours · Departure 08:30 AM
Meet at the port by 08:00 AM (30 minutes before departure).
What you will see
The guided route includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, one of the most important archaeological sites in the region. Walking through the park, you will see a Greek theatre from the 3rd century BC, Roman baths, a Byzantine basilica, an early Christian baptistery with mosaic floors, and a Venetian castle — all within a lush forest setting that makes the ruins even more atmospheric.
After Butrint, you get 2-3 hours of free time in Saranda, a lively coastal town where you can walk the promenade, browse local shops, and try traditional Albanian food at prices noticeably lower than in Greece.
Practical details
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Meeting time | 08:00 AM at New Port, Corfu |
| Departure | 08:30 AM from New Port, Corfu |
| Return | Approximately 5:30 PM |
| Duration | ~9 hours |
| Price | From €61 per person (€30 child) |
| Butrint entrance | ~€8 (not included, payable on arrival) |
| Free time in Saranda | 2-3 hours |
| Passport required | Yes — valid passport or national ID |
What to bring
- Valid passport or national ID — required for the border crossing between Greece and Albania
- Comfortable walking shoes — Butrint involves walking on uneven terrain through a large archaeological park
- Cash in Euros — widely accepted in Saranda, but ATMs are available if you need Albanian Lek
- Sunscreen and water — the Butrint tour is mostly outdoors
- A camera — the ruins set against the lake and forest are striking
Who should choose this tour?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want more than a beach day. It suits visitors interested in history, culture, and seeing a different side of the region beyond the Ionian islands.
It is also a strong second excursion if you are already planning the Corfu to Paxos cruise and want a completely different experience on another day. Many visitors do both during their stay in Corfu.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a passport?
Yes. A valid passport or national ID card is required for crossing the border between Greece and Albania. Without it, you cannot board.
Is the Butrint entrance fee included?
No. The entrance to Butrint costs approximately €8 per person and is payable on arrival at the site.
What currency is used in Albania?
The Albanian Lek is official, but Euros are widely accepted in Saranda and all tourist areas. ATMs are also available.
Is this trip suitable for elderly passengers?
The boat ride is comfortable, but Butrint involves walking on uneven ground. If mobility is a concern, you can skip Butrint and spend extra time in Saranda instead.
Albania to Discover
€61 adult / €30 child · Approx. 9 hours · Departure 08:30 AM
Meet at the port by 08:00 AM (30 minutes before departure).
