1-Day Tour in Blue Eye, Monastery, Gjirokaster and Lekursi Castle

Getting a taste of Albania in just one day? This popular tour from Saranda promises to take you through some of the country’s most compelling sights, from natural wonders to historic towns. With highly praised guides, a well-paced itinerary, and just enough time at each stop, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see a lot without rushing.

Three things we especially like about this tour: first, the small group size (max 8 travelers), which ensures a more intimate experience and easier access to guides; second, the inclusion of authentic sites like the St. Nicholas Monastery, rather than just tourist spots; and third, the spectacular views, especially from Lekursi Castle. The potential downside? You’ll need to walk a bit to the Blue Eye if visiting outside high season, which isn’t a big deal but worth noting if mobility is a concern. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive Albanian day trip with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery—perfect for travelers short on time but eager for authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and easier exploration.
• Diverse itinerary combines history, nature, and panoramic views.
• Expert guides make the experience informative and engaging.
• Flexible scheduling with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Affordable price point offers good value for multiple highlights.
• Walking involved to some sites, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Exploring Albania in One Day: A Practical Guide

If you’re visiting Saranda or Ksamil and want to maximize your day, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into southern Albania. It’s designed to fit into a compact schedule while still delivering substantial cultural and natural insights. Let’s walk through what you can expect at each step, and why they matter.

The Monastery of Saint Michael: Stepping Back in Time

Your journey begins at the Saint Nicholas Monastery, a Byzantine-era marvel thought to have been built around 1224 or 1225. Located just outside Saranda near the ancient city of Finiq, this site is a real treat for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. The monastery’s double apse is a rare feature, possibly reflecting its use by both Catholic and Orthodox rites, adding to its cultural intrigue.

Travelers mention that this stop is both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The monastery was once surrounded by a circular wall, parts of which still stand, giving you a sense of how expansive and fortified it was. The internal architecture, especially the double apse, stands out as unique in the Byzantine world. Admission is free, making this a quietly enriching start to the day.

A reviewer noted, “Ilmi was a great guide, knowledgeable and ensured we had a great time,” emphasizing how a good guide can bring these ancient stones to life. It’s a quick stop, approximately an hour, but one that offers a meaningful glimpse into Albania’s religious heritage. Plus, it’s a quiet space for reflection before the bustling tour ahead.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Hidden Gem

Next stop is The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), arguably Albania’s most famous natural phenomenon. The spring’s intensely clear, vividly blue waters draw visitors not just for their beauty but for the mysterious depths that plunge more than fifty meters. Divers have explored these depths, but no one’s quite sure how deep the hole really is.

Expect about two hours here, allowing enough time to enjoy the views, take photos, and perhaps walk the short trail around the spring. One interesting detail is that during low season, visitors have to walk about 15-20 minutes to reach the spring, as the train service isn’t running. This isn’t strenuous but requires some comfortable shoes and a little patience.

Reviews highlight the Blue Eye’s breathtaking beauty. One traveler mentioned, “The water can be seen from a depth of more than fifty meters,” which makes it understandable why it’s a must-see. Although the entrance fee costs about 50 lek, many find the cost reasonable given the natural spectacle.

Gjirokastër: The Stone City

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive in Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-protected town often called the “Stone City” because of its distinctive Ottoman-style architecture. This town feels like walking through an open-air museum, with stone houses, cobbled streets, and historic sites all around.

Most travelers agree that Gjirokastër Castle is a highlight. It’s a large fortress with commanding views over the town and surrounding mountains. While the entrance fee (around 400 lek) isn’t included in the tour price, many say it’s worth the small extra expense for the sweeping vistas and the sense of stepping back centuries.

One reviewer shared, “Thoroughly enjoyed our time at Gjirokaster town & castle,” and others appreciated the relaxed pace, giving ample time to wander and soak in the atmosphere. Walking through Gjirokastër offers a glimpse into traditional Albanian life, with narrow alleys and bustling markets, making it an authentic cultural experience.

Lëkurësi Castle: The Panoramic Finale

The last stop is Lëkurësi Castle, perched on a hill just behind Saranda, offering arguably the best panoramic views of the town and bay. It’s a short visit—about an hour—but one that leaves a lasting impression thanks to the stunning photo opportunities.

Visitors love standing on the castle walls, looking out over the turquoise waters and the coastline stretching into the distance. It’s the perfect spot for a final photo and to reflect on the day’s adventures. Admission is free, making it a very accessible finale.

Transportation, Timing, and Practicalities

The tour is operated in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drive comfortable, especially in the heat. The start time is 9:00 am, with the tour typically lasting between 6 to 8 hours, depending on pace and stops. Group size is limited to 8 travelers, which fosters a more personal and flexible experience.

Regarding timing, the stops at the monastery, Blue Eye, Gjirokastër, and Lekursi Castle are arranged for a smooth flow, with enough flexibility to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. If you’re concerned about walking or mobility, note that the Blue Eye involves a walk of around 15-20 minutes from the entrance during low season, but most find this manageable.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers transport, a licensed guide, and pick-up/drop-off, which adds significant value considering the cost of about $57.62 per person. You’ll want to bring some cash for entrance fees (Gjirokastër castle is about 400 lek and the Blue Eye entrance fee is 50 lek), and plan to buy your own lunch, as it’s not included.

Tour Experience and Reviews

Based on reviews, guides like Ilmi are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience engaging and personable. Travelers appreciate the time allowed at each stop, especially during low season when some facilities like the Blue Eye train aren’t available, requiring a walk, but this doesn’t seem to detract from overall enjoyment.

One guest remarked, “Thoroughly enjoyed our time at the Blue Eye, Gjirokaster town & castle,” highlighting that the pacing was perfect, even during quieter periods. The small group setting also means you can ask questions freely and get personalized insights, which many travelers find enhances the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day adventure suits travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to southern Albania without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. It’s especially good for those with a curiosity for history and nature, as guides provide knowledgeable commentary. The tour’s intimate size and flexible structure make it perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who value a more personal touch.

If you’re short on time but craving a rich cultural and scenic experience, this tour offers excellent value, blending iconic sights with authentic moments. Just bring your walking shoes, a camera, and an open mind for a memorable day exploring Albania’s highlights.

The Sum Up

This 1-day tour from Saranda offers a smart way to see some of Albania’s most compelling sites, combining history, natural beauty, and panoramic views. The small group setting and expert guides ensure an engaging experience, while the carefully curated itinerary balances the must-see attractions with enough time to enjoy each.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers eager to explore beyond the beaches of Saranda, who appreciate authentic sites like the monastery and Gjirokastër, and those who value stunning scenery like the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle. The price provides strong value for the variety and quality of experiences packed into one day.

If you’re ready for a diverse, scenic, and enriching day out with friendly guides, this tour is a reliable choice. It captures many of Albania’s highlights in a manageable, enjoyable package—perfect for making the most of your time in the region.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, including travel time and stops at each site.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it flexible, but considerations about walking distances, especially at the Blue Eye, should be taken into account for very young children.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs around $57.62 per person, which includes transport and a guide.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Gjirokastër castle (about 400 lek) and the Blue Eye (50 lek) are not included. You should plan to carry some cash for these.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, some cash for entrance fees, sun protection, and a camera are recommended.

Does the tour operate in all weather?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you can rebook or get a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.