Three UNESCO-grade sights in a single day is only possible privately — no group tour chains Butrint, Saranda and Gjirokastër. It is a long, magnificent day for travellers with little time and big appetites.
How the day works
Pick-up around 6:30 and straight south. Late morning at Butrint, the 2,500-year-old city in its lagoon: the theatre, the baptistery mosaic, the Venetian tower — two hours with a guide before the heat. Then 20 minutes to Saranda for a waterfront lunch. In the afternoon, the mountain road to Gjirokastër: castle, bazaar, tower-house. Home by late evening.
Indicative prices 2026
| Group size | Vehicle | Indicative price (per group) |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 guests | Comfortable sedan | from €390 |
| 4–6 guests | Minivan | from €530 |
| 7–8 guests | Large minivan | from €665 |
All prices indicative, confirmed exactly on WhatsApp. Entrance fees and lunch extra unless noted. Four guests in a minivan ≈ €130 each for a full private day — compare that with any OTA listing.
What is included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Tirana, private vehicle
- Driver-guide in English or Italian all day
- Butrint archaeological park with guided visit
- Saranda waterfront lunch stop (meal not included)
- Gjirokastër castle and bazaar
- All fuel, tolls and parking
Who should (and shouldn't) take this day
It is perfect if you are flying in and out of Tirana with 4–5 days total and want the south's greatest hits without changing hotels. If you have more time, do it properly: our 3-day Riviera tour covers the same places with sunsets and swims. This is the espresso version — intense and unforgettable.
When to go and how to book
April to October. In July–August we start even earlier to beat the heat at Butrint. Date and group size on WhatsApp — confirmed within the hour.
Frequently asked questions
Is 13–14 hours too long?
It is a big day, but the vehicle is comfortable and the stops are perfectly spaced: you are never more than 2 hours in the car. Guests consistently call it the best day of their trip.
Can we end in Saranda instead of returning to Tirana?
Yes — many guests use it as a sightseeing transfer south. Same price, just tell us on WhatsApp.
Is the Ksamil beach stop possible?
Time-wise it means dropping Gjirokastër. If the beach matters more, see our Riviera: Ksamil & Saranda day tour instead.
Are entrance fees included?
No — Butrint is about €10 and Gjirokastër castle €4 per person, paid on the spot. Everything else is included.
You may also like
Ready to plan your Albania adventure?
One message is enough: tell us your dates, where you are staying and what you want to do. We reply in minutes with real options and indicative prices, confirmed before you book.
Plan my trip on WhatsAppor call: +39 351 476 6918