Day trip from Saranda : Blue Eye and Gjirokastra

Traveling through southern Albania, you’ll find this day trip offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and scenic views. It’s a popular choice for those wanting an efficient way to explore some of the region’s most captivating sites without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. From the imposing Gjirokastra castle to the mesmerizing Blue Eye spring, the experience is designed to showcase Albania’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it combines a historic fortress with a stunning natural wonder — both easily accessible from Saranda and packed with photo opportunities. Plus, the last stop atop Lekursi Castle offers panoramic views of the town and coastline, perfect for ending on a high note. The trip is also reasonably priced given the inclusion of transportation, a friendly driver/guide, and the chance to explore at your own pace during free time.

One potential drawback, however, is the variability in guide quality. As some reviews suggest, not all guides deliver a fully guided experience — one traveler noted that their guide simply drove and left them to explore alone. If you’re expecting a deeply informative tour, this might be a concern. But if you’re comfortable with a more relaxed, self-guided style, it could still be a worthwhile adventure.

Key points / Takeaways

Convenient half-day trip from Saranda, ideal for travelers short on time.
Includes transportation in a modern, European-standard vehicle, ensuring comfort.
Visit Gjirokastra’s castle and old town — a UNESCO-listed site with a unique Ottoman architecture vibe.
Stunning Blue Eye spring offers a chance to see one of Albania’s most photographed natural wonders.
Limited group size (max 8) means a more intimate experience, but be aware guides can vary in engagement.
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Exploring Gjirokastra: A Fortress and a Town Full of Charm

Your journey begins with a pickup from Saranda, where you’ll hop into a comfortable van or car. The drive to Gjirokastra takes around 45 minutes, giving you a glimpse of the Albanian countryside. Gjirokastra, often called the “Stone City,” is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets, and the Gjirokastra castle, which looms over the town.

Once you arrive, you have around two hours to explore independently. The highlight is the castle of Gjirokastra, one of the largest and oldest in the Balkans. Climb its ramparts for sweeping views of the town and surrounding mountains. Inside, you might want to browse local shops, admire traditional stone houses, or snap photos of the narrow, stone-paved streets that evoke a bygone era.

From feedback, some travelers appreciated the free time to stroll and shop — “You can discover the beauty and the unique cobblestone roads in the Bazaar,” noted one reviewer. Just keep in mind that the guide’s role may vary; some have described guides as simply drivers, leaving you to explore solo, which might suit independent travelers but less so those seeking detailed commentary.

Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Gjirokaster

The Blue Eye: A Natural Wonder

Next, your journey takes you about 40 minutes to the Blue Eye, a natural spring renowned for its crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing swirling colors. Think of it as nature’s own swimming pool, set amidst lush greenery. It’s one of the most loved attractions in Albania, and once you arrive, you’ll have around an hour and a half to soak in the scenery.

Expect to see a conical spring with vibrant blue waters that seem to dance beneath the surface. It’s a fantastic spot for photos, and many travelers get a sense of tranquility just by sitting quietly and watching the water bubble up. You can also browse local stalls for souvenirs or snacks. The water is cold, so be prepared if you plan to dip your toes or swim — although swimming isn’t explicitly included in the tour, some visitors might choose to take a quick dip after a walk around.

Final Highlights: Lekursi Castle and Panoramas

Before heading back to Saranda, the tour stops at Lekursi Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the town. It’s about 15 minutes of sightseeing and photo-taking. The views from here are stunning — you see the bay, the coastline, and the whole town laid out below. It’s a great spot to reflect on your day and snap some memorable pictures.

The return drive is scenic, and the whole experience wraps up with your driver taking you back to your Saranda hotel. The trip lasts approximately 6.5 hours, which is a good length for a full taste of southern Albania without feeling rushed.

Price and Logistics: Is It Good Value?

This tour offers a solid balance of convenience and cost. For the price, you get hotel pickup and drop-off, a comfortable vehicle, and an English-speaking driver/guide. The group is small — capped at 8 people — fostering a more personal experience. However, as some reviews warn, the guide may not always be highly informative; one traveler called their guide simply a driver who left them to explore alone. If lively commentary and guided insights are your priority, you might find this aspect lacking.

The entry tickets for sites like Gjirokastra’s castle are not included, so budget accordingly. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance makes it easier to book without stress, and the “reserve now, pay later” policy is a bonus for flexible planning.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip suits travelers who want a light, efficient introduction to southern Albania’s highlights. If you’re comfortable exploring independently during free time and prefer a relaxed, small-group atmosphere, you’ll enjoy it. It’s particularly good if you appreciate scenic stops, natural beauty, and historical sites without the hassle of arranging transport or guides yourself.

However, if you’re looking for a deeply guided tour with detailed historical insights, you might find this experience somewhat underwhelming. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those over 70, as indicated in the description.

Here's some more things to do in Gjirokaster

The Sum Up

This day trip from Saranda is a practical, enjoyable way to see some of Albania’s most iconic sights in just over half a day. The blend of Gjirokastra’s historic charm, the breathtaking Blue Eye spring, and the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle make for a diverse experience. It offers good value for travelers wanting convenience, comfort, and a taste of Albania’s natural and cultural treasures.

While the guide quality can vary, many travelers find the trip to be well-organized and beautiful, especially if you enjoy exploring at your own pace. It’s ideal for independent-minded visitors who want a hassle-free way to tick off multiple highlights in a short time.

If you’re after stunning scenery, authentic sites, and a small, friendly group, this tour is worth considering. Just keep expectations in check regarding guided commentary, and be ready for some free time to enjoy each stop on your own.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in a modern vehicle, ensuring comfort during the approximately 6.5-hour trip.

What sites will I visit? You’ll explore Gjirokastra’s castle and old town, visit the Blue Eye spring, and enjoy panoramas from Lekursi Castle.

How long is the free time at each stop? You’ll have roughly 2 hours in Gjirokastra and about 1.5 hours at the Blue Eye. The time at Lekursi is around 15 minutes.

Are entry tickets included? No, you need to purchase tickets for sites like Gjirokastra castle separately.

Is the guide information thorough? It varies; some travelers have found guides to be more like drivers, offering limited commentary.

Can I cancel the booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

What should I bring? A daypack, and be prepared for outdoor photos and walking. No alcohol or drugs are allowed.

Is it suitable for all ages? No, it’s not recommended for travelers over 70 years old.

How many people are in the group? Small groups are limited to 8 participants, making for a more personal experience.

Do I need to pay upfront? You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.