Independent guide, not an official siteViewpoints, castle and beachesUpdated October 2026
The beach at Ksamil, Albania

Day trip from Corfu to Albania: Saranda, Butrint and Ksamil

From Corfu town, a ferry reaches Saranda in Albania in well under an hour. A day trip fits the ancient ruins of Butrint and the beaches of Ksamil. It is a border crossing, so bring your passport.

Photo: DieliAlla, CC0

By Lakones.com editors · Updated

A day in Albania is easy from Corfu town: the ferry takes well under an hour on fast boats. Most trips combine the ancient site of Butrint with the beaches of Ksamil and a stop in Saranda.

Our top pick: Day Trip to Saranda and Butrint National Park from Corfu

Before you go

Passport required. The crossing is an international border. Check the entry rules for your nationality before booking. Rules change.

  • Corfu town port is the usual departure point. Allow time for check-in and border control.
  • Pick a timetable that gives you a return crossing on the same day, and keep that ticket safe.
  • Albania uses the lek, but euros are widely accepted in tourist places; ask the price first.

What to see

  • Butrint. A UNESCO site beside a lagoon with Greek, Roman and Byzantine remains.
  • Ksamil. Small, clear-water beaches and views of islets.
  • Saranda. The waterfront town, a short walk from the port.
  • Blue Eye. A spring in the hills, included in some tours.

Ways to go

Option Notes
Guided day trip Transport and guide, simplest
Ferry ticket only Cheapest; organise taxis and tickets yourself
Most reviewed

Day Trip to Saranda and Butrint National Park from Corfu

Guided trip to Butrint and Saranda. 4.2/5 from 1,013 reviews.

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Corfu: Albania Day Trip with Blue Eye and Saranda Visit

Adds the Blue Eye spring. 3.8/5 from 260 reviews.

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Why book online

  • Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
  • Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
  • Mobile ticket on your phone
  • Reviews from verified travelers

The trip leaves from Corfu town, so plan the transfer from Lakones (about 40 minutes): how to get around. For a less demanding day, see Corfu town.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a passport to go to Albania from Corfu?

Yes. This is an international crossing, and you pass border control. Bring your passport and check the entry rules for your nationality before you book.

How long is the ferry from Corfu to Saranda?

Sources give about 30 minutes on fast boats and up to around 70 minutes on slower ferries. Timetables change by season.

What is Butrint?

A UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site near Saranda, with Greek, Roman and Byzantine remains set by a lagoon.

What is Ksamil known for?

Small beaches with clear water and views of islets just offshore, a short drive from Butrint.

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