<!–
The 16 Best Tours in Sarande
Sarande is a fantastic jumping-off point for exploring Albania’s southern coast. Its proximity to stunning beaches, archaeological sites, and natural wonders means there's no shortage of ways to see and experience the region. Whether you're into cultural sightseeing, boat trips, or outdoor adventures, Sarande offers something for every traveler. We especially love tours that combine multiple highlights—like the Daily Tour: Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, Ottoman Bridge, Lekursi, which offers a full day immersed in history, nature, and spectacular views. The tours are designed for comfort and insight, with expert guides who bring each location alive.
If you're looking to make the most of your time, you'll find a variety of options from quick half-day trips to full-day excursions and boat adventures. We’ve rounded up the top tours, carefully considering reviews, value, and unique features, so you can choose the experience that best matches your interests and schedule.
1. Daily Tour: Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, Ottoman Bridge, Lekursi
This popular full-day trip packs in some of the most iconic sights in Albania’s Vlorë County. It includes visits to the Blue Eye Spring, Gjirokaster, the Ottoman Bridge, and Lekursi Castle. The tour features a luxurious ride in New Mercedes Vito minivans and an English-speaking guide who provides fascinating insights into the area’s history and geology. Highlights include exploring the UNESCO-listed Gjirokaster with its cobbled streets and Ottoman architecture and taking in the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle. The Blue Eye’s crystal waters are a highlight for many, offering a peaceful nature break. The tour’s reviews emphasize its well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides, making it a top choice for those wanting a comprehensive day out. Expect a mix of photo stops, cultural insights, and scenic vistas. Bottom line: a well-rounded, value-packed tour perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a full overview of the region.
2. Group Tour From Saranda to Krorez Free Drink Umbrella
For travelers who prefer a social atmosphere, this group boat tour offers a chance to visit 7 stunning locations along the Albanian coast. The tour is praised for its comfortable, well-maintained boats and the ability to reach beaches only accessible by boat, helping you avoid crowds. It features multiple swimming and snorkeling stops, with plenty of time to relax and explore secluded bays. The itinerary includes visits to hidden gems with photo stops, swimming, and scenic cruising, offering a balance of activity and leisure. The boat has a lively vibe, with onboard music and a free drink included to keep the mood light. It’s ideal for those who want to spend a fun, sunny day on the water with new friends. Reviewers highlight how well-organized and enjoyable the experience is, with plenty of stops and beautiful scenery. Bottom line: excellent value for a social, relaxing day on the water.
3. From Tirana, Durrës & Golem: Saranda, Blue Eye & Ksamil Tour
If you’re based in Tirana or nearby and want a taste of the Albanian Riviera, this one-day tour balances culture, scenery, and leisure. It begins with a drive from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem toward Saranda, with stops at Ksamil’s pristine beaches and the Blue Eye spring for swimming and photos. The highlight is the chance to experience both the natural beauty of Blue Eye and the coastal charm of Ksamil, with enough free time to relax and take in the landscape. The tour is ideal for those short on time but eager to see the highlights—it’s a perfect blend of sightseeing and beach time. The reviews mention smooth logistics and friendly guides, making it an easy, stress-free way to cover a lot of ground. Bottom line: a great option for a quick, scenic escape from Tirana with plenty of swimming.
4. Sarande: Blue Eye Spring and Lekursi Castle Sunset Tour
This shorter, 4-hour tour is perfect if you want a taste of Sarande’s natural and historic highlights, with the added bonus of sunset views. The trip begins with a train ride to the Blue Eye, where you’ll experience the crystal waters and lush surroundings. After a leisurely visit, the tour proceeds to Lekursi Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Sarande and the Ionian Sea, especially breathtaking at sunset. The round-trip transport makes this a convenient option for those with limited time. Many reviews praise the guide’s local knowledge and the opportunity to capture stunning photos of the sunset from the castle. It’s suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic experience without a full-day commitment. Bottom line: excellent for a quick escape with memorable photo opportunities.
5. Daily Trip To: Blue Eye, Monastery, Gjirokaster & Lekursi Castle
This full-day tour offers a well-rounded exploration of four key sites. It includes a visit to the Saint Nicholas Monastery, the Blue Eye, and the UNESCO-listed Gjirokaster with its cobbled streets and fortress, topped off with a view from Lekursi Castle. The journey is in air-conditioned comfort, with ample time at each stop. Reviewers mention how this tour is perfect for enjoying local culture and nature in just one day. The highlights include the Blue Eye’s spectacular waters and Gjirokaster’s historic charm. It’s best suited for those who want a structured, in-depth experience without rushing. Expect a good value for the comprehensive itinerary. Bottom line: ideal for cultural and scenic explorers wanting a full-day experience.
6. Saranda: Boat Tour to Kakome, Caves & Beaches with Snorkelling
This boat tour offers an immersive way to explore the Albanian Riviera’s hidden beaches and secluded caves. The boat is modern and comfortable, with onboard music and snacks, making it a social and relaxing ride. Stops include Kakome Beach, Cave of Turtles, and other small coves, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Many reviews highlight the spectacular scenery and the friendly, knowledgeable crew, especially noting their insights about the area. The tour is suited for those who enjoy water activities and want to see inaccessible parts of the coast. The price is reasonable, and the 5.5 to 6-hour duration balances activity with relaxation. Bottom line: a top choice for water lovers and adventure seekers wanting to see the coast from the sea.
7. Sarande: Boat Tour Turtle Cave Kakome & Krorez Snorkeling
This popular boat trip focuses on secluded beaches and caves, including the Turtle Cave and Kakome. It is ideal for snorkeling and swimming, with stops designed to maximize time in the water. Many travelers mention how friendly guides and beautiful scenery make this a memorable outing. It’s a great option for families or groups wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation. The tour lasts about 5.5 hours, with plenty of time for underwater exploration. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the clean, safe boats. Bottom line: best suited for those who want a relaxed, aquatic adventure with memorable scenery.
8. Sarande: Hidden Cave, Gremina, Kakome & Krorez Boat Tour
This 6-hour boat tour takes you along the coast to several spectacular beaches and caves, including Hidden Cave and Anchor Cave. It features multiple swimming stops at Gremina, Kakome, and Krorez, with 3 hours of free time at Krorez to relax or explore. Reviewers emphasize how friendly and knowledgeable the guide is, making the experience both educational and fun. If you enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and discovering secret beaches, this tour is an excellent choice. It balances sightseeing with plenty of water time. The tour is suitable for all ages and physical levels. Bottom line: best for water enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive coastal exploration.
9. Sarande: Quad Adventure on 450cc ATV 4×4
Seeking an adrenaline rush? This 3-hour quad adventure takes you through Sarande’s hinterland, crossing rivers and traversing rugged terrain. The guides are friendly, and the safety instructions clear, making it suitable even for beginners. Reviewers praise the scenic views and the fun off-road driving, with many mentioning how they felt safe and well looked after. This tour appeals to those craving outdoor action and a taste of Albanian nature on wheels. The route includes crossing a river and visiting some local sights, making it more than just a ride. Bottom line: perfect for active travelers looking for a high-energy, scenic experience.
10. Sarande: Boat Tour at Kroreza & Hidden Caves with Snorkeling
This 6-hour boat trip explores some of Sarande’s most beautiful beaches and caves, including Kroreza and Hidden Cave. It offers plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities, with onboard amenities like drinks and the chance to play your own music. Reviewers love the easy pace and the chance to see less touristy beaches. The tour is ideal for those wanting a laid-back, water-based adventure with beautiful scenery. It’s a great way to escape the crowds and enjoy the sea. Bottom line: a relaxed, scenic boat tour for water lovers.
11. Sarande: Boat Tour to Kroreza with Snorkel and free Umbrella
This compact 6-hour tour is all about beaches accessible only by boat. It includes snorkeling gear, a free umbrella, and relaxing hours at Kroreza Beach. Many reviews focus on the friendly crew and the beautiful, quiet beaches. It’s an excellent pick for travelers who want to unwind in a peaceful setting and enjoy underwater exploration. The tour is suitable for families and couples alike, with plenty of time to swim and soak up the sun. Bottom line: ideal for those seeking a peaceful, beach-focused day.
12. From Saranda: Gjirokastra Stone City & Blue Eye Day Trip
This 6-hour trip combines Gjirokaster’s stone streets and fortress with the natural beauty of Blue Eye. It includes visits to Gjirokaster Castle, the Old Bazaar, and the Cold War Tunnel, plus a walk in the Blue Eye park. Many reviewers mention how informative and friendly the guide is, making the experience truly memorable. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of history and nature in one day. The tour provides a full overview without rushing, and the free time in Gjirokaster allows for shopping or lunch. Bottom line: great for history and nature buffs who want an immersive experience.
13. Saranda: Boat Trip to 6 Stops + Free Drink & Free Umbrellas
This flexible boat tour covers seven spots, from Turtle Cave to Krorez Beach. It features swimming, snorkeling, and photo stops, with a free drink and umbrellas included. The reviews highlight how relaxing and picturesque the trip is, with plenty of time to enjoy each location. It suits travelers who want a customizable, scenic day on the water, with options to relax or explore actively. The price is affordable, making it a good choice for budget-conscious travelers. Bottom line: versatile, scenic, and relaxing.
14. Sarande: Boat Tour to Hidden Caves & Krorez + Free Drink
This 5-hour boat tour focuses on secret caves and secluded beaches, including Krorez. It emphasizes snorkeling, swimming, and the opportunity to enjoy a free drink onboard. The small group size (max 11) makes it intimate and personal. Many reviews praise the friendly crew and beautiful scenery, especially the chance to relax on untouched beaches. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and explore Albania’s coast in peace. Bottom line: an excellent, intimate boat trip for water lovers.
15. Sarande: Kroreza Boat Tour with Free Umbrella & Drink
This 2-6 hour tour takes you along the coast to hidden beaches like Kroreza and Kakome, with snorkeling gear and a free drink. The reviews mention the friendly guides and the beautiful beaches that are only reachable by boat. It’s great for travelers wanting a shorter, relaxing escape with plenty of water activities. The tour includes free umbrellas and snorkeling gear, making it easy to enjoy the day. Bottom line: perfect for a quick, scenic water outing.
16. Best of Saranda: Blue Eye, Butrint, Ksamil & Lekuresi Castle
For a comprehensive full-day experience, this tour combines ancient ruins at Butrint, the Blue Eye spring, and the Ksamili Islands with the historic Lekuresi Castle. It’s great for history buffs and nature lovers alike, offering a guided tour of each site with sufficient free time for photos and exploration. Many reviews praise its smooth logistics and knowledgeable guides, making it a solid choice for those who want to see everything without rushing. This tour is best suited for travelers with a full day to dedicate to the region. Bottom line: a complete package for those wanting a well-rounded visit.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Sarande
Picking the perfect tour depends largely on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a full-day cultural and scenic experience, the Daily Tour: Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, Ottoman Bridge, Lekursi offers excellent value, especially with its comprehensive itinerary. For those who prefer a relaxed boat day with snorkeling, options like the Saranda: Boat Tour to Kakome, Caves & Beaches or the Boat Tour at Kroreza & Hidden Caves are perfect. Budget travelers might prefer shorter trips like the Kroreza Boat Tour with Free Umbrella & Drink, which still packs in stunning sights.
For active types, the $1 offers a different kind of thrill, taking you off-road into the Albanian countryside. Those interested in history and archaeology might choose the Gjirokastra Stone City & Blue Eye, combining cultural sites with natural wonders.
Practical reminders: check the duration of each tour, consider fitness level (especially for the quad ride), and book early in high season to secure your spot. Many tours include hotel pickup, making planning even easier.
Final Thoughts
Sarande’s wide range of tours means there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a full-day cultural trip, a relaxing boat cruise, or an adventurous quad ride, you’ll find options that match your interests and schedule. Our top picks include the Blue Eye and Gjirokaster full-day tour for history and scenery lovers, and the scenic boat tours like the Krorez & Hidden Caves trip for water enthusiasts. Booking early is advisable, especially in summer, to make sure you secure your preferred experience. Whether you’re after culture or sea adventures, Sarande’s diverse tours ensure you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.