albania tour from corfu

Unforgettable Corfu to Albania Day Trip: Itinerary, Ferry Info, & Travel Tips

• January 12, 2024
• by Jenoa Matthes

Albania’s beautiful riviera coastline is just a quick 30-minute ferry ride across the Ionian sea from Corfu. While this incredible country deserves more than just a day’s visit, it is possible to do a Corfu to Albania day trip.

In this post, we are sharing three different itineraries to help you plan the perfect day trip to Albania from Corfu.

From visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Butrint National park, to exploring the magnificent Blue Eye, or the town of Gjirkoster, you’re sure to have an amazing day in Albania.

We suggest only doing a day trip during the high season, from June to September, as the ferries run early in the morning and late at night during this time of year. A day trip to Albania from Corfu is not possible during the low season (winter months) because the ferries only run once per day.

You’ll also find a detailed guide on taking the ferry from Corfu Town to Albania, including the best ferry times and information on how to get around Albania.

At the end of the post, we’ve shared a map for you to easily follow as you plan your day trip. If you prefer to travel with a group, you’ll also find a list of the best tours from Corfu to Albania.

Let’s get started.

How to get from Corfu to Albania

The only way to get from Corfu to Albania is by ferry. There are two companies offering daily services to the port in Saranda, Albania: Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways.

Both companies run different schedules, so make sure to check either schedule to see which one works best for you.

Catch the ferry from the port in Corfu Town , Greece. You should arrive 1 hour prior to departure , as you need enough time to go through border control. During the summer months, it can get exceptionally busy and the lines are long.

There is both a fast ferry and a slow ferry. The fast ferry from Corfu to Albania takes 30 minutes and the slow ferry takes around 65 minutes.

For your day trip, we HIGHLY recommend taking the 30-minute ferry to maximize your time.

The ferry from Greece arrives in Saranda, Albania – located between Himare in the north and Ksamil in the south.

Once you arrive, you will have to go through border control. We visited in early May and the line to get through customs went pretty quickly. Again, the summer season brings more tourists and the wait can be around 30-45 minutes to get through the border.

A little tip – if you sit near the exit door on the ferry, you’ll be one of the first ones off the boat, which will save you a lot of time in the end.

Just outside of the ferry, you can catch a bus or a taxi to continue on with your day trip. We’ve included more info on this further down the post.

Important! Visiting Corfu and Albania during the summer can be incredibly busy. Make sure to book your ferry tickets a few weeks in advance in order to secure your tickets.

You will be crossing country lines, so you will need your passport to get into Albania and back into Greece. Albania is not part of the European Union, so make sure to have all of your documents lined up beforehand.

3 Corfu to Albania day trip itineraries

With so many places to see near Saranda, Albania, we’ve put together three itineraries for you to choose from. All of these will offer a bit of Albanian history, along with stunning natural beauty.

Option #1: Butrint National Park & Ksamil

This Corfu to Albania day trip itinerary is the easiest and most relaxed option of the three itineraries. You’ll visit the ancient city of Butrint National Park and will also have time to explore the beaches in Ksamil.

Early morning: Arrive in Albania & head to Butrint

Catch the earliest ferry, which is usually at 8:00am or 8:45am, and arrive in Saranda in the morning. After you make your way through border control, you’ll need to get out some Albanian Lek for your day trip, as most things are paid for in cash.

As you exit, there are a couple of ATMs to the right of the ferry terminal.

Once you’ve taken out some catch, you have 2 options. You can either take a taxi from the port of Saranda to Butrint National Park or you can take the bus.

A taxi will cost you around 2,000-3,000 Lek ($20-$30) each way. The bus costs 250 Lek ($2.50) each way. Here’s the catch though – the bus only leaves once every hour starting at 6:30 am.

For your day trip, we recommend taking a taxi . If you want to save some money, you can see if there are any other travelers who are also going to Butrint National Park and split the cost of the taxi with them (up to 4 passengers total).

We did this and it saved us $5 per person. The taxi ride takes 30 minutes from Saranda to Butrint.

Butrint National Park

Butrint National Park is an ancient town that was founded in the 8th century BC and later occupied by the Romans and Ottomans. Wander around this UNESCO World Heritage and discover ancient ruins from the past.

We spent 2 hours exploring around Butrint and it completely exceeded our expectations. It’s easily one of the highlights of the Albanian Riviera and is well worth the visit.

The cost to visit Butrint is 1,000 Lek ($10) per person and must be paid in cash.

Afternoon: Lunch & beach in Ksamil

After Butrint national park, grab a taxi back to Ksamil (or the bus if you time it right) and head to lunch.

We suggest going to lunch at a seaside restaurant in Ksamil, such as Abiori Restaurant Pizzeria or Poda Restaurant Ksamil . Both in fantastic locations and and serve pasta, fresh fish, and some Albanian specialties.

You won’t find a lot of authentic Albanian cuisine in Ksamil, so don’t plan on it. The food leans heavily towards Greek and Mediterranean food in this region.

After lunch, you can either relax at one of the beaches in Ksamil, or you can head to down to Ksamil Beach 7 and rent a kayak to explore the Ksamil islands.

If you have the time, we highly suggest renting a kayak. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the beautiful water and explore around the islands.

Kayak rentals are 1,000 Lek $10 per hour. It takes about 15 minutes to kayak to the furthest island, which has a narrow beach. You can relax here for a bit or choose to continue kayaking around the islands.

Important! Albania is a bit different than Greece. You have to pay to rent a sun bed at almost all of the beaches here. The cost is between 1,500 Lek – 2,500 Lek ($15-$20) for the day depending on the beach. Keep this in mind if you plan to spend the afternoon at a beach club.

Evening: Saranda & Ferry back to Corfu

After an afternoon in Ksamil, catch a taxi from the main street in Ksamil and take the 20-minute ride back to Saranda. You can have the taxi drop you off at the port, or if you still have time to spare, you can take a walk along the beachfront promenade in Saranda.

Again, make sure to arrive at the port 1 hour before your departure, just in case there is a long line through customs.

Option #2: Butrint & The Blue Eye

This Corfu to Albania day trip itinerary is best done in the summer when you can take the ferry early in the morning and depart Albania later after 8:00pm. This itinerary takes you to the magnificent natural wonder, The Blue Eye , as well as a stop at Butrint National Park.

You will need to hire a taxi for the full-day for this option.

Early morning: Arrive in Albania & head to the Blue Eye

Catch the earliest ferry to Albania, which is either at 8:00am or 8:45am during the high season. Once you make it through customs, turn right and head towards Rruga Jonianet. Grab some cash at one of the ATMs along the way to cover your costs for the day.

Again, almost everything must be paid in cash in Albania, so do not plan to rely on your credit card.

You will find many taxis outside of the ferry terminal and on Rruga Jonianet. Pick a driver that you feel comfortable with and agree on a price for the day.

For this itinerary, you will need to hire a taxi driver for the entire day. It should cost around $180 (1800-1900 Lek) total.

Make your journey to the Blue Eye, a stunning natural spring located in the mountains. It’s only a 35-minute drive from Saranda.

The taxi will drop you off at the ticket stand where you will need to pay the entrance fee of 50 Lek (50 cents). From here, it’s a 15-minute walk to get to the Blue Eye.

Important! Due to recent restrictions, you can no longer swim in the Blue Eye. However, you can still hike around it, which is absolutely stunning and well worth it.

Afternoon: Lunch and Butrint National Park

After your visit to the Blue Eye, make your way back towards the coast to Butrint National Park. If you’re hungry at this time, you can either pick up lunch in Saranda or Ksamil. In Ksamil, we recommend Abiori Beach Bar Restaurant Pizzeria , or Bar Restorant Korali Ksamil for seaside views.

If you want some fresh mussels, we highly recommend stopping by the Mussel House for lunch. They grow their mussels right outside the restaurant.

If you’re going for something quick and cheap, there is a place that serves decent gyros called Grill House Gyros on the main road in Ksamil.

The drive from the Blue Eye to Butrint takes about 1 hour. Plan to spend at least 2 hours exploring Butrint National Park. The cost is 1,000 Lek ($10) per person and you have to pay in cash.

Evening: Ferry back to Corfu

After Butrint National Park, you might have some time to wander around Ksamil or Saranda for a bit. Otherwise, head back to the ferry terminal at least 1 hour before departure.

Option #3: Gjirokaster

This Corfu to Albania day trip itinerary takes you to the incredible historic city of Gjirokaster . For this option, you will need to hire a taxi for the full day and plan on taking an early ferry and arriving back in Greece on the last available ferry, preferably after 6pm to give you enough time.

Early morning: Arrive in Albania & head to Gjirokaster

Catch the earliest ferry from Corfu to Albania. Upon arrival, take out some cash at an ATM along the road leading to Rruga Jonianet and find a taxi to take you to Gjirokaster and back for the day.

You will need to hire the taxi for the full day and the cost should be around $180 (1,800 Lek). Make sure to negotiate and agree on a price before getting into the taxi.

The drive from Saranda to Gjirokaster takes 1 hour. You can easily spend your entire day here wandering the streets and exploring one of Albania’s most beautiful cities.

Gjirokaster’s roots stretch back to the 12th century, but it really flourished under Ottoman rule from the 15th to 19th centuries. This period endowed the city with a unique architectural style, characterized by stone-roofed houses and cobbled streets, earning it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Start off your morning at Gjirokaster Castle, one of the largest fortresses in the Balkans, offering breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding valley. Inside the castle, you’ll find a military museum showcasing weaponry from different eras.

The cost to visit is 200 Lek per person ($2), and you have to pay extra to visit the museum.

Afternoon: Explore Gjirokaster

After a visit to the castle, make your way down to the old town for a traditional Albanian lunch.

We suggest eating at Vojsava Restaurant , one of our favorites in town that serves local specialties like qofte, tave kosi, and qifqi. You really can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.

The restaurant is located along the old bazaar, so after your lunch, you can wander around the bazaar and do some shopping. Vendors sell local goods like rugs, slippers, lace tablecloths, and more.

If you’re looking for an authentic rug, make sure to ask if they have handmade wool rugs. Most of the ones hanging on the shops are imported cotton rugs.

From here, you should visit either one or both the Skenduli House and the Zekate House. If you have the time, we highly suggest visiting both. They cost between 200-300 Lek each and offer absolutely stunning interiors.

Head back to Saranda and give yourself enough time to arrive at the port at least 1 hour before departure. You should have plenty of time to see most of the main sights in Gjirokaster within a day.

Map for your Corfu to Albania day trip

Use this map to help guide you on your day trip in Albania. We included restaurants, top sights, and even some important landmarks like bus stops.

To save the map to Google Maps on your phone or computer, click on the star next to the title. You’ll be able to find the map in your “saved maps” list on your phone. To see a list of all the items on the map, click the box with arrow on the left. To enlarge the map, click the box on the right.

Tours from Corfu to Albania

Prefer to take a guided tour instead of planning your own day trip from Corfu to Albania? Here are two tours that you should look into.

Tips for visiting Albania from Corfu

• Take an early ferry to Albania from Corfu – During the summer (from July), you can get a ferry as early 8:00am from Corfu to Albania. We suggest taking the earliest ferry to make the most of your day.
• Get to the port an hour before your departure time – You will have to go through customs at the port in both Greece and Albania, so make sure to arrive early in order to make your ferry in time.
• Pick up cash at an ATM in Saranda – Almost everything in Albania is paid in cash. There are a couple of ATMs near the ferry terminal in Saranda; otherwise, you’ll find several ATMs in the city center.
• Book ferry tickets in advance – During the summer months, the ferries can get extremely busy. We suggest booking a couple of weeks in advance because of this.
• Get an eSIM for the day or download offline maps in advance – The phone coverage in Albania is different than the coverage in Greece. If you want to have phone service during the day, then you’ll want to download an eSIM before going to Albania. We always use Airalo to get eSIMs. You can also download offline maps instead of purchasing service.
• Bring your swimsuit if you plan to visit the Ksamil beaches – Pack a swimsuit if you’re wanting to go swimming in the Albanian Riviera during your day trip from Corfu to Albania!
• Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking a decent amount in these itineraries, so we recommend wearing shoes that you can walk around in all day.

Corfu to Albania Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport from Corfu to Albania?

Yes, Albania is not located in the EU and Greece is part of it; therefore, you need a passport to get into Albania from Greece. Make sure to do your research ahead of time to ensure you have all of the proper documents, visas, and other important information prepared.

How long is the ferry from Albania to Corfu?

There are two ferries from Albania to Corfu: the 30-minute high-speed ferry and the 65 minute ferry. We suggest taking the 30-minute ferry.

What is the closest Albanian city from Corfu?

Saranda is the closest Albanian city from Corfu. It’s a large city with fantastic restaurants, a port, and a food market.

More information for your day trip to Albania:

Southern Albania

• Best Beaches in Himare

Northern Albania

• Things to do in Durres
• Things to do in Berat
• Things to do in Kruja
• Things to do in Theth
• Driving to Theth
• Blue Eye in Theth

Albania Travel Planning Guide Albania Travel Insurance  – Should you get travel insurance for Albania? YES! We always get travel insurance before all of our trips for peace of mind. Check out  Travel Insurance Master  to find the best plan for you. Albania Rental Cars  – Is it safe to rent a car in Albania? Yes! We rented a car in Albania for one month and it is the best way to see the country. We rented our car through  Discover Cars  (our go-to rental agency), which helps you find the best rates no matter where you are traveling. Albania Phone Plans –  If your phone plan does not offer free coverage in Albania, then we suggest getting an eSIM. We used  Airalo  during our trip to Albania, and we had fantastic coverage the entire time. We even had to rely on it for data to get some work done, and it worked great! Albania Hotels –  Wondering where to book your accommodations for Albania? We booked all of our hotels through  Booking . All of the hotels were responsive through the messaging tool, and there are endless options to choose from. Note – some hotels in Albania require you to pay in cash. Make sure to message the hotel in advance to be prepared with the correct form of payment.| Drinking Water in Albania –  Wondering if you can drink the tap water in Albania? We were advised to not drink the water by our hotels, so we ended up buying bottled water instead.

4 COMMENTS:

Thank you for this very informative piece. We’re going on holiday to Corfu in mid-May 2024 and are planning a day trip to Albania. I love Roman ruins (though I’m pretty sure the Romans were done and dusted by 500AD so Butrint can’t have been built by them in the 8th Century). The Blue Eye looks great too.

I’d just like to know please which were the two guided tours you suggested we investigate.

Thank you for letting me know of my typo! I’ve updated it 🙂

How exciting that you are going to Corfu! These are the only 2 tours that I could find and both go to Butrint, but not to the Blue Eye. If you do want to go to the Blue Eye, the best thing to do would be to hire a taxi once you arrive in Saranda. Just make sure to agree on a price beforehand.

Here are the 2 tours I found:

Private tour to Albania from Corfu

Day trip to Saranda and Butrint from Corfu

Hope this helps! Best, Jenoa

We are going to Corfu in August 2024 and stumbling on this blog was great! Am thinking of booking a night or two in Albania – what town would you recommend please – we are not particular about anything, just to sight see, get a feel of the country and tick off Albania? We don’t want to travel too far into Albania as we will head back to Corfu for the rest of our holiday. Family of 5 – with teenagers. Thanks!

Hi Titilola,

You have a couple of options. If you don’t want to rent a car, I suggest going to Ksamil for a night or two to experience the beaches there. It’s a 20-30 minute taxi ride from Saranda.

You can also take the bus to Butrint National Park from Ksamil on a little half-day trip. It’s just 10 minutes up the road. Also, you could go to the Blue Eye and Gjirokaster on a day trip from Ksamil, which will give you more of a feel of authentic Albanian culture.

Ksamil will be extremely busy in August, so be prepared for packed beaches!

Another option is to rent a car for a couple of days in Saranda, which is where the ferry drops you off. Then you can drive up north to Himare , stay here for a couple of nights, and enjoy the gorgeous beaches in this area. This is our favorite area in the Albanian Riviera. It’s about a 1.5 hour drive north of Saranda.

Hope this helps! Happy to answer any other questions.

Best, Jenoa

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How to Visit the Albanian Riviera from the Greek Island of Corfu

Inside: The ferry from Corfu is one of the most popular ways to visit Saranda, Albania and the beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Here’s how to get two great destinations for the price of one!

I hadn’t originally planned on a stop in Corfu during my 3 week tour of the Balkans .

But I really wanted to visit Albania while I was in the region and the options for getting there were somewhat grim. No trains, and limited flights. 

So when I discovered that the high-speed ferry from Corfu to Albania is one of the most popular ways to visit the country, it seemed like a sign.

A sign that it was time to get back to the Greeks.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle).  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

Corfu seems the perfect place to base for the weekend and as a bonus, I’ll get to spend a full day in Albania. There will be sun and sand and gyros (not together, hopefully).

It’s the perfect plan.

I am travel genius, hear me roar.

So I catch a flight from my last stop in Sofia, Bulgaria, connect in Athens, and by 10:00pm Friday night I touch down on the island of Corfu.

Read More: Sofia: A Bulgarian Beauty

I’m ready for what I fully expect to be an idyllic weekend of Greek Island bliss and Albanian cultural exploration.

As luck would have it, smugness gets you nowhere.

But before I get to that, let’s briefly cover the latest updates for travel to Greece.

Traveling to Greece this summer

If you’re headed to Greece this summer this one is required reading. From the current entry requirements to the essentials of island-hopping, here’s every little thing you need to know:

Planning a trip to Greece in 2024?

From the most spectacular beaches to the tastiest treats to try, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to the Greek Islands!

And now, back to Corfu!

Taxi strikes and a late night

As I emerge from the arrivals area, I quickly learn that there are no taxis due to a strike.

Alrighty, not a problem. There’s a city bus into town which is just a quick two miles away.

I catch the bus and arrive in the main square of Corfu Town 30 minutes later. My hotel is (allegedly) in town so how hard can it be to find on foot? After all, I use instinct for navigation all the time!

My first mistake is not having a map or a working GPS on my phone.

My second mistake is greatly underestimating the size of Corfu Town…it is HUGE by Greek island standards.

I wander aimlessly for a bit before stopping in a shop to ask for directions. Turns out, my hotel, the Sunset Hotel Corfu , is on the “outskirts” of town and definitely not within walking distance from my current location.

The shop owner kindly directs me to a different bus from the main square that will get me pretty close. I head back to the bus station to wait for the right bus.

There are at least 100 other people waiting for the same bus – the last of the night since it is now after 11:00pm.

Dear God, please let me make it on this bus. I do not have a Plan B.

Thankfully, when the bus arrives, I squeeze my way on and tell the driver where I am going. He nods reassuringly. I have no idea how many stops we are making or where to get off but I decide to roll with it.

After more than a dozen stops, I am still clueless about my destination. I work my way back to the driver through the crowd and again say the name of my hotel.

Of course, we have already passed it.

Thankfully, the driver is a sweetheart and tells me to stay on the bus after the last stop and he’ll take me back.

My hotel, at last

Finally, around midnight I walk into the Sunset Hotel.

While checking in, I inquire about ferry times to Saranda, Albania for the next day. The front desk agent is lovely, but his English is limited and he’s not familiar with the ferry schedule.

He says confidently that the girl at the desk in the morning will know.

With not much to go on, I set my alarm for 7:00am so there’s plenty of time to get the information I need and get to the port in time for the ferry to the Albanian Riviera.

Sidebar: You can skip the fuss and just book a tour!

I’ll get into my DIY trip to Albania in a second but if you have a spare day in Corfu and want to eliminate the hassle of sorting out the ferry and transportation around Saranda, you can book this full-day tour and leave the details to them:

Corfu-Albania Day Trip by Ferry w/Optional Butrint Tour

This 10-hour tour includes hotel pick-up and roundtrip ferry transportation to Saranda. Plus the option to add on a tour of the UNESCO site of Butrint (definitely do that!). Spend the rest of the day relaxing along the sunny shores of the lovely Albanian Riviera.

A Day Trip to the Albanian Riviera from Corfu

The next morning I head down to the front desk to inquire again about ferry times. As advertised, the morning girl is well-versed in ferry times. The first ferry is at 9:00am.

In the summer high season there are up to 13 ferries per day between Corfu and Saranda. In the winter months, as little as 2 per day.

She explains that I should arrive by 8:30am and I will need to take the bus to the port since, of course, the taxi drivers are on strike. Good thing I got up early!

I catch the next bus to town, easily locate the Albania ferry terminal, and buy my ticket for the return ferry ride to the resort town of Saranda, Albania. Ferry prices range from 20-30 euro depending on the line.

Tip: The absolute best site for booking ferries in advance in Greece is FerryHopper.com . (I wish this site had been an option back when I originally visited. But these days, it’s the only site I use!)

The Ferry ride from Old Town Corfu to Saranda, Albania

It’s a quick easy and 30-minute hydrofoil ride across the narrow channel from Corfu to Saranda, Albania. Our passports are checked in transit so when the ferry docks the arrivals process is a breeze.

And as we dock in Albania I am instantly taken by surprise with Saranda.

It is absolutely beautiful!

We disembark the boat and the whole day is in front of me.

The plan? A visit to the archaeological site of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and then an afternoon discovering the beaches of the Albanian Riviera.

Getting to Butrint National Park

My research mentioned a local bus that would take me right to Butrint. But at first glance, I don’t see a bus station anywhere.

I walk a few minutes before noticing an old, run-down bus on the side of the road. The sign in the window reads simply, “Butrint.”

As it turns out, I don’t need a bus station, just one lone bus. We have a winner.

I walk up to the driver to inquire about the fare and whether they accept euro (I haven’t changed any money yet). He doesn’t speak English, yet he enthusiastically waves me aboard. I step aboard and hope for the best.

Side Note: I know what you’re thinking, my advance planning for this portion of the trip was abysmal (you’re not wrong). Lucky for you, there are far easier ways to visit Albania from Corfu without worrying about ferry times, finding the right bus to Butrint, or currency conversions. Just book a day trip like the one I mentioned above.

But back to my “do it yourself” semi-success story…

As the bus gets underway, a girl comes around collecting money for tickets. I hand her 1 euro hoping it will suffice. It does. (A lucky break since I don’t want to be put out on the side of the dirt road we are currently on.)

Forty-five minutes later we arrive in Butrint.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint Albania

Considered a microcosm of Mediterranean history, Butrint covers the rise and fall of great empires from 4th century BC to the Ottoman defenses created in the early 19th century.

According to classical mythology, Butrint was founded by exiles fleeing the fall of Troy. Virgil’s epic poem, the Aeneid, recounts Aeneas visiting Butrint on his way to Italy.

By the 19th century, Butrint had become a small fishing village clustered around a castle. Over the centuries the ancient town had all but disappeared under layers of silt and vegetation but in 1928 an Italian archaeological mission began excavating the site.

Over the course of the next 10 years, they uncovered the grand monuments visible today. In 1992, the site was named to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

It’s a fascinating site to explore and reminds me of some of the other ancient cities I’ve visited like the Acropolis in Athens and Kourion in Cyprus.

Read More: 24 Hours in Athens

Read More: Cyprus – Aphrodite’s Divided Isle

Discovering the Albanian Riviera

My visit to Butrint complete, I hop on the next bus back to Saranda. It’s beach time!

The 80-mile stretch of sparkling coastline between Saranda and the city of Vlore has become known as the “Albanian Riviera.” It’s marketed as a budget alternative to the exclusive (and pricey) Italian Riviera and Croatia’s brilliant Dalmatian Coast.

Read More: The Best of the Dazzling Croatian Coast in 7 Perfect Days

Read More: The Best of the Italian Riviera in 3 Days

Truthfully, it looks more like Greece than Corfu does!

Or, at least what I’ve seen of Corfu so far. Which, to be fair, is mostly city.

The white-pebbled shore is lined with hotels and cafes. And on this sunny summer Saturday afternoon it is bursting with beachgoers.

I spend some time walking along the beach just enjoying the beautiful day. Then, I settle into a seaside café for lunch and a sampling of the local brew.

By 4pm it’s time to catch the ferry back to Corfu.

All in all, a splendid day exploring the Albanian Riviera and well worth the side trip from Corfu.

Exploring Corfu ‘s Old Town

For my final day on the island of Corfu, I spend the morning strolling the streets of Corfu Town (another UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Corfu is part of the Ionian Islands and was one of the first Greek islands to open its doors to tourism. The name Corfu translates as “city of the peaks” and the island is divided into 3 districts by two well-defined mountain ranges.

Corfu’s history is laden with battles and the legacy of these struggles remains in the two fortresses that surround the capital. It is the only city in Greece to be fortified in this way.

Corfu’s Venetian Influence

Long controlled by Venice, the Venetian influence is profound in Corfu Town.

In fact, walking through the labyrinth of winding, cobbled alleyways you’d almost believe you were in Venice rather than Greece.

Read More: The Romance of Venice

Absent are the white-washed buildings clad with bright blue shutters, replaced by the warm pink and yellow hues that define the Venetian blend of Gothic and Moorish architecture.

The Venetian influence in architecture reminds me of one of my favorite Greek islands, Symi. Though Symi is much smaller and, in my opinion, far more charming.

Read More: Sparkling Symi is the Best Greek Island You’ve Never Heard Of

In fact, to be honest, Corfu doesn’t feel like Greece either. It’s not just the architecture that’s different, it’s the entire vibe.

Even the food is different.

I love a good gyro and they are ubiquitous street food elsewhere in Greece. In Corfu, the two gyro stands I did manage to find were both disappointing. As was the Greek salad I ordered which had (horrors!) lettuce.

