Day Tour From Tirana : Ksamil (3h), Blue Eye Lekursi Castle

Imagine a day where you get to see some of Albania’s most captivating sights—natural springs, turquoise beaches, and panoramic castle views—all in one trip. This full-day tour from Tirana for about $84 per person offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and beach relaxation. Led by a local guide, it’s a chance to step outside the capital and experience the stunning southern coast of Albania.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to see the surreal Blue Eye spring —a natural wonder that’s as mysterious as it is beautiful—and have plenty of time in Ksamil, one of Albania’s most beloved beach towns. The final stop at Lekursi Castle offers sweeping views over Saranda and the Ionian Sea, closing the day with a picture-perfect moment.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves a long drive—about 9 hours of transportation—which means a hefty chunk of your day will be spent in the vehicle. It’s not suited for very young children or those with limited mobility, but if you’re eager for a packed day of sights and don’t mind the journey, this trip offers solid value and authentic experiences.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Albania’s natural beauty and its scenic coast, without the hassle of planning multiple transportation routes. If you love stunning vistas, clear waters, and a chance to soak in some local history, you’ll find this trip well worth the time.

Key Points

• Diverse highlights including natural springs, beaches, and castles offer a well-rounded experience.
• Includes transportation and a guided tour, making logistics simple for visitors.
• About 9 hours of driving with multiple stops, so it’s a full-day commitment.
• Three hours of free time in Ksamil allows for swimming, relaxing, or eating at local restaurants.
• Entry fee for Blue Eye is included, but train tickets are not.
• Tour runs with a minimum of 4 participants; check with the provider if traveling solo or in a small group.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This adventure begins early, as we set off from Tirana toward the southern coast — a drive that takes around nine hours round-trip. The first highlight is the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a stunning spring famous for its vividly clear waters and mysterious depth. Surrounded by lush greenery, the spring offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to marvel at Albania’s unspoiled natural beauty.

Next, you’ll spend approximately three hours in Ksamil, a beach town celebrated for its pristine white sands and inviting waters. This is your chance to swim, sunbathe, or grab a bite at a seaside cafe. Many reviews mention how memorable the beach time is — relaxing, scenic, and not rushed.

Following the beach, the group will drive to Lekursi Castle, perched on a hill overlooking Saranda and the Ionian Sea. Here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views that make for memorable photographs. The castle’s outdoor terrace provides a perfect end to the day, with opportunities to appreciate both the coast and the mountains behind.

Throughout the day, your guide (whose passion for Albania shines through) will share insights into the history and significance of each site. The experience is more than just sightseeing; it’s about taking in the atmosphere and understanding the local context.

The Experience in Detail

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Enigma

The Blue Eye is one of Albania’s most iconic natural landmarks. Its incredibly clear waters are said to be over 50 meters deep, but what makes it fascinating is not just its transparency, but the swirling currents that create a mesmerizing effect. It’s a popular spot for photographers, but also for those looking to appreciate the untouched beauty of Albanian nature. Wajeeh’s review highlights how the guides are passionate and the value for money is excellent, emphasizing the quality of the experience.

Ksamil’s Beach Paradise

Three hours in Ksamil give you ample time to relax and enjoy the turquoise waters. The beaches are spacious and often less crowded than other Mediterranean spots, making it ideal for unwinding. Many visitors appreciate the freedom to choose their lunch spot — whether it’s a casual beach shack or a seaside restaurant offering fresh seafood. The clear waters invite you to swim and cool off after the morning’s drive.

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Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Perfection

Perched on a hill, Lekursi Castle provides sweeping views of Saranda and the surrounding coast. The castle itself isn’t large or heavily restored, but the vantage point is what counts. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the scenery. The castle’s historical roots are a bonus for those interested in Albanian history or simply enjoying the scenic outlook.

Logistics and Comfort

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential given the long drive. The drive, while lengthy, is broken up with breaks, and your guide’s commentary adds context to the scenery. Because the tour is more of a sightseeing experience, it’s not suited for very young children or travelers with mobility issues—long hours and walking at each site are involved.

Value and Practicalities

At $84 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the entrance fee for Blue Eye is included and the guide is experienced and friendly. Keep in mind that lunch and snacks are not included, so plan to eat in Ksamil or bring your own snacks. Also, train tickets for the Blue Eye are not included, but the overall experience makes the price worthwhile, especially with the convenience of round-trip transport.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

Travelers who love natural beauty combined with scenic vistas will find this tour appealing. It’s ideal if you want a guided experience that removes the guesswork of transportation and logistics. If you’re comfortable with a long day of driving and want to maximize your sightseeing in a single trip, this tour is a solid choice. It’s also suited for those who enjoy a leisurely beach stop and panoramic views from a historic castle.

On the flip side, if you prefer shorter travel times, or are traveling with very young children, this might be less suitable. The long hours in the vehicle could be tiring, and the tour’s focus on sightseeing rather than relaxation might not fit everyone’s pace.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Tirana to the southern coast of Albania packs in some of the country’s most photogenic and memorable sights. The Blue Eye spring offers a surreal natural spectacle, while the beach at Ksamil provides a welcome break for swimming and lounging. Ending at Lekursi Castle gives you a panoramic view that beautifully caps the day.

For travelers who enjoy nature, history, and scenic views, this trip delivers a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price. The guided aspect ensures you learn about the sites without the hassle of planning, and the included entrance fee for Blue Eye adds value.

While a full day in the car might be a stretch for some, those who don’t mind the drive will be rewarded with stunning scenery and authentic moments. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers eager to see more of Albania’s natural gems without the stress of organizing each stop.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included in the tour.
How long is the drive? The drive takes around 9 hours total, with breaks included.
Do I need to pay extra for Blue Eye? The entrance fee for Blue Eye is included in the tour price.
Can I bring my own lunch? Yes, lunch is not included, but you’ll have about three hours in Ksamil to eat at local restaurants or bring snacks.
Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 5 or travelers with limited mobility due to the long drive and walking involved.
What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes.
What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Will I get enough time at each site? Yes, you’ll have enough time to enjoy Blue Eye, relax in Ksamil, and take photos from Lekursi Castle.
Is this tour good value? Considering transportation, guide, and entrance fees, it offers good value for travelers eager to see southern Albania’s highlights.

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Albania’s most scenic spots in a single day, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable, and memorable experience — perfect for those who want to combine nature, beach time, and panoramic views without the hassle of organizing transport.

You can check availability for your dates here: