Discover Albania Treasures by Day Tour Gjirokastër and Blue Eye

Discover Albania’s hidden gems with an unforgettable day tour that showcases the country’s cultural heritage and natural wonders. Explore the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastër, where time-honored architecture and a towering castle capture the imagination. Then, marvel at the mesmerizing Blue Eye, a stunning natural spring that beckons visitors to its crystal-clear turquoise waters. With an expert guide and comfortable transportation, this tour promises an enriching experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Key Points

• This popular one-day tour offers a chance to explore the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastër and the mesmerizing natural wonder of the Blue Eye spring.
• The tour includes licensed English-speaking guides, air-conditioned transportation, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service for a seamless experience.
• Guests can enjoy Gjirokastër’s well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, visit the historic castle, and admire the town’s blend of cultural influences.
• The tour provides an opportunity to marvel at the turquoise waters and mysterious depths of the Blue Eye, surrounded by lush vegetation.
• With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the tour ensures a personalized experience and an exploration of Albania’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Tour Overview

The "Discover Albania Treasures by Day Tour Gjirokastër and Blue Eye" is a popular one-day excursion that allows visitors to explore two of Albania’s most captivating destinations.

Starting from Tirana, this tour boasts an overall rating of 4.3 based on 12 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor. Priced at $137.34 per person, the tour includes a licensed English guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all necessary fees and taxes.

Pickup and drop-off service are available at hotels or accommodations in Tirana, Durres, or Golem, with a maximum group size of 8 travelers. The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs.

Tour Itinerary

Starting from Tirana, the tour first takes visitors to the historic town of Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture.

Here, guests explore the 18th-century Gjirokastër Castle, the birthplace of former Albanian leader Enver Hoxha.

Next, the tour visits the Blue Eye, a stunning natural spring with turquoise-colored waters.

Guests have the opportunity to admire the tranquil setting and take in the breathtaking natural beauty.

The day concludes with a return to Tirana, providing an immersive experience into Albania’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Gjirokastër: A UNESCO Gem

Gjirokastër, a jewel nestled in the heart of southern Albania, stands as a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a stunning medieval old town, with its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and cobblestone streets.

Visitors can wander through the historic Gjirokastër Castle, a 12th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The city’s unique blend of Ottoman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian influences is evident in its charming houses, mosques, and churches.

Gjirokastër’s vibrant markets and traditional crafts further showcase the region’s enduring cultural traditions.

Exploring the Blue Eye

After exploring the historic charms of Gjirokastër, the tour continues to the stunning natural wonder known as the Blue Eye.

This crystal-clear, circular pool of turquoise water is fed by an underwater spring that bubbles up from the depths. Visitors can marvel at the mesmerizing, swirling currents and try to glimpse the mysterious depths that give the Blue Eye its name.

The serene setting, surrounded by lush vegetation, offers a peaceful respite from the day’s adventures. Guests can wander the pathways, snap photos, and soak in the natural beauty of this captivating natural site.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off service, allowing participants to start their journey seamlessly from their hotel or accommodation in Tirana, Durres, or Golem.

The tour provides an alternative meeting point at Skanderbeg Square in Tirana, where travelers can look for the Skanderbeg Statue and meet the guide wearing an identification badge or uniform.

• The tour has a maximum of 8 travelers per group, ensuring a personalized experience.

• All fees and taxes are included in the tour price, eliminating unexpected costs.

• The tour duration includes travel time, allowing participants to make the most of their day.

What’s Included and Excluded

The tour includes a licensed English guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes.

Pickup and drop-off service is provided at your hotel or accommodation in Tirana, Durres, or Golem. The tour duration includes travel time.

Group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers. However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, serious medical issues, or pregnant travelers, and it isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Most travelers can still participate, though. The tour has received positive reviews, with customers highlighting the great locations and a generous tour guide.

Cancellation Policy and Flexibility

As per the tour’s cancellation policy, travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This policy provides flexibility for those with changing plans or unforeseen circumstances.

Additionally:

• The tour allows for a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
• Pickup and drop-off services are provided at the traveler’s hotel or accommodation in Tirana, Durres, or Golem.
• The licensed English guide, air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes are included in the tour price.

Customer Testimonials

Numerous customers have left enthusiastic reviews of the tour, highlighting its exceptional quality.

One reviewer, Jeff_S, praised the guide Besnik for his attentiveness, managing the group while also providing medical assistance when needed.

Another reviewer, NOELIA_G, described the guide as "charming" and noted the spacious, comfortable vehicle.

Customers have consistently lauded the tour’s ability to showcase two must-see Albanian destinations, Gjirokastër and the Blue Eye.

The overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests the tour delivers an engaging and memorable experience for travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

Unfortunately, the tour information does not mention any discounts for students or seniors. The price listed is a general rate that applies to all travelers, without special pricing for specific groups.

Can We Make Any Stops Along the Way for Photos?

Yes, the tour allows for photo stops along the way. The guide is flexible and will accommodate requests to stop for photos at scenic viewpoints or points of interest during the tour.

Will We Have Time to Explore Gjirokastër on Our Own?

The tour provides ample time to explore Gjirokastër on your own. According to the itinerary, after the guided tour, you’ll have free time to wander the historic town and take photos at your leisure.

Are Bathrooms Available at the Blue Eye Site?

Yes, there are public restrooms available at the Blue Eye site. The tour includes ample time to explore the natural wonder and surrounding area on your own during the scheduled visit.

Can I Bring My Own Water and Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own water and snacks on the tour. The tour overview indicates the tour includes transportation, but does not specify if food or drinks are provided, so bringing personal provisions is allowed.

The Sum Up

This Discover Albania Treasures by Day Tour offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural wonders. Travelers can explore the UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër, admire the stunning Blue Eye, and enjoy convenient transportation with a licensed guide. With its flexibility and positive customer reviews, this tour provides an unforgettable way to discover the hidden gems of Albania.