Daily Tour: Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, Ottoman Bridge, Lekursi

If you’re planning a trip to southern Albania, chances are you’ll come across offers for a full-day tour that packs in some of the region’s most iconic sights. We’ve reviewed a popular option that takes you from Saranda to landmarks like the Blue Eye Spring, Gjirokaster’s UNESCO-listed old town, and Ottoman-era bridges—all in one comfortably-priced package. It’s a thoughtful way to get a taste of Albania’s history, natural beauty, and culture without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the careful balance it strikes: you get to see a lot, but not at the expense of feeling rushed. Plus, the guides seem to be genuinely passionate and knowledgeable, which makes all the difference. That said, it’s worth noting that this is a day packed with sightseeing, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a fairly busy schedule and early starts.

One potential consideration is the ticket price for the Blue Eye—just fifty cents—so it’s a very affordable addition. However, you’ll need to budget for lunch if you want to indulge in local cuisine, as that’s an extra cost. This tour is well-suited for curious travelers interested in history and nature, who appreciate good value and a small-group experience.

Key Points

• Well-Organized Itinerary: Visits to six major sites in one day, with enough time to enjoy each.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a new, air-conditioned Mercedes Vito Tourer minivan, ideal for small groups.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides enhance understanding and add personality to the experience.
• Affordable Price: At $43 per person, it offers good value considering the number of sites covered.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Highlights for Enthusiasts: Stunning views from Lekursi Castle, Blue Eye’s natural beauty, and fascinating ruins from different eras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off early, departing from Saranda at 8:50 am, with a return around 6 pm, making it a full but manageable day out.

Lekursi Castle

Your adventure begins with a 10-minute drive to Lekursi Castle, perched high above Saranda. Built in the 16th century by the Ottomans, this fortress offers sweeping views over the coast and the town below. You’ll probably spend around 30 minutes here, snapping photos and soaking in the scenery. Reviewers love the impressive vista from this vantage point, describing it as “a perfect spot for a quick photo stop” before heading on.

Mesopotam Monastery

Next, the tour moves to the Mesopotam Monastery, about 20 minutes away. This site dates back to the 11th and 13th centuries, with a history of serving both Catholic and Orthodox communities before Ottoman transformation into a mosque. The monastery’s walls are built on ancient temple remains, adding layers of spiritual and historical significance. Visitors have commented that the site provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s religious past. Entry is free, and the guide explains its historical importance clearly, making it a meaningful stop.

Blue Eye Spring

The highlight for many is the Blue Eye. The tour allocates about two hours here, giving you plenty of time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the cooling waters. The spring’s water is a constant 10°C and presents a striking visual—an almost perfect circle of turquoise water surrounded by lush greenery. Entry costs about 50 cents, making it an incredibly affordable experience. Multiple reviews emphasize how breathtaking the sight is, with descriptions like “absolutely stunning” and “a must-see in Albania.” The tranquil environment also provides a chance for a quick rest amidst nature.

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Ottoman Bridge and Bunkers

Afterward, you’ll visit the Ottoman Bridge and several remnants of Albania’s communist past—namely, bunkers from the Cold War era. These sites, free to enter, tell contrasting stories: the engineering ingenuity of the Ottoman period and the stark, utilitarian architecture of recent history. Many travelers find this part of the tour particularly compelling as it offers tangible insights into Albania’s layered history.

Gjirokaster Old Town

Finally, the journey culminates in Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have around 3 hours here, enough time to wander narrow cobblestone streets, admire stone-built houses resembling tiny fortresses, and explore the impressive castle. The town’s architecture and historical atmosphere are some of the most praised aspects, with many reviews calling it a “beautiful place to get a sense of Albania’s Ottoman past.” It’s also a fantastic spot to enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch (at extra cost), which most visitors recommend to truly round out the experience.

The Experience: What Makes It Stand Out

Travelers consistently highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides as a major plus. From reading reviews, we see that guides like Ilir receive praise for their engaging storytelling, helpfulness, and professionalism. They make the day more enriching, explaining historical contexts and answering questions patiently. Many reviewers mention feeling cared for, and the small group size helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

The transportation in a new, air-conditioned Mercedes Vito minivan is a definite advantage, especially in the Albanian heat. The comfortable ride means you can relax between sites and enjoy the scenic drives through the mountains and coast. Plus, the schedule is tight but well-paced; travelers have appreciated the balance of sightseeing and free time, avoiding feeling rushed yet still covering all highlights.

The cost of around $43 per person is particularly appealing considering the full-day itinerary. For that, you get transport, a guide, and visits to six remarkable locations. The Blue Eye entrance fee is minimal, and while lunch is an extra, many find the overall value to be good, especially compared to the cost of organizing similar visits independently.

What Are the Downsides?

One thing to consider is that the tour is quite packed, so if you like to spend extended periods at a single site or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be your best fit. Also, since the Blue Eye can be crowded, some reviewers mention the touristy feel, but that’s typical for popular natural attractions. The guide’s rapid speech might be challenging for some, but most found it manageable with attentive listening.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, as the physical demands or site access could be limiting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who want a comprehensive taste of southern Albania in one day. If you enjoy history, scenic views, and small-group comfort, you’ll appreciate the personalized touches and knowledgeable guides. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate good value and are comfortable with a fairly full schedule.

If you’re short on time but want to see several highlights without the hassle of self-organizing, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore. However, if you prefer more time at fewer sites or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider alternative options.

Final Thoughts

This small-group day trip from Saranda to some of southern Albania’s most iconic sights offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and historical intrigue—all at an attractive price point. The combination of comfortable transport, expert guides, and well-planned stops makes it a solid choice for first-time visitors eager to maximize their time.

The tour’s highlights—like the Blue Eye’s mesmerizing waters and Gjirokaster’s charming old town—are sure to leave lasting impressions. With many travelers praising the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, you’re likely to come away feeling informed and inspired. Just be ready for a busy, full day and bring your curiosity along.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally geared toward adults and older children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. It’s not specifically designed for young children or those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
Transport in a new, air-conditioned Mercedes Vito minivan, a professional English-speaking guide, and visits to all listed sites. The Blue Eye ticket costs only 50 cents and is not included in the price.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
Most sites offer ample free time—around 30 minutes to 2 hours—so you can explore at your own pace and take photos.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water. It’s a full day, so be prepared for the weather and walking.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased at Gjirokaster for an extra cost.

How long is the drive between sites?
The drives range from 10 to 50 minutes, providing scenic views and a chance to relax.

Is the guide available in English?
Yes, all guides speak English and are known for being friendly and knowledgeable.

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

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely. It offers an excellent overview of southern Albania’s highlights, especially if you want a hassle-free, well-organized experience with friendly guides and good value.

To sum it up, if you’re eager to see key sights like Gjirokaster, Blue Eye, and Ottoman relics without fuss, this tour is a smart pick. It strikes a good balance between structured sightseeing and free exploration, making it perfect for curious travelers who want to soak up Albania’s atmosphere in one satisfying day.

You can check availability for your dates here: