From Tirana/Durrës/Golem: Saranda, Ksamil, Blue Eye Day Tour

If you’re thinking about spending a day discovering some of Albania’s most photogenic spots, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s natural beauty and coastal charm. It’s promoted as a 12-hour adventure that promises visits to Saranda, Ksamil, Lekursi Castle, and the Blue Eye spring, all packed into one day. We’re here to give you the honest scoop based on the details and reviews, so you can decide if it fits what you’re after.

What really draws us to this experience? First, the combination of scenic views and cultural sites makes it more than just a beach day. You get a chance to enjoy panoramic vistas from Lekursi Castle and marvel at the Blue Eye spring’s otherworldly waters. Second, the tour’s incredible value, at just $65 per person, includes transportation, entry tickets, and a knowledgeable guide, which means no surprise costs or stress about logistics.

However, a noteworthy consideration is the long duration—around 12 hours. This makes it suitable for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and a bit of bus time. If you’re looking for a relaxed, less packed experience or traveling with very young children, you might feel the pace a little brisk. This trip is best suited for travelers eager to see several highlights in one day and who don’t mind a longer outing.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip covering coastal, cultural, and natural attractions
• Good value with included entry tickets and transportation
• Panoramic views from Lekursi Castle and Blue Eye spring
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Highly rated guides with many reviewers praising their helpfulness
• Long day but packed with diverse sights and activities

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Tour

This trip sets out from Durrës, Golem, or Tirana — whichever your accommodation is closest to — with a pickup option that makes it convenient to start your day. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a small but meaningful comfort considering the Albanian summer heat or even springtime warmth. The journey begins with a drive to Saranda, a well-loved coastal city often called the “pearl of the Albanian Riviera.”

Exploring Saranda: A Charming Coastal Hub

Once in Saranda, you’ll get to enjoy the stunning natural bay of the Ionian Sea with a view of nearby Corfu Island. It’s a lively port town with a mix of rocky beaches, vibrant promenade, and citrus groves. You might find it looks a lot like a small Italian seaside town, with picturesque scenery and a laid-back vibe. Many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery as a highlight, with one describing it as “looks like a small Italy.”

You’ll have some free time here, giving you a chance to stroll the promenade, maybe grab a coffee or ice cream by the sea, or just soak in the atmosphere. The tour guides are generally helpful and friendly, often going out of their way to ensure everyone gets the most out of the stop. One reviewer even noted the tour leader covered costs for a trolley train to Blue Eye when some passengers were short on cash — a nice touch that shows the guides’ attentiveness.

Ksamil: The Jewel of the Albanian Riviera

Next stop is Ksamil, often praised as the “pearl of the Albanian Riviera.” It’s renowned for its white sandy beaches and clear, turquoise waters. Here, you’ll have approximately 3.5 hours of free time, enough for a swim, a quick bite, or just relaxing on the sand. One guest shared that the boat ride here was particularly fun, with a chance to swim and enjoy the beach vibe, which sounds ideal for anyone wanting a taste of authentic seaside leisure.

You’ll also see the four islands visible from the shore, making for some excellent photo opportunities. The water’s transparency is a big draw, and travelers frequently mention that they could spend hours just floating or swimming in Ksamil’s inviting waters.

Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Views & Cultural Touch

After Ksamil, the tour takes you up to Lekursi Castle, a hilltop fortress offering panoramic views of Saranda Bay and, in the distance, Corfu. The castle dates back to a different era and adds a dash of history and culture to your day. Many reviewers appreciate the breathtaking scenery from this vantage point, and a guided visit allows you to learn about its significance.

One person noted that “the view from the castle was stunning,” and it’s a perfect spot for taking memorable photos. Keep in mind, the visit here lasts about an hour, so it’s a brief but worthwhile stop.

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Blue Eye: Nature’s Fairy Tale

The tour’s final major highlight is the Blue Eye spring, a natural wonder famed for its crystal-clear, intensely blue waters surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a popular photo stop and offers a peaceful environment to marvel at nature’s beauty. You’ll have about two hours here, giving ample opportunity for photos, a quick walk around, and some moments of quiet reflection.

The Blue Eye’s water temperature is chilly, and the depth is somewhat mysterious — a favorite among travelers who love unique landscapes. Several reviews mention how mesmerizing the sight is, with comments like “the water looked like something out of a fairy tale,” and some saying they wished they had more time to linger.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

How the Day Unfolds

The tour begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel or accommodation. The bus is comfortable and air-conditioned, making the long rides manageable. It’s a full 12 hours from start to finish, with scheduled stops at each site, plus some free time for exploration or relaxation.

The Cost and What’s Included

At $65 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially since it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all transportation, entry tickets to the visited sites, and a tour leader. You won’t need to worry about additional costs unless you want to buy extra food, drinks, or souvenirs.

What You Should Bring

Since food isn’t included, packing some snacks and water is wise. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a camera or smartphone for photos. Remember that the Blue Eye water is cold, so a towel or swimwear might be nice if you want to take a dip.

Group Size and Guide

Based on reviews, guides seem friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest a typical coach bus with a mixed group of travelers from various countries.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Diverse itinerary covering scenic, historic, and natural sites
– Very positive reviews for guides and overall organization
– Excellent value for money
– Convenient pickup and drop-off

Cons:
– Long day — if you prefer a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed
– No food included, so plan accordingly
– No mention of specific group size, which could matter if you prefer smaller groups

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that packs in Albania’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple transports or tickets. It’s particularly suited for those who are comfortable with a long day of sightseeing, enjoy natural scenery, and are looking for a good deal. If you’re traveling with others who enjoy beaches, panoramic views, and some cultural history, you’ll likely find this very rewarding.

If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace or has very young children, you might find the 12-hour schedule a little demanding. Also, if you’re already familiar with the sites or want more time at each stop, you may prefer to explore independently or find a smaller, more leisurely tour.

The Final Word

This tour offers a well-rounded peek into Albania’s coastal beauty and scenic vistas, all at a reasonable price. The combination of guided visits, free time, and included tickets makes it a straightforward, stress-free way to see some of the country’s most photogenic spots. The positive reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides, the gorgeous scenery, and the overall value.

It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy a full, active day with a mix of nature, culture, and seaside relaxation. While it’s a long day and doesn’t include meals, those are manageable considerations given the price and the quality of what’s offered.

If you’re curious to experience Albania beyond just the city and want a hassle-free way to see its highlights, this trip could just be a perfect fit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the info doesn’t specify, the tour’s duration and the nature of the stops suggest it’s best for older children or teenagers who can handle a long day. If your kids enjoy beaches, scenic views, and short walks, they might enjoy it too.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring snacks or plan to purchase something at the stops.

What should I bring for the Blue Eye?
Bring a camera or phone for photos, comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a towel if you plan to swim.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll have about 3.5 hours in Ksamil, 1 hour at Lekursi Castle, and 2 hours at Blue Eye, with some free time at Saranda and Ksamil for personal exploration.

Is the tour flexible for extra activities?
Guides are generally accommodating, and reviews mention optional activities like boat rides. You might find opportunities to extend your stay or explore independently.

Does the tour operate year-round?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews from summer and spring months suggest it’s available most of the year, weather permitting.

How big are the groups?
The exact group size isn’t specified, but reviews imply a typical coach bus with a mix of international travelers.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can book now with the option to pay later.

Is there any physical difficulty involved?
The stops involve walking but nothing too strenuous. Just wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uphill views at Lekursi Castle and Blue Eye.

If Albania’s coast and natural wonders appeal to you, this tour offers a well-organized way to get a solid overview in a single day. Just pack your sense of adventure and a bit of patience for a full and rewarding experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: