Tour of Riviera from Tirana / Durres Ksamil Saranda and Blue Eye

If you’re considering a trip to Albania and want to see some of its most beautiful spots in a single day, a guided tour of the Riviera from Tirana could be just what you need. While we haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, reviews and descriptions paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect. It’s a long day, but packed with picturesque views, historic stops, and beach time that many travelers find worthwhile.

What really draws us to this tour are the stunning coastal vistas across Llogara and the chance to touch on Albanian history at sites like Himara Castle and Porto Palermo. Plus, the chance to relax on Ksamil’s beaches, often called the “Maldives of Europe,” makes it tempting even for those who usually prefer more leisurely days. But, keep in mind, this is quite a lengthy trip—about 12 to 13 hours—so it’s best for those who don’t mind being on the road for a good chunk of the day.

For travelers who love combining nature, history, and culture, and don’t mind a little exhaustion at the end, this tour offers a solid package. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced holiday, it might be better to pick a more relaxed option or dedicate more days to explore these areas at your own pace.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering major highlights of Albania’s southern coast
• Stunning natural sights like the Blue Eye spring and scenic coastal drives
• Rich historical stops like Himara Castle and Porto Palermo
• Very long day, with a lot of time spent on the road, so be prepared for an energetic experience
• Good value with all entrance fees, transportation, guides, and pickup included for around $191
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, but some mention the trip can be tiring

What You Can Expect on This Tour

This tour offers a full day out, starting early from Tirana around 7:30 am. It’s ideal if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground in a single day—think of it as a whirlwind introduction to Albania’s Riviera. You’ll be traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long hours a little more bearable. The tour is designed for small groups or private bookings, which helps keep things personalized.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: The Blue Eye.
After roughly 3.5 hours of driving, you’ll arrive at one of Albania’s most iconic natural attractions. The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is a water spring so clear and vibrant you might feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The spring is easy to access, with a short hike from the parking area, and for just 3 euros extra, you have the option of hopping on a mini train shuttle. Many reviews mention that the walk is about 25 minutes, so wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore on foot. Expect to spend around 30 minutes here, soaking in the views, taking photos, or having a quick swim if you’re brave enough.

Next, Ksamil Beach.
Often called the “Maldives of Europe,” Ksamil’s vibrant blue waters and sandy beaches make it a highlight. We loved the way this spot offers that classic beach paradise feel—bright, lively, and perfect for snapping photos. Keep in mind, during the summer, Ksamil gets really busy, which can make navigating a bit tricky. You’ll have about an hour here, so grab the chance to cool off and explore the area.

A short stop in Saranda.
This city is probably the most well-known in southern Albania, famous for its lively promenade, mix of Albanian-Greek cuisine, and resorts. It’s the perfect spot to grab lunch and chat about the day’s adventures. The review from Amy describes it as “a lovely place to have a nice lunch after a tiring, but yet finished, trip,” which pretty much sums it up. Expect a relaxed stroll along the waterfront, with plenty of options for local food.

Kalaja e Lëkurësit (Lekursi Castle).
Located just a few kilometers from Saranda, this castle offers incredible panoramic views of Saranda Bay and the nearby Greek island of Corfu. Many visitors find it a quick but rewarding stop—ideal for a coffee or dessert while soaking in the scenery. The entrance fee is included, so it’s another easy point of value in the tour.

Porto Palermo and Castle.
Heading further south, you’ll visit Porto Palermo, a peaceful bay where you can explore the well-preserved fortress built by Ali Pasha in the 19th century. The site also features the now-defunct submarine base, built during the communist era in 1969, and the infamous Porto Palermo Tunnel. This stop offers a mix of history and stunning seaside views, giving a glimpse of Albania’s past military strategic importance.

The return journey passes through “Lumi i Vlores.”
This scenic area is part of the drive back north, and it’s a chance to reflect on the day while taking in some final views. The tour wraps up around 9:30 pm, so it’s a long but fulfilling day.

The Value and Practical Aspects

At $191.58 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of logistics, transportation, and guided insights. The price includes all entrance fees, fuel, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a knowledgeable guide, making it a fairly hassle-free choice for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress of planning.

Many reviews emphasize the value—traveling with a guide means you get insider knowledge and a smoother experience. That said, some guests mention the trip can be quite exhausting, especially since it’s nearly 15 hours long. The long hours on the road mean it might not be ideal if your energy levels are low or if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing.

What About the Guides and Experience?

Based on reviews, the guides seem to be well-regarded for their friendliness and knowledge. WendylJoy mentions Daniel as “accommodating and considerate,” and many travelers appreciated the stories and background provided at each site. The guide’s flexibility to stop whenever needed is also a plus.

Considerations for Travelers

• Comfort on the Road: Some reviews suggest the vehicle could be more comfortable. You might find the MPV a bit tight after hours of driving, especially in the summer heat without cooling. The driver guides are flexible, but you may need to ask for extra air conditioning, as some guests did.
• Duration: Be prepared for a long day, which can be tiring but rewarding. Budget enough energy, and plan for some rest afterward.
• Crowds: During peak summer, Ksamil can be very crowded, so the tour may need to adapt. This isn’t necessarily a negative—just a heads-up if you prefer quieter beaches.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who want a comprehensive introduction to Albania’s southern coast in just one day. It’s perfect for travelers who are comfortable with long days, enjoy scenic drives, and love a mix of nature, history, and culture. Families with older children (who can handle the long hours) could also find it a worthwhile way to see many highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets themselves.

If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced holiday with plenty of time to linger at each spot, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re eager to pack in a lot in a single trip and don’t mind an energetic schedule, this tour has plenty to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour mainly involves scenic drives and sightseeing, the long hours may be tiring for very young children. Older kids who enjoy travel and outdoor activities should be fine, but consider their stamina.

Does the price include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time in Saranda to find your own meal, with many restaurants available along the promenade.

Are the stops at the Blue Eye and Ksamil free?
Yes, both stops are free, though there’s a small extra fee for the shuttle at the Blue Eye, and an admission fee of 30 euros for the Blue Eye spring is included in the tour price.

How long is the drive from Tirana?
It’s roughly 3.5 hours to the Blue Eye, so expect to spend about half the day on the road, with frequent stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, water, and a camera. The tour provides transportation and guidance, but snacks and souvenirs are extras.

What time does the tour start and end?
It starts at 7:30 am and finishes around 9:30 pm, so be prepared for a full day.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most stops range from 20 minutes to an hour, enough to enjoy the scenery and take photos, but not to explore in depth. It’s a quick glimpse, not an in-depth tour.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to maximize your time and see the highlights of Albania’s Riviera in one go, this tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and culturally interesting day. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a long, busy schedule and want to experience a variety of natural and historic sites without the hassle of planning each detail. While the journey can be tiring, the stunning views, friendly guides, and the chance to see places like Blue Eye, Ksamil, and Porto Palermo make it a trip many consider worthwhile.

For travelers who love guided experiences that cover a lot of ground, and aren’t put off by a long day on the road, this tour strikes a good balance of value, scenery, and cultural insights. Just be sure to bring your energy, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for beautiful landscapes and history—Albania’s Riviera is waiting.