Visit the Monastery of Mesopotam and The Archaeological Park of Phoenice (Finiq)
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this tour we will visit the Monastery of Mesopotam & The Archaeological Park of Finiq.
Mesopotam is a historic village, known for St. Koll's Orthodox Church (Monastery of Mesopotam), which is a 13th-century building.
At the Archaeological Park of Finiq (locate 8km east of Saranda), you will see the ruins of an ancient temple, theater, some Helene homes, Roman baths and a Byzantine church
Available options
Visit the Monastery of Mesopotam and The Archaeological Park of Phoenice (Finiq)
Pickup included
What's included
Live Guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
One of the stops on our tour will be the Archaeological Park of Finiq (Phoinike), located 8 km east of today's city of Saranda.
In ancient times the territory belonged to the Kingdom of Epirus, while during the Byzantine period it was expanded.
During the visit to Finiq you can see the ruins of an ancient temple, theater, some Helene homes, Roman baths and a Byzantine church.
2
On our tour we will visit the Monastery of Mesopotam (St. Koll's Orthodox Church), which is a 13th-century building.
What's not included
Entrance ticket to Archaeological Park of Finiq
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Saranda
Saranda is a charming coastal town in southern Albania, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to the ancient ruins of Butrint. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Top Attractions
Butrint National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a well-preserved theater, baptistery, and various temples.
Historical
2-3 hours
€7
Lekursi Castle
A historic castle offering panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea. It's a great spot for sunset views.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Ksamil Beach
A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and small islands nearby. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to €10 for sunbeds and umbrellas
Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)
A natural spring with incredibly clear, blue water. It's a popular spot for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty.
Nature
Half day
€2 for parking
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tavë Kosi
A traditional Albanian baked dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt.
Main Dish
Contains dairy and meat
Byrek
A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or with meat
Peshk në Zgarë
Grilled fish, often sea bass or sea bream, served with lemon and olive oil.
Main Dish
Contains fish
Fërgesë
A traditional dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often served with bread.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Butrint National Park
Scuba diving in Ksamil
Boat tours to Ksamil Islands
Sunbathing at Ksamil Beach
Yoga on the beach
Spa treatments
Exploring Butrint National Park
Visiting Lekursi Castle
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, ideal for beach activities and exploring the town. The sea is at its warmest, and the town is lively with various events and festivals.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Albanian
- Widely spoken: English, Italian, Greek
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Albanian Lek (ALL)
Time Zone
GMT+1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Saranda is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Getting there
By air
- Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport • 200 km from Saranda
By bus
Saranda Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Saranda. They are frequent and connect major points in the town.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxi Albania
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Ksamil
Butrint
Day trips
Corfu, Greece
15 km from Saranda • Half day to full day
A beautiful Greek island with ancient ruins, historic sites, and stunning beaches.
Llogara Pass
80 km from Saranda • Full day
A stunning mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Albanian Riviera.
Gjipe Canyon
60 km from Saranda • Full day
A beautiful canyon with a hidden beach, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Festivals
Saranda Summer Festival • July to August
Butrint Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit Butrint National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Take a boat tour to the Ksamil Islands for a unique and unforgettable experience.
- Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek for an authentic taste of Albanian cuisine.
- Explore the town on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local secrets.
- Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
