From Vlorë: Gjirokaster and Blue Eye Day Trip

Planning a day trip to explore some of Albania’s most captivating sights? This tour from Vlorë offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and local charm that’s perfect for those looking to see a different side of this beautiful country. Whether you’re already in Vlorë or just passing through, this excursion promises a full day of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and authentic experiences.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to refresh at the famous Uji i Ftohtë springs, with their crystal-clear waters. Second, wandering through the UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër, a town full of stories, cobbled streets, and traditional Ottoman architecture. Lastly, the visit to the Blue Eye, with its hypnotic turquoise waters that seem almost unreal.

One consideration? The day’s itinerary is quite packed, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a full schedule. This trip is ideal if you love combining outdoor adventures with cultural exploration, and if you’re eager to see some of Albania’s most iconic natural and historical sites in one go.

Contents show

Key Points

Comfortable transportation with free Wi-Fi makes for a hassle-free day trip.
Guided tour in Gjirokastër offers enriching stories and local insights.
Limited group size (up to 8 participants) ensures a personalized experience.
Flexible exploration time allows for shopping, photos, or local lunch stops.
Spectacular scenery at Uji i Ftohtë and Blue Eye creates perfect photo ops.
Weather-dependent schedule, so check the forecast before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on Your Day

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Gjirokaster

Starting from Vlorë and Heading to Uji i Ftohtë

Your day kicks off early at Vlora Daily Trips office, with a comfortable van that features free Wi-Fi—crucial for sharing those pics or catching up on messages. Around 8:15 AM, you’ll set off for a roughly 1.5-hour drive that takes you into the scenic heart of southern Albania.

The first stop is Uji i Ftohtë in Tepelenë, a renowned springs site. Arriving around 9:30 AM, you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy the cool waters. Visitors often comment on the crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings, making it an ideal spot for photos and stretching your legs after the drive. It’s refreshing, both physically and visually, and a wonderful way to start the day.

Exploring Gjirokastër: The UNESCO “Stone City”

By 10:45 AM, you arrive in Gjirokastër, a town that feels like walking through an open-air museum. Your guided tour lasts about two hours, allowing you to soak in the ambiance of narrow cobbled streets lined with Ottoman-style houses. Expect stories about the town’s history, architecture, and local legends from your guide—who, based on reviews, is very knowledgeable and ensures everyone gets great photos.

Highlights include visiting a traditional Ottoman house and the Cold War Tunnel—hidden gems that add layers to Gjirokastër’s storybook vibe. Strolling through the Old Bazaar, you’ll find shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and perhaps some delicious snacks. Many travelers praise this part of the tour for its authenticity and vibrant atmosphere.

Free Time to Explore and Lunch

Around 12:45 PM, you’ll have about an hour to explore at your own pace. This is your chance to shop for souvenirs, take more photos, or sit at a cozy café for a traditional Albanian lunch. The flexibility here is appreciated, especially since reviews mention enjoying local delicacies and simple, tasty meals after the guided tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Blue Eye: Nature’s Living Masterpiece

By 2:30 PM, your journey continues toward Syri i Kaltër, the Blue Eye, arriving around 2:45 PM. This natural spring, famous for its vivid turquoise waters, feels almost surreal. Surrounded by lush greenery, the sight of water bubbling up from unknown depths is mesmerizing.

You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore the viewing platforms, walk around the spring, and take photos that will make your friends jealous. Reviewers often mention how peaceful and photogenic Blue Eye is, making it a highlight of the trip. It’s a great spot for some quiet reflection and appreciation of Albania’s natural beauty.

There's plenty more to explore in Gjirokaster

Return to Vlora with a Rest Stop

Leaving Blue Eye at 4:00 PM, you’ll make a short stop en route for a quick refresh before heading back to Vlora. Expect to arrive around 6:30 PM, ending your day with a sense of satisfaction and plenty of new memories.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses a comfortable van with free Wi-Fi, ensuring a smooth ride between destinations. The limited group size (up to 8 people) means you’ll get more personalized attention and fewer crowds, which is ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Timing and Pacing

Starting early at 8:15 AM, the day is quite full. The schedule is well-paced, but keep in mind it’s a busy itinerary, so punctuality is important. If you’re sensitive to long days, bring snacks and water. You’ll have enough free time at each major stop to stretch, take photos, or grab a quick bite.

Pricing and Value

While the exact price isn’t listed here, the tour’s value lies in the inclusions: round-trip transportation, guided tour, entrance to key sites, and a small group experience. Considering the cost of individual entries and transportation, this package offers good value, especially given the quality of the guide and the convenience of an organized trip.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

This tour depends heavily on good weather. If rain or poor visibility is expected, the sights like Blue Eye might be less impressive or could be canceled. The company offers options for a different date or a full refund if weather conditions aren’t suitable.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One traveler specifically praised the knowledgeable guide for sharing local facts and stories that added depth to the experience. They appreciated that the guide took plenty of photos, ensuring everyone had memories without having to worry about capturing every moment. The driver was noted to be punctual, helpful, and friendly, which makes a big difference in such a day-long trip.

Another reviewer highlighted how the tour provided a nice glimpse of Albanian life in a short time, sparking a desire to explore further. They also mentioned enjoying the local insider tips about the places visited, which added authenticity to their trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This trip is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see a good mix of natural beauty and cultural history in just one day. It’s ideal if you’re limited on time but still crave an immersive experience with authentic sights and stories. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make it especially suited for those who appreciate personal attention and local insights.

If you enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic views, and exploring charming towns, this tour will deliver. It’s a great option for first-time visitors to Albania or seasoned travelers eager to tick off some of the country’s top spots without the hassle of planning individual visits.

However, those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed pace might find the busy schedule a bit demanding. Be prepared for a full day of walking, some uneven surfaces, and a fair amount of driving.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from Vlora, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and sunscreen are recommended to enjoy the sites comfortably.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drive to Uji i Ftohtë takes about 1.5 hours, with shorter drives between other locations.

Can I customize the free time?
Yes, the free time at Gjirokastër and Blue Eye is flexible, so you can explore and take photos at your own pace.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves walking and outdoor visits, so it’s best suited for children who can handle a full day of activity.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions lead to cancellations, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, creating a more intimate experience.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, but there’s plenty of opportunity to buy local food during free time.

Is there a guide who speaks English?
Yes, the tour includes a live guide who speaks English and shares insights throughout the day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early in the morning to maximize sightseeing time.

To sum it up, this Vlorë-based day trip offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular natural sights and charming historical towns. It’s a great way to experience Albania’s diverse landscape without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. The small group size, knowledgeable guide, and thoughtfully curated stops make it a highly recommended choice for curious travelers eager to see the best of southern Albania in a single day.