Blue Eye & Gjirokastra: Private Tour German (B1) and English

Exploring Albania’s Hidden Treasures: Blue Eye & Gjirokastra Private Tour

This comprehensive review looks into a popular private tour offering an in-depth experience of southern Albania’s natural beauty and historic charm. Led by a passionate medical student guide who speaks both German and English, this 10-hour journey promises a blend of stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and relaxing beach time.

What makes this experience truly stand out? We love the personalized approach—it’s an intimate tour avoiding the crowds, with flexible stops and authentic recommendations. The breathtaking scenery at Blue Eye promises crystal-clear waters, and the views from Lekursi Castle overlooking the Albanian Riviera are unforgettable. The value offered by transport, guides, and insider tips is impressive for the price, especially considering the long duration and varied highlights.

One thing to keep in mind is that entrance fees for Blue Eye and Gjirokastra Castle are not included, so budgeting for those separately is wise. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed exploration of southern Albania—ideal for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike who want more than just a quick snapshot.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy scenic drives, cultural discoveries, and peaceful beaches, this tour suits you. It’s especially ideal if you prefer having a local guide to help you get a feel for the country’s everyday life, and if you appreciate the comfort of private transportation.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Led by a passionate local guide who is also a medical student, offering genuine insights into Albania.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Combines iconic sights like Blue Eye and Gjirokastra with scenic views from Lekursi Castle.
• Flexible & Personal: Customizable stops and personalized recommendations make the trip feel tailored to your interests.
• Affordable Value: Includes transportation, guide, Wi-Fi, and mineral water, making the day both comfortable and cost-effective.
• Timing & Duration: A full 10-hour experience allowing ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.
• Suitable for Various Travelers: Perfect for those who want a balanced mix of nature, history, and leisure.

Discovering the Highlights: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup in either Saranda, Vlora, or Gjirokastra, offering flexibility depending on your base in southern Albania. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, equipped with Wi-Fi and complimentary mineral water—a small but appreciated touch that ensures your comfort during the long drive.

Knowing the journey is private means you won’t be squeezed into a large group, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere and spontaneous pauses for photos or questions. The vehicle’s comfort and Wi-Fi connectivity often surprise travelers, making the long drive more engaging.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

First Stop: The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is often the highlight for visitors. It’s a deep, spring-fed pool with a striking vivid blue hue and remarkable clarity. We loved the way the guide explained its folklore and geological background, adding a layer of understanding that you might not get elsewhere. Be prepared for some walking; the area is accessible but involves a short trek to reach the viewpoint.

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views and the sense of tranquility at Blue Eye. One reviewer notes, “It’s one of the most beautiful spots I’ve seen, with perfect photo opportunities.” Keep in mind, the entrance fee is not included, so budget accordingly.

Exploring Gjirokastra

Next, the tour takes you to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO-listed town famous for its Ottoman-era architecture. The town’s narrow streets and stone houses create an authentic atmosphere, and the imposing Gjirokastra Castle offers panoramic vistas over the Drin Valley.

Our guide did a wonderful job sharing local stories and history, which added depth to the visit. Expect a 3-hour guided walk that covers both the castle and key neighborhoods. One reviewer appreciated the personal touch, mentioning that the guide’s local knowledge “felt like exploring with a friend rather than a guidebook.” Entrance fees are not included, but the insider tips help you find the best spots for photos and local snacks.

Lekursi Castle & Saranda Views

After Gjirokastra, the tour heads to Lekursi Castle, perched above Saranda. From here, the panoramic vistas of the Albanian Riviera and the distant island of Corfu are truly breathtaking. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and the guide often shares lesser-known facts about the castle’s history, which adds to the experience.

Travelers mention that the views justify the stop, and many find it a peaceful place to relax and take in the scenery. You’ll spend about 2 hours here, including time for photos and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Finishing with Ksamil Beaches

The last stop is the beautiful beaches of Ksamil, known for their fine sand and turquoise waters. After a day of sightseeing, this is the perfect place to unwind, swim, or just soak up the sun. The beaches are usually less crowded than other Albanian beaches, thanks to the tour’s intimate setting.

Many guests praise Ksamil for its crystal-clear waters and relaxing vibe, which makes it a fitting end to the day. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to grab a bite nearby.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration & Flexibility

The 10-hour schedule provides enough time to explore each site thoroughly without feeling rushed. The flexible stops allow you to linger or take extra photos, making the experience feel personalized.

Cost & Value

At $154 per person, the tour offers good value considering the transportation, guide, Wi-Fi, and mineral water included. Entrance fees are extra, but the guide’s insider tips often help you find affordable options and avoid tourist traps.

Accessibility & Comfort

The air-conditioned vehicle and private group setup make it comfortable and intimate. The guide’s fluency in both German and English ensures clear communication and a friendly, approachable vibe.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of southern Albania without the hassle of navigating themselves. It’s especially suited for those interested in culture, history, and scenery, but also craving some beach relaxation. If you prefer small, private groups over large tour buses, you’ll appreciate the personal touches.

Keep in mind that some sites require walking and the entrance fees are not included, so budget for those. It’s a full-day experience designed to give you a relaxed yet rundown of this lesser-explored part of Albania.

In The Sum Up

This private tour balances scenic beauty, cultural richness, and relaxed leisure effectively. Led by a passionate local guide, it offers a more intimate look at Albania’s highlights, sharing insights that only someone familiar with the area could provide. The combination of stunning viewpoints at Blue Eye and Lekursi, historical exploration in Gjirokastra, and the chance to unwind on Ksamil’s beaches makes it incredibly appealing.

For travelers wanting a full-day, personalized experience that avoids crowds and offers genuine insights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially valuable if you’re eager to see the diverse landscapes and cultural sights in one seamless, well-organized trip.

FAQ

• What languages are available for the guide? The guide speaks both German and English, making it accessible for travelers fluent in either language.
• How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including pickups, sightseeing, and leisure time.
• Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees for Blue Eye and Gjirokastra Castle are paid separately.
• Where does the tour start? Pickups are available in Gjirokastër, Sarandë, or Vlora, depending on your location.
• What should I bring? Wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring sunscreen, and have some cash for entrance fees and snacks.
• Is the tour suitable for children? While not explicitly age-restricted, the long day and walking involved make it better suited for older children and teens.
• What’s the best time to take this tour? Consider visiting during the warmer months for the beach part, typically from late spring to early fall.
• Is food included? No, the tour does not include lunch, so plan accordingly.
• How is the transportation? The vehicle is air-conditioned, with Wi-Fi, making long drives comfortable and connected.
• Can I customize the stops? The tour offers flexible stops and personal recommendations, making it adaptable to your interests.

This experience offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Albania’s southern coast, blending nature, history, and leisure into one memorable day. If you’re eager for a private, guided adventure that showcases the best of what this stunning part of Europe has to offer, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: