From Vlora:Tepelene Springs, Gjirokaster & Blue Eye Day Tour

Planning a day trip around Vlora that combines nature, history, and a bit of adventure? This full-day tour ticks all those boxes and more. With a carefully curated itinerary, small group size, and guided insights, it promises an authentic taste of Albania’s diverse landscapes and cultural gems.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to relax at Tepelene Springs, second, exploring Gjirokastër’s charming Ottoman-era streets, and third, marveling at the Blue Eye’s mesmerizing waters. The only thing to consider is that the tour depends on good weather — so if rain and clouds roll in, the experience might be less vibrant. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers eager to see a mix of natural beauty and historic sites without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy small groups, engaging guides, and a well-balanced day of sightseeing. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or a small family, you’ll appreciate the personal touch and local insights that make this trip stand out.

Key Points

• Includes transportation from Vlora in a comfortable van, making logistics hassle-free
• Guided tour in Gjirokastër, with entry to Gjirokastra Castle and a Cold War Tunnel
• Flexible free time for exploring the Old Bazaar, shopping, or enjoying local cuisine
• Unforgettable natural sights at Tepelene Springs and the Blue Eye
• Small-group atmosphere enhances the experience and personal interaction
• Pay later option allows flexibility in planning

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This day trip provides a thoughtfully structured itinerary that balances guided exploration with free time, allowing you to soak in each location at your own pace.

Departure and Tepelene Springs

The adventure begins early at 8:30 AM from the Vlora Daily Trips office. The journey to Tepelene Springs is around an hour, with the first stop at Uji i Ftohtë, famed for its crystal-clear waters. Here, you’ll enjoy a refreshing break around 9:30 AM, giving you time to snap photos of the bubbling springs, stretch your legs, and feel the cool water’s invigorating touch. Reviewers like Anouk mentioned that the springs’ crystal waters and the relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect way to start the day.

Gjirokastër: Albania’s UNESCO Heritage Treasure

Arriving around 10:45 AM, you’ll step into Gjirokastër, often called the “Stone City” for its characteristic Ottoman-era architecture. Your guided tour, lasting until about 12:45 PM, offers insights into the town’s history and cultural significance, from the Gjirokastra Castle to a Cold War Tunnel hidden beneath the city.

The tour also dives into stories that many visitors find captivating — from local legends to Albania’s strategic role during the Cold War. Reviewers like Kamila appreciated how the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor made the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Free Time in Gjirokastër

Between 12:45 PM and 1:45 PM, you’ll have a well-earned break. Here, you can explore the Old Bazaar, filled with local crafts, colorful shops, and cafes serving traditional Albanian dishes. Many travelers, like Magdalena, found this portion the most enriching, especially with the guide’s excellent restaurant recommendations.

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The Blue Eye: Nature’s Hidden Gem

At 2:30 PM, the trip moves to the Blue Eye, a natural spring famous for its vibrant turquoise waters. Spanning until about 4:00 PM, this is the highlight for many — a peaceful, breathtaking scene where water bubbles up from an unknown depth, surrounded by lush greenery. Reviewers described it as “mesmerizing” and “a place to relax and take photos,” emphasizing the clarity and color of the water.

You’ll have ample time to walk around, take in the views from various platforms, and enjoy the cool breeze. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make it an ideal spot for reflection and photography.

Return Journey

Departing from Blue Eye around 4:00 PM, the return journey includes a brief stop to stretch and refresh before arriving back in Vlora around 6:30 PM. The overall timing allows for a leisurely day, without feeling rushed, and offers a good balance of guided and free exploration.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfortable Transportation and Small Groups

Traveling with a comfortable van means you’ll avoid long bus rides and crowded environments. The small group size (typically up to 8 people, based on reviews) creates an intimate atmosphere, perfect for engaging with your guide and fellow travelers. Many reviews highlight how this setup fosters friendly conversations and personalized attention.

Knowledgeable Guides with a Personal Touch

Reviewers consistently praise the guides—for example, Klaudio and Claudio—who are described as charming, funny, and full of local stories. Their ability to adapt the schedule to the group’s needs, share interesting anecdotes, and ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable elevates the experience.

Authentic Experiences

From the crystal waters of Tepelene to the historic streets of Gjirokastër, and the peaceful serenity of Blue Eye, each stop offers a genuine taste of Albania’s natural and cultural landscape. The inclusion of Gjirokastra Castle and a Cold War Tunnel adds historical depth to the trip, making it more than just scenic sightseeing.

Value for Money

At $100 per person, the trip offers a comprehensive day of exploration, guided insights, entry tickets, and transportation. Reviewers like Magdalena found the experience “worth every penny,” especially appreciating the small-group intimacy and local knowledge that transformed a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure.

Flexibility & Convenience

The pay later option offers flexibility, and the tour’s cancellation policy—free if canceled 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind. The meeting point is easy to find at the Vlora Daily Trips agency, and the logistics are well-organized, minimizing stress.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled streets and uneven terrain at Blue Eye.
• Bring sunglasses and a sun hat—Albania can be quite sunny, especially during summer.
• Pack swimwear if you want to dip into Tepelene Springs or Blue Eye.
• Consider bringing a small backpack for water, snacks, and souvenirs.
• The tour depends on good weather, so check the forecast beforehand. Cloudy or rainy days might diminish the scenery’s vibrancy.
• The small group and guided nature mean it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable round-trip transportation from Vlora in a minivan, making the day hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and comfortable clothing are recommended. Don’t forget a camera for all those photo-worthy moments.

How long is the whole trip?
It starts at 8:30 AM and returns around 6:30 PM, allowing a full day of sightseeing without rushing.

Are there any activities inside the attractions?
At Gjirokastër, you’ll visit the castle and Cold War Tunnel, and at Blue Eye, you’ll walk around and take photos from different viewpoints.

Can I customize the schedule?
The guide is flexible and can make small adjustments based on the group’s needs and interests.

Is food provided?
No, but there is free time at Gjirokastër’s Old Bazaar to grab lunch at your own pace. Many reviewers appreciated the guide’s restaurant recommendations.

Is this trip suitable for children?
While it’s family-friendly, the tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to terrain and walking involved.

What is the maximum group size?
Based on reviews, the group usually caps around 8 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If the trip gets canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Vlora day tour offers a fantastic way to see a blend of Albania’s natural wonders and historic sites without the stress of planning each aspect yourself. It’s especially suited for travelers who value small groups, knowledgeable guides, and authentic experiences. The itinerary strikes a great balance, giving you plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, and learn.

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed day with memorable scenery and insightful stories, this trip checks all the boxes. Whether it’s your first time in Albania or a return visit, it promises an engaging and picturesque snapshot of what makes this country so special.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a friendly, informative, and scenic day out that highlights Albania’s natural beauty and cultural depth. It’s a smart choice for travelers who prefer guided adventures that are intimate, flexible, and packed with authentic moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: