From Tirana: Berat, Gjirokastër, and Ksamil, 2-Day Tour

From Tirana: Berat, Gjirokastër, and Ksamil, 2-Day Tour
Location: Gjirokaster District, Albania
Country: Albania
Rating: 5
Supplier Name: Adore Albania

A quick preview of this Albanian adventure

This two-day tour takes you through some of Albania’s most captivating sights, starting from Tirana and heading south into the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Berat and Gjirokastër. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to relax on Ksamil’s stunning beaches, swim in the Blue Eye spring, and enjoy a boat ride among the islets. The whole experience, guided by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, balances history, natural beauty, and leisure.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to stroll through Berat’s “City of a Thousand Windows”, with its charming Ottoman architecture, and explore Gjirokastër’s impressive fortress and cobbled Old Bazaar. Plus, the opportunity to unwind on Ksamil’s beaches, with time for swimming and boat trips, makes this a wonderfully balanced getaway.

A minor consideration: since the tour involves some long drives and multiple stops, it’s best for travelers who enjoy a full schedule and are comfortable with a busy, sightseeing-focused itinerary. This tour is perfect for those eager to get a broad taste of southern Albania’s culture and coast in just two days.

Best suited for travelers who love a mix of history, scenic landscapes, and seaside relaxation—especially those who appreciate authentic local experiences and don’t mind a bit of a travel day.

Key Points

• UNESCO sites: Visit Berat and Gjirokastër, two towns rich in history and Ottoman architecture.
• Natural wonders: Experience the Blue Eye spring, a magical natural spring surrounded by lush greenery.
• Coastal relaxation: Enjoy Ksamil’s turquoise beaches, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
• Scenic drives: Drive through beautiful southern Albanian landscapes, full of mountains and countryside views.
• Boat tour: Take a relaxing boat ride around Ksamil’s islets, adding a fun maritime element.
• Guided experience: Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides in English and Italian, providing insight into each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the 2-Day Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Tirana to Berat and Gjirokastër

The journey begins in Tirana, the buzzing capital, but your focus quickly shifts southward. The drive to Berat covers about 2-3 hours, giving you ample time to settle into this UNESCO-listed town. Berat is famous for its “City of a Thousand Windows” nickname, due to the many Ottoman-era houses with intricate wooden balconies. We loved the way Berat’s hillside setting offers panoramic views—standing on the hilltop and gazing over the city, you get a real sense of its historic charm.

Walking through Berat’s Mangalem and Gorica quarters provides a glimpse into its vibrant past. Narrow streets, stone houses, and peaceful courtyards create an atmosphere that feels both authentic and timeless. You might find the local artisans’ workshops interesting—some tours include a quick peek at traditional crafts. This stop offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and scenic beauty.

After a hearty lunch, the drive continues further south to Gjirokastër, another UNESCO site. Gjirokastër’s fortress dominates the town, offering sweeping views over the Drino Valley. Exploring the Old Bazaar, with its stone houses and artisan shops, feels like stepping back in time. The cobbled streets and hilltop setting create a relaxed yet historically rich environment. We particularly enjoyed wandering through the bazaar, where local craftsmen sell handmade goods.

In the evening, dinner at a hilltop restaurant showcases Albanian cuisine and offers panoramic vistas—a lovely way to end your first day. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a chance to sample local specialties and enjoy Gjirokastër’s peaceful mountain scenery.

Day 2: Gjirokastër, Blue Eye, and Ksamil

The second morning kicks off with a visit to Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest fortresses in the Balkans. Inside, you’ll find a museum, towers, and excellent views across the valley. The castle’s strategic position and history make it a highlight, especially for those interested in military architecture and panoramic vistas.

Next, you’ll travel to Syri i Kaltër (Blue Eye), a natural spring famous for its vibrant, turquoise waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, the Blue Eye feels almost otherworldly. The spring’s depth and clarity make it a favorite for photos and peaceful reflection. We loved the way the water’s vivid colors contrasted with the surrounding greenery—truly a natural wonder worth seeing.

From there, it’s down to Ksamil, known for its turquoise beaches and calm sea. Relaxing on the sandy shores, swimming in the warm waters, and enjoying the laid-back island vibe are the main attractions here. The boat tour around Ksamil’s islets adds a fun element—spotting tiny islands, enjoying the sea breeze, and snapping photos of the rugged coastline.

As the day winds down, you’ll start the drive back to Tirana, with plenty of memories of Albania’s scenic landscapes, historic towns, and coastal beauty.

What Travelers Say

Guests frequently mention how stunning the views are, especially at Berat and Ksamil. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way Berat’s hillside houses glow at sunset,” while another appreciated the boat tour: “The islets around Ksamil are even more charming from the water.” The combination of cultural sights and natural scenery is consistently praised, making this tour appealing for those who want variety in their short trip.

Some travelers mention the long drives—”the journey is quite a bit of time in the vehicle,” one said—but most agree it’s a fair trade for the richness of experiences packed into two days. The guided aspect helps keep things organized and educational, even on busy days.

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Practicalities and What to Expect

The tour includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drives manageable. The group remains private, offering a personalized experience, and guides are fluent in English and Italian. Breakfast is provided, but other meals are on your own, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries. Accommodation is included, though the specifics depend on the package you choose—often a comfortable hotel or guesthouse.

Bring sturdy shoes for walking, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera. Swimming in Ksamil is possible, so pack your swimwear. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems since it involves some walking and uphill sightseeing.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This two-day trip is a fantastic fit for travelers eager to see a blend of Albania’s cultural treasures, natural wonders, and seaside relaxation. It offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s highlights without requiring a lot of planning or multiple trips. If you’re someone who enjoys walking through historic towns, taking in stunning mountain views, and cooling off on beautiful beaches, this tour will suit you perfectly.

It’s particularly valuable for those who want an organized, guided experience that covers both UNESCO sites and scenic coastlines—especially if your time in Albania is limited. The included boat tour and the chance to visit iconic sights make it a good value for travelers looking to maximize their time and get insider insights.

While the long drives might be a downside for some, the scenery, history, and relaxation make it worthwhile. This tour balances adventure and leisure, providing a memorable introduction to southern Albania’s unique character.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drives comfortable and efficient.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but other meals are not specified, giving you freedom to explore local restaurants on your own.

How long are the driving segments?
The itinerary involves driving between Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastër, and Ksamil, with some long stretches—so be prepared for several hours on the road across two days.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or heart problems, as it involves walking and some uphill sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended for comfort and safety during the day.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Will I see authentic Albanian towns and landscapes?
Absolutely. The stops at Berat, Gjirokastër, and Ksamil showcase real Albanian towns, traditional architecture, and scenic coastlines—great for enjoying local culture.

In summary, this tour offers an engaging, well-rounded experience of southern Albania’s highlights—combining UNESCO heritage, stunning natural sights, and leisurely beach time. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a taste of everything without the hassle of planning each detail themselves, all within a manageable two-day window.

You can check availability for your dates here: