Sarandë: Tour Gjirokaster,Blue Eye & Lekursi Castle

Planning a day to discover some of Albania’s most captivating sights? This private tour from Sarandë offers a well-balanced mix of history, stunning natural beauty, and panoramic vistas. It’s ideal for those who want a flexible, personalized experience without the hustle of big groups or rushed schedules.

What we love about this tour is its convenience of hotel or port pickup, the expert guidance that enriches your understanding, and the unforgettable scenery that will fill your camera roll. The only thing to consider? It’s a full day of sightseeing, so comfortable shoes and a good attitude are essential. Perfect for curious travelers, history buffs, or anyone craving a taste of authentic Albania.

Good To Know

• Comfortable Private Transportation: Enjoy a relaxed journey with hotel or port pickup.
• Rich Cultural Insights: Knowledgeable guides enhance your experience with local stories.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: The Blue Eye provides a surreal, peaceful escape into nature.
• Panoramic Views: Lekuresi Castle offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape.
• Flexible Schedule: Stops are timed to keep things manageable without rushing.
• Authentic Experience: Explore UNESCO-listed Gjirokaster’s charming streets and Ottoman architecture.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: What This Tour Offers

This private day trip from Sarandë is a fantastic way to see some of Albania’s most famous sights in one go. It’s a carefully curated journey that balances cultural exploration with natural wonders. Whether you’ve got a full day or just a few hours, this tour aims to showcase both history and scenery in a way that feels relaxed and personal.

We particularly appreciate the ease of pickup and drop-off—you get to start your adventure right from your accommodation or the port, which means no stressful transfers or navigating unfamiliar public transport. The guide’s insights make the visit richer, especially at places like Gjirokaster, where the storytelling adds context to the Ottoman-era architecture and winding streets.

For travelers who value authentic experiences and good value, this trip delivers. That said, keep in mind it’s a busy itinerary, so if you prefer leisurely, unhurried sightseeing, you might want to allocate more time for each stop. It’s especially suitable for those eager to tick off Albania’s top attractions in a single day.

Exploring Gjirokaster: Albania’s Stone City

Gjirokaster is often called the “Stone City” because of its characteristic basalt buildings and cobbled streets. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s filled with stories of Ottoman influence, historic houses, and vibrant markets.

On this tour, you’ll stop for photos and a guided walk through the old town, which is packed with Ottoman-era houses and charming alleyways. The reviews repeatedly mention the “full of history and charm” atmosphere, with visitors like Charlotte describing the town as “peaceful, beautiful, and unforgettable.”

The Gjirokaster Castle adds a dramatic backdrop and is a highlight for many. It’s not just a fortress—inside, you’ll find museums, narrow corridors, and panoramic views of the Drina Valley. The guide often shares stories about the castle’s strategic importance and its role over centuries. Visitors like John praise guides like Joan for being “very informative and knowledgeable,” turning what could be just a sightseeing stop into an engaging experience.

Be prepared for some walking on uneven cobblestones, and allocate enough time to soak in the atmosphere—this isn’t just about snapping photos but also absorbing the historic charm.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Masterpiece

After exploring Gjirokaster, the journey continues to the Blue Eye. This natural spring is a must-see for anyone craving a peaceful, almost surreal experience. The water’s vibrant turquoise hue is mesmerizing, and the setting—surrounded by lush greenery—is picture-perfect.

The Blue Eye is more than just a beautiful photo spot. Its calming waters and the surrounding landscape offer a tranquil break from the busier cultural stops. Reviewers like Charlotte say it “looked like something out of a dream,” emphasizing its otherworldly beauty.

You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, enough time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy some moments of quiet reflection. Keep your camera ready—this is the kind of place that looks just as stunning in person as in pictures.

Lekuresi Castle: The Viewpoint with a View

The final highlight is Lekuresi Castle, perched above Sarandë. It’s a great spot to gather sweeping views of the coastline, islands, and the city below. Visitors like Adam have called the views “surreal,” and the castle’s location makes it perfect for a quick photo stop or a short walk around its ramparts.

The castle itself isn’t a large fortress, but it offers a solid sense of history and a backdrop for some memorable photos. It’s a fitting way to end the day, giving you a sense of the landscape that makes southern Albania so unique.

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The Logistics: What to Expect

The tour begins at the Sarandë port, with hotel pickup available for guests staying within the city—a real plus for comfort. From there, you’ll hop into a private van, which makes the day feel intimate and flexible. The journey between stops is smooth, with the entire day set to balance sightseeing with enough downtime.

Timing is well-managed, with about an hour at Gjirokaster, 1.5 hours at the Blue Eye, and around 30 minutes at the castle. The entire experience lasts roughly 7 hours, making it doable even if you’re on a tight schedule.

Most reviews mention the small group size and attentive guide—notably Joan and Kevin—who keep the experience engaging and answer questions thoroughly. The vehicle is described as comfortable, and the driving scenic, making the journey part of the enjoyment.

The tour fee covers entrance fees and transportation, but meals are not included. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and your camera—these are the essentials for making the most of your day.

Authenticity and Value

Pricing for this kind of day trip is very reasonable considering the quality of guides, vehicle comfort, and access to top sights. When you factor in the hassle-free pickup, skip-the-line access to attractions, and personalized attention, it offers excellent value.

The reviews reinforce the value for money, with guests like Milosz and Maarja highlighting how much they saw and learned in a single day without feeling rushed. The flexibility and attention to detail—like options around stop timings—are appreciated, making the experience enjoyable rather than stressful.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a hassle-free way to see Albania’s highlights. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want a well-organized, private experience without sacrificing authenticity.

If you’re confident on your feet and enjoy scenic drives, this tour will enrich your understanding of Albania’s cultural and natural tapestry. However, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or back problems should keep in mind the walking involved and the physical constraints of certain sites.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from Sarandë offers a balanced blend of cultural discovery, natural beauty, and stunning views. With knowledgeable guides, flexible scheduling, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup, it’s a practical way to maximize your time in Albania.

The stops—Gjirokaster, the Blue Eye, and Lekuresi Castle—are all unique, memorable, and worth the visit. The tour offers excellent value, especially for travelers who want a curated experience without the hassle of self-organizing logistics.

Ultimately, it’s best suited for those who crave a rich, immersive day that combines history, nature, and scenic vistas. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this tour delivers a genuine taste of southern Albania’s charm.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It is generally suitable for most ages, but keep in mind there’s quite a bit of walking involved, especially in Gjirokaster’s old town and the castle. It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or pregnant women due to walking and site conditions.

How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, from pickup at Sarandë to returning back, making it a full but manageable day.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, hotel or port pickup and drop-off, a driver/guide, and entrance fees to the attractions.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so bringing snacks or planning for a quick lunch is advisable.

Do I need to bring my own water and sunscreen?
Yes, bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat is recommended for comfort, especially in sunny weather.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is designed to be balanced, but the tour is private, so there may be some flexibility in timing to suit your preferences.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Greek, with live commentary to enrich your understanding of the sites.

Is there a maximum group size?
Since it’s a private tour, the group size is limited to your booking, offering a more personalized experience.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot online—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance—making it flexible to fit your travel plans.

You can check if your dates are available here: