Explore the Maldives of Europe Tour from Tirana Durres to Saranda

Planning a day trip that showcases some of Albania’s most captivating coastal sights? This Explore the Maldives of Europe Tour promises a full, engaging day in the south, blending natural beauty with charming local spots. It’s marketed as an intimate experience for small groups, and from what we’ve seen, it’s especially suited for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see top highlights without the stress of planning.

What really caught our eye are two things: first, the tour’s focus on stunning natural scenery—think turquoise waters and lush beaches—and second, the fact that it’s a private experience. That means fewer crowds, more personalized attention, and flexibility in your day. The one possible hitch? It’s a long day, about 10 hours, so you’ll want to be comfortable with a full schedule and some time on the road.

This tour appeals most to those who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy relaxed sightseeing, and want a manageable way to explore Albania’s coastal treasures in a single day. If you’re someone who values personalized service and a carefully curated itinerary, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience with personalized driver-guide service.
• Highlights include Blue Eye, Ksamil, and Saranda, with ample time to explore each.
• Comfortable transportation included, with a scenic train ride to the Blue Eye.
• Cost-per-group price offers good value when considering the personalized nature of the trip.
• Timing is early start (6:30 am), ideal for full-day exploration but might be long for some.
• Includes entrance fee to Blue Eye but excludes boat trips, food, and sunbeds.

What the Tour Offers: A Deep Dive

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Crystal Clear Wonder

Starting the day at the Blue Eye, travelers get to experience one of Albania’s most breathtaking natural sights. This stunning spring features waters so clear and vibrant that photos practically sell themselves. The tour includes a train ride from the parking area directly to the spring, which adds a fun element and helps you avoid a steep walk.

Spending about an hour here, you’ll enjoy walking along paved paths that lead to viewpoints offering perfect photo ops. The water’s transparency and the vivid blue hues make it a sight to remember. This spot is popular among visitors, and honestly, it deserves its reputation as a truly special natural feature.

Ksamil: The “Maldives of Europe”

Next up is Ksamil, which many travelers refer to as a piece of paradise. The beaches here are famed for their pristine sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. With around three hours to soak in the sun or take a dip, you have plenty of time to relax on the sand, paddle out into the sea, or even explore some of the secluded coves.

If you’re considering a boat trip to the nearby Ksamil Islands, the tour mentions this as a possibility—though it’s not included. The beaches are the main draw, and we loved the way Ksamil delivers that postcard-perfect setting. Just keep in mind, there are no included sunbeds or umbrellas, so bring your own if you prefer some shade.

Saranda: Coastal Charm and Local Life

The final stop is Saranda, a lively coastal town with a relaxed vibe. Here, you get an hour to walk along the promenade, explore local cafes, or browse shops. It’s a perfect way to soak up the local atmosphere and take in views of the Ionian Sea.

Many travelers appreciate the scenic waterfront, with its casual cafes and restaurants where you can sample local dishes or simply enjoy the sea breeze. It’s a laid-back end to a day full of sightseeing, giving you a taste of both the natural and cultural sides of Albania’s coast.

Transportation and Logistics: What to Expect

The tour includes private transportation and a professional driver-guide, making the experience comfortable and stress-free. Starting early at 6:30 am, the day is packed, so be ready for a long but rewarding trip. The inclusion of a train ride to the Blue Eye is a thoughtful touch, especially if you prefer a bit of novelty in your travels.

Since the group is capped at four people, you won’t find yourself part of a crowded bus. That also means the agenda can be flexible, and your driver-guide can adapt if you want more time at a specific spot or some local tips.

Cost and Value

For $420.32 per group, the tour is quite reasonable considering it covers transportation, entrance fees, and a dedicated guide. When you split the cost among up to four people, it becomes an attractive option for small groups or families. Given the personalized service and the inclusions, most travelers will find it offers good value compared to self-organized day trips.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

From the review we found, the experience seems to hit all the right notes. One traveler shared, “Our day with Alex was nothing short of spectacular. His warmth and enthusiasm made the trip very special.” This suggests that the guide’s personality and service are key highlights, adding a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

Another review emphasizes the stunning views—which this tour is really about—highlighting that the stop at Blue Eye was a “visual feast.” The opportunity to see such natural beauty in a compact schedule is what makes this trip stand out.

However, some might find the day a bit long, especially if they prefer more flexible or leisurely exploration. Also, since boat trips aren’t included, if you want to visit the islands beyond Ksamil, you’ll need to arrange that separately.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re craving a well-organized day that hits the highlights of Albania’s coast without the hassle of planning, this tour is a strong choice. It suits those who love natural scenery, enjoy small groups, and appreciate a personalized guide making the experience seamless.

Travelers with an interest in scenic spots and a desire to see the so-called “Maldives of Europe” will find Ksamil particularly rewarding. It’s also good for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and travel—early mornings and long hours are part of the package.

This tour might not be ideal if you’re seeking a more relaxed or flexible pace, or if you want to include optional activities like boat trips or additional sightseeing beyond the set stops.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour’s itinerary and length make it more suited for adults or older children who can handle a long day on the road. Since the experience focuses on natural sights and sightseeing, it’s not specifically geared toward families with very young children.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, a professional driver-guide, entrance fees to the Blue Eye, and a train ride to the spring. Food, drinks, boat trips, and sunbeds are not included and need to be arranged separately.

What are the start and end times?
The tour begins at 6:30 am, which is fairly early, to maximize the day’s sightseeing. The exact ending time isn’t specified, but it’ll be roughly ten hours later, around 4:30 pm.

Can I start from a location other than Tirana or Durres?
Yes, the tour can start from Tirana, Durres, or your preferred location, providing flexibility to suit your travel plans.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private experience for up to four people, so you won’t be sharing the trip with strangers, which adds to comfort and flexibility.

Are there any additional costs?
Boat trips, food, drink, and sunbeds are extra. If you want to explore further or relax on the beaches longer, you’ll need to budget for those extras.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a fairly low-risk option if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Explore the Maldives of Europe Tour from Tirana or Durres offers a well-rounded glimpse into Albania’s stunning coast, with natural wonders, beautiful beaches, and lively seaside towns. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, hassle-free day without sacrificing the richness of the scenery.

The focus on beautiful views and the chance to visit iconic spots like Blue Eye and Ksamil makes this a compelling choice. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate experience, and the professional guide adds helpful insights and personalized attention.

While it’s a long day and some extras aren’t included, the overall package provides good value for travelers eager to explore the coast in comfort. If your style matches a full day of sightseeing with a touch of luxury and personalized service, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—and maybe even exceed them.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a beach enthusiast, or simply looking to tick some beautiful Albanian spots off your list, this trip offers a memorable, scenic adventure in a manageable package.