Saranda is a fantastic base for exploring Albania’s rich flavors and stunning sights. This small coastal town offers more than just beautiful views; it’s a great place to taste authentic Albanian wines, learn about local traditions, and see some truly memorable sights. Two tours stand out for their mix of scenery, history, and tasting opportunities. The Experience Blue Eye , Lekuresi Castle and Taste Traditional Albanian Wine provides a private half-day adventure combining natural beauty with panoramic views. Meanwhile, the Wine and Raki tasting tour offers a focused, intimate experience with local spirits and food. Both are excellent choices, depending on your interests and amount of time.
Below, we’ll explore these two standout tours in detail, so you can choose the one that fits your style—whether it’s sightseeing, wine tasting, or a bit of both.
1. Experience Blue Eye , Lekuresi Castle and Taste Traditional Albanian Wine
For around $93.76 per person, this private, approximately 4-hour tour offers a beautifully balanced mix of nature, history, and local flavor. It’s perfect if you want to see some of Saranda’s most famous sights without the hassle of navigating on your own. The tour includes private transfers, so there’s no need to share with strangers, and all entry fees are taken care of, making it a smooth experience.
The itinerary begins with a visit to Lekuresi Castle, perched on a hill that provides sweeping views of Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and the nearby islands of Ksamil. The guide shares stories about the castle’s history as you stroll through its ruins—ideal for history buffs or anyone interested in local lore. About 40 minutes is enough to soak in the scenery and snap photos. Next, the tour heads to the Blue Eye, a natural spring famous for its vibrant, deep blue waters that bubble mysteriously from a deep underground cavity. The surrounding lush forests create a peaceful setting perfect for relaxing and photography. Visitors often comment on the spring’s captivating beauty, and many find it to be a highlight of their time in Albania.
Following these sights, the tour concludes with a wine-tasting session, sampling traditional Albanian wines and local food and drinks. This flexible, private experience is tailored to your pace and interests, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop.
Bottom line: If you want a well-rounded, private tour that combines scenic views with a taste of local life, this one hits all the marks.
2. Wine and Raki tasting tour
At $104.11 per person, this roughly 2-3 hour tour is ideal if you’re short on time but still want an authentic taste of Saranda’s regional drinks. It’s a private experience focused solely on wine and raki tasting, with the opportunity to learn about local production methods directly from your guide.
The tour starts with a visit to Lekuresi Castle, a magnificent Ottoman fortress offering panoramic views that are perfect for photos. This short stop provides a great vantage point to understand the landscape and get some history. Afterward, you’ll head to the Isak canteen, where you’ll see how Albanian wine and raki are made. Here, you can sample a variety of local spirits, including red wine, white wine, cognac, and traditional raki — including walnut and plum flavors. Accompanying these drinks are local snacks like fig jam and fresh vegetables from the greenhouse, making for a true taste of regional cuisine.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick, intimate introduction to Albanian spirits and food. Since it’s private, your guide can tailor the experience based on your preferences, answering questions and sharing stories along the way. Reviews highlight its high quality, with a perfect 5-star rating, emphasizing its authenticity and personal touch.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about Albanian raki and wine in a short, relaxed setting, this tour offers excellent value and an engaging experience.
How to Choose Between These Wine Tours
If your goal is to combine sightseeing with wine tasting, the Experience Blue Eye , Lekuresi Castle and Taste Traditional Albanian Wine provides a broader experience, perfect for a half-day outing. It’s especially suitable for those who want to see natural wonders and historic sites while enjoying local wines at a leisurely pace.
On the other hand, if you’re pressed for time but still want a deep dive into Albanian spirits and food, the Wine and Raki tasting tour is an excellent choice. Its shorter duration makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those who prefer focusing solely on culinary delights.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and interest in either scenic sightseeing or culinary immersion when choosing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Both tours offer genuine glimpses into Albanian culture, whether through natural beauty or flavors. The Experience Blue Eye, Lekuresi Castle, and local wine ranks highly for its variety and relaxed pace, making it perfect for travelers wanting a bit of everything. Meanwhile, the Wine and Raki tasting shines for its intimacy and focus on spirits, ideal for aficionados or those eager to understand local drinks.
For those planning a visit, both tours showcase some of the best parts of Saranda in a manageable time frame. Whether you want panoramic views, historical sites, or a spirited tasting, these experiences will deepen your appreciation of Albanian culture. Book early to secure your spot and get ready to enjoy a flavorful journey in this lovely coastal town.