Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye, Lekuresi Castle. All-in-one daytrip. - Transportation and Group Size

6 Of The Best Tours & Experiences In Saranda

Discover the best tours in Saranda, from cultural ruins to natural wonders like Blue Eye, with options suited to different interests and budgets.

Saranda is a fantastic base for exploring southern Albania’s diverse attractions. Its proximity to spectacular natural sites like the Blue Eye spring and historic spots like Gjirokastër make it ideal for day trips. What makes these tours stand out? For starters, the 1-Day Tour in Blue Eye, Monastery, Gjirokaster and Lekursi Castle offers a compact, full-immersion experience into both nature and history—all in one day—perfect for travelers with limited time but big curiosity. Meanwhile, the Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye, Lekuresi Castle trip combines ancient ruins with beach relaxation, offering a balance of history and leisure. For those interested in more personalized experiences, the Visit Benje Thermal Baths & Kelcyra Waterfall & Langarica Canyon provides a private, scenic escape into thermal waters and waterfalls. Whether you’re after archaeological sites, stunning landscapes, or thermal springs, Saranda has a tour to match your style.

Below is a quick overview of the top tours, each bringing a unique flavor to your trip.

Quick Tour Summary:

  • A full-day cultural and natural experience mixing the Blue Eye spring, Gjirokastër, and a medieval castle (see Tour #1)
  • An all-in-one day trip covering Butrint ruins, Ksamil beaches, Blue Eye, and Lekuresi Castle (see Tour #2)
  • A private day exploring Tepelena and Permet with thermal baths and waterfalls (see Tour #3)
  • A shorter guided tour focusing on the highlights of Butrint, Blue Eye, and Ksamil with a local touch (see Tour #4)
  • A popular group tour combining Butrint’s ruins and Ksamil beaches, ideal for budget-conscious travelers (see Tour #5)
  • A family-friendly visit to Blue Eye’s national park, perfect for those wanting a shorter, nature-focused outing (see Tour #6)

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

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

This full-day adventure from Saranda covers four highlights—Blue Eye spring, St. Nicholas Monastery, Gjirokastër, and Lekursi Castle. The tour is designed for those wanting a taste of both Albanian culture and nature in one day. Your guide will lead you through the St. Nicholas Monastery, one of the oldest Byzantine-era churches, built around 1224. Its unique double apse might suggest it was used by two religious rites—an interesting detail for history fans. Then, you’ll head to the Blue Eye spring, where you can marvel at water so clear you can see over fifty meters deep (see Blue Eye experience). This natural wonder is famous for its vibrant blue waters and the surrounding lush landscape.

Afterward, you’ll stroll through Gjirokastër, a hilltop town packed with Ottoman architecture, and finish with panoramic photos from Lekursi Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking Saranda. The tour, rated 5/5 by 22 reviews, is praised for its personable guide and efficient itinerary. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive day with a small group, making logistics smoother and more intimate.

Bottom line: A well-rounded, culturally rich day trip that balances natural beauty with history, widely appreciated for its thoroughness and local insights.

2. Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye, Lekuresi Castle. All-in-one daytrip.

Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye, Lekuresi Castle. All-in-one daytrip.

This full-day excursion is ideal if you want to see the most iconic sights without multiple reservations. It kicks off with a visit to Butrint National Park, an ancient UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring the ruins of the Illyrian city, you’ll wander past the Greek theater, Byzantine basilica, and various ancient remains—a compact history lesson in stone. The guide ensures you get in-depth insights about the region’s past, making history tangible.

Next, it’s time for some beach relaxation at Ksamil—an easy walk along the shoreline where you can grab lunch or just soak up the sun. The Blue Eye visit follows, where you’ll stroll into the lush forest and admire the spring’s startlingly blue waters—an Instagram favorite. The day ends with Lekuresi Castle, where panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea await you. The tour costs $68.79 and has a solid 4.5/5 rating from 81 reviews, with many travelers praising the smooth logistics and knowledgeable guide (see Blue Eye).

Bottom line: This tour packs the region’s top sights into a manageable day, offering good value for those interested in history, beaches, and scenery.

3. Visit Benje Thermal Baths & Kelcyra Waterfall & Langarica Canyon

Visit Benje Thermal Baths & Kelcyra Waterfall & Langarica Canyon

If you’re craving a relaxing escape and don’t mind a private tour, this day trip to Tepelena and Permet is perfect. For about $136.49, you get hotel pickup, private transportation, and visits to Benje Thermal Baths, where mineral waters have been soothing travelers for centuries. The pools are open for swimming, and the scenery is stunning, with lush canyon walls surrounding the springs.

The tour continues to Kelcyra Waterfall, a picture-perfect cascade flowing into the Langarica Canyon. Here, you can walk along the canyon trail, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and even dip your feet in the cool water. Your guide, with 25 years of experience, will share stories about the history and geology of the area, making this more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience. Rated 5/5 by 16 reviewers, travelers highlight the comfortable private vehicle and knowledgeable guide as key advantages.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, leisurely day exploring thermal waters and waterfalls, with the comfort of private transport.

4. Saranda: Tour in South of Albania (Butrint, Blue Eye, Ksamil)

Saranda: Tour in South of Albania (Butrint, Blue Eye, Ksamil)

This guided group tour offers a focused half-day experience, perfect if you’re short on time but want a well-curated taste of Butrint, Blue Eye, and Ksamil. The tour starts with a walk through Butrint’s well-preserved ruins, where you’ll see the Greek theater, Byzantine basilica, and ancient artifacts. The guide will bring the site’s history to life, giving you a deeper appreciation of this UNESCO-listed site (see more about this tour).

Next, you’ll visit the Blue Eye, where the stunning spring’s water temperature and clarity invite for photos and a peaceful break. The final stop is Ksamil, with its tiny islands and inviting beaches. Rated 5/5 by nine reviews, travelers mention the efficiency and friendly local guides who offer a more personalized experience, even when traveling in a group.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers with limited time who want to experience key highlights with a knowledgeable guide in a smaller group setting.

5. Visit The Ancient City of Butrint and the Beaches of Ksamil

Visit The Ancient City of Butrint and the Beaches of Ksamil

This budget-friendly day trip offers a blend of archaeology and relaxation. Starting with the ancient ruins of Butrint, you’ll explore the Greek theater, Byzantine basilica, and see artifacts in a 2-hour guided tour. The site’s UNESCO status ensures top preservation and plenty to see. After exploring, you’ll head to Ksamil, known for its small islands and clear waters, ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

Rated 4.5/5 from 17 reviews, travelers value the organized logistics and the chance to see significant archaeological remains without breaking the bank. The tour is perfect for history lovers who also want some beach downtime, especially as it includes hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport.

Bottom line: An affordable way to combine history and beach in one relaxing day, suitable for travelers wanting a straightforward experience.

6. Visit The National Park of Blue Eye

For a shorter, family-friendly outing, this 3-hour tour focuses solely on Blue Eye. Your guide will explain the spring’s origins and take you through the surrounding park, which is an easy stroll for all ages and stroller accessible. The crystal waters and lush vegetation make for excellent photos, while swimming in the cold spring can be a refreshing break.

Rated 4.5/5 by 16 reviews, travelers appreciate the skip-the-line entry and the personalized narration. The included transportation makes this a hassle-free choice for those who want a quick, scenic visit without too much walking or commitment.

Bottom line: Perfect for families or travelers who want a short, scenic nature stop with minimal hassle.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Saranda

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, time availability, and specific interests. For a comprehensive full-day adventure that combines history and nature, the 1-Day Tour in Blue Eye, Monastery, Gjirokaster and Lekursi Castle is hard to beat. If you’re after a balanced mix of archaeology and beaches, the all-in-one daytrip offers good value.

For travelers seeking a more personalized or private experience, the Benje Thermal Baths tour provides comfort and flexibility, especially if thermal waters and waterfalls appeal to you. Those with limited time or a preference for a more guided, small-group tour should consider the South Albania Highlights for a concise, well-organized trip.

Finally, families or those wanting a quick nature escape will find the Blue Eye National Park ideal—easy to fit into a half-day schedule.

To sum it up, Saranda offers a diverse range of tours catering to history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation. Whether you want a full immersion in archaeological sites, a scenic boat ride, or a thermal spring soak, you’ll find an experience that fits your style. Booking early is recommended—these tours fill quickly, especially during peak season. Whatever your preference, there’s no shortage of memorable adventures waiting in Saranda.