Day trip from Saranda : Blue Eye and Gjirokastra

Exploring Albania’s southern gems in a single day is an appealing way to see some of the most captivating sights the country has to offer. This tour, offered by NANO TOURS, promises a balanced mix of history, nature, and panoramic views—all at an approachable price point. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to maximize a short stay without sacrificing authenticity or comfort.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the coverage of key attractions like the historic Gjirokastra fortress and the mesmerizing Blue Eye natural spring. Second, the flexibility of free time around Gjirokastra’s colorful bazaar and cobblestone streets, which lets you explore at your own pace. Lastly, the breathtaking viewpoints from Lekursi Castle, offering sweeping sights of Saranda and the Ionian coast.

That said, a potential consideration is the quality of guided commentary, which varies based on the reviews—some travelers found the guides lacked language skills, turning the trip into more of a transport service than an informative tour. Still, if your priority is scenic beauty and cultural sights with flexible timing, this trip suits most adventure-seekers.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want a cost-effective, scenic day out with minimal hassle, and who are comfortable exploring independently at times.

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Key Points

Comfortable transportation in a modern vehicle makes for a smooth ride.
Flexible schedule allows free exploration of Gjirokastra’s streets and shops.
Stunning natural sights like Blue Eye deliver immersive photo opportunities.
Authentic cultural experience at the castle and bazaar enhances understanding of local history.
Cost-effective price offers good value for a full-day excursion.
Variable guide quality means some travelers may prefer self-guided exploration.

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The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day trip

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Pickup and Introduction

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Saranda. The provider ensures a prompt and reliable service, with reviews mentioning exact timing and comfortable, modern vehicles that meet European standards. The driver acts as your guide, but the level of commentary varies depending on the driver. Some reviews, like Cindy’s, mention limited language skills—meaning the driver may not provide detailed historical insights but still offers a safe and comfortable ride.

Exploring Gjirokastra’s Castle and Town

The first major stop is Gjirokastra Castle, one of the largest and oldest castles in the Balkans, dating back centuries. This fortress offers both historic intrigue and sweeping views of the town below. Visitors can wander the ramparts, explore museums, and get a sense of Albania’s Ottoman past.

After the castle visit, you’ll have free time to walk the town’s cobblestone streets and discover Gjirokastra’s famed bazaar. The cable-stone roads and vibrant market stalls create a charming atmosphere, perfect for photography or picking up souvenirs. Multiple reviewers, such as Socaina El, mention that they appreciated the comfortable transport and friendly driver, which meant they could relax and enjoy their exploration.

Visiting Blue Eye Natural Spring

Next, the journey heads towards Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), one of Albania’s most iconic natural sites. The turquoise waters of the spring, surrounded by lush greenery, create an almost surreal landscape. The water’s clarity and mesmerizing color make it a favorite for photos and tranquil moments alike.

Travelers can expect to see crystal-clear waters that seem to defy explanation, and some reviews mention the mesmerizing landscapes. The Blue Eye’s natural beauty is a highlight, offering a perfect contrast to the historical and cultural sites.

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Final Stop at Lekursi Castle

The last stop is Lekursi Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking Saranda. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, the town, and the Ionian Sea. The vantage point makes for an excellent photo opportunity and a peaceful end to your day.

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Return to Saranda

After soaking in the views, your driver will take you back to your accommodation, completing a well-rounded day of sightseeing. The overall trip duration and timing are designed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed.

The Value of This Tour

At $70 per person, the tour presents a reasonable investment given the attractions covered and included transportation. The inclusion of pickup and drop-off service, along with a driver/guide, simplifies logistics, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local transport options.

While entry tickets to sites like Gjirokastra’s castle are not included, the cost remains quite affordable. This flexibility allows you to choose whether to spend more time inside the sites or simply enjoy the scenery from the outside.

The modern, comfortable vehicles and reliable pickup timing contribute significantly to the positive experience, reducing travel fatigue—important when visiting multiple sites in one day.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that guiding quality varies. Some travelers found the driver to be very kind but not particularly informative, leaving them to explore independently. If you’re comfortable with minimal guidance and prefer to set your own pace, this flexibility is advantageous.

What to bring? A daypack with essentials like water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes will serve you well, especially since you’ll be wandering cobblestones and natural paths.

Remember: No alcohol or drugs are allowed, so plan accordingly. And since reservations are required in advance via phone or email, be sure to plan ahead to secure your spot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of Albania’s highlights without the hassle of arranging multiple transports or guided tours. It’s also suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural strolls, and natural wonders.

Travelers who prefer guided commentary in multiple languages might find the experience less fulfilling due to variable guide language skills. If historical context is important to you, consider supplementing the tour with your own research or audioguide.

Finally, this tour might not be ideal for people over 70, as the walking involved at sites like Gjirokastra and Blue Eye can be physically demanding for some. But for most active visitors, it’s an excellent way to spend a day exploring southern Albania.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are made via phone or email in advance. Keep your plans flexible with the option to reserve and pay later.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers pick-up and drop-off, transport in a modern vehicle, and a driver/guide.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, you’ll need to pay for entry tickets separately at sites like Gjirokastra’s castle.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but consider the walking involved and the physical activity at sites.

What should I bring?
A daypack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

Can I customize the timing or stops?
Since it’s a group tour with set stops, customization isn’t typically available, but free time in Gjirokastra allows some flexibility.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
The main guide speaks Albanian, and the driver’s language skills are limited, so it’s best to have some basic knowledge of Albanian or be prepared for minimal commentary.

What if I want to spend more time at Blue Eye?
The tour includes a set schedule; if you wish to stay longer, you might need to arrange a private tour or extend your visit independently.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour’s sites, especially Gjirokastra’s cobblestone streets and Blue Eye’s natural pathways, may pose challenges for wheelchairs.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Saranda offers a well-rounded glimpse of southern Albania’s natural beauty and historic charm. The combination of scenic drives, cultural exploration, and breathtaking landscapes makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting to see Albania’s highlights without the complexity of planning each detail.

While the guidance quality can vary, the overall value—especially considering the cost—is hard to beat. The trip’s relaxed pace and flexible free time in Gjirokastra mean you can tailor your experience to your interests, whether that’s wandering the ancient streets or snapping photos of the Blue Eye.

For travelers craving an affordable, scenic, and culturally enriching day out, this tour delivers plenty of memorable moments. Just be sure to manage expectations based on guide language skills and plan ahead for the best experience.

In summary, if you’re happy to explore at your own pace, love scenic landscapes, and want a taste of Albania’s history, this trip is an excellent choice. It’s especially good for those new to the country or looking for an easy, all-in-one sightseeing day.

Note: For more options and similar experiences, check out these related tours:

Feel free to explore and customize your Albanian adventure—this tour offers a flexible way to see some of the country’s most stunning sights without overextending your schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: