Albania to Discover
The Albania to Discover cruise is a full-day boat trip from Corfu to the Albanian Riviera, departing daily at 08:30 AM from the New Port (meet at the port by 08:00 AM). The 9-hour excursion costs €45 per person and includes a boat crossing to Saranda, a guided visit to the Butrint UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins, and 2–3 hours of free time to explore Saranda's promenade, beaches, and local restaurants. A valid passport or national ID is required for the border crossing. This is the only day trip from Corfu that takes you to a different country, combining Mediterranean history, culture, and affordable dining into a single memorable experience.
| Trip at a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Meeting time | 08:00 AM at New Port, Corfu |
| Departure | 08:30 AM, New Port, Corfu |
| Return | Approx. 5:30 PM |
| Duration | ~9 hours |
| Price | €45 per person |
| Highlights | Butrint UNESCO Site, Saranda town |
| Free time | 2–3 hours in Saranda |
| Required | Valid passport or national ID |
| Not included | Butrint entrance (~€8), food |
What is the Albania day trip from Corfu?
Step across the border and into a world of discovery on our Albania day cruise from Corfu. This unique excursion takes you to the stunning Albanian Riviera, one of the Mediterranean's best-kept secrets.
Departing from Corfu's New Port, we sail across the narrow strait to the Albanian coast, arriving at the charming coastal town of Saranda. With its sparkling blue waters and lively promenade, Saranda is the perfect introduction to this fascinating country.
From Saranda, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, an ancient city with ruins spanning Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. Walking through this archaeological park is like stepping through 2,500 years of Mediterranean history.
You will also have free time to explore the vibrant town of Saranda, where you can shop at local markets, taste traditional Albanian cuisine, and soak in the atmosphere of this rapidly developing riviera destination.
The Albanian Riviera offers crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountains dropping into the sea, and a warmth of hospitality that will leave a lasting impression.
Tour Highlights
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint
- Explore the charming coastal town of Saranda
- Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Albanian Riviera
- Experience authentic Albanian cuisine and culture
- Cross the strait between Corfu and Albania by boat
- Walk through 2,500 years of Mediterranean history
- See dramatic mountain landscapes dropping into the sea
- Professional crew with local guide
What's Included
- Boat cruise from Corfu to Saranda, Albania
- Guided visit to Butrint archaeological site
- Free time in Saranda town
- Professional English-speaking crew and guide
- WC facilities on board
- Safety equipment and life jackets
Not Included
- Butrint entrance fee (approx. €8 per person)
- Food and drinks
- Personal travel insurance
- Valid passport or ID required for border crossing
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a passport to visit Albania?
Yes, a valid passport or national ID card is required for the border crossing between Greece and Albania. The crossing happens by sea as the boat sails from Corfu to Saranda. Border formalities are handled at the port and typically take around 15–20 minutes. EU citizens can use a national ID card, while non-EU citizens need a valid passport. Make sure your document is not expired and bring it with you on the day of the cruise. Without valid identification, you will not be permitted to disembark in Albania.
What time does the Albania cruise depart?
The Albania to Discover cruise departs at 08:30 AM from the New Port of Corfu and returns around 5:30 PM, making it a full 9-hour day trip. We ask passengers to meet at the port by 08:00 AM (30 minutes before departure) to complete boarding. The New Port is located at 6 Eth. Antistaseos, Corfu 49100. The crossing from Corfu to Saranda takes approximately 30–45 minutes, giving you most of the day to explore Albania before the return journey.
Is the entrance fee to Butrint included?
The entrance fee to the Butrint archaeological site is not included in the cruise price and costs approximately €8 per person, payable on arrival in Albanian Lek or Euros. Butrint is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 20 km south of Saranda, featuring ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins spanning over 2,500 years. Transport to and from Butrint is included in the cruise, along with a professional guide who will walk you through the key historical sites within the park.
How much free time do we get in Saranda?
You will have approximately 2–3 hours of free time in Saranda to explore independently. The town has a beautiful seafront promenade lined with cafes and restaurants, a public beach for a quick swim, and local shops where you can buy souvenirs and Albanian products. Saranda is known for affordable dining, with full meals often costing €5–10 per person. The town is compact and walkable, so you can easily see the main sights on foot. Euros are widely accepted, though ATMs are available if you prefer to withdraw Albanian Lek.
Is this cruise suitable for elderly passengers?
The cruise itself is comfortable, but the Butrint archaeological site involves walking on uneven terrain. If you have mobility concerns, you can skip the Butrint visit and spend extra time in Saranda instead.
What currency is used in Albania?
The Albanian Lek (ALL) is the official currency, but Euros are widely accepted in Saranda and tourist areas. ATMs are also available in town.