Saranda stands out as a prime base for exploring Albania’s natural and archaeological treasures. Its seaside charm combined with easy access to parks like Butrint makes it an ideal starting point for memorable day trips. What we particularly like about Saranda is how many of these tours highlight lesser-known spots with rich stories, like the Blue Eye spring or the historic Lekuresi Castle. These experiences allow you to enjoy authentic Albania—away from crowded tourist traps—while still having the comfort of organized transportation and expert guides.
Our favorite? The Full Day Tour: Butrint National Park, Ksamil, Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle, because it combines ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and breathtaking springs into one memorable day. Plus, the tour’s focus on educational insights and off-the-beaten-path stops makes it a standout for those who want more than just a postcard picture. For a taste of both history and nature, it’s a fantastic choice—check out the full details here.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the best national park tours in Saranda, each with its own charm, price point, and unique features.
1. Full Day Tour: Butrint National Park, Ksamil, Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle
This full-day adventure offers an expansive look at Albania’s historical and natural highlights. Starting with the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, you’ll explore ruins that span Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods. The site’s ruins sit amid water and lush greenery, creating a picturesque setting that makes the history come alive. Tour guide Aris Tours emphasizes educational storytelling, bringing to life stories of ancient civilizations.
Next, the tour visits Ksamil, often called the “pearl of the Albanian Riviera,” where you can relax on some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. Then, a visit to the Blue Eye springs offers a stunning natural spectacle—bright blue water bubbling up from deep underground, surrounded by dense forest, making it perfect for photos and peaceful walks. The day wraps up at Lekursi Castle, perched high above Saranda, offering panoramic views of the coast and islands.
Rated 5.0/5 from 11 reviews, this tour is praised for its comprehensive itinerary, expert guide, and smooth transportation. The price of around $130 gives access to several key sights, making it a great value for a full day of exploration. It’s best suited for travelers who want a balance of history, nature, and scenic views.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one trip ideal for those who want a rundown of southern Albania’s top attractions in a single day.
2. Visit The National Park of Blue Eye
If your priority is seeing the Blue Eye spring, this shorter tour focuses solely on the spectacular natural spring that resembles a giant iris. For just about $71, you’ll enjoy a guided visit to the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most famous natural monuments. The spring’s water is crystal clear and remarkably cold, perfect for a quick dip if you’re brave enough.
What makes this tour special is the inclusion of skip-the-line entry and transfers from your Saranda accommodation, making it very convenient. The surrounding area is lush and offers excellent photo opportunities, especially when the water’s vivid blue contrasts with the greenery. The tour lasts roughly 3 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time.
Rated 4.5/5 from 16 reviews, visitors appreciate the personalized experience and informative narration. Some mention that the experience can be a bit brief, but it delivers easy access to one of Albania’s most stunning sights without much hassle.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a focused visit to the Blue Eye with minimal fuss, especially if you’re tight on time or traveling with children.
3. Visit The National Park of Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle
For around $28, this private tour combines a visit to the Blue Eye spring with a trip to Lekuresi Castle, offering a personalized experience that’s great for families or small groups. The tour stands out because it’s private, meaning no crowded buses or large groups—just your own adventure.
Starting at the Blue Eye, you’ll see the sizeable spring with its 50-meter depth, surrounded by dense vegetation. The guide will explain how the water emerges from Mali i Gjerë mountain and share stories about the spring’s significance. Afterward, you’ll visit Lekuresi Castle, a fortress built in 1537 that offers stunning views over Saranda and the surrounding islands. Even though only ruins remain, the view from the top is worth the climb.
Rated 4.0/5 from 28 reviews, travelers enjoy the flexibility and depth of information. Many appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to explore both natural and historical sites without feeling rushed. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it ideal for families.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want to combine natural beauty and historical sites in a relaxed, private setting.
4. Visit The National Park of Blue Eye and The Fortress of Lekuresi
At around $80, this group tour makes exploring Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle straightforward and comfortable. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer guided logistics—including hotel pickup and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour includes a visit to the Blue Eye, where you can see the large, oval-shaped spring with water that can go down to 50 meters deep, and is declared a Natural Monument. The highlight here is the surrounding lush greenery and the opportunity for photos. Later, the castle of Lekuresi offers sweeping views over Saranda and the coast, with the remaining walls providing a glimpse into Albania’s past.
Rated 4.0/5 from 9 reviews, travelers mention that the timing is just right for a quick, fulfilling visit—especially if you’re arriving on a cruise or have limited time. The guided experience adds educational value and local insights.
Bottom Line: A hassle-free option for travelers who want a organized, guided experience without arranging their own transport.
5. Daily Tour to Butrint National Park
This private tour offers a more immersive visit to Butrint National Park, perfect for travelers wanting to explore archaeology at their own pace. For approximately $72, you’ll discover ruins that date back 2,500 years, including the Roman theater, Byzantine church, and Venetian hilltop castle.
The tour highlights include seeing the impressive Roman theater, the well-preserved Byzantine baptistery, and viewing the hilltop Venetian castle. The guide shares detailed stories of the site’s long history, adding context to your visit. A nice touch is the stop at Butrinti Lake and Ksamili Islands, where potential for beautiful panoramic views adds to the experience.
Rated 4.0/5 from 5 reviews, travelers value the personalized, in-depth exploration and the guided insights about Albania’s heritage. While the tour’s duration is shorter (about 3.5 hours), it provides a rich, focused experience for history lovers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a customized archaeological tour with expert narration and flexibility.
How to Choose Your Best National Park Tour in Saranda
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re after a full-day experience covering multiple sights, the Full Day Tour of Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye, and Lekursi Castle is hard to beat. For quick visits focused solely on natural wonders, the Blue Eye tour offers excellent value and convenience.
Those traveling with family or seeking a private experience might prefer the private Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle tour. For travelers arriving on a cruise or with limited time, the group tour provides a hassle-free option. Finally, if you want a personalized archaeological deep dive, the daily private tour of Butrint is the best pick.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (summer months), to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Saranda offers a compelling mix of ancient ruins, stunning springs, and commanding castles. For a comprehensive day, the Full Day Tour is your best bet. If you’re drawn to natural beauty, then the Blue Eye tours will satisfy your appetite for spectacular scenery. For those wanting a personalized experience, the private options deliver a more intimate adventure.
No matter where your interests lie, these tours open a window into Albania’s underrated natural and cultural riches. Be sure to plan ahead, pick the experience that matches your curiosity and time, and enjoy discovering the best of Saranda. Early booking can help you avoid disappointment, especially during the busy summer months.
Happy exploring!