Day trip from Saranda : Blue Eye and Gjirokastra

If you’re planning to explore the southern part of Albania, this organized day trip offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, it has an inviting appeal, especially if you’re looking for a straightforward way to see some must-visit sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What stood out to me are the stunning landscapes of the Blue Eye and the charm of Gjirokastra’s historic castle and bazaar. Plus, the convenience of a small group setting and comfortable transport makes it a solid option. That said, one thing to consider is that this is largely a self-guided experience once you arrive at the sites—if you’re hoping for a deeply narrated tour, that might be a downside. Overall, it’s great for travelers who want a low-stress, flexible day out that hits some of Albania’s highlights.

This tour would suit those who appreciate natural scenery combined with cultural exploration. It’s especially good for people who prefer to go at their own pace, as well as for anyone interested in seeing iconic spots with the comfort of a guided transport. If you’re traveling with family or just want to tick off key sights in a single day, this could be a nice fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport in a new, European-standard vehicle makes the day easy.
• The small group size (limited to 8 participants) offers a more personalized experience.
• You’ll visit Gjirokastra’s historic castle and bazaar, enjoying local architecture and history.
• The Blue Eye provides an unforgettable landscape with crystal-clear waters.
• Flexibility at each stop allows you to explore at your own pace during free time.
• Entry tickets are not included, so budget accordingly for site entrances.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This adventure kicks off with a pick-up from your accommodation in Saranda, making it a hassle-free start. The first major stop is Gjirokastra, known as the “City of Stone” — and for good reason. The highlight here is the castle of Gjirokastra, one of the largest and oldest in the Balkans, offering a glimpse into the town’s medieval past. The castle’s walls and towers make for impressive photos and a sense of stepping back in time.

After exploring the castle, you’ll get some free time to wander the cobbled streets and charming bazaar. This part of the town is really picturesque, with stone houses and souvenir shops, perfect for a relaxed stroll and photo ops. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere or pick up some local crafts. The feedback from travelers indicates that the guide doesn’t provide a lot of commentary, so if you’re interested in history, bringing your own notes or guidebook might be helpful.

Next, the group heads roughly 40 minutes by van to the Blue Eye—a natural spring famous for its mesmerizing, vivid turquoise waters. This is a favorite for most visitors, and for good reason. The sight of the water bubbling out of the earth into a clear, vibrant pool is genuinely breathtaking. You’ll have about an hour and a half here, enough time for photos, a short walk around, and maybe a quick shopping stop for souvenirs or snacks.

The final stop is the Castle of Lekursi, perched on a hilltop near Saranda. From here, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the town and coastline—an ideal spot for sunset or just to appreciate the scenery from above.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup in Saranda

The tour begins with convenience—your driver picks you up from your hotel or designated spot. This is ideal because it saves you from navigating or arranging transport on your own. The van is described as comfortable and new, fitting for a 6.5-hour trip.

Gjirokastra’s Castle and Free Time

Once you arrive in Gjirokastra, you’ll spend about two hours. The castle’s size and historical significance mean there’s plenty to see, even if the guide doesn’t offer extensive explanations. The town itself is captivating, with its stone-paved streets and interesting architecture. Travelers have shared that they enjoyed wandering independently, with some noting the lack of detailed commentary from guides, so bringing a guidebook or audio guide might enhance your visit.

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Blue Eye’s Natural Beauty

The 40-minute drive takes you to the Blue Eye, a natural spring that’s often called one of Albania’s most beautiful spots. The crystal water, surrounded by lush greenery, is genuinely stunning. Travelers mention that photos don’t do justice to the vivid colors of the spring, making it a must-see. The approximate 1.5 hours allocated here is enough for a quick walk, photos, and maybe a little shopping at nearby stalls.

Final Stop at Lekursi Castle

The last brief stop is at Lekursi Castle, about 15 minutes. It’s a perfect place for a final panoramic view of Saranda, especially if you visit near sunset. The castle’s vantage point offers sweeping views, which many reviewers have appreciated.

Transport, Cost, and Overall Value

The tour features transport in a new, comfortable vehicle, which makes the entire day more enjoyable. The driver/guide speaks English and Albanian, though reviews suggest that the guide’s language skills may be limited, and explanations at the sites are minimal. The cost of $71 per person is reasonable considering the transportation and visits, though you need to budget separately for entry tickets.

Given the limited group size, you’re likely to get a more intimate experience than in larger buses, and the flexibility for free time allows for a more personal pace. The duration of 6.5 hours feels well-balanced for seeing key highlights without feeling rushed.

The Experience: Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared that the taxi was punctual and in great condition, and their driver was “very kind,” making for a safe and comfortable journey. However, they noted the driver spoke very little English, so there wasn’t much narration during the stops. This means if you prefer a guided storytelling experience, this might not fully meet your expectations.

Another traveler from Italy mentioned that the guide acted more as a driver, leaving them to explore sites on their own. If you’re okay with a self-guided exploration at each stop, you’ll find this less problematic. Conversely, those expecting a narrated tour might find this aspect lacking.

A French traveler highlighted how comfortable and friendly the driver was, and appreciated the overall experience, showing that positive vibes and comfort are consistent themes.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This day trip suits independent travelers who want the convenience of transport and a curated itinerary but prefer to explore on their own at each site. It’s also a good choice for those interested in natural beauty and historical sites but don’t want the complexity of organizing multiple separate trips.

People who enjoy scenic drives, panoramic views, and wandering through historic towns will find this experience rewarding. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a more guided narrative, this tour may feel a bit too self-directed. Still, for the price, most find it good value—especially if you’re eager to see Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye in a single day.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Saranda offers a practical way to see some of Albania’s most iconic sights with minimal hassle. The mix of historic Gjirokastra, with its stone architecture and castle, and the breathtaking Blue Eye spring makes for memorable experiences. The comfortable transport and small group size are highlights, giving you a more relaxed, personalized outing.

While the tour doesn’t include detailed guiding at each site, it’s perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring independently, with the bonus of having transport taken care of. The price point reflects good value given the convenience and variety of sights covered, though you should plan to pay for site entries separately.

If you’re someone who loves natural scenery, historic towns, and a flexible schedule, this trip hits many of those marks. It’s especially suitable for active travelers comfortable with self-guided sightseeing and looking to maximize their day without overloading on tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport in a new, comfortable vehicle suitable for European standards, with pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Saranda.

How long is the entire trip?
The total duration is approximately 6.5 hours, covering all stops and travel time.

Are entry tickets to the sites included?
No, entry tickets are not included; you’ll need to purchase them separately at each site.

What language does the guide speak?
The driver/guide speaks English and Albanian, though reviews suggest that at some sites, the commentary may be limited.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally suitable for travelers comfortable with walking and exploring independently. It’s not specifically tailored for children or families with very young kids, but older children who enjoy sightseeing should be fine.

Can I customize the schedule?
Since it is a small group tour with set stops, flexibility mainly involves how long you spend at each site during free time.

What should I bring?
A daypack for your essentials, such as water, camera, and snacks. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled streets and outdoor sites.

If you’re keen to explore Albania’s highlights without the stress of planning, this tour offers a straightforward, scenic, and enriching experience, perfect for curious travelers who value comfort and flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here: