Tirana/Durres/Golem: Saranda, Ksamil & Blue Eye Day Trip

If you’re considering a day trip that combines stunning scenery, fascinating history, and some well-deserved relaxation, this tour from Tirana, Durres, or Golem is worth a look. It promises to pack in highlights of Albania’s southern coast, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of the Albanian Riviera without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

What we love about this experience? First, the variety of sights packed into a single day, from the breathtaking Blue Eye spring to the historic Lekursi Castle. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Ronaldo and Fasi, who bring local insights and life to each stop. Third, the value for money, considering the comprehensive itinerary, transport, and entrance fees included. One consideration? It’s a long day, so if you’re not used to early starts or lots of driving, keep that in mind. Still, this tour is best suited for those eager to explore Albania’s coastal gems in one go, especially if you love natural beauty, history, and good food.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering nature, history, and beaches
• Expert guides who share local stories and tips
• Comfortable transport with air conditioning and pickup/drop-off
• Flexible options for small or private groups
• Includes entrance fees to Blue Eye, offering good value
• Long but rewarding day with around 12-13 hours of exploration

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full-Scale Day in Albania’s Southern Coast

This tour is designed to give you the highlights of the Albanian Riviera in just one day. It begins early with pickups from Tirana, Durres, or Golem, and takes you through some of the most striking landscapes and cultural spots in the region. Expect a mix of driving, walking, and relaxing — with plenty of opportunities to snap photos, learn local stories, and unwind at beaches.

What’s Included & How It Works

The tour features pickup from your hotel, ensuring a hassle-free start. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long drives comfortable, and the guide’s knowledge makes every stop informative and engaging. With entrance fees to Blue Eye included, you won’t have to worry about extra costs at this natural wonder.

The itinerary is thoughtfully structured, with plenty of breaks and short guided visits, including a 20-minute coffee stop, and a longer lunch break in Saranda. The total duration of around 12-13 hours means you’ll get a full day’s worth of sightseeing, with the drive from the start to finish covering approximately 2.25 hours in total.

Exploring the Stops: What You’ll Actually Experience

Cold Water Tepelena

The journey kicks off with a stop at Cold Water Tepelena, a natural spring fed by mountain waters. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for stretching legs after the early start and snapping some photos of the cool, clear water. It’s a quick but refreshing pause before heading further south.

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The Blue Eye – Nature’s Masterpiece

One of the absolute highlights is the Blue Eye spring, a natural phenomenon where water emerges from a deep, seemingly glowing blue hole. The vivid, crystal-clear waters are breathtaking and perfect for photography — many reviewers comment on how mesmerizing the sight is. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, guided to understand the spring’s natural magic, and enjoy free time to soak up the scenery.

Reviews note that guides like Fasi are great at pointing out the best angles for photos and explaining the spring’s ecological significance. The lush greenery around the Blue Eye adds to the sense of being in a truly untouched corner of nature. Expect to find plenty of fellow travelers capturing moments here, so be ready for some competition at the best photo spots.

Saranda’s Charm and a Local Lunch

After leaving the Blue Eye, the tour heads to Saranda, a lively coastal town known for its vibrant culture and stunning sea views. Here, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a local lunch, which usually features fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes. Reviewers mention that the lunch is a highlight, offering authentic flavors at good value, with many appreciating the opportunity to relax and enjoy the Ionian Sea views.

Lekursi Castle: A Window to the Past

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Lekursi Castle, perched on a hill overlooking Saranda and the coastline. Built in the 16th century, it’s a perfect spot to learn about the region’s history and snap panoramic photos of the port, nearby islands, and the sparkling sea. Guides like Ronaldo and others emphasize this as a must-do for history buffs and photo enthusiasts alike.

Ksamil Beaches: A Slice of Paradise

The last major stop is Ksamil, often dubbed the “Maldives of Albania.” Its small islands and pristine, sandy beaches beckon for a few hours of relaxation. Many reviews rave about the crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches — perfect for swimming, taking in the scenery, or simply soaking up the sun.

Some travelers mention they enjoyed exploring the tiny islands just off the coast or just lounging on the sand. If you’re a lover of natural beauty and beach vibes, this is definitely a highlight. The tour allocates about two hours here, giving enough time for a swim, a walk, and perhaps a quick snack or ice cream.

The Drive Back & Final Thoughts

After a full day of sightseeing and relaxing, the return journey takes around 2 hours, often punctuated by a brief coffee break. Reviewers like Omobolaji appreciated the professional guidance and the smooth, air-conditioned ride back, which helped keep everyone comfortable after the long day.

The tour wraps up with drop-offs at your original pickup points, leaving you with plenty of memories and photos from an expansive day exploring some of Albania’s top natural and cultural treasures.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This is an excellent choice for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning. It’s especially suited for those interested in natural wonders, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates good food and scenic beaches. The group size tends to be small or private, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Note that it’s a full day, so if you’re not used to long drives or early mornings, consider your comfort level beforehand. Also, it involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must, and swimming gear is recommended for the beach stop.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation with pickup and drop-off from your hotel or designated location.

How long is the total tour? Expect around 12-13 hours, covering all stops and traveling between locations.

Are entrance fees to Blue Eye included? Yes, the entrance fee for Blue Eye is covered in the tour price.

Can I bring my own food? While food is not included, there will be a lunch stop in Saranda with options for fresh seafood and Albanian dishes.

Is this tour suitable for children? It can be, but keep in mind it is a long day with lots of driving and walking. Check with your provider for specific age restrictions.

Are there any physical limitations to consider? The tour involves walking and some uneven terrain at the castle and Blue Eye, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Can I customize the trip? Small groups or private options are available, which may include tailored requests or additional stops.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour strikes a fantastic balance of natural beauty, cultural sights, and beach relaxation, all wrapped into one well-organized package. From the stunning Blue Eye spring to the historic Lekursi Castle and the picture-perfect beaches of Ksamil, it offers travelers a comprehensive taste of Albania’s southern coast.

The guides’ expertise, combined with comfortable transport and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, make it an excellent value. It’s especially ideal for those short on time but eager to explore Albania’s best highlights in one memorable day.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or just seeking some sun and sand, this tour promises a diverse and enriching experience that captures the essence of the Albanian Riviera.

You can check availability for your dates here: