Full Day Tour: Butrint National Park, Ksamil, Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle

Exploring the Full Day Tour: Butrint National Park, Ksamil, Blue Eye, and Lekursi Castle

If you’re considering a day trip around Saranda, this full-day tour offering visits to Butrint National Park, Ksamil, Blue Eye, and Lekursi Castle could be just what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into what makes this tour appealing—and what might be a little less ideal—so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

What immediately stood out to us is how this tour manages to combine history, nature, and scenic views into a compact package. Plus, the fact that it’s booked an average of 22 days in advance suggests it’s quite popular, and for good reason. Two things we really appreciate: the convenient transportation included and the well-structured itinerary that takes you off the usual beaten path.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the admission fees for some sites (like Butrint and Blue Eye) are not included, so budget accordingly. This tour seems best suited for travelers eager to see Albania’s highlights without spending a full week or dealing with complicated logistics. If you love combining cultural sights with natural beauty, and you’re comfortable with a busy schedule, this day trip might be just right.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering UNESCO sites, beaches, springs, and castles in one day
• Excellent value for the price, with transportation and pickup included
• Limited time at each site means you’ll see the highlights, but not get deep into any one place
• Good for travelers wanting a balanced mix of history, scenery, and relaxation
• Not designed for leisure or long stays at each stop—it’s a fast-paced overview
• Popular and well-reviewed with a 5-star average rating from travelers

What to Expect from This Albania Day Tour

When you look at what this tour offers, it’s clear the goal is to give you a broad taste of Albania’s best and most interesting sights in a single day. The tour runs about 6 to 7 hours, including travel time, which means you’ll be on the move but with enough breaks to enjoy each location.

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off early at 9:30 am from Rruga Lefter Talo 75 in Saranda. Having pick-up and drop-off included is a real plus—it means you won’t have the hassle of arranging separate transport, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. The vehicle is air-conditioned, keeping you comfortable as you bounce between sites.

The Itinerary in Depth

Butrint National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Butrint is a highlight for anyone interested in archaeology and history. This ancient city has been inhabited by Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines, and the ruins reflect that layered past. We love how the site’s unique integration of water, nature, and ruins creates a magical atmosphere. You’ll spend about 2 hours and 5 minutes exploring here, but keep in mind the admission fee isn’t included—so plan for that extra expense.

One reviewer shared that “all the places visited are fantastic,” and appreciated how well-organized and engaging the tour was. The combination of archaeological remains surrounded by lush scenery makes Butrint a must-see.

Ksamil Beach: Next, you’ll head to Ksamil, known as “the pearl of the Albanian Riviera.” Here, you’ll get about 1 hour and 20 minutes to soak up the sun, enjoy the clear waters, and maybe snap some photos of the stunning coastline. If you’re after a relaxing break, this is your chance to unwind, with no entry fee required.

Travelers often comment on how beautiful Ksamil is—one person called it the prettiest beach in Albania. It’s perfect for a quick swim or just enjoying the scenery.

The Blue Eye: The Blue Eye is a natural spring that’s become a popular tourist attraction thanks to its striking, bright blue water and almost human-like eye shape. You’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes here, witnessing the magical color and the dark underwater cave that resembles a black pupil. The admission fee isn’t included, but it’s worth noting the spring’s visual appeal makes it a favorite for many visitors.

One reviewer mentions that the Blue Eye is among the most beautiful spots they’ve seen in Albania, and its unique, almost surreal look makes it stand out.

Lekursi Castle: Finally, your day concludes with a visit to Lekursi Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking Saranda. With 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the coastline, and the farmland beyond. It’s also a prime spot to catch a sunset if your timing aligns.

Because there’s no entry fee, this stop is more about the views and the atmosphere. Many travelers find the castle’s vantage point one of the best ways to appreciate Saranda’s landscape.

The Experience and Value

This tour is designed to maximize your sightseeing with convenient transportation and a carefully curated list of highlights. The group size is capped at 10 travelers, which generally means a more personalized experience. You’ll be in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long-ish day manageable and even enjoyable.

The cost of $130.55 per person seems reasonable considering the number of sites covered and the included transportation. Since admission fees are not included, it’s wise to budget a bit extra for entry tickets at Butrint and Blue Eye, but overall, the price reflects good value for what you see.

The crowds and reviews suggest this tour is popular and highly recommended—a perfect choice for those who want to get a broad perspective of southern Albania without the hassle of planning each site independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a packed but manageable schedule, loves history and scenic views, and appreciates the convenience of organized transport, this tour checks a lot of boxes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to see a little of everything—from ancient ruins to natural springs to coastal vistas—without the hassle of logistics.

While it might be a bit fast-paced for those wanting to linger at each site or explore in-depth, it’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview, or travelers on a tight schedule. It’s also suitable if you’re traveling with friends or a small group looking to make the most of a day in Saranda.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of Albania’s southern highlights. It balances cultural heritage, natural beauty, and panoramic views, all wrapped into a single, convenient package. The positive reviews, especially praising the stunning sites and good value, speak to its appeal.

If your goal is to cover a lot of ground in one day, indulge in some gorgeous scenery, and avoid the stress of organizing transportation or tickets yourself, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. Just keep in mind that you’ll spend a good portion of the day in transit, so pack snacks, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a busy but rewarding adventure.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for curious travelers who want a taste of what makes southern Albania special, all while enjoying a smoothly run, well-reviewed experience.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Saranda, with air-conditioned transportation to all sites.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 to 7 hours, including travel time and site visits.

Are admission fees included?
No, the fees for sites like Butrint and Blue Eye are not included, so plan to pay those separately.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally accessible for most travelers comfortable with walking and a full day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat—especially for outdoor sites like Ksamil and Lekursi Castle.

Is food provided?
No, meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something at stops.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Starting at 9:30 am, the tour runs during the day, making it ideal for enjoying the sites in daylight.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely—sites like Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle offer fantastic photo opportunities.

All in all, this tour is a dependable way to see some of Albania’s most memorable sights in one day. It balances comfort, variety, and value, making it a strong option for those wanting a guided overview without sacrificing authenticity or scenic beauty.