Daily Tour to Butrint National Park-Blue Eye-Lekuresi Castle

If you’re visiting Saranda and craving a well-rounded day that combines history, nature, and panoramic vistas, this daily tour offers plenty of value. With a mix of archaeological marvels, natural springs, and scenic viewpoints, it’s an experience designed for those who love authentic sights without the hassle of planning every detail.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides enrich your understanding of Albania’s past and present. Second, the visual treats—from the striking Blue Eye spring to the sweeping views from Lekursi Castle—are genuinely memorable. Third, the small group size ensures a more personal, relaxed experience.

A potential downside? The tour involves a 20-minute walk to reach the Blue Eye, which might be tiring for some. Plus, entrance fees to Butrint are not included in the price, so it’s worth budgeting for that extra expense.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced, insightful, and scenic introduction to Albania’s south—perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone eager to tick off some top sights in a single day.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Expert guided commentary enhances understanding of each site
• Diverse attractions combining natural beauty and archaeological ruins
• Small group setting creates a relaxed and personalized experience
• Cost-effective at $160, considering transport, guide, and access to Blue Eye
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off in the morning from your hotel or accommodation in Saranda, with round-trip transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. The small group size (limited to 12 participants) means you’ll avoid the chaos of large bus tours, making the experience more intimate.

The schedule is roughly 6 hours long, with each stop carefully chosen to showcase Albania’s natural and historic highlights. Guides, like Klajdi—who’s praised for his friendliness and deep knowledge—make the journey both informative and fun.

The Blue Eye: A Natural Wonder

The first stop is the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), about 25 km from Saranda. This spring’s vibrant turquoise waters draw visitors for their striking beauty. What’s fascinating is that the spring looks like a giant eye, with water fed by an underground river, its depth still largely unexplored.

The water clarity here is remarkable, and many visitors comment on how peaceful it feels. The tour offers a photo stop and guided explanations—some reviewers mention the short 20-minute walk to reach the spring, which is a manageable stroll but could be tiring for those with mobility issues. Alternatively, there’s a train ride available for 300 lek (around 3 euro) if you prefer a quick ride.

Expect plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments to enjoy the scenery. Reviewers like AGNIESZKA from Poland appreciated the guide’s cultural insights, noting how the trip was both scenic and educational.

Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Views and History

Next, the group heads to Lekursi Castle, built by Sultan Suleiman the Great. The walk around the fortress offers stunning 360-degree views of Saranda, Butrint Lake, and even the distant island of Corfu. From this height, you can spot the shimmering waters of Butrint Lake, the tiny island of Corfu, and the town’s rooftops—all in one panoramic sweep.

Reviewers mention the scenic drives on the way up and the informative guided tour of the castle’s history. It’s a great spot for a few photos and taking in the landscape. Klajdi, the guide, often points out interesting landmarks and shares snippets of historical lore, making it a highlight for history enthusiasts.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Butrint National Park: Ancient Ruins in a Lush Setting

The final and perhaps most captivating part of the day is a visit to Butrint Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the ancient city reveals its Greek, Roman, and Byzantine layers through well-preserved ruins like the Roman theater, baptistery, city walls, and temples.

The site is set in a lush landscape near Lake Butrint, with vibrant flora and fauna adding to the sense of stepping back in time. The guided tour here is typically about two hours, giving you ample time to explore and absorb the history.

Reviewers like Jane from the UK note that their guide was very knowledgeable, even catering to different age groups, making it an engaging experience for families. The entry fee (€10 or 1000 lek) isn’t included but is well worth it for the chance to walk through such an important archaeological site.

Practical Details and Value

The total cost of $160 includes round-trip transportation, a guide, and entry ticket to the Blue Eye. Entrance to Butrint costs extra, but considering the convenience, the knowledgeable guiding, and the scenic stops, the value feels justified.

Some reviewers praise Klajdi’s friendly attitude and cultural insights, mentioning how he shared stories beyond the main sights, making the day more memorable. The small group size ensures plenty of time for questions and personalized attention.

What To Bring and Considerations

Comfortable shoes are essential, especially for the walk to Blue Eye and exploring ruins. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so packing snacks or a water bottle is advisable. Alcohol and drugs aren’t permitted, aligning with safety and respectful behavior.

The tour is suitable for most travelers but might be less ideal for babies under 1 year or those over 95 years due to walking distances and uneven terrain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive day that balances natural beauty and history without the stress of planning individual tickets and transport. It’s ideal for those who appreciate local guides and enjoy learning about a region through stories and insights.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic, and educational day out in Albania’s south, this tour ticks all the boxes. The combination of sights ensures you’ll leave with a deeper understanding and beautiful memories.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour offers unbeatable value for anyone visiting Saranda who wants a well-organized, insightful, and scenic experience. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Albania’s diversity—from natural springs to ancient ruins and panoramic castles—making it a well-rounded introduction.

The expert guidance makes all the difference, turning what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable learning experience. Plus, the small group setting fosters a relaxed atmosphere to truly enjoy each site.

While additional entrance fees and some walking are considerations, most travelers find the experience enriching and worth the price. The flexibility of booking and cancellation adds to its appeal for planning a worry-free day.

In short, this tour is best suited for curious travelers eager to explore Albania’s south without missing its highlights, especially those who value good company, expert guides, and stunning views.

FAQ

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Saranda are included, making it easy to start your day without logistics worries.

How long is the walk to Blue Eye?
There is a 20-minute walk to reach the Blue Eye spring if you choose not to use the train. The walk is manageable but may be tiring for some.

Are entrance fees included?
Entry to the Blue Eye spring is included in the tour price. However, entrance to Butrint National Park costs an additional 10 euro or 1000 lek.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with water, snacks, and sun protection depending on the weather.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, but keep in mind the walking involved. It’s especially good for those interested in history and nature.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexible planning.

To sum it up, this tour provides a balanced, enriching experience for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Albanian south’s natural and historical wonders. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day, especially if you appreciate guided insights, scenic landscapes, and archaeological marvels—all in a friendly, small-group setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: