From Tirana/Golem/Durrës:Blue Eye,Ksamil

Travelers seeking a taste of Albania’s diverse natural beauty and coastal charm will find this day trip offers a truly scenic experience. With visits to Blue Eye, Ksamil, Sarandë, and Lekursi Castle, it packs in some of the most iconic sights of Southern Albania in just one day.

What we love about this tour? First, its well-planned itinerary that balances sightseeing with relaxation. Second, the stunning views at Blue Eye and Ksamil beaches that leave lasting impressions. Third, the professional guidance that adds context and makes the day more meaningful.

One possible consideration is the long duration of around 16 hours—it’s a full day, so be prepared for some early starts and a bit of travel fatigue. This tour suits those eager to explore multiple highlights in a single trip, especially travelers who appreciate scenic vistas and cultural sites without fussing over logistics.

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Key Points

Comprehensive sightseeing: Covers four major destinations in Southern Albania, offering a well-rounded experience.
Comfortable transport: Includes pick-up and drop-off from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem with professional guides.
Stunning natural sights: Blue Eye spring and Ksamil beaches promise unforgettable visuals.
Historical highlights: Lekursi Castle adds an element of history and panoramic views.
Flexible options: Guided tours with free time and photo stops to suit your pace.
Value for money: All-included transportation and guides make it a practical way to see the region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour

This tour offers a practical way to see some of Albania’s most beautiful and culturally interesting sites in a single day. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience that combines natural marvels with a touch of history and coastal relaxation.

We especially like the fact that the tour covers both nature and culture—from the surreal blue waters of the Blue Eye spring to the historic remnants of Lekursi Castle. The local guides, like Lion, who many reviews highlight positively, help to make these destinations come alive with stories and insights.

A potential downside? The 16-hour duration means this is a pretty long day. If you’re not used to full-day excursions or prefer slow-paced sightseeing, it might feel a bit exhausting. Still, for those eager to maximize their Albanian adventure, this is a fantastic option.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love scenic landscapes, historical sites, and coastal views, and who appreciate guided tours that streamline logistics while offering authentic insights.

Looking for more options in Sarande? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Pickup and Start from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem

The tour begins with convenient hotel or accommodation pick-up, whether in the vibrant capital, the historic port city, or the popular seaside resort area of Golem. This flexibility means you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics, and you’ll start the day relaxed and ready.

Stop 2: Ksamil Beaches and Islands

The highlight of Ksamil is its pristine beaches with turquoise waters. As one reviewer noted, “Cétait génial,” meaning the experience of relaxing or exploring in Ksamil was fantastic. The roughly 2.5-hour window includes free time, a photo stop, and possibly a guided walk, giving you enough opportunity to soak in the scenery, snap photos of the small islands nearby, or just unwind on the soft sands.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, there are plenty of local cafes and eateries where you can grab a snack or meal if you desire. The beaches tend to be quieter compared to other Mediterranean spots, making this a peaceful spot for lounging.

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Stop 3: The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

Next up is the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most celebrated natural wonders. The spring’s striking blue waters, surrounded by lush greenery, are something you’ll want to photograph from multiple angles. The guided visit lasts around 40 minutes, which is enough to marvel at the spring, take some photos, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Reviewers mention that the Blue Eye is “so beautiful,” and that seeing it in person truly lives up to the hype. Keep in mind that accessing the site might involve a small train fee, and there’s an entrance fee—this is a worthwhile investment for the stunning views.

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Stop 4: Lekursi Castle and Panoramic Views

Your final stop is at Lekursi Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking Sarandë and the coastline. The castle’s ruins are a fun exploration point, and the views from the top are spectacular, especially at sunset. As one reviewer shared, “The panoramic views of Sarandë and the Corfu coastline are breathtaking,” making it a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the landscape.

Drop-offs in Durrës, Golem, or Tirana

After a full day, the bus takes you back to your original pick-up point, ensuring a smooth end to the trip. With the comfort of air-conditioned transportation and a friendly guide, the trip wraps up without hassle.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included: Comfortable transportation, professional guide, pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation in Tirana, Durrës, or Golem.

Not Included: Personal expenses, lunch in Ksamil (though available locally), and entrance fees for the Blue Eye (train fee required).

This all-inclusive approach offers good value, especially considering the convenience of door-to-door service and guided commentary. The tour’s price seems reasonable for the access to multiple highlights, making it easy to see Albania’s diverse scenery without extra planning.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From reviews, we learn that guides like Lion are notably helpful and attentive, accompanying guests from start to finish. One traveler mentioned, “He was very helpful and made the excursion worthwhile,” emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable guide.

The comments about Blue Eye and Ksamil highlight how stunning the scenery truly is. “We saw the Blue Eye and it was so beautiful,” shared a visitor, confirming the site’s reputation. Travelers also appreciated the balance of sightseeing and free time, allowing for both guided exploration and personal moments.

Long hours and travel time may seem daunting, but most reviewers find the experience to be worthwhile and well-organized. The scenic views, especially at sunset from Lekursi Castle, remain a highlight that many mention in their stories.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For anyone craving a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty, history, and coastlines, this trip ticks many boxes. The stunning Blue Eye is a must-see for nature lovers, and Ksamil’s beaches provide a relaxing break from sightseeing. The panoramic vistas from Lekursi Castle add a touch of cultural richness and perfect photo opportunities.

The tour is especially suitable for those who want a guided experience that covers multiple highlights without the headache of logistics. It’s fantastic for travelers who don’t mind a long day in exchange for a rundown of Southern Albania’s best.

If your goal is to see iconic sights with minimal hassle, and you value professional guidance, this trip offers a well-balanced mix of nature, history, and coastal leisure—making it a practical and memorable choice.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 16 hours, including pick-up, sightseeing, and return.

Are transportation and guides included?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable transport and a professional English-speaking guide.

Can I join from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem?
Yes, pick-up is available from all three locations, making it easy to start from your preferred spot.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, each destination offers free time for photos, exploration, or relaxing, typically around 2.5 hours at Ksamil and 40 minutes at Blue Eye.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Yes, there’s a train fee to access Blue Eye, along with any other personal expenses. Entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, and some cash for snacks or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially for families who enjoy scenic views and outdoor exploration; just ensure kids are comfortable with long hours.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

To sum it up, this tour offers an immersive snapshot of Albania’s southern coast. It balances scenic beauty with cultural sights, all delivered with the comfort of guided logistics. Perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of organizing separate trips, it’s a smart choice for those looking for value, convenience, and authentic experiences.