Perhaps I should have tried the Italian food.

The size of Corfu

At 227 square miles, Corfu is a huge island. Getting around without your own wheels is a challenge. Especially when you arrive in the middle of a seemingly endless taxi strike.

Call me crazy but I like my Greek islands small, quaint, and easily navigable. Of course, Greece’s largest island – Crete – is a notable exception. It’s big but certainly still fabulous!

Read More: Crete Greece in 5 Perfect Days

My choice of lodging, the Sunset Hotel, probably didn’t help. It was a perfectly lovely hotel with extremely friendly staff, but the location was a bit far from town. With a taxi strike and rental cars fully booked, that left only the bus.

Luckily, the bus station was right outside and by day two I’d mastered the bus system thanks to my struggle from the airport the first night.

Where to stay on Corfu

If I had it to do over again, I would choose a hotel right on the beach like the Alymros Beach Resort . Or something right in the heart of the action in Corfu Town, like the Bella Venezia .

I wish I’d had more time to get out of Corfu Town and check out some of the island’s beaches, I’m sure there are some beauties! Though when it comes to amazing beaches, the Greek island of Milos is tough to beat.

Read More: Must-See Milos: 5 Things You Can’t Miss on this Glorious Greek Island

Hopefully, someday I’ll get to return and see the more beautiful parts of Corfu. For now, it’s not on my list of The 7 Best Greek Islands to Visit This Summer (2024) but it does rate an honorable mention.

I spend the rest of Sunday wandering the narrow alleyways of Corfu Town and visiting both the new and old fortresses.

That afternoon I walked (yes, walked) two miles to the airport with my luggage for my flight to Bucharest. The taxi drivers are still on strike and, as I learned the hard way, the buses are very infrequent on Sundays.

It wasn’t at all what I’d envisioned for my weekend back in the Greek Isles. But perhaps Mykonos and Santorini have spoiled me.

Read More: The Meaning of Mykonos

Read More: How to Plan the Perfect Santorini Honeymoon (on a budget!)

I did, however, thoroughly enjoy my time in Saranda, Butrint, and the Albanian Riviera. Visiting by ferry from Corfu is truly the ideal way to explore this part of Albania and it was the highlight of my stay.

Next up, my final stop of the trip, Romania !

For more great Greek Island destinations, start here:

7 Reasons Naxos is the Best Greek Island (for Pretty Much Everything)

5 Reasons to Fall in Love with Paros Greece (Hint: Antiparos is one)

Do you know wheter or not the ferries Corfu – Saranda still operate now, due to coronavirus?

Hi Kasia, I just checked one of the ferry websites and it does seem to be operating now. You can check the current schedules here: https://ionianseaways.com/timetable/

OMG! I had a similar experience in Corfu and it is decidedly my least favorite Greek island!

Glad to know I wasn’t the only one, Renee! The town of Corfu is so lovely, though, I’d love to give it another chance someday. But there are still so many beautiful Greek Islands I’ve yet to explore so I’m not sure if I would go back. 🙂

I loved Corfu and didn’t like Mykynos. Corfu has a beautiful western coastline full of trees and rocky coves. It’s not barren like a lot of the Cyclades. It has tree covered mountains in the interior of the island and so many beaches and places to see. the food is different as you say. It’s still Greece but not the Greece of your imagination.

Thanks for reading & taking the time to comment! I wish I’d been able to see more of Corfu while I was there, I’m sure I would have found more to like (I admit the taxi strike likely influenced my opinion). You’re absolutely right, it’s just a different side of Greece. There were certainly parts of Corfu Town that I thought were beautiful and someday I hope to go back and see more of the island.

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Best Corfu To Albania Day Trips

If you’re searching for the best day trip from Corfu to Albania, you have come to the right place.

In this article, we outline a number of different day trip options to Albania that you can take.

We outline group day trips, as well as private tours from Corfu. 

Most of the day trips we outline begin in Corfu and help you sample some of the amazing Albanian culture found only a short ferry ride away. 

So, let’s dive into: Best Corfu to Albania Day Trips

Disclaimer - this blog post contains affiliate links where we can earn a commission if you make a purchase through them (at no extra cost to you).

Best Corfu to Albania Day Trips Overview

Best option if you want everything taken care of:  Day trip to Saranda and Butrint National Park

Best option if you want free time to explore on a day trip:  Albania Day trip from Corfu

Best option for larger groups (up to 6 people):  Private day trip to Albania from Corfu

Best option if you want a full itinerary:   Private Albanian Highlights from Saranda

Common Questions about Corfu to Albania Day Trips

Can you do a day trip to albania from corfu.

We start by answering a very common question - can you actually do a day trip to Albania from Corfu? The answer is absolutely yes, you can do a day trip to Albania from Corfu all throughout the year.  

The island of Corfu is only a 30-minute speed boat, or 70-minute ferry ride away from the Albanian mainland. The ferry takes you across the straits of Corfu to the port of Saranda - itself a wonderful destination to visit.  

Is Albania worth visiting? 

This one is also straightforward to answer. Albania is a hugely underrated country and we spent several weeks there during our European van life road trip. 

Albania’s coastline is absolutely stunning and as such, the Albanian Riviera is often referred to as the ‘Thailand of Europe’, thanks largely in part to the beautiful beaches and tropical water. 

Albania is also home to many of the best places to visit in the Western Balkans . The country is jam-packed with endearing culture and fascinating history. It is certainly going to be a popular destination for many years to come - so make sure to visit now before all the crowds take over.

Venetian Tower - Butrint National Park - Albania day trip from Corfu

Best Corfu to Albania Day Trips

Now that we have answered some common questions, we will outline some of the best-guided tour options for day trips to Albania from Corfu. 

The tours outlined below are hosted either by GetYourGuide or Viator , two very credible and reputable tour companies - we have been on guided tours with both companies all over the world and can honestly say they are both fantastic. 

Both companies also promote local tour guides, which is equally fantastic as they give back to the local economy and promote tourism in Albania. 

Day Trip to Saranda and Butrint National Park from Corfu

Best option for people that like everything taken care of in advance (inc. ferry crossing from Corfu)

Saranda and Butrint day trip at a glance: 

Pick-up from designated meeting spots in Corfu

Ferry ride across to Saranda

Entry and guided tour to Butrint National Park

Buffet lunch at Sea-view restaurant in Saranda

Guided walking tour of Saranda

Saranda and Butrint day trip in detail:

The first-day trip from Corfu is hosted by GetYourGuide and features a fascinating blend of modern and ancient sites. 

The day trip begins with a pick-up from one of the meeting points in Corfu, taking you to the ferry port. Thankfully, the ferry ticket is included in the price of the day trip, so you don’t have to worry about that side of things.

Once you have passed customs, the bus takes 20km along the beautiful Albanian Coast before arriving at the intriguing Butrint National Park. 

Visiting Butrint National Park is sure to be the main highlight of your trip - Butrint is the largest ancient site in Albania. It is contained within the boundaries of a 29-sq-km National Park. It really is a fascinating place!

Once you’ve finished at Butrint, the bus takes you to Saranda, where you will be taken directly to a sea-view restaurant for a delicious buffet lunch. 

Full to the brim with wonderful Albanian cuisine (don’t forget to try the Qofte!), you then enjoy a detailed guided walking tour of Saranda before setting sail back towards Corfu.

Butrint National Park - Greek Theatre

Albania Cruise from Corfu 

Ideal for anyone that enjoys free time to explore independently on a day trip

Albania Cruise from Corfu day trip at a glance:

Hotel pick-up and drop-off service

Return ferry journey to Saranda 

Lunch in Saranda and free time to explore the city and beaches 

Guided trip to Butrint National Park  

Albania Cruise from Corfu day trip in detail:

The trip offers great flexibility in terms of itineraries and optional extras.

Albania Cruise from Corfu day trip is operated by Viator (the tour company associated with TripAdvisor - so you know it’s going to be good!) and is ideal for those who prefer to take day trips at their own pace. 

The most basic package includes a return ferry ride to Saranda and around 6 hours of free time to explore and meander around the streets of Saranda. You can also spend time at the beach, giving plenty of time to sunbathe and swim. 

The trip to Butrint National Park is the highlight of this day trip - the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a joy to behold and a great place to visit on a day trip to Albania from Corfu.

Important note: the mandatory port tax (~$15 is not included in the price)

Venetian Castle - Butrint National Park

Private Tour to Albania from Corfu

Best Corfu to Albania day trip option for larger groups (up to 6 people)

Private Tour to Albania from Corfu at a glance:

Private Minivan pick-up from hotel in Corfu

Return ferry tickets to Albania

Entrance fees and a guided tour of Butrint National Park included

Free time to shop and explore Saranda  

Private Tour to Albania from Corfu in detail:

A private minivan picks you up directly from your hotel and transports you to the ferry terminal, where the return ferry tickets to Saranda are included in your day trip fees. 

You are then taken to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint - a glorious mix of Byzantine, Roman and Venetian ruins set in a beautiful national park. It’s a truly unique place to visit, and thankfully, in this private tour, your guide is there to highlight all of the main sites. 

Once you’ve finished exploring the Venetian Castle, head towards Saranda, where you can explore independently and at your own pace or have your guide show you around the city. 

After exploring Saranda, you jump aboard the ferry towards Corfu before the private minivan drops you back off at your hotel.

Blue Eye Natural Spring

Private Albanian Highlights tour from Saranda  

Best option if you want an action-packed itinerary on your Albania day trip from Corfu

Private Albanian Highlights tour at a glance:

Pick-up from Saranda ferry terminal 

Explore the 6th Century Saranda Synagogue archaeological site 

Butrint National Park 

Swimming and exploring in Ksamil (town on the Albanian Riviera)

See ‘The Blue Eye’ - a 50m deep natural water spring 

Visit Lekursi Castle overlooking Saranda

Private Albanian Highlights tour in detail:

This tour is perfect for people who want to explore as many of Albania’s highlights in one action-packed day trip. 

The tour begins at the Saranda Synagogue archaeological site - the Basilica is now in ruins thanks to a combination of earthquake and a Slovak invasion - where the admission ticket is free.

You then head towards the wonderful Butrint National Park. Butrint is mentioned in almost every guide or article on the best places to visit in Albania, and as soon as you see the UNESCO World Heritage site for yourself, you will quickly understand why. 

From Butrint, the day trip heads to Ksamil, one of the main highlights of the Albanian Riviera. Enjoy some time in the water or stroll up and down the beachfront, admiring the stunning scenery along the way. 

A short bus journey from Ksamil, you will find the incredible natural wonder of ‘the blue eye’. Nobody quite knows how the 50m deep natural water spring was first discovered, but one thing remains certain: it is an awe-inspiring Albanian sight. 

You finish up the tour with a trip to Lekursi Castle - a hilltop castle with views over the surrounding area, including brilliant views of Corfu.

Important note: This tour begins in Saranda so you have to get the ferry from Corfu to Albania independently - this is fairly straightforward though so no need to panic

There we have it, folks, our round-up of the best Corfu to Albania day trips. We hope this article has inspired you to take a day trip from Corfu to Albania. Albania was one of our favourite countries in the Western Balkans, and it certainly makes for the perfect day trip from Corfu.

If you’re searching for the best day trip to take from Corfu to Albania, then you have come to the right place.

Visiting Butrint National Park is on the bucket list of many travellers venturing to the wonderful country of Albania - here is everything you need to know about it!

Ben Lloyd is the creator, editor and one half of Ticket 4 Two Please. Our website is designed to help adventurous couples travel together on a budget around the world. We have handy destination guides from countless destinations, as well as useful seasonal job resources for summer camps and ski seasons.

Visiting Butrint National Park

The Balkans and Beyond

Balkan travel inspiration and practical travel tips

How to Take a Day Trip by Ferry from Corfu to Saranda, Albania

A day trip by Ferry from Corfu to Saranda

The blissful Greek Island of Corfu is a holiday paradise for many tourists. But did you know you can take a day trip by ferry from Corfu to Saranda, Albania?

Travel to Corfu is easy from almost anywhere in Europe. This rugged island is, of course, a well-established tourist hot spot so there are many well priced flights. In this post we take a look at how easy and quick is is to take the ferry from Corfu to Saranda!

We Spend Two Nights in Corfu

We visited Corfu in peak season, August, and spent 2 nights on the Island. This gave us enough time to explore the busy old town and beautiful harbour and to sample plenty of the Island’s cuisine.

As we walked along the Island’s edge in the evening heat we looked over onto the calm water. We could see the Greek Island of Ptichia and, in the hazy distance, we could just make out the shores of Albania, our next destination.

Why Visit Albania?

So, you’re loving life of the Greek island, why is it worth taking the ferry from Corfu to Saranda? Albania is a country that has been shrouded in mystery until relatively recently. It has remained somewhat undiscovered by western tourists and still has a rather enigmatic reputation. However, Albania is fast becoming THE European summer destination for those in the know.

Not many outsiders know a lot about this small Balkan country, so here is a super brief summary of its history. Albania became an independent state in the early 20th century after hundreds of years of Ottoman rule. Since then, the country has been occupied by the Italians from 1939 – ‘43, the Germans from 1943 – ‘44 and later became a Communist State, until the late 1980s, when the Eastern Bloc capitulated. This dramatic timeline provides an intriguing charm to the country which is evident throughout its architecture, culture and people.

Now that you’re desperate to visit this beautiful country of dramatic mountains, white beaches and quirky little towns, here’s how to take a day trip by ferry from Corfu to Saranda.

A day Trip by Ferry from Corfu to Saranda

The ferry from Corfu to Saranda departs from the Port of Corfu. The port is about a 30 minute walk from the centre of Corfu town (Kerkyra). We decided to walk from our accommodation. However, a taxi would cost about €10 – 12 from the centre of Corfu town. Having nearly melted after 10 minutes of dragging our bags in the scorching heat, we stopped for some freshly squeezed pomegranate juice in a small juice bar en route.

Back on track, we began to think that the €10 for a taxi was actually a great deal… There is not much shade if you are walking to the port so make sure you bring plenty of sun protection and some water.

The Ferry from Corfu to Saranda

Our ferry from Corfu to Saranda was departing from the terminal at the very farthest end of the port. When we arrived, we went through all the usual ticket and passport checks before we boarded our craft.

The boat was well-worn but practical, economically priced and not uncomfortable. We set off and motored past the end of Corfu Island and across the Ionian Sea to Albania.

We booked our ticket for the ferry from Corfu to Saranda in advance, online here . There are two different companies – Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways – but they are pretty similar. The price ranges from about 25 – 50 Euros each way, depending on the season.

The journey only takes around 30 minutes on the fast boat and up to 1.5 hours on the slower option. The service is pretty frequent and you can book on the day but you will have more options booking in advance online. You will also need to print your ticket or buy it from the travel outlet near the port. During the summer months, we would certainly advice booking the ferry from Corfu to Saranda in advance as it can get busy, especially the morning sailings.

There are several ferry departures per day but it varies depending on the time of year. For example, in high season in the summer there are around 12 – 13 departures from Corfu to Saranda per day. During the winter there may only be a couple.

Summary of Useful Information when Taking the Ferry from Corfu to Saranda

Our ferry arrives in saranda, albania.

On arrival in Saranda we found a seaside resort, but not as you might know it. Albanians have been spending summers in Saranda for decades but the arrival of global travellers is a relatively recent development. The usual apartment blocks and beach bars are there but this holiday town certainly has a different vibe to it.

Things to Do in Saranda

After an easy ferry ride from Corfu to Saranda, we stepped off the boat at the port and came across an amazing coffee shop – Baci A Tutti . If you need to cool down with an iced coffee or ice cream, the little joint is amazing.

We were staying in Saranda for a few nights but there are plenty of great activities to do in a day . If you are spending the day in the town there is so much to explore in this ancient port city. Not far from the centre are the ruins of an ancient synagogue. It wasn’t discovered until 2003 and has been dated back to 200 AD. And if you like history, there is also Lekursi Castle to discover. Sitting on the hilltop, there are amazing views over Saranda and the valley and a great restaurant to try.

Friendship Park is a nice little space to enjoy some quiet time. It is near the synagogue and is a good way to escape the heat for a while. Or, for something a bit odd, visit the Hillary Clinton Memorial in the Main Square.

Saranda is a coastal town so there are tons of amazing beaches. Ohana Beach Bar has a great atmosphere, serves delicious cocktails and has a beautiful view over the clear blue water.

La Onda Beach Bar & Restaurant is fabulous for seafood and is a great way to spend an evening after a busy day exploring Saranda.

Things to Do Near Saranda

Saranda is a really nice town with a relaxed vibe. However, there are some many amazing places just a stones throw away. If you get an early start from Corfu, you can easily fit these activities into your day trip.

Butrint National Park

If you get an early start on your day trip from Corfu to Albania, it’s easy to visit Butrint Natio n al Park. Butrint National Park contains an ancient port city in Southern Albania. We first heard about this UNESCO site on our visit to  Tirana  earlier in the year. Several locals advised us that it was one of the most interesting and complete historical sites in the Balkans

How to Get to Butrint National Park

There are a few options for travelling to Butrint from Saranda. If you are short on time you can hire a taxi to take you there and back, costing around 15 Euros each way. If you’re short on money, the local bus, or “furgon”, will take you there for around 100Lek (or 80 cents) each way, which is what we did. 

From the port of Saranda, it’s easy to find the bus stop on foot. On exiting the port turn right and walk for about 220m until you see a roundabout with a huge tree in the middle and lots of cars screeching in every direction.

• The bus departs from  here
• There is roughly one departure per hour
• It takes about 30 – 40 minutes
• The cost is 100 lek (€0.80) for a one way ticket
• You will pass at least two ATMs between the port and the bus stop

Our return journey took slightly longer, however, as our driver misjudged the distance between his bus and an oncoming car resulting in lots of shouting and an unexpected walk back to our flat.

If you are visiting for the day from Corfu, a taxi will save you a bit of time.

• You can hail a cab from the port or turn right and walk a little towards the roundabout  HERE  where you will find more taxis
• It should cost about 2,500 Lek, €20, but you might have to negotiate the price
• A taxi will take about 25 minutes, depending on traffic
• You can pay in Euros or Lek
• There are a couple of ATMs by the port but none at Butrint

The Blue Eye Natural Spring

Syri I Kalter is a natural water spring of unknown depth and chilling temperatures. The centre of the spring is a deep, dark blue whilst the surrounding water is a fresh green fading out to the white of the pebbly shore. It is a stunning natural sight that can be visited in a day trip from Corfu.

A “Furgon”, from Saranda will take you close to the Blue Eye. The bus departs from a stop next to the Synagogue remains on Rruga Flamurit. See it on the map  HERE . You can buy the tickets on the bus. Tell the driver you are going to Syri i Kalter, this is a popular stop and they will know what you mean. The trip will cost 300 Lek (about €2) for a one-way journey. Buses can get busy so don’t be shocked if the driver whips out some spare plastic stools to place down the aisle for standing passengers to take a seat.

The Town of Gjirokaster

Gjirokaster is a small city in the Gjerë mountains about 1.5 hours by minibus from Saranda. Take the same minibus that goes to the Blue Eye and stay on for longer. Gjirokaster is not known as Albania’s most beautiful town for nothing! Surrounded by mountains, the town overlooks the valley which stretches for miles.

The winding cobbled streets are lined with well maintained Ottoman architecture and lead through the old town up towards the imposing castle. The Bazaar displays traditional Albanian crafts, hand made rugs and the occasional fridge magnet but tourists are very scarce, even in peak season. Check out our guide to Gjirokaster HERE .

It’s possible to visit Gjirokaster and the Blue Eye in the day if you start early enough.

Ksamil Islands and Beach

Ksamil Islands are also a great day out near Saranda and the same bus that takes you to Butrint National Park, will stop in Ksamil. There are miles of beautiful white beaches with clear blue green waters, boat trips, beach bars and lots more.

A day Trip from Corfu to Saranda

If you visit Corfu, make some time to experience another country while you’re there. Somewhere different from Western Europe, somewhere ancient, exciting and welcoming. The ferry from Corfu to Saranda is an easy introduction to the Albanian Riviera . However, there is plenty of undiscovered Albania waiting to be explored.

Where to next?

From Saranda you can continue you Balkan tour. Why not take the bus from Saranda to the beautiful Lake Ohrid that lies over the border of Albania and North Macedonia.

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 taken the ferry from Corfu to Saranda? 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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A Day Trip by Ferry from Corfu to Saranda

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13 comments

I agree. Not many people know much about Balkan travel so hopefully we can help them out 🙂

Yes! Albania and Butrint National Park should be on everyone’s post covid travel list!

Thanks Nessica. It’s fun to write about previous trips and to relive it a bit. I hope you make it to that part of the world. It’s really beautiful!

That is a long way! But it’s so worth it to take an extra trip while you’re there! Albania is full of oddities too 🙂

Yes, you must try it! The ferry is so easy and relatively cheap. We just weren’t prepared for the summer heat!

Me too! This can be an amazing day trip or a way to continue on a Balkan tour. We travelled from Corfu to Albania, North Macedonia and Serbia on public transport. I think we saw so much more and learned about the culture.

You’re welcome! I love bringing my fur baby when I can too! the ferry is really easy and so quick! There are car ferries too but I think they take a little longer.

Wow! What an interesting travel idea! I don’t know many people who travelled from Greece to Albania. Probably many people aren’t aware of this option. Thanks for sharing!

Corfu seriously looks amazing! I would love to visit whenever I go next! This is certainly a wonderfully written post!

This looks amazing! Some friends went to Abania a couple of years ago and I was so jealous. We hope to head over to Greece with the kids when the COVID situation improves (we’re in Australia so it’s a long way) but I never realised how easy it is to get to Albania from Corfu. Also I love oddities, so the Hillary Clinton museum is on my list now.

Corfu looks amazing to visit, and easy to access from Albania which will come in handy if I ever find myself there! Thanks for all of the great tips.

I wish I had known about this when we visited Corfu! Now I have even more of a reason return. I love that feeling of day tripping to another country while already on vacation 🙂

This post is great! I travel with my dog (in other words, I rarely fly) and have often considered the route between Italy-Corfu-Albania. Both Corfu and Albania are high on my bucket list. Butrint National Park looks incredible! Thanks for sharing!

We would love to hear what you think! Cancel reply

Albania, daily tour from Corfu

• boat trip to Albania
• tips for the guide
• port taxes around 15 euro
• if you want to visit the archeological place Butrinti than it is around 25 euro
• We pick up all travellers from everywhere, just send us a message, pick up is charge extra
• I. Kapodistrias Airport, Greece
• Corfu International Airport "Ioannis Kapodistrias", Corfu 491 00, Greece
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Agios Saranda

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More to explore in Corfu

Albania, daily tour from Corfu provided by DESTINYcfu

Albania Cruise from Corfu

• Hotel pickup - drop off service
• Boat ticket Corfu-Saranta - Corfu
• Port taxes 15 euro per person payable at the time of embarkation
• Optional guided tour to Butrint archaeological site, Euros 25,00 per person.
• Food and drinks
• Entry/Admission - Butrint
• Corfu Port Authority Company, Eth. Antistaseos 24, Kerkira 491 00, Greece Embarkation at 08:10 in Corfu port. The exact location of the boat will be mentioned from our staff you will meet at the Cruise terminal, according to our information you will receive by email one day before.
• The pick up service is offered only from the main tourist resorts and from main roads on specific pick up points. The indication of accommodation is only for finding the best pick up point near the accommodation. In case of isolate accommodations which are far away from the main road / resorts there is possibility for private transportation.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Pushchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Passport name, number, expiry date, date of birth. place of birth and country is required at time of booking for all participants
• A moderate amount of walking is involved ( aprox. 1hr20min)
• A minimum of 1 adult per booking is required
• Children or youngs under 18 year old must be accompanied by an adult and carry on with them travel permission from parents who are not take place on the trip
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 250 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Corfu Port Authority Company Or, you can also get picked up See departure details
• 1 Saranda Stop: 6 hours See details
• 2 Butrint National Archaeological Park Stop: 100 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• sharnsalmon 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful Corfu This was a fantastic trip. Great scenery, delicious food. Opportunity to swim. Really enjoyed it Read more Written 2 November 2023
• Michael B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time The boat trip was fantastic, the captain and all the crew made it a great day and the food provided was top notch. Read more Written 26 October 2023
• trudie f 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Totally enlightening tour A rather last minute decision to try and see more of Corfu before we returned home - we made contact with Pachis Travel and arranged for a tour on our last day. What a brilliant decision it was too. Our guide Leonidas arrived promptly and we saw and learned so much through his knowledge and obvious love of his island and are absolutely in awe of his expertise in navigating the tricky roads. Read more Written 12 October 2023
• resourcesbio 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommended a great day out Stefano ( the son) picked us up in the shop that we booked the boat trip from, which was about 25 to 30 minutes from where the boat was. It is a family run business they were very welcoming warm and friendly we had a wonderful time meeting lovely people whom we met up after the boat trip I could not recommend them enough Read more Written 11 October 2023
• annepat1970 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Relaxing my day with swimming and leisure Good fun - no pressure - relaxed - NOT a booze-cruise.- chance to swim, rest, see things and chill without any rowdy behaviour (steps to top deck are quite steep!!) Read more Written 11 October 2023
• ambercM2712WN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best day of our holiday! We had the most amazing time!! The views were beautiful, the staff were incredible and so friendly/accommodating! The food was delicious and the boat well kept. 11/10 would recommend! Read more Written 10 October 2023
• Robin B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Corfu Tour and Guide We booked a mini van trip For About 6 people to tour the Corfu tourist sites. The pick up was 09.00am and the taxi was on time but no other bookings so we had an English speaking driver and cab for the 2 Of us. So it turned out as a personal tour - fabulous day with great driver and tour guide. Read more Written 9 October 2023
• 722jayf 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing day Amazing trip. Fabolous views. And the skipper even gave us a free lift to town when we got stuck without a taxi at the end of the trip!..thank you very much . Read more Written 26 September 2023
• 647kated 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Great if you want to pay 30% more for the same tour! The tour was OK but really a fast bus trip with various places of interest pointed out as the bus rushed past. It did even slow for a photo opportunity and pity those seated on the wrong side of the bus as they wouldn't have even seen much. Rhe worst part was that we discovered others who booked via other tour operators paid 30% less than us. A total rip off and I do not recommend. Shop around and get quotes. TripAdvisor is a rip off. Read more Written 23 September 2023
• Navigator53885049973 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Boring After an hour in a sardine tin (coach) we reached the harbor to find that we were on the smallest boat in the harbor with what appeared to be the most people on it. After near 2.5 hours we reached the area to swim in, to describe it ‘minestrone soup’ far too many boats in such a small space at the same time🫤 then onto a sea village which was also overcrowded & made a lovely place appear like a Moroccan Bizare😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫 then the trip back to that harbor & another hour stuck in a tin van on wheels. All in all although €40 it’s rearly a day off my life I won’t get back Read more Written 14 September 2023
• 362elizabethb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exceptional Just got back from one of the best boat trips I have been on while on holiday. Amazing captain and crew on a family run boat, food was brilliant and well worth the price Read more Written 10 September 2023
• JessyBat 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience. Take the boat from Palaiokastritsas and visit the nearby grottos. Corfu is a great island to visit. The island is big. It needs a car or motorcycle. Beaches are various from rocky to sandy and are all beautiful. Small villages in mountains are worth stopping by. Old town is a must visit. Read more Written 9 September 2023
• carlofS4053BZ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic A full day boat trip well worth the money. Brilliant if you are a good swimmer, Only thing I would say is some of the locations you would want to be confident swimming in open water Read more Written 4 September 2023
• T6226HDdavidm 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Nice food, beautiful rocky beach Everything went as their promise. The personnel was helpful, kind and funny. The bbq was delicious. I recommend for everybody. Read more Written 2 September 2023
• OnAir47577996832 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best! I did this boat trip for my birthday and had the best time! We stopped at two swimming spots and a beach, all only accessible by boat. The alcoholic drinks on board were cheap and the Greek BBQ was seriously yum with generous serves. The team made me feel extra special for my birthday and I had the best time! Read more Written 1 September 2023

More to explore in Corfu

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Albania Cruise from Corfu provided by Pachis Travel

Corfu To Albania Day Trip – An Easy How To Guide

Embark on a quick adventure across the Ionian Sea and discover the hidden gems with a Corfu to Albania on a day trip! This Balkan nation boasts stunning cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and friendly locals, all within easy reach of your Greek island paradise.

BOOK & PAY ONLINE

Connecting two countries in 30 minutes

Book & pay online and save time, travel in comfort with ionian seaways, private charters from corfu to saranda, corfu & ulysses... 3200 years of hospitality, up to 10% discount for groups, one summer two destinations, travel in the past, just a breath away from spetacular beaches, discover the beauties of albania.

Ionian Seaways and its sister company Ionian Cruises has been working hand in hand since 1979 to provide the best in service to our customers. 

We offer a range of ferry services, cruises, and excursions both in Saranda (Albania) and Corfu (Greece).  We pride ourselves on working with local experts to make all our journey’s exceptional.

Our Services:

* Daily ferries between Corfu and Saranda

* A variety of excursions on Corfu and in Albania

* Cruises to beautiful locations around the Ionian Sea

* Tailored made excursions and cruises for group bookings

* Multilingual tour guides

* Bus transfers to and from the ports of Saranda and Corfu

* Transfers to and from Corfu airport to the port

* Local offices around Corfu and Saranda

We look forward to welcoming you on board for a pleasant journey.

Ionian Seaways  operates a fleet of 3 different types of ships for the line service between  Corfu  (Greece) and  Saranda  (Albania). The fleet consists of  2 Flying Dolphins  (High-Speed Crafts),  1 Passenger Ship and 2 Car Ferries . Our ships and our 50 years of experience guarantee quality services, comfort, speed, safety, and respect to the environment and our clients.

Enjoy one day excursions & cruises

Excursions in Corfu

Excursions in albania.

Daily Cruises

Embarkation Notice

Terminal gate closes 20 minutes before the departure time. All passengers are kindly required to proceed to the international passenger terminal, at least 1 hour prior to the scheduled departure time. Please be aware that due to the limited passport / customs control facilities and due to the lack of personnel for passport control, there might be a delay in the control process at the port of Corfu from 30 to 60 minutes upon arrival or departure for all the summer itineraries.

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How to get from Corfu to Albania – 3 best ways!

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Wondering how to get from Corfu to Albania? I’ve got you covered!

As someone who has enjoyed exploring both Corfu and Albania, I can attest to the exciting adventure that awaits those looking to explore these two amazing places!

Whether you’re an adventurous traveller seeking a unique journey or just want to know how to take a day trip from Corfu to Albania – I have all the answers.

Corfu is one of my favourite Greek islands and Albania is one of the best hidden gems in Europe! 

I loved discovering hidden beaches, sampling delicious local cuisine and uncovering fascinating cultures in both countries. And now I’m here to share my tips on how best to get from Corfu to Albania so that you too can experience this incredible adventure!

In this guide, I’ll cover the 3 best ways to get from Corfu to Albania. Let’s get started!

🚢 I love this tour from Corfu to Albania because all transport and activities are planned for you – making this the easiest way to explore Albania on a day trip

Hi, I’m JJ!

I’m a travel blogger with a passion for unique travel destinations, discovering hidden gems, and adventurous solo travel.

During my month long trip around Albania, I found the lack of reliable transport info to be super frustrating. It took me forever to figure out how to get from one place to another.

That’s why I’ve created a bunch of Albanian transport guides to make it easier for you!

I hope you enjoy my free guides and travel tips! If so, please consider supporting my work 💕

ebook: Albanian Riviera Guidebook

✅ Detailed 7 day itinerary

✅ Hidden gems!

✅ Printable ebook

Table of Contents

Can you see Albania from Corfu?

Corfu Town is 35km (~22 miles) from Albania but at its closest point, Albania is located just 3.5 Km (~2 miles) from the Greek Island of Corfu. 

The two are separated by the Ionian Sea. You can see Albania from many places in Corfu.

Given the close proximity, Albania has become a popular choice as a day trip destination from Corfu. 

3 ways to get from Corfu to Albania

The best 3 ways to get from Corfu to Albania are:

Ferry – There are four different ferry companies offering different options for a Greece to Albania ferry

Organised day trip – This is the best option for making the most of your time, as it includes transport and tour guides in Albania

By plane – This is the best option for those who wish to skip the Albanian Riviera and instead travel straight to Tirana and the North of Albania.

I will go into more detail about each of these options below

1. Get a ferry from Corfu to Albania 

🚢 Read my comprehensive guide to catching ferries from Corfu to Saranda here!

The most popular option for getting from Corfu to Albania is by ferry .

Four different ferry companies have regular services operating between the two countries. The companies are Ionian Seaways, Finikas Lines, Sarris Lines, and Joy Lines. They all offer direct ferries to Saranda in Albania. 

The ferries depart from the port of Corfu Town and arrive in the resort town of Saranda, located on Albania’s Southern coast.

There are two different ferry options for you to choose from. There is a fast ferry boat, known as the flying dolphin speedboat, which takes just 30 minutes to reach Saranda from Corfu. This is a zodiac-style speed boat so it is not very spacious or comfortable but it will get you there fast!

There is also a larger ferry which takes around 70 minutes to reach Saranda. This boat is a regular ferry so you can walk around on deck, get a coffee, and take pictures of the scenery as you travel from Corfu to Albania.

Corfu to Albania ferry prices vary depending on the time of day and season in which you are travelling. 

The ferry ticket prices range from €19-€25 one way, depending on the company, time of year, and route chosen. Expect to pay around €36 for a return ticket in the low season and up to €48 for a return in the high season. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket office in Corfu port. 

One important thing to remember is that there is a time difference between Corfu and Albania!  

Albania is one hour ahead of Corfu so you will need to adjust your schedule accordingly when booking ferries. If you are just visiting Albania for the day you don’t want to accidently miss the last ferry back to Corfu!

Price range: €36 – €48 for a return ticket

Duration: up to 1 hour

Best for: Independent travellers on a budget

🚢 Check Corfu ferry timetables and book tickets here!

2. Take a Corfu to Albania day trip

Taking a day trip from Corfu to Albania is becoming a super popular option and in my opinion, it is one of the best day trips from Corfu. There are lots of different options for organised tours from Corfu to Saranda.

Organised tours from Corfu to Albania are a great way to make the most of your time and visit multiple locations in one day. 

There are lots of different tour operators offering day trips to Albania with a range of itineraries, prices and inclusions.

The most popular Corfu to Albania day trips will usually include the following:

– Transfer from your hotel or pick-up point in Corfu Town

– Ferry ticket from Corfu to Saranda

– Guided tour of Saranda and the Albanian Riviera

– Lunch at a local restaurant

– Guided tour of Gjirokastra, Butrint or Ksamil

– Transfer back to your hotel or drop-off point in Corfu Town.

🚢 Check out the best tours of Albania from Corfu

The price for a day trip from Corfu to Albania will depend on the size of your group, the places visited and any additional activities included in the tour.

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay around €55 per person for a small-group day trip from Corfu to Albania and up to €300 for a private tour.

Taking a tour from Corfu to Albania is the best option for travellers who are short on time and don’t want to deal with unreliable public transport in Albania . Tour operators take care of all the details so you don’t have to worry about finding transportation, booking tickets in advance or navigating unfamiliar terrain.

Tours of Corfu to Albania come with a tour guide who will give you an insight into the history and culture of the region. The guides also offer invaluable knowledge about local customs, etiquette and language so you can make the most of your time in Albania.

Here are my top picks for Corfu to Albania day trips

Private tour to Albania from Corfu

✅ Private tour

✅ Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint

✅Entrance fees and local guide included

Day Trip to Saranda and Butrint National Park from Corfu

✅ Boat transfer and bus tour

✅ Explore the ancient city of Butrint with a professional guide

✅Lunch included

Price range: €55 – €300 depending on the type of tour.

Duration: up to 10 hours

Best for: Convenient stress-free travel and making the most of your time in Albania

3. Fly from Corfu to Albania

Currently, there are no airlines that fly direct from Corfu to Albania.

However, there are daily flights from Corfu International Airport (CFU) to Tirana International Airport (TIA) via a transfer in Athens.

The total journey should take around 5 or 6 hours total.

Flying from Corfu to Albania has many advantages compared to taking a ferry or a tour. 

One of the main benefits is that if you are planning to visit Tirana or the North of Albania , you can fly directly to Tirana International Airport (TIA). This is preferable to having to take the ferry across the Ionian Sea and then take a connecting bus or taxi to Tirana , as is the case when travelling by ferry.

Another advantage of flying from Corfu to Albania is that you can take more luggage with you than you would on the ferry.

🛫 Book flights from Corfu to Albania here!

Price range: Depends on airline and season

Duration: Roughly 6 hours depending on transfer time in Athens.

Best for: Those who wish to visit Tirana and the North of Albania

Free 3 Day Tirana Itinerary

How to get to corfu from albania.

If you’re travelling in the opposite direction from Albania to Corfu , there are several options available.

You can either take a ferry from Saranda or book a flight to Corfu International Airport (CFU).

Ferry tickets are the most convenient option.

Unfortunately, there aren’t many options for taking organised tours from Saranda to Corfu but hopefully, that will change in the future as Albania becomes more of a hotspot for tourists.

FAQs: How to get from Corfu to Albania

Can you take a ferry from greece to albania.

Yes, there are daily ferries from Corfu to Saranda in Albania. You can choose from a fast speed boat which takes around 30 minutes, or a larger more comfortable passenger ferry which takes around 70 minutes to reach Saranda from Corfu.

How far is Albania from Corfu by boat?

The distance between Corfu and Saranda by boat is around 35km (~22 miles). If you are wondering how long is the ferry from Corfu to Albania, that depends on the type of boat, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 70 minutes.

Is there a ferry from Corfu to Ksamil? 

No, there is no ferry from Corfu to Ksamil. You will need to take the ferry from Corfu to Saranda, Albania and then take a 25-minute taxi or bus to Ksamil. The busses in Albania are infrequent so you can also consider hitchhiking to Ksamil .

How do I get from Corfu to Tirana?

The best and most convenient way to get from Corfu to Tirana is by taking a daily flight from Corfu International Airport (CFU) to Tirana International Airport (TIA). This is not a direct flight and you will need to transfer in Athens. The total journey should take around 6 hours. You can also take the ferry from Corfu to Saranda, Albania, and then take a connecting bus to Tirana.

Is there a train from Greece to Albania?

No, there is no train from Greece to Albania. Unlike most countries in Europe Albania doesn’t have a functioning passenger railway system and there are no train lines that run across Albania’s borders.

Can you swim from Corfu to Albania?

Yes, you can swim from Corfu to Albania. At its closest point, Albania is just 3km from Corfu island. You will need to be a strong swimmer though. Once a year there is an annual charity swimming event that you can take part in.

What is the closest Greek island to Albania?

The closest Greek island to Albania is Corfu. Just 3km separates the two! It’s an incredibly beautiful area and well worth visiting during your time in Greece and Albania. The Albanian resort town of Saranda is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Corfu town.

Final Thoughts: How to get from Corfu to Albania

Travelling from Corfu to Albania is relatively easy and there are a few different options depending on what you’re looking for. 

If you’re looking for something affordable or want to take in some of the stunning views along the Ionian Sea then consider taking one of the ferries from Corfu to Saranda. 

For those who don’t have much time, day trips are also available which will allow you to explore both Greece and Albania within just 24 hours! 

No matter which option you choose, travelling between Corfu and Albania is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

If you are looking to spend more time in Albanian then check out my complete itinerary for a 7 day adventure on the Albanian Riviera

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Home > How To Get From Corfu To Albania (& Albania To Corfu)

How To Get From Corfu To Albania (& Albania To Corfu)

Written by our local expert Drita

Drita is a shy Albanian girl. Her Mom is from Kosovo, her Dad from Serbia. She loves to travel & share travel trips to help first-time travelers exploring Albania & the Balkans.

Here is your detailed transportation guide that shows you how to get from Corfu to Albania. In my guide, I also show you how to travel from Albania to Corfu.

Did you know that Corfu, a Greek island , is only 35km away from the coast of Albania ? It’s true! That means you can easily visit both within the space of one holiday.

Of course, to do that, you’ll need to know how to get from Corfu to Albania and back again. Thankfully, we’re on hand to help you out.

If you’re visiting Corfu during the summer , you’ll no doubt love spending ample time on the beach and enjoying the heat, nightlife, and great shopping.

Corfu Town is also a fantastic designation, packed with things to see and do and a pretty old town with colorful buildings and historic architecture to check out. But, sometimes, it’s good to get out and see something else. In that case, hopping over to Albania could be a good choice.

Albania is a seriously up-and-coming holiday destination, and you only have to search online to see why. Tirana is the capital , and it’s an excellent spot for anyone who loves history and entertainment.

Capital cities are always vibrant places to go! However, the country is more than that. The Albanian Riviera sits on the glittering Ionian Sea and has a real holiday vibe. Sites like Saranda have become seriously popular over the last few years.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Red Tape And Paperwork You Need To Know About

So, what are your options if you want to learn how to get from Corfu to Albania and back in the opposite direction? You have two – a ferry ride or a flight. The latter isn’t the most sensible, but if you’re not a water fan, it’s still a choice you can take.

Whatever option you choose, you need to remember one significant thing – Corfu is 1 hour ahead of Albania . So, when catching ferries and planes, factor that into your plans. It would help if you also remembered that you’re leaving one country and entering another, so you’ll need your passport and any visa that pertains to your country of origin.

Brands We Use And Trust

Taking the ferry from corfu to albania.

Using the ferry is a super easy and quick option for traveling between Corfu and Albania, particularly to Saranda Port in the south of Albania .

Where Is The Ferry Port In Corfu

The Port of Corfu is located in Corfu Town and is 30 minutes from the Old Town on foot. However, you may also opt to take a taxi or one of the city bus lines that go directly there.

Once at the port, head all the way to the end until you reach passport control, where you can grab some snacks and await your ferry.

Book your ferries in Greece with Ferryscanner here.

Which ferry company should you choose.

There are several ferries every day, with more during the high season. Several ferry companies serve this route, but Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways are the main two.

The ferry route takes 70 minutes, although you can pay more for a speed boat (Flying Dolphin) and arrive in half an hour. You should always check times online before traveling, as these occasionally change.

Where Is The Ferry Port In Saranda

Saranda’s ferry port is located on the west side of the city. You will find bars, restaurants, hotels, and most of the main attractions in Saranda, all within walking distance of the port. 

Seasonal Ferry Timetables

Overall, between Corfu and Saranda, ferries run once daily during the low season, between January and April, with one service back between Saranda and Corfu. The first ferry leaves Corfu at 9 am and leaves Saranda at noon.

There are several services per day in both directions during the peak season. The first ferry leaves Corfu Port at 8.40 am and the last at 7 pm. The first ferry leaves Saranda Port at 6 am, and the last leaves at 6.30 pm. However, there are only three ferries in either direction on Mondays, regardless of the month.

Do keep in mind that there is an hour time difference between Greece and Albania – Greece is one hour ahead. It’s important to note, as you don’t want to miss your ferry!

Can You Take A Car On The Ferry

Yes, cars are allowed on the ferries, but if you are renting a car, you will need to check with the rental agency, as not all agencies allow cars to cross borders.

The cost of a car is €42 each way, and the price is the same regardless of whether it is the high summer season or low season.

Ferry Tickets – Where To Book & What They Cost

During low season, an adult ticket from Corfu to Saranda costs approximately €19 each way.

During high season, an adult ticket from Corfu to Saranda costs approximately €24 each way.

You can book your ticket online up to 24 hours before departure, or you can head to the port office itself and book your ticket in person.

Taking A Flight From Corfu To Albania 

If you don’t have sea legs, then you can fly. However, it’s essential to recognize that you’re going to add a lot of time to your journey as there are no direct flights to Corfu and Albania. That’s because the distance is so short.

You can fly from Corfu to Tirana Airport via another airport, usually Rome, which will take between 3-4 hours. Many low-cost airlines serve the two locations, including EasyJet, Wizz Air, Aegean Airlines, and Ryan Air.

Regardless of how you travel, do remember that you’re traveling between different countries , and you should have all your paperwork organized before you go.

What are the transportation options between Corfu and Albania?

You can travel between Corfu and Albania by ferry. There are ferry services connecting Corfu with ports in Albania, such as Saranda and Vlora.

How long does it take to travel from Corfu to Saranda by ferry?

The ferry journey from Corfu to Saranda usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific ferry service.

Where do the ferries depart from in Corfu and Albania?

In Corfu, the ferries to Albania usually depart from Corfu Town (also known as Kerkyra). In Albania, the ferries arrive in the ports of Saranda or Vlora.

Do I need a visa to visit Albania from Corfu?

Visa requirements for visiting Albania from Corfu depend on your nationality. Check with the Albanian embassy or consulate for the latest visa information.

Can I take a day trip from Corfu to Albania?

Yes, day trips from Corfu to Albania are possible. You can take a morning ferry to Saranda , explore the town and nearby attractions, and return to Corfu in the evening.

Is it necessary to book ferry tickets in advance?

During the peak tourist season, it’s advisable to book ferry tickets in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and avoid any last-minute availability issues.

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Can you do a day trip to Albania from Corfu?

If you are planning to travel to Corfu, you might be wondering if you can go on a day trip to Albania from Corfu? In this blog, I will describe how to go on a day trip from Corfu to Albania by ferry.

Can you do a day trip to Albania from Corfu? You can do a day trip to Albania from Corfu in the spring, summer and autumn seasons. You can take the ferry boat from Corfu to Saranda in Albania. You can book tickets with Finikas Lines or Ionian Seaways. A return ticket costs between 38-48 euros.

In this blog post, I will discuss how you can book a day trip to Albania from Corfu. I will discuss where to book your ticket, timetables, ticket prices, arrival and departure ports, how long the journey takes, and the time difference between Corfu and Albania.

Day trip to Albania from Corfu

You can go on a day trip to Albania from Corfu. You can take a 30-minute ferry boat ride that starts at Corfu island and stops in Saranda in Albania.

Where can you book a day trip to Albania from Corfu?

There are two ferry companies that operate daily ferries between Corfu and Saranda:

1) Finikas Lines 2) Ionian Seaways

Day trip to Albania from Corfu with Finikas Lines

With Finikas Lines, a day trip to Albania from Corfu is possible between the 6th of April 2022 and the 31st of October 2022.

The first ferry boat from Corfu to Saranda departs at 9:00 AM. And the last ferry boat from Saranda to Corfu departs at 16:00 PM, 16:30 PM or 18:30 PM, depending on which month you travel. This will allow you to spend 7 hours in Albania during your day trip.

Between the 1st of July 2022 and the 21st of September, you can go for a longer day trip. Because the last ferry boat from Saranda to Corfu departs at 18:30 PM. Therefore, you will be able to spend 9.5 hours in Albania before returning to Corfu.

In the winter months, between November and March, it is not possible to book a day trip to Albania from Corfu with Finikas Lines. Because the ferry boat only departs 1 x time per day. The boat departs Corfu at 9:00 AM and it immediately returns from Saranda at 10:30 AM. So in the winter months, you must stay overnight in Saranda, so that you have some time to explore the sightseeing spots in Albania.

You can always check the latest ferry timetable from Finikas Lines on their website here -> https://www.finikas-lines.com/lines

Finikas Lines charges 38 euros for a return ticket from Corfu to Saranda and back.

The ferry from Corfu to Albania departs from the Port of Corfu. You can find the ticket office of Finikas Lines here: https://goo.gl/maps/ACmn2XBXXiWCxzga6

The ferry from Saranda to Corfu departs from the Port of Saranda. You can find the ticket office of Finikas Lines here: https://goo.gl/maps/Yem8M2qfFcUBABAh9

Day trip to Albania from Corfu with Ionian Seaways

With Ionian Seaways, a day trip to Albania from Corfu is possible between the 3rd of May 2022 and the 20th of October 2022.

The first ferry from Corfu to Albania departs at 8:45 AM. And the last ferry boat from Saranda to Corfu departs at 16:00 PM or 18:30 PM, depending on which month you are travelling. This will allow you to spend between 7-9 hours in Albania during your day trip.

In the winter months, between November and April, Ionian Seaways only offers 1 ferry boat departure per day in the early morning. Since the ferry boat departs Corfu at 8:40 AM and it travels back from Saranda at 12:30 PM, this only allows for a very short day trip.

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You can check the latest ferry timetable from Ionian Seaways on their website here -> https://ionianseaways.com/timetable/

Ionian Seaways charges 47.60 euros for a return ticket from Corfu to Saranda and back.

The ferry from Corfu to Albania departs from the Port of Corfu. The ferry from Saranda back to Corfu departs from the Port of Saranda. You can find the locations of the ticket offices of Ionian Seaways here: https://ionianseaways.com/booking-info/

IMPORTANT: Time difference between Corfu and Albania

There is a 1 hour time difference between the Greek Corfu island and Albania.

When you travel from Corfu to Albania, you go 1 hour back in time. Basically, you depart Corfu at 9:00 AM, you travel by ferry for 30 minutes, and you arrive at 8:30 AM in Albania.

When you travel from Albania to Corfu, you go 1 hour forward in time. Basically, you depart Saranda at 16:00 PM, you travel by ferry for 30 minutes, and you arrive at 17:30 PM in Corfu.

IMPORTANT: There are speed boats and slower car ferries in operation between Corfu and Albania

Both Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways operate speed boats and slower car ferries between Corfu and Albania.

By Speedboat, it takes only 30 minutes to travel from Corfu to Albania or the other way around. The Speed boats are called Flying Dolphins or Hydrofoil.

By car ferry, it takes 65 minutes to travel from Corfu to Albania or the other direction. The slower boats are called “ferry boats”, “passenger ships” or “vehicle boats”.

You can check the timetable of Finikas Lines or Ionian Seaways to see which departures are speed boats and which departures are slower ferry boats. The timetable of Finikas Lines can be found here -> https://www.finikas-lines.com/lines

And the timetable of Ionian Seaways can be found here -> https://ionianseaways.com/timetable/

Can I visit Albania from Corfu?

You can visit Albania from Corfu. You can take the ferry boat from Corfu to Albania, which takes 30 minutes. The ferry departs from the Port of Corfu and you will arrive at the Port of Saranda.

In the summer season, it is possible to make a 7-9 hour day trip from Corfu to Albania. In the winter months, there is only 1 ferry boat departure per day, and you must stay overnight in Saranda, before taking the ferry back to Corfu the next day.

The two companies that operate a ferry boat between Corfu and Albania are Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways. A return ticket from Corfu to Albania costs 38 euros with Finikas Lines. And a return ticket from Corfu to Albania costs 47.60 euros with Ionian Seaways.

The timetable of Finikas Lines can be found here -> https://www.finikas-lines.com/lines

Is there a ferry from Corfu to Saranda?

There is a ferry from Corfu to Saranda. The ferry boats are operated by Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways.

There are two types of boats that operate between Corfu and Saranda:

• Option 1: The Speed Boat, called a Flying Dolphin or Hydrofoil. By Speedboat, it takes only 30 minutes to travel from Corfu to Saranda.
• Option 2: The slower car ferry, called passenger/vehicle boat. By car ferry, it takes 65 minutes to travel from Corfu to Saranda.

You can book your ferry ticket from Corfu to Saranda with Finikas Lines or with Ionian Seaways. A return ticket from Corfu to Albania costs 38 euros with Finikas Lines. And a return ticket from Corfu to Albania costs 47.60 euros with Ionian Seaways.

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Where do you get the ferry from corfu to albania.

You get on the ferry from Corfu to Albania in the Port of Corfu. Both Finikas Lines, as well as Ionian Seaways, have a ticket office in the Port of Corfu.

You can find the ticket office of Finikas Lines in the Port of Corfu here: https://goo.gl/maps/ACmn2XBXXiWCxzga6

You can find the locations of the ticket offices of Ionian Seaways here: https://ionianseaways.com/booking-info/

The ferry from Corfu to Albania departs from the Port of Corfu and it arrives in the Port of Saranda in Albania. Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways have a ticket office in the Port of Saranda.

You can find the ticket office of Finikas Lines in the Port of Saranda here: https://goo.gl/maps/Yem8M2qfFcUBABAh9

Corfu to Albania ferry during Covid

In 2022, it is possible to take the ferry from Corfu to Albania.

At the time of writing this blog post in June 2022, Albania does not have any entry requirements. You can always check the latest Covid entry requirements for Albania on my blog here -> https://albaniatourguide.com/albania-covid-travel-restrictions-pcr-testing-and-coronavirus/

Corfu is a Greek island, so you can check the entry requirements for Greece online here -> https://travel.gov.gr/#/

How long is the ferry from Corfu to Saranda?

The ferry from Corfu to Saranda takes 30 minutes by speedboat or 65 minutes by car ferry.

How much does the ferry from Corfu to Saranda cost?

The ferry from Corfu to Saranda costs 19 euros for a one-way ticket with Finikas Lines and 23.80 euros for a one-way ticket with Ionian Seaways. The ferry from Corfu to Saranda costs 38 euros for a return ticket with Finikas Lines and 47.60 euros for a return ticket with Ionian Seaways.

Finikas Lines 19 euros for a one-way ticket 38 euros for a return ticket

Ionian Seaways 23.80 euros for a one-way ticket 47.60 euros for a return ticket

In the low season, between Mid-September and Mid-June, Ionian Seaways has lower ticket prices for the ferry from Corfu to Saranda. In the low season, Ionian Seaways charges 20 euros for a one-way ticket and 40 euros for a return ticket.

Day trip to Corfu from Saranda

You can go on a day trip to Corfu from Saranda.

With Finikas Lines, it is possible to go on a day trip to Corfu from Saranda between the 6th of April and the 31st of October. The ferry boat departs from Saranda at 6:00 AM, 8:45 AM or 10:30 depending on which month you are travelling. And you can travel back from Corfu to Saranda at 16:30 PM or 19:00 PM.

Finikas Lines charges 38 euros for a return ticket to Corfu from Saranda and back. You can check the ferry timetable of Finikas Lines for each month here -> https://www.finikas-lines.com/lines

With Ionian Seaways, it is possible to go on a day trip to Corfu from Saranda between the 27th of May and the 30th of September. The ferry boat departs Saranda at 6:00 AM, 8:45 AM or 10:15 depending on which month you are travelling. And you can travel back from Corfu to Saranda at 17:15 PM or 19:00 PM.

Ionian Seaways charges 47.60 euros for a return ticket to Corfu from Saranda and back.

You can check the ferry timetable from Ionian Seaways for each month here -> https://ionianseaways.com/timetable/

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania . I arrange your transportation and I am your English speaking guide. So that, you get to experience the most beautiful places in Albania! Kind regards, Manon

Welcome to Albania!

I am a tour guide in albania.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania .

Book your free  Albania Planning Session via Skype now, by using my online scheduler to find a time that’s convenient for you.

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My four-day rail and ferry adventure from the UK to Albania

From London to Tirana, via Chambéry’s medieval streets, bustling Bari and Albania’s dynamic capital, this trip across Europe has treats at every turn

M y overriding memories of crossing countries by train, on a trip from London to Albania, are of half-empty carriages and countryside sweeping past windows bathed in the soft orange glow of sunset. I remember cypress trees, red-roofed villages with square churches, farmland in neat strips and row upon row of vineyards.

On my London-Paris-Chambéry-Turin-Bari-Tirana journey over land and sea, there was, for long stretches, little to do. The wifi was patchy. It took a while to adapt to having so much time to simply watch the world go by, travelling through landscapes without having to navigate them.

The biggest stress happened long before I set off, when a landslide not far from the French border with Italy blocked the rail line between Chambéry and Turin, forcing a closure that continues today. Byway, the no-fly operator I had booked with, offered to reroute me through Nice and on to Turin via the Vermenagna valley (with changes in Tende and Cuneo), or book me on the FlixBus service over part of the Mont Blanc massif. I was keen to see Chambéry and the Alps, so I chose the bus.

People seemed surprised when I told them I was travelling overland to Albania. As I gushed about the romance of slow travel by train and sleeper ferry, and my excitement about Tirana, I got comments about being “brave”. I didn’t feel especially brave: all the planning, tickets and hotel bookings were done for me, and friendly help was a WhatsApp call away if needed.

I just had to download the Rail Planner app for my Interrail pass and make sure I was at the right station at the right time (Turin was the biggest challenge: it has four main railway stations and taxis scream between them bearing anxious-looking passengers).

The entire journey took four days. If I did it all again, I’d stay longer in Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot – and remember to buy my Paris Métro ticket from the cafe on the Eurostar.

Day one: London to Chamb éry

First to Paris’s Gare du Nord, then the metro to Gare de Lyon, where I make a beeline for a cafe opposite the station. Noise pervades the pavement tables of Café Terminus, but the cacophony is delightful – an atmospheric place for a citron pressé .

I’m in plenty of time for the train to Chambéry and, excitingly, am on the upper deck. Soon, we break free from the suburbs to trace huge stands of forest. Beyond Lyon begins a ripple of hills, lazy rivers and thickly forested slopes. As evening approaches, it’s all Alpine scenery. I arrive at an almost-empty station and walk to the boutique Hotel des Princes in Chambéry’s old town.

Chambéry has an Italian feel – it was the seat of the House of Savoy before the dynasty moved on to Turin – and its medieval alleys, cathedral and pastel-coloured townhouses are quietly impressive. The 1838 Fontaine des Éléphants sits in the middle of the closest square to the old town, and peeking from the end of every street are the Bauges and Chartreuse mountain ranges. My stay is peaceful and easy.

Day two: Chamb éry to Turin

From Chambéry, the train to Turin would take about 2½ hours, but the bus takes double this. I’m on the top deck again, which is worth it for the sight of misty fingers of early morning light breaking across the mountain ridge. Snoozing backpackers rouse themselves to snap pictures of remote Mont Blanc peaks, before slumbering once more through the tunnel to Italy. In Turin there’s perfume in the air from the blossom-covered trees.

Turin’s grid of long, straight boulevards is testament to its development by the Romans – the redbrick Palatine Gate is another Roman relic – and its grand piazzas, royal palaces and graffitied colonnades date from the city’s Savoy heyday in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the number one attraction is the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum).

My favourite moments? Ricotta and fig ice-cream on Piazza San Carlo, an aperitivo on off-the-beaten-path Via Sant’Agostino and the towering neoclassical Mole Antonelliana (national museum of cinema). I eat Turin’s famous doughy pizza al padellino (pan pizza) and spend a comfortable night in the eaves of Hotel Urbani in 19th-century residential streets close to the grand Porta Nuova train station.

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Day three: Turin to Bari

The views from my next train are of cinematic Tuscan scenes. Scorched fields, vines and Italian cypress trees. Neat red roofs and shabby-chic farmhouses. Fluffy clouds cling to hills that Google Maps tells me are the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. After hours of soothing golden landscapes, the opal-blue Adriatic wallops into view just north of Ancona. Beach bars whip by and cypress trees are replaced with palm trees: I’ve arrived in the south of Italy.

Bari is hands down my favourite stop. The noise, heat and energy as we step off the train in the early evening are joyous. After Chambéry and Turin, Bari feels brash, a little rough around the edges even; a proper port city. The labyrinthine alleyways of the whitewashed old town are almost cliched in their cuteness. Despite the troupes of tightly packed headphone-wearing Americans following guided tours, it somehow manages to retain a tranquil atmosphere.

Old ladies yawn from the shade as tourists surreptitiously snap pictures and laundry flutters from balconies. I could stay for ever, but after 24 hours (which includes a lot of pasta, a stroll along the posh promenade to the not-so-posh city beach and a night in an elegant aparthotel, Residence Zodiacus , halfway between the station and the old town), it’s time to board the night ferry to Albania.

Day (and night) four: Bari to Tirana

I arrive at the ferry on foot and am escorted through the car deck to jokes about going in the wrong direction (to Albania, instead of from it). In the early morning I spot a pink sky through the cracked window of my comfy en suite cabin, and head to the top deck to see the sun rise over the distant outline of Albania. Disembarking in the port of Durrës is a bit of a scrum and there’s a bus to the capital waiting, but I opt instead for a five-minute taxi ride to the centre of town and breakfast of pastries and espresso on a dazzling white road lined with boutiques and palm trees. I later regret this though, as the aircon on the grubby public bus I eventually take to Tirana is more tired than I am, and drops me in an urban sprawl miles from the centre.

Tirana itself is a revelation. My hotel, Padam Boutique , is a grand villa with handsome rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, and there’s striking new skyward architecture on every nearby street. A short stroll away is the landmark Pyramid of Tirana , which stands as a symbol and monument to change (and is fun to climb at sunset). Skanderbeg Square – a jumble of buildings erected on a roundabout at the time of the celebrations to mark the fall of communism in 1992 – is now a pedestrianised, glossy public space. There are nods to Albania’s recent, wretched history behind the iron curtain, of course – the Bunk’Art and Bunk’Art 2 museums, in nuclear bunkers are unmissable – but Tirana and the country are more than just the last century. My journey is done, but it feels like Tirana is just getting into its stride.

The trip was provided by Byway , which offers sustainable travel and accommodation packages across the UK and Europe. Its Alps to Albania trip costs from £679pp

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View To A Thrill: 15 James Bond Locations You Can Actually Visit

Posted: May 1, 2024 | Last updated: May 1, 2024

Unbelievable Bond destinations

Whether James Bond is leaping across ancient rooftops, racing down snowy slopes, languishing in luxurious lakeside residences or seeking out villains’ urban hideouts, one of the joys of a 007 movie is the places we get to travel to vicariously. We look at some locations around the world that have played a starring role in the movie franchise over the decades.

Switzerland

With its mountain passes full of hair-pin bends and snowy slopes made for chase sequences, Switzerland is a prime location for action movies. As an offshore financial center to boot, the land-locked country makes a regular appearance in James Bond movies. Key settings include Piz Gloria, a revolving restaurant on Schilthorn's summit (pictured). It featured as arch-villain Ernst Stavro Blofeld’s lair in the 1969 film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service and today the mountain-top restaurant has various themed menu items, a Bond museum and 007 trail.

The dizzying Furka Pass, which loops between the Uri and Valais cantons in south-central Switzerland, also appears in Goldfinger, while glitzy resort St Moritz was used for thrilling ski chase sequences in both The Spy Who Loved Me and A View to a Kill . When he’s not plummeting down icy slopes, Bond can be seen jumping off various buildings. In the nail-biting opener to  GoldenEye , Pierce Brosnan’s Bond (or the stuntman, anyway) dives off the towering Verzasca Dam near Locarno (pictured). Wannabe Bonds can recreate the stunt by signing up for a bungee jump there.

Like his flawed and restless hero, Ian Fleming was very well traveled and his explorations in Japan influenced his writing. The 1967 film  You Only Live Twice  was filmed in the photogenic country and sees Bond sent to Tokyo in search of the bad guys. Key locations include the city’s then ultra-modern Hotel New Otani, Shinmoedake volcano in Kirishima National Park (which was the villainous Blofeld’s lair), and 17th-century Himeji Castle in Hyōgo Prefecture (pictured). The latter was used as the grand location for a ninja training school.

Japan was once again the setting for a villain’s lair in 2012’s Skyfall. The deserted and tiny Hashima Island, a dilapidated coal-mining factory just off the coast of Nagasaki, made an extremely atmospheric hideout for Bond's creepy nemesis, Raoul Silva (Javier Bardem). Now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the industrial wasteland is also known as Gunkanjima (Battleship Island) because of its shape. It’s possible to visit the ghost town on guided tours with cruises departing regularly from Nagasaki's port.

Jamaica has long been a favored location for the movie franchise. It’s in the DNA, after all, as the Caribbean island was very close to creator Ian Fleming’s heart – he wrote all 14 books at his home GoldenEye in Oracabessa on the northeast coast. His tropical retreat is now an upscale resort where guests can stay in the author’s writing studio. Laughing Waters Beach was the setting for arguably the most famous Bond scene ever, when Honey Ryder (Ursula Andress) emerges from the sea in the inaugural movie, Dr No . The secret agent has returned to the island many times since, including in 1973's  Live And Let Die , where Jamaica doubled as the fictional San Monique.

The Dunns River Falls, spectacular rock pools and cascades that tumble down to the sea near Ocho Rios, are one of the country’s most popular sights and famously featured in Dr No as part of the fictional Crab Key Island. So did vibrant capital Kingston, where Sean Connery filmed several scenes including at the Governor General’s mansion, King’s House. Away from the Bond connections, the island entrances with its jungle-clad Blue Mountains, plethora of palm-studded beaches, cool music scene, fantastic food and hip hotels. It’s no wonder the super sleuth keeps coming back – the tropical island also makes an appearance in the latest 007 installment.

Meteora, Greece

The spectacular rock pillars of Meteora are one of Greece’s most unusual landscapes. Criss-crossed with ancient trails, the rocky outcrops rise out of the plains of Thessaly in central Greece and are home to one of the most important monastic communities in Europe. As well as being carved out with hermit caves, they’ve been crowned with lofty Eastern Orthodox monasteries since the Middle Ages. The UNESCO World Heritage Site made an appearance in For Your Eyes Only when Roger Moore’s Bond scaled the sheer limestone cliff-face up to the Monastery of the Holy Trinity.

Six rock-top monasteries are still in operation and it’s possible to visit them (without scaling the cliff, although the ascents are pretty steep). Guided hikes are a great way to discover the landscape and its age-old hermit caves and pilgrimage paths – and sunset is an especially magical time to take in the extraordinary “stone forest”. More ecclesiastical sights can be found in Kalabaka, a town that lies in the shadow of the pinnacles. Its 10th-century Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary has some extraordinary frescoes. 

Corfu, Greece

Corfu’s handsome old town also played a starring role in  For Your Eyes Only . Many action sequences were filmed around its imposing Old Fortress, a vast complex built by the Venetians that masqueraded as Albania in the movie. They were close: parts of this lush island are closer to Albania's sandy shores than Greece’s mainland. Neo-classical mansion Achilleion Palace, just to the old town's south, also featured as a casino; little village Pagi in the northwest was the setting for a car chase; and Corfu's stunning coastline was a dramatic backdrop for some cliff-edge scuffles.

Seaplane scenes reveal more of the island’s idyllic tree-lined coves and azure waters. Picturesque spots include Palaiokastritsa on the northwest coastline and the stunning Porto Timoni, a breath-taking double bay (pictured). The best way to explore Corfu's rugged coastline is by zipping from bay to bay by boat (you can hire them at most beach towns). There are lovely spots to cool off in Corfu Town too – including a swimming area beneath the Old Fortress where you can gaze up at the ramparts and imagine Bond racing around them. Or head to the port and hop on a ferry over to explore Albania.

Mexico City, Mexico

Exuberant Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations in Mexico City’s grand Zócalo form a stunning backdrop for the dramatic opener of Spectre (2015). With its huge flagpole and imposing buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, the vast plaza is at the heart of the historic district and just the place to start explorations. The nearby Gran Hotel Ciudad de México is where Bond slips into a hotel room with the mysterious Estrella (played by Mexican-American actor Stephanie Sigman) before giving chase across rooftops. It wasn’t the first time the Art Nouveau-hotel appeared in the franchise – it was also a location in Licence to Kill (1989).

Mexico’s sprawling capital has plenty to thrill with its must-see museums and galleries, eclectic barrios and tempting food scene. You can pore over works at the Museo Frida Kahlo and Palacio de Bellas Artes, gaze at the Angel of Independence on Avenida Paseo de la Reforma, and graze your way around its lively markets. There’s rich history in this modern metropolis too. The Zócalo, built by the Spanish conquistadors over the original Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, contains the ruins of an Aztec pyramid, the Templo Mayor. To see more, take the hour trip to gaze at the awe-inspiring pyramids of the Sun and Moon at Teotihuacán.

Lake Como, Italy

Italy and its beautiful lakes have been the location for many of Bond’s escapades. Magnet for the rich, the famous and for super villains too, Lake Como made a suitably glam appearance in 2006’s Casino Royale . The lake’s deep blue waters are backed by the Alps and its wooded shores are home to numerous ritzy residences, including the opulent Villa Balbianello (pictured). Sitting on a promontory on the western shore, the villa's beautiful terraced gardens were the location for several scenes (it can be visited on guided tours). Villa La Gaeta in San Siro, a private 1920-era mansion built to resemble a medieval castle, also appears as the setting for Bond's climactic battle with Mr White. 

Boat is the most practical and pleasurable way to get around the 20-mile-long (32km) lake, so hire a motorboat or taxi boat to speed, 007 style, between mansions and pretty lakeside towns such as Bellagio and Varenna (pictured), which clings to a rocky headland opposite. There are plenty of swanky lakeside spots to stop for martinis and seafood lunches, and to explore cobbled lanes for hidden-away trysts and old-school trattorias. Another of Como's historic lakeside mansions is the exquisite Villa Carlotta with its lush gardens. Keep the thrills going like Bond by catching a train to Venice, whose canals, palazzo and piazzas also dazzled in Casino Royale (and a good few other Bond movies).

Siena, Italy

The next installment keeps us in Italy with Bond driving from a car chase in Lake Garda to Siena with Mr White in his trunk at the start of 2008’s Quantum of Solace . The hilltop Tuscan city is a stunning setting for a high-octane chase across ancient rooftops during its famous biannual bareback horse race, which takes place in the Piazza del Campo. The movie crew had special permission to film the Palio, which takes place in July and August.

All cobbled alleys in Siena’s car-free center lead to the Piazza del Campo, a vast shell-shaped square lined with medieval palaces and cafés. The grand Torre del Mangia looms above the Palazzo Publicco and is the place to head for fantastic views. The medieval stronghold, which retains its old walls, is made up of 17 districts (contrade) all with a fierce sense of identity: 10 of them compete against each other in the horse race, which has taken place since the 17th century. Wander around the backstreets to spot each contrada’s symbols. Siena's other landmarks are its striking 13th-century cathedral and Monte dei Paschi di Siena, the world’s oldest bank.

For all his foreign forays, the British secret agent always returns home – more often than not reporting into London's MI6 HQ. Bond creator Ian Fleming was born in Mayfair – you can see a blue plaque at 22b Ebury Street, which was his home between 1934 and 1945, and drink Vesper martinis at Dukes London. Fleming frequented the hotel for its “shaken, not stirred" dry martinis, which were to become Bond’s signature drink. The well-heeled neighborhood has also played host to various night-time liaisons in the books and movies – for example, a set was built to resemble exclusive casino Les Ambassadeurs Club in  Dr No . 

The capital’s most expansive and dramatic appearance was in the opening sequence of The World is not Enough  (1999). After launching onto the river from Thames House, real-life HQ of MI5, Bond races along the River Thames past the Houses of Parliament, under its famous bridges and through the wharf-lined Docklands to the Millennium Dome. Recreate the scene (Bond music and all) on a speedboat with Thames Rib Experience . Even when it doesn’t have a starring role, London has been present – in GoldenEye , for example, The Langham, Somerset House and St Sophia Church in Moscow Road all doubled as St Petersburg.

Scotland, UK

The World Is Not Enough also takes viewers far north of London and to Eilean Donan, a 13th-century castle in the western highlands which stars as the Scottish HQ of MI6. Once again, Scotland’s stunning wilderness makes a star turn in 2012’s Skyfall when Bond and M travel along the road to Loch Etive to hide out in the agent’s former family home, Skyfall Lodge. While the remote lodge was a studio construction, its location was real. It was filmed in Glen Etive, just near the rugged mountains of Glen Coe.   

The narrow and windy road that Bond and M drive along to his run-down family lodge starts at the A82 and goes for around 12 miles (20km) along the River Etive to spectacular sea loch Loch Etive. It’s a stunning route through the Highlands and has become a popular scenic drive since the movie's release. More of Scotland's majestic lochs and wild, craggy scenery will be on show in No Time to Die with high-speed car chase scenes filmed in the Cairngorms National Park, a ravishing mountain wilderness in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Udaipur, India

The romantic palaces and dreamy waterways of Rajasthan’s ravishing city Udaipur have long captured travelers' and artists’ imaginations. It mesmerized viewers in Octopussy when its Lake Palace, one-time summer residence of the city's rulers, appeared as the opulent home of the movie’s eponymous wealthy businesswoman. The floating 18th-century palace, which is set on an island in Lake Pichola, is now part of the luxury Taj Hotel Group. The old laneways of the so-called Venice of the East also featured extensively in the 1983 movie.

A boat trip around Lake Pichola is a must – from the water you can see the many lakeside palaces, bathing ghats and temples that line its emerald green waters. The most magnificent of them all is the honey-colored City Palace, built in the 16th century and home to generations of maharanas. Made up of 11 different mahals (smaller palaces), it's the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Losing yourself in the old city’s tangle of lanes and bustling bazaars is another essential on any Udaipur itinerary – as is taking a breather in its serene gardens such as the Saheliyon Ki Bari on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake.

The ethereal limestone karst towers of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay feature prominently in 1974’s The Man With The Golden Gun , appearing as Bond flies over to Scaramanga's island. The real-life rocky islands of Khao Phing Kan and Ko Tapu doubled as the hideout of the assassin, played brilliantly by Christopher Lee. Back then this area of natural beauty in the Strait of Malacca was little known, but now its islands attract scores of visitors. Khao Phing Kan has even been renamed James Bond Island. 

The hectic waterways of Bangkok also starred in the movie as the setting for a thrilling, multi-vehicle chase. The high-speed chase scenes take place along the Chao Phraya river, passing some of the city’s notable landmarks including its colorful floating markets (namely Damnoen Saduak), palatial riverside Mandarin Oriental hotel and one of its oldest temples, Wat Suthat with its giant swing. Movie-makers returned to shoot in Phang Nga Bay for 1997’s Tomorrow Never Dies . 

A string of idyllic islands, the beautiful Bahamas makes plenty of appearances in the Bond movie franchise. Thunderball (1965), The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) and Never Say Never Again (1983) all featured some filming on location in the Caribbean archipelago. Capital Nassau with its yacht-filled harbor and glitzy resorts, appears many times, including in  Thunderball 's underwater fight. The port city on New Providence Island was also home to Bond star Sean Connery, who was a long-time resident in its ultra-exclusive Lyford Cay Club.

Casino Royale  also takes in Nassau and Paradise Island, which is just off the northern coast of Providence Island and home to some seriously elegant resorts (including The Ocean Club, now part of the Four Seasons group). Daniel Craig’s Bond arrives at the exclusive beachfront hotel by seaplane with several scenes taking place in his swanky suite and the resort's beautiful gardens. Make like Bond and check in here or at the island's other super resort, Atlantis. The waters off Nassau are a top spot for diving too – the two wrecks that appeared in  Never Say Never Again  and  Thunderball  can be visited with  Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas .

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is another handsome and history-rich city that has captivated Bond location scouts over the decades. The Turkish city dazzles in From Russia With Love , The World Is Not Enough and Skyfall . The latter thrills viewers with spectacular city scenes that include a nail-biting chase sequence across the roof of the sprawling 15th-century Grand Bazaar and around Eminonu Square and the New Mosque in its Old City.

Matera, Italy

Perched on a rocky outcrop on the edge of a sharp ravine, the southern Italian city of Matera has lured plenty of movie-makers with its spectacular setting, well-worn alleyways and atmospheric sassi (ancient cave dwellings). But the makers of Bond truly put photogenic Matera on the map when  No Time To Die,  starring Daniel Craig and Léa Seydoux, was released. The spy resumes his life-long love affair with Italy and the Basilicata beauty is one of the movie’s primary locations. 

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is the setting for a high-speed car chase scene, naturally featuring the secret agent’s Aston Martin (pictured here during filming). Matera's 13th-century Romanesque cathedral and sassi districts are a spectacular backdrop. The Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano quarters were once makeshift homes for the town’s underprivileged: now these age-old dwellings house restaurants, bars and hotels, including the charming Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita. There are also more than 100 rock-hewn churches including the largest, 12th-century Chiesa San Pietro Barisano.

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