How to Travel from Ksamil to Butrint National Park
If you are lucky enough to be spending some time in Ksamil, a day trip to Butrint National Park is very much worth considering. The ancient city of Butrint lies mostly in ruins. However, it is an extraordinary example on ancient Greek and Roman settlements and the history in this part of Albania is really fascinating. We have put together a great guide to show you exactly how to travel from Ksamil to Butrint National Park and back again. We have also included some useful, practical tips and local knowledge.
Public Transport in Albania
Albania is fast becoming a popular tourist destination. However, there is not really an efficient public transport network in place in some areas yet. But, if you plan ahead and leave plenty of time, it is possible to travel around much of Albania using public transport – usually a furgon.
What is a Furgon?
A furgon is a mini bus that will run loosely to a timetable but will sometimes only depart when full. These buses are small and old but they will (almost) always get you from A to B. They are usually a cheap way to travel and a great way to experience how locals get around.
Ksamil to Butrint National Park by Bus
It is possible to travel from Ksamil to Butrint National Park by Bus. You can catch the bus from any of the three little squares by the main road in Ksamil. The bus stops are not signed and the buses are not scheduled, so you will have to wave one down when you see it coming. A one way trip from Ksamil to Butrint National Park costs less than 1 euro but make sure you bring cash as card will not be accepted. There is one bus roughly every hour and the journey takes only 10-15 minutes and will drop you right at the entrance to the Archaeological Park.
How to Buy your Bus Ticket
For our trip from Ksamil to Butrint National Park, we bought our ticket on the bus. After departing, the bus driver’s assistant will come around and collect the money for your ticket. Sometimes that won’t be until you get off at the other end. There are frequent buses from Ksamil to Butrint National Park on a daily basis. Remember, you can only pay by cash.
Useful Tips when Travelling from Ksamil to Butrint National Park by Bus
If you are new to travelling in Albania, it can seem a little bit daunting. However, with a bit of forward planning, some patience and a sense of humour, you will manage to see a lot of this beautiful country and meet some really nice people. To make your trip from Ksamil to Butrint National Park by furgon a little easier, we have summarised some super useful tips.
- Pack plenty of water in the summer (the old buses have no AC and it gets HOT)
- Bring snacks that won’t melt easily
- Have a good supply of wet wipes, not just for kids!
- Maybe bring a handheld fan in the hotter months
- An audio book allows you to enjoy the scenery outside
- There isn’t a luggage hold so pack light and prepare to sit with you bags if they don’t fit in the rack above
- Always have cash for your ticket both ways
- Leave yourself plenty of time and expect delays
Albania is a fantastic country and the more you experience of it the better. Travelling between cities allows you to see very different parts of this small but incredible country.
The Return Bus from Butrint to Ksamil
When taking the bus back from Butrint to Ksamil, all you need to do is wait at the bus stop by the entrance for the next furgon to show up. Again, there will be one bus roughly every hour. Pretty much every bus going north will stop at Ksamil but its always worth checking with the driver when you get on. It’s likely you’ll see the bus approaching across the, rather curious, rope bridge…
How to Drive from Ksamil to Butrint National Park
Many people choose to hire a car for more flexibility and independence. The journey from Ksamil to Butrint National Park by car should take around 10-15 minutes.
The route is simple. From the centre of Ksamil, head south and take the SH81. Drive for around 10 minutes until you see signs for the entrance to Butrint Archaeological Park. If you cross the water on the rope bridge, you have gone too far. You can easily park at the site as there is a large car park.
There are a few interesting stops on the way if you have some extra time. Try the FORGOTTEN HOUSE right on the coast. This abandoned house is in the most beautiful setting with panoramic views, beautiful wild flowers and even one of Albania’s famous bunkers. You can also see across to Ali Pasha’s Castle which sits, isolated, on its own island. If you speak nicely to a local fisherman, they may take you across to the island…
Should I Rent a Car in Ksamil?
This is really down to personal preference. Albania’s public transport is cheap and cheerful and most places are accessible by bus. However, there are very few railways in Albania. The buses – or furgons – are great for travelling between towns and cities. However, the timetable can be a bit restrictive. If you can haggle, a taxi driver will take you anywhere!
Hitchhiking in Albania is a popular way to get around and is supposedly perfectly safe. We have not tried this ourselves but have spoken to many successful hitchers.
If you decide to rent a car in Albania, please make sure you take out the full insurance. Drivers in the Balkans have their own unique style…
Plan your journey in advance as there are many small roads that are not more than dirt tracks. Several mountain routes can be perilous if you do not plan ahead and take great care.
If you take the plunge and decide that driving is best for you, try SIXT. They are really handy if you are starting your journey in Saranda and are located just beside the port.
Take a Taxi from Ksamil to Butrint National Park
Taxis are available from Ksamil to Butrint National Park and will take about 15 minutes to get there. Always make sure you agree on a fare in advance. You should expect to pay around €6 – €8 each way for the journey – although you may be able to haggle them down a little. If you are a small group, it might be worthwhile if you are tight on time.
We would recommend that you agree a pick up time with your driver as it can be quite tricky to find a taxi from Butrint.
There are no trains from Ksamil to Butrint National Park so this is not a travel option in this case.
How About Walking from Ksamil to Butrint National Park
Yes, it is possible to walk from Ksamil to Butrint National Park. The distance is around 4km so it will take just under an hour. Keep in mind the weather conditions though. If you visit in the summer, it may be a bit too hot to be exposed to the sun and scorching heat for that long.
Also, beware of speedy motorists. As far as we know, there are no footpaths for the majority of the way. However, you can walk on the rough terrain at the side of the road.
Ksamil to Butrint National Park
A day trip from Ksamil to Butrint National Park is a really worthwhile way to spend time in this beautiful part of Albania. The contrast between the modern beach bars and party vibes of Ksamil verses the beautiful, ancient, peaceful ruins of Butrint is amazing. The two areas couldn’t be more different! However, one thing that remains the same is the incredible hospitality of the Albanian people.
Where to go next
Ready for another adventure? Why not try travelling from Saranda to Vlore? There is plenty of history and culture to discover in beautiful Vlore. If you need more information about general travel in Albania, Check out our post HERE.
Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.
Have you visited Ksamil or anywhere else in Albania? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!
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