Tirana/Durres: Full Day Shared Tour to Saranda, Ksamil & Blue Eye

Experience the Albanian Riviera in a Day
This full-day shared tour from Tirana ($63.67 per person) offers a taste of Albania’s captivating coast, with stops at Ksamil’s beaches, the charming town of Saranda, the breathtaking Blue Eye spring, and the historic Lekursi Castle. The tour runs approximately 11 to 13 hours, making it a long but rewarding day for those wanting to see Albania’s highlights in one go.

What we really appreciate about this experience are two key elements: first, the diversity of sights packed into a single day, from stunning natural springs to ancient ruins; second, the knowledgeable guides who often make the difference between a good trip and a memorable one.

However, a notable consideration is that the travel distances are considerable, and this can make the day feel rushed, especially if you prefer a more leisurely pace. The tour is best suited for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and want to maximize their sightseeing without multiple days on the road. If you’re keen on history, natural beauty, and exploring Albania’s coast in depth, this tour provides excellent value and authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: Includes natural springs, a castle, a lively coastal town, and pristine beaches.
• All-Inclusive Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking guide helps you understand the sites, though the depth of historical commentary varies.
• Long Day: Expect around 11-13 hours, so bring comfortable shoes and patience for the travel time.
• Limited Free Time: Some stops are quick, especially Ksamil, which means you’ll want to make the most of each visit.
• Authentic Places: The stops are well-chosen for natural beauty and local charm, not just tourist traps.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Starting Point

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Tirana, Durres, Golem, or Lalez. The vehicle is air-conditioned and private, providing a comfortable way to cover the considerable distances between stops. This flexibility to start from multiple locations is a big plus, allowing travelers from different parts of the coast to join in without extra hassle.

Tepelena and the Cold Water Spring

The first stop is Tepelena, where you’ll visit the Cold Water Spring. This quick 15-minute stop is perfect for stretching your legs and refreshing yourself with Albania’s crisp waters. It’s a natural highlight that sets the tone for the scenic beauty ahead. Although the visit is brief, it offers a glimpse into the country’s natural landscape.

The Blue Eye Spring

Next, you’ll venture inland to the Blue Eye, a spectacular natural spring renowned for its vibrant shades of blue and green. It’s a site that often captures visitors’ imagination with its hypnotic depths and lush surroundings. The admission is included, and most travelers find a solid hour here to take photos and soak up the atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, “the shades of blue are mesmerizing,” making it a highlight for many.

Lekursi Castle

Then, it’s a short drive to Lekursi Castle, a 16th-century Ottoman fortress perched above Saranda. The fortress offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the bustling town below. Inside, exhibits provide some historical context, but most will enjoy the panoramic vistas and photo opportunities. The visit lasts around 15 minutes, but don’t be surprised if you linger a bit longer to take in the scenery. One guest described the views as “impressive,” and the castle itself as a perfect spot to combine history with natural beauty.

Saranda’s Coastal Charm

Following the castle, you’ll spend about an hour exploring Saranda, a lively seaside town filled with cafes, shops, and a scenic waterfront promenade. It’s a great place to get a quick sense of local life and maybe grab a coffee or a snack. The town’s energetic vibe contrasts nicely with the tranquility of the natural sites.

Ksamil’s Beaches

The highlight for many travelers is Ksamil, with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. You’ll have about two hours here for relaxing, swimming, or just soaking up the sun. While some reviews mention the limited time feels rushed, most agree that the beaches are worth every minute. One visitor remarked, “The castle was amazing, but the beaches are what make this area special.” Keep in mind that the distances between stops are significant, which means this part of the tour can feel a bit hurried.

Return Journey

After Ksamil, the day winds down with the return trip to your initial pickup point. Expect to be back in the evening, tired but fulfilled, with a new appreciation for Albania’s natural beauty and coastal charm.

What We Love About This Tour

Variety of Sights
From the natural wonder of the Blue Eye to the historic Lekursi Castle and the relaxing beaches of Ksamil, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of what the Albanian Riviera has to offer. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a snapshot of the region’s diversity.

Guided Experience with Local Insights
Having an English-speaking guide helps make sense of the sites and adds context to your visits. Though some reviews suggest the commentary is limited, guides often make the day more engaging with friendly banter and local tips.

A Few Considerations

Long Travel Times
The journey covers a lot of ground, which is reflected in the 11-13 hour duration. Some travelers, especially those staying far south or in Golem, felt the day was a bit rushed, with limited time at each stop. If you prefer a slow-paced exploration, this might not be ideal.

Limited Free Time at Stops
While the sights are stunning, the quick stops mean you might not fully soak in each location. For example, only about an hour at Ksamil can leave you wishing for more time to relax on the beach.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want to see a variety of highlights in one day without the hassle of organizing multiple transport arrangements. It’s perfect if you enjoy natural beauty, historical ruins, and coastal towns but don’t mind a busy schedule. Those who value guided insights and comfortable transportation will appreciate the logistical convenience.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or more time at each site, you might find the stops a little rushed. The tour is also ideal for first-timers to Albania wanting a rundown rather than deep dives into each site.

Final Thoughts

For around $64, this tour provides good value, especially considering the all-included transport and guided commentary. It’s a practical way to experience the beauty and diversity of Albania’s coast in a single day, especially if time is limited.

While the long journey can be tiring and the quick stops mean less time to explore, many travelers find that the stunning views, friendly guides, and authentic sites make it worth the effort. It’s a great introduction to the Albanian Riviera for those keen to see the highlights without planning multiple days of travel.

If you’re traveler who enjoys natural scenery, appreciates a bit of history, and doesn’t mind a busy day, this tour will likely leave you with lasting memories of Albania’s rugged coast and charming towns.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs about $63.67 per person, including transportation, guides, and entrance fees for the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 11 to 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

Where does the tour pick me up from?
Pickups are available from your hotel in Tirana, Durres, Golem, or Lalez, making it convenient regardless of where you stay.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the price, but there’s no shortage of cafes and restaurants at Saranda or Ksamil where you can grab a bite.

What is the main focus of the tour?
The tour emphasizes natural beauty, with stops at Blue Eye and Ksamil beaches, as well as cultural sites like Lekursi Castle.

How much free time will I have at each stop?
Most stops are brief, ranging from 15 minutes at Tepelena to about two hours at Ksamil, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most children can participate, but be mindful of the long hours and travel distances.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. It’s a full day, so prepare for a lot of walking and sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

This tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Albania’s coast, blending natural wonders with historical sites, all in a day that’s packed but manageable. For travelers eager to explore Albania’s scenic side without fuss, it offers a straightforward, value-packed experience.