Tour Gjirokaster,Blue Eye & Lekursi Castle

Gjirokaster, Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle Tour Review: A Balanced Look at Albania’s Iconic Spots

If you’re considering a day trip around Saranda that hits some of Albania’s most memorable sights, this tour of Gjirokaster, the Blue Eye, and Lekuresi Castle might just be worth your time. We haven’t experienced it firsthand, but based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it sounds like a well-rounded way to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we really like about this tour is the combination of cultural history and natural beauty—the charm of Gjirokaster’s hillside streets paired with the stunning, almost surreal Blue Eye spring. Plus, the small-group setting promises a more personalized experience, especially with guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

However, one thing to consider is that the tour is fairly short—about 5 to 6 hours total—so if you’re after a deep dive into each site or a leisurely exploration, you might find it a bit quick. Also, some reviews mention the lack of a guided tour at Gjirokaster, which is something to keep in mind if you’re interested in historical details.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want an efficient, well-organized introduction to these spots, with a good mix of sightseeing and free time to explore on your own.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: You’ll get more attention from your guide, making your visit more informative.
• Efficient Itinerary: Perfect if you want to see multiple sites in a limited time.
• Focus on Highlights: Visits to Gjirokaster, Blue Eye, and Lekuresi Castle cover cultural, natural, and scenic interests.
• Price & Value: At $41.50 per person, it’s an accessible option for a guided day trip.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes pickup from your hotel or port, plus air-conditioned transport.
• Limited Deep Dive: The tour’s short duration means less time for in-depth exploration, especially if you’re a history buff.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Gjirokaster – The Old Town’s Charm

The first stop takes you to Gjirokaster’s Old Town, a place that looks straight out of a storybook. Known for its imposing Ottoman-style houses, cobbled roads, and spectacular views of the Drina Valley, this hillside town has a history that stretches back over 2,500 years. The town’s architecture has been preserved well, partly thanks to Enver Hoxha, who was born here. Interestingly, while Hoxha’s legacy looms large in Albania, the town itself doesn’t memorialize him, which keeps the atmosphere more historical than political.

Travelers seem to appreciate the scenery, with one reviewer describing it as “a charming city that reminded us of a Swiss village.” The highlight here is the castle, which towers over the town and offers a glimpse into the medieval past, although it’s optional to visit and costs a small entry fee of around 4 euros. The streets, with their large limestone slabs, give you a real sense of time standing still.

However, some visitors mention that the hike uphill to the castle can be daunting, especially in warm weather. If you’re not into walking or have mobility concerns, you might want to take it easy or skip the castle’s interior. Still, the views from the outside alone are worth the visit, and your guide can help point out key sights along the way.

The Blue Eye – Nature’s Masterpiece

Next, it’s time for one of Albania’s most celebrated natural wonders: the Blue Eye spring. Located near Muzinë, this turquoise water spring is a must-see for anyone craving a dose of nature’s artistry. The spring’s stunning light blue hue, caused by mineral-rich water, creates a visual that’s almost too pretty to be real.

Getting to the Blue Eye involves a short drive, and once there, you’ll see the spring beneath a small metal balcony—perfect for snapping photos. The surrounding dense forest adds to the sense of being in a secret spot. Visitors are permitted to get close enough to see the water’s swirling depths, though swimming is officially prohibited. That said, some still jump into the icy water, which is definitely an experience.

One reviewer pointed out that the entrance fee for the Blue Eye is included in the tour, making it straightforward to enjoy this natural wonder without extra hassle. The time here is flexible—about 2 hours—so you can soak it all in and take your time enjoying the scenery.

Lekuresi Castle – Panoramic Views and a Final Touch

The last stop is Lekuresi Castle, perched above Saranda, offering sweeping views of the coastline and surrounding countryside. This compact site takes around 30 minutes to explore and provides an excellent photo opportunity. The castle itself is quite atmospheric, with ruins that hint at its medieval past, and the vistas from the top are truly worth the short stop.

The guided commentary, along with the scenic backdrop, leaves many visitors feeling satisfied with this quick visit. It’s a fitting way to end the tour on a high note, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the day’s adventures.

The Practical Side: Transport, Timing & Value

Transportation is handled smoothly with air-conditioned vehicles, and the tour includes pickup from your hotel or the port—no fuss there. The entire trip runs from about 9:15 am, with a flexible schedule that gives you the rest of the day free for your own plans.

Cost-wise, at $41.50 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering it includes transport, entry fees for the Blue Eye, and a small-group setting. You’ll also appreciate the included booster seat if you’re traveling with children or need extra safety measures, although the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly.

Some reviews indicate that the tour is not a guided experience at Gjirokaster, but rather a private taxi service. Travelers who expected a guided tour might find this disappointing, especially if they’re interested in historical narratives. That said, the driver/guide was praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, making the trip enjoyable.

What We Hear from Travelers

Many visitors highlight the friendly guides and the stunning scenery as the best parts. As one reviewer put it, “Orlando was brilliant, couldn’t ask for more. Very knowledgeable and any questions we had and was great company.” The attention from guides, even if not always in a formal tour format, really enhances the experience.

Others mention the beautiful mountain roads leading up to Gjirokaster, which add to the charm of the trip, and the impressive views from Lekuresi Castle. Of course, some point out that the short duration means you’ll need to prioritize what you want to see most.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, affordable way to see some of Albania’s top attractions, this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you prefer a small-group setting with a friendly guide who can answer questions and point out sights. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their sightseeing in a limited time without the hassle of planning transportation or entry logistics.

However, if you’re a history buff wanting a detailed guided tour of Gjirokaster or if you prefer a slower pace with more time at each site, you might want to consider other options or extending your stay in each location.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced snapshot of Albania’s natural beauty and historic charm. It’s a practical, budget-friendly way to tick off Gjirokaster’s hillside streets, the Blue Eye’s crystal waters, and Lekuresi Castle’s panoramic vistas—all in one day.

The small-group format and friendly guides are definite pluses, making it more personal than some larger tours. While it’s not a deep dive into each site, it’s a good, straightforward introduction suitable for most travelers heading through Saranda.

If you’re after a convenient, well-priced day trip that covers some of Albania’s most photographed and loved spots, this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is pickup provided for this tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or port in Saranda is included, making the start of the day smooth and easy.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 5 to 6 hours, leaving you plenty of free time in the rest of your day.

Are there any extra costs I should know about?
The tour fee covers entrance to the Blue Eye, but Gjirokaster Castle has a small optional fee of around 4 euros if you want to visit inside. There’s also a train ticket fee of 6 euros if you choose to go inside the Blue Eye.

Is this a guided tour?
Not exactly. It’s primarily a transport service with a driver/guide who offers commentary but doesn’t provide a formal guided tour of Gjirokaster. Expect more of a private taxi experience with some insights from your driver.

Is it suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s short duration and safe transport make it manageable for travelers with children, especially if they enjoy scenic outings.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Most travelers go in the morning, starting around 9:15 am, to make the most of daylight and avoid afternoon crowds, especially at the Blue Eye.

How do I get to Blue Eye from Saranda?
The tour includes transportation, but if you’re doing this independently, you’ll need to rent a car and follow signs to Muzinë, then walk to the spring.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The hike uphill at Gjirokaster might be challenging for some, so consider your mobility when planning. The other sites involve minimal walking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, which is handy if your plans change.

All in all, this Gjirokaster, Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience some of Albania’s highlights without breaking the bank or overcommitting your day. Whether you’re into history, natural beauty, or scenic viewpoints, there’s enough here to make it worthwhile—just keep expectations aligned with the brief stops and small-group pace.