Daily Trip To:Blue Eye,Monastery,Gjirokaster&Lekursi Castle

Travelers seeking a well-rounded glimpse of Albania’s natural beauty and historical charm will find this daily trip from Sarandë and Ksamil a perfect fit. With visits to four iconic locations—Blue Eye spring, St. Nicholas Monastery, UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër, and Lekursi Castle—this tour offers a compact but comprehensive taste of what southern Albania has to offer.

What immediately stands out is the organized, smooth flow between sites, thanks to the use of comfortable air-conditioned transport and a friendly, knowledgeable guide. We love the way the tour combines stunning scenic views, cultural insights, and light adventure — all in just 8 hours. However, a quick heads-up: since the itinerary involves quite a bit of walking and sightseeing, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity levels. This experience works particularly well for curious travelers who want to maximize sightseeing without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Good To Know

• Convenient Multi-Stop Tour: See four top spots in one day, with minimal planning needed.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling ability.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes minivan.
• Authentic Experiences: From spiritual sites to natural wonders, get a real feel for Albanian culture and landscape.
• Good Value for Money: The price includes entries to most sites, plus guided insights.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, making the experience more personalized.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup & Getting Started

The tour begins with pickup options in Ksamil or Sarandë, with the guide meeting you at a designated location—either in front of Vila Duraku in Sarandë or at Beshiku fast-food spot in Ksamil. The modern Mercedes minivan ensures a comfortable ride between stops, with time to settle in and get to know your guide, who is often praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.

The First Stop: St. Nicholas Monastery, Mesopotam

Your first destination is the St. Nicholas Monastery, a peaceful spot perfect for reflection and photos. The tour dedicates about an hour here—enough time to soak up the tranquil atmosphere, take some pictures, and hear stories from your guide about its cultural significance. Reviewers mention that the guide, like Ilmi, was enthusiastic and eager to share insights, making the visit more meaningful.

The Blue Eye Spring: Nature’s Masterpiece

Next, you’ll head to the Blue Eye, a natural spring renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Visitors are often struck by the water’s astonishing visibility—over 50 meters deep—and the vibrant shades of blue that make it a photographer’s paradise. Expect about two hours here, giving ample time to admire the scenery, take photos, and enjoy the cool water. Several reviews describe Blue Eye as “amazing,” with one traveler thanking the guide for a “lovely day” spent marveling at this natural wonder.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Gjirokastër: The Ottoman Marvel

Afterward, the group heads to the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastër. Here, you’ll stroll through cobbled streets lined with well-preserved Ottoman architecture, visit local shops, and explore the iconic Gjirokastër Castle. The guided tour inside the castle offers rich stories and history, with about 2.5 hours allotted for exploration. Reviewers note that the time at Gjirokastër is just right—enough to appreciate its charm without feeling rushed.

Lëkurësi Castle: Spectacular Panoramic Views

The final highlight is Lëkurësi Castle, perched above Sarandë. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of the Ionian Sea and the coastline—perfect for photos. The guide often shares tips on the best viewpoints, and visitors mention the scenery as “breathtaking.” The hour spent here is ideal for a leisurely walk and to soak in the sunset or the surrounding landscape.

Return & Drop-off

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back, arriving in Sarandë or Ksamil after about 15 minutes. The small group size means you’ll have the chance to chat with your guide, ask questions, and share your impressions.

Why This Tour Excels

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers consistently praise guides like Ilmi, who provide engaging stories and historical context at each site. Their enthusiasm turns sightseeing into learning, adding depth to the experience.

Comfort & Convenience: The use of a modern Mercedes minivan, air conditioning, and careful timing ensures a stress-free day. Plus, pickup and drop-off are seamless, saving you the headache of navigating on your own.

Authentic and Diverse Experiences: Combining nature (Blue Eye), spirituality (monastery), history (Gjirokastër), and stunning vistas (Lekursi Castle), the tour offers a well-rounded taste of Albanian culture.

Good Value for Money: For the price, most entrance fees are included—like the modest 50 cents to access Blue Eye—plus guided commentary. The reviews highlight how much you get in return for an affordable price, especially considering the number of sites visited.

Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 people, this tour fosters a friendly environment where you can comfortably ask questions, take photos, and enjoy personalized attention.

The Experience from the Travelers’ Perspective

Reviewers repeatedly mention the perfect pacing—plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. One reviewer said, “The trip was excellent with convenient pickup and exactly on time,” emphasizing the importance of reliable logistics for a smooth day.

Many travelers appreciated the mix of scenic beauty and historical context. For example, one review noted, “Blue Eye is amazing, thank you Imli for this lovely day!” showcasing how guides make a difference.

The transportation’s comfort was another highlight. Travelers felt relaxed throughout the day, with many praising the air-conditioned minivan that made the long drives pleasant.

Food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing snacks and water is recommended, especially during the summer months. Several reviewers also highlight the local recommendations provided by guides, which can be useful for finding authentic Albanian cuisine later on.

Practical Tips for Your Day Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes, as walking is involved at each site.
• Bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—especially in the warmer months.
• Carry some cash for small purchases and optional site entries (like Gjirokastër Castle).
• Pack a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Be prepared for some moderate walking, but the pace is generally relaxed.
• Don’t forget your camera or phone to capture the stunning views.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This trip is ideal for those who want a full-day overview of southern Albania’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. If you enjoy learning about local culture, exploring natural wonders, and taking in breathtaking vistas, you’ll find this tour highly rewarding.

It’s particularly suited for travelers arriving in Sarandë or Ksamil who prefer a guided experience that balances sightseeing, comfort, and local insights. However, those with mobility issues or seeking a more leisurely pace might want to consider the walking involved.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks. It’s advisable to bring water and some snacks to stay energized throughout the day.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability.

Are the sites accessible for everyone?
Since the tour involves walking at each location, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity. It’s not recommended for wheelchair users.

What’s the cost for entrance fees?
Most site entries are included in the price, except for Blue Eye, which costs about 50 cents per person. Entry to Gjirokastër Castle is optional and may incur a fee.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve with flexibility—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking ahead ensures availability, especially during peak season.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While mainly designed for adult travelers, children comfortable with walking and sightseeing will enjoy the trip. Keep in mind the duration and the walking involved.

This daily tour from Sarandë offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and stunning viewpoints. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s one of the best ways to see Albania’s highlights in a single day.

Whether you’re captivated by the crystal waters of Blue Eye, enchanted by the medieval charm of Gjirokastër, or simply looking for a scenic escape, this tour delivers on multiple fronts. Its value is clear—combining several key attractions at an accessible price point, with the added bonus of expert insights.

Perfect for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground without the stress of logistics, this trip makes exploring southern Albania both enjoyable and memorable.

Published by: A professional travel writer specializing in authentic, detailed tour reviews that help you make the most of your trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: