Southern Albania
Gjirokastër, Butrint, Blue Eye and Sarandë
Southern Albania packs UNESCO Ottoman towns, ancient Greek and Roman ruins, karst springs and the Ionian coast into a compact loop. Gjirokastër's stone city, Butrint's layered ruins, the Blue Eye spring and Sarandë's beaches are the anchors.
- • Two UNESCO sites (Butrint and Gjirokastër) plus dozens of ancient sites
- • Combine culture and beach in a single loop
- • Some of the Balkans' best hot springs and rivers
Places to visit in Southern Albania
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Explore Gjirokastër. Visit the hilltop castle, walk the Old Bazaar, and tour Skenduli House. Discover Ottoman history and stone architecture in Albania today.
Explore Sarandë's stunning Mirror Beach, the ancient ruins of Butrint, and Lëkurësi Castle views. Discover the best of the Albanian Riviera in our 2026 guide.
Explore Butrint National Park. Discover the Roman theater, Lion Gate, and ancient ruins of this UNESCO site. Plan your historic Albania trip today.
Visit the Blue Eye's crystal depths. Enjoy forest hikes, turquoise waters, and Riverside dining. Plan your 2026 adventure to Albania's most magical natural pool
Explore Ksamil turquoise waters and the four islands. Relax on pristine sandy beaches, enjoy fresh seafood, and boat through the Ionian. Plan your dream trip.
Southern Albania on the map
Every destination in Southern Albania — click a pin to open the guide.
Highlights of Southern Albania
UNESCO stone city and Ottoman citadel.
2,500 years of ruins on a lagoon peninsula.
Bottomless karst spring near Sarandë.
Southern coastal hub facing Corfu.
Thermal baths and the Vjosa river.
Free wild pools by an Ottoman bridge.
Frequently asked questions
Can you day-trip from Corfu to Albania?
Yes — the Sarandë ferry from Corfu takes 30 minutes and Butrint is a 20-minute drive from the port.
Is the Blue Eye worth visiting?
Yes, especially between May and September. Arrive early or late to avoid crowds.
How many days for Southern Albania?
4–5 days: Sarandë base with Butrint & Blue Eye, then two nights in Gjirokastër.
Plan your Southern Albania trip
Build a custom itinerary, browse ready-made road trips, or explore every destination on the map.
