Day trip from Saranda : Blue Eye and Gjirokastra

Day trip from Saranda: Blue Eye and Gjirokastra offers a balanced glimpse into Albania’s natural beauty and historical charm. For $70 per person, you’ll spend a day exploring two of the region’s most iconic sites: the medieval Gjirokastra fortress and the mesmerizing Blue Eye, a natural water spring with crystal-clear waters. The tour also includes a scenic stop at Lekursi Castle, offering panoramic views of Saranda and the surrounding coastline.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are how the trip blends cultural exploration with breathtaking landscapes—you get a real sense of Albania’s diverse scenery and history. The convenience of transportation and the chance for some free time to wander around Gjirokastra’s stone streets make it quite appealing.

However, one possible drawback is the language barrier: if you’re expecting a fully guided, in-depth commentary, you might find the driver’s limited English somewhat lacking. Still, for those who prefer independent exploration or a flexible itinerary, this can actually be a plus. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing with some personal freedom, especially if they want a straightforward, budget-friendly day out.

Key Points

Cultural Highlights: Visit Gjirokastra’s historic castle and explore the town’s unique stone architecture.
Natural Wonder: See the Blue Eye spring’s striking blue waters and scenic surroundings.
Comfort & Convenience: Enjoy transportation in a new, European-standard vehicle with pick-up and drop-off included.
Flexible Experience: Free time in Gjirokastra allows for self-guided discovery.
Cost-Effective: Priced at $70 per person, offering good value for a full day of sightseeing.
Limited Guided Commentary: Some travelers may find the driver’s limited English a minor challenge when it comes to site explanations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Tour

The day begins with a pickup in Saranda, making it easy to start your adventure without worrying about transportation logistics. The group is likely to be small and manageable, which means more personal attention and flexibility. The first stop is the Fortress of Gjirokastra, one of the largest and oldest castles in the Balkans. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to walk through ancient stone walls and imagine centuries of history echoing through the battlements.

Gjirokastra itself is a highlight—a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring narrow, cobblestone streets lined with well-preserved Ottoman-era houses. While the tour doesn’t specify a guided commentary, you’ll have free time to explore. You might love the chance to wander at your own pace, browse local shops, or grab a coffee in the atmospheric town center.

After soaking in the town’s ambiance, the tour proceeds to the Blue Eye, a naturally occurring spring famous for its stunning shades of blue and crystal-clear waters. This is Albania’s most photographed natural attraction, and for good reason. The landscape around the spring offers perfect photo opportunities, and many visitors find the vivid colors and peaceful surroundings deeply calming.

Following this natural wonder, the group heads back towards Saranda, with a final stop at Lekursi Castle, perched on a hilltop above the town. From there, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and the coastline stretching toward Greece. It’s a fitting way to round off your day, offering both a scenic overview and a chance to reflect on your Albanian adventure.

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What You Should Know Before Booking

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, alongside comfortable transportation that meets European standards. The driver/guide handles the logistics and provides basic narration, though some reviews note that English language skills may be limited. That said, many travelers enjoy the independence of wandering around Gjirokastra’s streets without a constantly talking guide.

Entry tickets to the sites are not included, so you’ll need to budget a little extra if you want to access the castle or other attractions. Travelers recommend bringing a daypack for water, camera gear, or souvenirs. As always, alcohol and drugs are not permitted, and the tour isn’t suitable for those over age 70, due to the walking involved and vehicle access.

Booking is straightforward via phone or email, with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering some flexibility. Remember to cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which gives peace of mind if your plans change.

The Complete Experience: In-Depth Breakdown

Gjirokastra: A Living Museum

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the visit to Gjirokastra’s castle, an imposing fortress that dates back centuries. Its massive stone walls and strategic location make it a fascinating site to explore. Inside, you might find remnants of old barracks, watchtowers, and courtyards that reveal the town’s medieval past.

What makes Gjirokastra special is its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and the sense that you’re walking through a living history book. The town’s traditional houses, many built with large stones and intricate wooden balconies, are a photographer’s dream. While the tour doesn’t include a guided historical commentary, wandering on your own allows you to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps strike up conversations with locals or other travelers.

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Free Time in Gjirokastra

The tour provides ample free time here—some reviews mention the benefit of exploring at your own pace. You can visit local shops, sip coffee in a quaint café, or simply enjoy soaking up the ambiance of this UNESCO-listed town. The cobblestone streets, the aroma of traditional Albanian cuisine, and the view from the castle walls all contribute to a memorable experience.

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The Blue Eye: Albania’s Natural Gem

Next, the Blue Eye spring offers a dramatic contrast to the historical site. This natural water formation is famous across the region for its vivid blue colors and tranquil setting. The spring’s waters are so clear that you can see to the bottom, where the depth is unknown, adding an element of mystery.

Visitors love the chance to take photos or just relax by the spring, listening to the gentle sound of falling water. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers, offering serenity and a chance to connect with Albania’s natural beauty.

Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Views

Finally, the Lekursi Castle provides a sweeping panorama of Saranda and the Ionian Sea. Sitting atop a hill, it’s a favorite spot for both sunset watchers and those wanting a last look at the coastline before heading back. The castle itself is a simple, historic structure, but the views from its ramparts are what truly make it worthwhile.

This last stop acts as a peaceful conclusion, helping you appreciate the landscape and reflect on your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is a good choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Albania’s highlights without too much hassle. The mix of guided transportation and free exploration caters well to independent spirits. If you love stunning scenery combined with historical towns but don’t mind the possibility of limited guided commentary, this tour suits you.

However, if you’re seeking a fully guided, in-depth historical explanation or want a more personalized experience, the limited English spoken by the driver might be a drawback. It’s also best suited for those under 70, due to walking and accessibility considerations.

Final Thoughts

This trip offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural history, all at an accessible price. The highlights—Gjirokastra’s medieval fortress, the mesmerizing Blue Eye, and panoramic views from Lekursi Castle—are genuinely impressive. The ease of transportation and flexibility of free time make it a good choice for travelers wanting a straightforward but memorable day out.

While some may wish for a more detailed guided experience, the authentic charm of wandering Gjirokastra’s streets and the serenity of the Blue Eye bring their own rewards. If you enjoy exploring independently but prefer to keep logistics simple, this tour provides excellent value and a taste of Albania’s diverse wonders.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Saranda, with transportation in a comfortable, new vehicle meeting European standards.

Do I need to pay for entry tickets?
Entry tickets at the historical sites are not included, so you should plan for some extra budget if you want to explore the castle or other attractions.

Can I customize my free time in Gjirokastra?
While the tour schedule is fixed, the free time allows you to explore at your own pace, shop, or relax in cafes.

Is the guide fluent in English?
The driver/guide may speak limited English, so some travelers find the commentary minimal. It’s a good idea to prepare some questions or rely on guidebooks for context.

How long is the tour?
The tour is a full day, with travel between sites, free exploration, and scenic stops, returning to Saranda by late afternoon or early evening.

Is this tour suitable for older travelers?
It’s not recommended for those over 70, mainly due to the walking involved at sites like Gjirokastra and the need for some mobility.

You can check availability for your dates here: