Saranda: Lekursi Castle, Blue Eye, and Gjirokastra Day Trip

Traveling in Albania offers a mix of stunning landscapes, ancient architecture, and welcoming local culture. This day trip from Saranda by van packs in some of the country’s most iconic sights—Lekursi Castle, the Blue Eye Spring, and the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastra. Although we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck with knowledgeable guides and well-paced stops.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle are praised for being awe-inspiring. Second, the Blue Eye Spring is a visually stunning natural wonder that offers a peaceful escape. Third, the Gjirokastra Castle and Old Bazaar provide a glimpse into Albania’s historical charm. The only potential snag? The tour is a tightly scheduled 7-hour experience, so if you’re someone who loves lingering at each site, you might find it a little brisk.

If you’re after an easy, organized way to tick off multiple highlights, this trip is ideal. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a blend of history, nature, and scenic drives without the hassle of planning multiple transports or guides. It suits those who prefer a small-group atmosphere, a knowledgeable guide, and a good balance of sightseeing and free time.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering three major sites in one day
Expert guides, offering insightful stories about each location
Comfortable transportation, with air-conditioned vans and timely pickups
Sufficient time at each site, avoiding rushed visits
Stunning panoramic views from Lekursi Castle and Gjirokastra
Unique natural experience at Blue Eye Spring
Accessible for most travelers, though not suitable for wheelchair users
Includes entrance fees for Blue Eye and Gjirokastra Castle

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The Itinerary Breakdown

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Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at the OpenTour Albania office, where you’ll meet your guide Ledjon—easily recognizable by his black hat—and hop into a full air-conditioned van. The group size is small enough to keep things personal, yet large enough to foster a lively, social atmosphere. The ride to each site is smooth, with plenty of stops for photos and breaks, making the 7-hour trip feel relaxed rather than rushed.

Lekursi Castle: A Viewpoint Par Excellence

The first major stop is Lekursi Castle, perched atop a hill with a commanding view of Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and even the distant Greek islands. The guided tour offered here is appreciated for its depth—Ledjon shared fascinating insights into the Ottoman architecture and the history behind this fortress. Reviewers mention that you get ample time to explore the ramparts and take in the breathtaking panoramas.

Many guests express how the views here make it worth the trip alone. The castle is free to enter, but the experience is enriched by the guide’s commentary. You can also enjoy some local snacks at the café, if you wish, while soaking in the scenery. The photo opportunities are plentiful, perfect for capturing memories of the Albanian coast.

Blue Eye Spring: Nature’s Crystal-Clear Marvel

Next, you head to the Blue Eye Spring, a natural fountain famous for its intense blue color and clarity. The spring plunges 50 meters deep, and the water’s transparency allows visitors to see right to the bottom—an almost surreal experience. According to reviews, the walk from the parking area to Blue Eye is about 1.5 kilometers, but there’s also a train option (for an extra fee) if you prefer not to walk. Many find the walk enjoyable, surrounded by lush greenery.

Once at the spring, visitors can choose to take a short hike or relax at the viewing platforms. Swimming is discouraged — partly to preserve the spring’s natural beauty and partly because the water is very cold and deep. Reviewers highlight the tranquility of this spot, noting it’s a perfect place to pause and take photos or simply enjoy the natural silence.

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Gjirokastra: A Fortress and a Market

The final major stop is Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site often called the “Stone City” for its Ottoman-era stone houses. The castle here is one of the largest and best-preserved in Albania, offering sweeping views over the town and the fertile Drino Valley. Your guide leads a tour of the fortress, sharing stories about its strategic importance and architecture.

After the castle, you’ll explore the Old Bazaar, a lively market filled with local crafts, antiques, and souvenirs. Many reviewers mention the opportunity to pick up unique handcrafted items, textiles, and pottery, all with authentic charm. The bazaar’s architecture and atmosphere give a real sense of stepping back in time.

Guests usually have around 90 minutes of free time here, allowing for a leisurely lunch, coffee, or simply wandering the cobblestone streets. Some mention that the time in Gjirokastra is well-balanced—enough to enjoy without feeling rushed—thanks to the efficient planning of the guide.

There's plenty more to explore in Sarande

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

The trip concludes with a scenic drive back to Saranda, with the last stop at the OpenTour office. The overall experience is praised for its organization, timeliness, and the knowledge of Ledjon, who many reviews highlight for his friendliness and storytelling skills. The entire day is tailored to provide both structure and flexibility, ensuring travelers get the most out of every stop.

What to Expect: The Practicalities

The tour lasts about 7 hours, with pickup from central Saranda. Transport is fully air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable, even on hot days. The guide offers commentary in English, making the experience accessible and engaging.

Entrances to Blue Eye and Gjirokastra Castle are included—meaning no extra surprises on site. However, note that lunch and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some cash for snacks or a quick bite in Gjirokastra’s charming streets.

While the tour is generally suitable for most, it’s not designed for wheelchair users due to the walking involved, particularly at Blue Eye and Gjirokastra. Also, the tour moves at a steady pace, so if you prefer to linger in one place for hours, this might not be the ideal option.

The Value and Why It Works

Reviewers consistently mention that the cost of this tour is well justified by the quality of guides, the convenience of door-to-door transport, and the chance to see three major sites in one day. The small-group setting makes it feel more personal, and Ledjon’s storytelling adds depth that self-guided visits might lack.

You’ll appreciate how the itinerary balances sightseeing with free time, allowing you to take photos, explore independently, or simply relax. Many guests note the excellent organization—most stops offer enough time to appreciate each location fully without feeling hurried.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love a well-organized day of sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a perfect match. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid the stress of planning transport and tickets themselves. It’s ideal for those interested in history, natural beauty, and authentic cultural experiences.

It’s less suitable if you’re wheelchair-bound or prefer a slower pace with more time at each site. Also, if you’re a dedicated explorer who likes to linger in every corner or add activities like swimming, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins from the OpenTour Albania office in Saranda. You need to meet there or arrange your own transportation.

How long is the walk to Blue Eye Spring?
It’s about 1.5 kilometers, roughly a 17-20 minute walk. There’s an optional train for a fee if you prefer not to walk.

Can I swim in the Blue Eye Spring?
Swimming is discouraged to preserve the spring’s purity and because the water is very cold and deep.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including all stops and transfers.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance fees for Blue Eye and Gjirokastra Castle.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
It’s generally suitable for most, but the walking involved may be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I buy souvenirs at Gjirokastra?
Absolutely, the Old Bazaar is full of handcrafted items like textiles, pottery, and antiques.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, water, comfortable clothes, and cash for personal expenses.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

What language is the tour guided in?
English-speaking guides ensure clear explanations and storytelling throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Saranda trip offers a well-rounded blend of history, natural beauty, and scenic vistas, all delivered with excellent organization and friendly guiding. The stops are thoughtfully paced, giving ample time to enjoy each location while keeping the day moving smoothly. It’s a great way to explore some of Albania’s most photogenic and culturally rich sites without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone simply eager to see the stunning landscapes of southern Albania, this tour provides a practical and enjoyable way to experience it all. The glowing reviews about guides like Ledjon and the stunning views make it clear that many travelers find it a memorable highlight of their trip to Saranda.

Experience Albania’s beauty and history efficiently and comfortably—this tour is an excellent choice for curious travelers who want meaningful sights and stories in a single day.