Exploring the picturesque Albanian Riviera can be an unforgettable experience. This full-day tour from Tirana or Durrës offers a chance to discover the charming coastal town of Saranda, the stunning Ksamil beaches, and the mesmerizing Blue Eye spring. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can enjoy the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From panoramic castle views to relaxing seaside moments, this adventure promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- A full-day excursion from Tirana/Durrës to Saranda, Ksamil, and Blue Eye, priced from $81.72 to $95.02 per person.
- Includes transportation, entry tickets, and a knowledgeable guide, with a duration of 10 hours and free cancellation.
- Explore the charming promenade and natural beauty of Saranda, the "pearl of the Albanian Riviera," and visit Lekursi Castle for panoramic views.
- Relax on the stunning sandy beaches of Ksamil and discover the unique Blue Eye spring with its crystal-clear, deep-blue waters.
- Opportunity to capture scenic photos and soak up the sun during the tour.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour from Tirana/Durrës offers a full-day excursion to the picturesque towns of Saranda, Ksamil, and the natural wonder of Blue Eye.
Priced from $81.72 to $95.02 per person, this 10-hour tour provides free cancellation and a pay-later option.
Priced from $81.72 to $95.02 per person, this 10-hour tour offers free cancellation and a pay-later option.
Travelers are picked up from Durrës or Tirana and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to explore Saranda, Lekursi Castle, Ksamil’s beaches, and the stunning Blue Eye spring.
The tour includes entry tickets and a knowledgeable guide.
With a 4.4/5 overall rating, this tour offers an excellent value for travelers seeking to discover Albania’s southern highlights.
Looking for more options in Tirana? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour’s itinerary and highlights include pickup locations in Durrës and Tirana, with the main stops being Saranda, Ksamil, Lekursi Castle, and the Blue Eye.
The journey takes about 3.5 hours to reach Saranda, with 4 hours dedicated to exploring the key sights:
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Discover the "pearl of the Albanian Riviera" in Saranda
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Visit Lekursi Castle for panoramic views of Corfu and Saranda Bay
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Relax on Ksamil’s sandy beaches and dive into the turquoise waters
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Explore the natural wonder of the Blue Eye spring with its crystal-clear water
Exploring Saranda, the Pearl of the Albanian Riviera
As the tour makes its way to Saranda, often referred to as the "pearl of the Albanian Riviera," visitors will be captivated by the city’s charming promenade that hugs the Ionian Sea.
Strolling along the waterfront, they’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a refreshing coffee or ice cream while admiring the captivating scenery.
Strolling along the waterfront, visitors can savor a refreshing coffee or ice cream while taking in the captivating scenery.
The region is also known for its rich flora and fauna, with citrus plantations, olive groves, and vineyards dotting the landscape.
From Saranda, the tour will continue to the nearby Lekursi Castle, offering panoramic views of Corfu and the stunning Saranda Bay.
Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Views of Corfu and Saranda Bay
After exploring the charming promenade of Saranda, the tour continues to Lekursi Castle, which offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Corfu and the stunning Saranda Bay.
From the castle’s hilltop perch, guests can:
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Gaze out over the shimmering Ionian Sea
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Spot the Greek island of Corfu in the distance
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Marvel at the picturesque Saranda Bay below
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Capture Instagram-worthy photos of the scenic landscape
This historic site provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of the Albanian Riviera and the surrounding region.
More Great Tours NearbyRelaxing on Ksamil’s Sandy Beaches
From Lekursi Castle, the tour heads to the picturesque town of Ksamil, known for its stunning sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
Visitors can spend time relaxing on the soft sand, taking a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear sea, or simply soaking up the sun. The beaches offer ample space for travelers to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance.
Those seeking a bit more adventure can explore the nearby islands, accessible via boat.
With its idyllic setting and opportunity for leisure, Ksamil provides a perfect respite during the day’s excursion.
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Discovering the Blue Eye Spring
The tour moves on to discover the natural wonder known as the Blue Eye spring. This crystal-clear, deep-blue pool of water is a remarkable sight to behold.
Visitors can:
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Marvel at the vibrant blue hue of the spring’s waters
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Observe the bubbling, circular pattern created by the spring’s natural flow
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Explore the surrounding lush forest and tranquil atmosphere
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Learn about the unique geological formation and ecosystem of the Blue Eye
The Blue Eye spring is a mesmerizing destination that showcases Albania’s natural beauty and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Experience and Activities
What can visitors expect on this tour? They’ll have the chance to stroll along Saranda’s picturesque promenade, taking in the sights and sounds of the Ionian Sea. Optional coffee or ice cream by the seaside provides a chance to pause and enjoy the moment. Travelers will also get to experience Saranda’s rich flora and fauna, including citrus plantations, olive groves, and vineyards. The breathtaking scenery from Lekursi Castle is a highlight, offering panoramic views of Corfu and Saranda Bay.
| Activity | Duration | Notes |
| — | — | — |
| Promenade Stroll | 30-45 mins | Enjoy the Ionian Sea views |
| Coffee/Ice Cream | 15-30 mins | Refreshment break |
| Explore Saranda | 1-2 hours | Discover natural wonders |
| Lekursi Castle | 45-60 mins | Panoramic viewpoint |
Transportation and Inclusions
This tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off service in Tirana.
The tour leader/driver is included, ensuring a smooth and informative experience. The entry tickets to the visited sites are also covered, allowing you to explore the destinations without additional costs.
The key inclusions are:
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Air-conditioned vehicle transportation
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Hotel pickup and drop-off in Tirana
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Tour leader/driver
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Entry tickets to visited sites
With these comprehensive inclusions, you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking scenery and cultural discoveries along the way, without worrying about the logistics.
Since You Asked
Are There Any Opportunities for Local Cuisine Tastings?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any local cuisine tastings, but there may be opportunities to enjoy local dishes or snacks during the free time in Saranda. Travelers can inquire with the tour guide about any such options.
What Are the Options for Lunch During the Tour?
The tour does not include a formal lunch stop, but there are opportunities to try local cuisine during free time in Saranda. Visitors can enjoy a coffee, snack, or light meal at the seaside cafes and restaurants.
Is Photography Allowed at All the Tour Sites?
Photography is generally allowed at the tour sites, though visitors should be mindful of any restrictions. It’s best to check with the tour guide or site staff to ensure compliance with any rules regarding photography.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?
The tour can be customized to include additional stops, as the tour leader is flexible and willing to tailor the itinerary to the customers’ requests. This allows for a more personalized experience.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
There is no minimum group size required for this tour. Travelers can book this tour as a solo traveler or in a group of any size. The tour can accommodate both individual and group bookings.
Final Words
This tour offers a captivating full-day adventure along the stunning Albanian Riviera. Travelers can explore the charming Saranda, enjoy panoramic views from Lekursi Castle, relax on Ksamil’s beaches, and marvel at the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Eye spring. With air-conditioned transport, entry tickets, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides an unforgettable experience of the region’s rich natural beauty and cultural highlights.
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