Daily Tour to Butrint National Park-Blue Eye-Lekuresi Castle

An Unforgettable Day Trip in Southern Albania: Butrint, Blue Eye, and Lekuresi Castle

If you’re in Saranda and craving a day filled with history, natural beauty, and breathtaking views, this tour is a compelling choice. For just $127 per person, you’ll spend the day exploring three of Albania’s most enchanting sights, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s landscape and past. Led by friendly guides (like Klajdi, who’s been praised for his knowledge and warmth), this trip combines heritage exploration, scenic marvels, and a touch of adventure.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly it balances cultural discovery with stunning natural sights. The early start means you avoid crowds at Blue Eye, and you’ll get time to truly appreciate each location without feeling rushed. Plus, the inclusion of round-trip transportation and a guide makes this a hassle-free way to explore beyond Saranda’s shores.

A small consideration is that the entry fee to Butrint isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget about 10 euros extra. Also, there’s a 20-minute walk to reach Blue Eye if you skip the train—something to plan for if mobility is an issue.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, enjoy learning about history from knowledgeable guides, and want to capture stunning photos of Albania’s diverse landscapes. Families, history buffs, and nature lovers alike will find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse Attractions: Combines archaeological sites, natural springs, and historic castles.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides like Klajdi enhance the experience with local insights.
• Scenic Views: Offers panoramic vistas from Lekuresi Castle and around Blue Eye.
• Value for Money: Round-trip transport, guide, and Blue Eye entry included, with options to extend your adventure.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Perfect for: First-time visitors, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers wanting a well-rounded day.

Exploring the Highlights

Starting the Day: From Your Hotel or Port

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup, usually in the morning. The tour is designed to maximize your time and enjoyment. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort while traveling through the scenic Albanian countryside. Your guide, often Klajdi, will introduce you to the day’s plan, sharing tips and local insights that make the experience richer.

First Stop: Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

Driving approximately 25 km from Saranda, you’ll arrive at Blue Eye, a natural spring that’s as mesmerizing as its nickname suggests. The water’s vibrant turquoise hue, combined with its mysterious depth fed by an underground river, makes it a photographer’s dream. We loved the way the water looks like a giant, flickering eye from above, a truly surreal sight.

You’ll walk about 20 minutes to reach the spring, which is a bit of a scenic trek, but worth it. If you’re not keen on walking, there’s a train you can take for 300 lek or 3 euros, which can be a fun ride. The water’s clarity makes it tempting to dip a finger or camera, but swimming isn’t allowed here. The spring’s mystery and beauty lie in its stillness and vibrant color, making it perfect for peaceful reflection or snapping a few photos.

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Mid-Morning: The View from Lekursi Castle

On your way back from Blue Eye, you’ll stop at Lekuresi Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and even the distant island of Corfu. Built by Sultan Suleiman the Great, this fortress offers an impressive 360-degree panorama.

Here, you can stroll along the castle walls, explore the old stone structures, and pick a spot to enjoy the view. Many visitors, including those in reviews, praise the spectacular vistas and the chance to see Butrint Lake, Corfu, and the surrounding landscape from a higher vantage point. It’s a brief stop but one that leaves a lasting impression. Many say it’s a highlight for the panoramic views and a great photo opportunity.

Afternoon: Exploring Butrint National Park

The final leg of the tour takes you to Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient ruins and lush surroundings. The archaeological park showcases the remains of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations, including a Roman theater, baptistery, city walls, and temples.

We loved the way the well-preserved ruins evoke a sense of history, and guides like Klajdi often share fascinating stories about each site. The park’s natural setting, near Lake Butrint, adds a peaceful backdrop, with vibrant flora and fauna enhancing your visit.

Entry to Butrint costs about 10 euros, which isn’t included in the tour price, so plan accordingly. The site is quite expansive, so comfortable shoes are a smart choice. The entire archaeological area is like a living museum, and exploring it gives you a tangible sense of Albania’s layered past.

Wrap-up and Return

After soaking in the history and scenery, your guide will escort you back to Saranda, reflecting on the day’s highlights. Many travelers leave with stunning photos, new insights, and a deeper appreciation for Albania’s diverse landscape and culture.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

What travelers consistently praise is the knowledgeable guidance and the variety of sights packed into a single day. “Klajdi was very knowledgeable and informative,” said one reviewer, and many mention the guide’s friendliness and passion for Albanian history and nature.

The scenic views from Lekuresi Castle are often highlighted as a standout moment, especially when the sky is clear enough to see Corfu and Butrint Lake. The Blue Eye spring, with its vivid colors and peaceful aura, is a scene many describe as unforgettable.

The tour also offers excellent value considering it includes round-trip transportation, a guide, and entry to Blue Eye. Some reviews mention that booking in advance and arriving early helps avoid crowded scenes, especially at Blue Eye, which gets popular quickly.

Handling the Practical Aspects

The tour is suited to travelers who are comfortable with about a 20-minute walk at Blue Eye and are prepared for a full day out. The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind for planning.

While the entry fee to Butrint isn’t included, the modest cost ensures you won’t be surprised by hidden charges. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, and a light jacket if you’re sensitive to wind or shade.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for first-time visitors to Saranda looking for a well-rounded experience of Albania’s top sights. It suits history enthusiasts, as the archaeological site reveals layers of past civilizations, and nature lovers, eager to see Blue Eye and enjoy panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle.

Families with children over 1 year will appreciate the manageable pace, while solo travelers and couples will enjoy the intimate feel of a small-group tour. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of southern Albania, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour captures the essence of what makes Albania special — its storied past, dramatic landscapes, and warm hospitality. You’ll get to see an ancient city, a stunning natural spring, and a hilltop castle—all in one day, with the convenience of organized transport and a friendly guide.

The reviews speak volumes: travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular scenery. The inclusion of highlights like Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle makes it clear this isn’t just a sightseeing trip but an opportunity to connect with the spirit of Albania.

Whether you’re a history buff wanting to walk among ruins, a photographer eager for picture-perfect vistas, or someone simply looking for a day of authentic exploration, this tour offers a genuine taste of southern Albania’s charm.

FAQ

What is the cost of this tour?
The tour costs $127 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and entry to Blue Eye. The entry fee to Butrint (~10 euros) and train ride (~3 euros) are extra.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, starting with hotel pickup and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the round-trip transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a pleasant ride through Albania’s scenic countryside.

Can I skip the train to Blue Eye?
Yes, if you prefer, you can walk (about 20 minutes) or take the train for 300 lek (~3 euros). The walk is scenic, but it’s good to plan for it.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and a camera for photos. You might also want a light jacket or hat for shade.

Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, but keep in mind the 20-minute walk at Blue Eye, so children over 1 year are best.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions?
Alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the tour for safety and comfort reasons.

What is the guide’s role?
The guide provides historical context, local insights, and helps you make the most of each stop.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small-group tours like this are perfect for meeting others and sharing the experience.

This day trip to Butrint, Blue Eye, and Lekuresi Castle provides a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture—ideal for those wanting to see the best of southern Albania in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: