Day Tour From Tirana : Ksamil (3h), Blue Eye Lekursi Castle

Discover the Charm of Southern Albania in a Full-Day Tour from Tirana

This well-reviewed day trip from Tirana offers a fantastic combination of nature, coastal beauty, and historical sights. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it sounds like a well-balanced and authentic experience.

What we love about this tour is how it packs iconic highlights into one day—from the surreal Blue Eye spring to relaxing hours on the beaches of Ksamil, topped off with panoramic views from Lekursi Castle. The inclusion of an expert guide ensures you’ll get insightful commentary, and the round-trip transport makes the journey seamless.

The one possible downside? It’s a long travel day—about 9 hours of driving—so if you’re not a fan of lengthy bus rides, this might be a consideration. However, breaks are built in, and the scenery along the way is a bonus.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of southern Albania’s natural beauty and history without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s perfect for those with a sense of adventure, appreciate good value, and want to see the highlights in one go.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• All-in-one experience: combines natural attractions, beach relaxation, and historical views.
• Expert local guide: adds insight and context to each stop.
• Round-trip transport included: hassle-free from Tirana.
• Long but rewarding day: approximately 15 hours with breaks.
• Good value for money: just over $100 with entrance fees and guide included.
• Ideal for independent explorers: those comfortable with long drives and scenic stops.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour offers three pickup options — Tirana, Durrës, or Golem — making it flexible depending on where you’re staying. The transportation is by air-conditioned van, which is crucial for comfort during the roughly four-hour drive each way. As one reviewer noted, “Skerdi was excellent throughout our trip and we were impressed how well he drove for nearly 8 hours.” This highlights the professionalism and care taken by the guide, ensuring a safer, smoother ride through Albanian landscapes.

Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

The first major stop is the Blue Eye, a captivating natural spring famous for its deep, crystal-clear water surrounded by lush greenery. The spring’s vivid blue hue, constantly bubbling and swirling, creates a surreal experience that is often described as “magical” by visitors.

Expect about an hour here, giving plenty of time for photos, a quick walk around the forest, and soaking in the cool, refreshing atmosphere. While the entry fee is included, note that the train ticket to the spring is not—so if you want to explore more or reach the viewing points, be prepared for additional costs.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Relaxing in Ksamil

After the Blue Eye, the journey continues to Ksamil, a charming seaside town renowned for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. You get around 3 hours of free time to swim, relax on the sand, or enjoy a seaside meal.

Travelers consistently praise Ksamil’s beauty, with one reviewer mentioning, “Enjoyed around 3 hours of free time to swim, relax, or have lunch by the sea.” It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind, grab fresh seafood, or just lounge with a good book. Keep in mind, the weather can influence your experience—hot sunny days will make the water even more inviting.

Lekursi Castle for Panoramic Views

The final stop is Lekursi Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking Saranda and the Ionian Sea. The castle is a great spot for photos, especially at sunset, with sweeping views that highlight the southern coastline’s rugged beauty.

The visit lasts about an hour, giving you enough time for photos, a quick exploration of the castle grounds, and taking in the scenery. One reviewer called this a “perfect photo opportunity to end the day,” emphasizing how the views make it a memorable conclusion.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Pace

The 15-hour tour starts early, with pickups around 7-8 am, depending on your location. The lengthy drive is an unavoidable part of this experience, but it offers scenic vistas of Albania’s countryside, mountains, and coast.

The itinerary is well-structured, with breaks included that help keep the group comfortable. The total driving time is approximately 9 hours, so bringing snacks, water, and patience will enhance your day.

Cost and Value

At $106 per person, the tour provides solid value. It covers transportation, a professional guide, and entrance fees for the Blue Eye, which adds up if you were to do this independently.

While lunch isn’t included, the free time in Ksamil offers flexibility to choose a seaside restaurant or pack a picnic. The guide’s local insights can direct you to the best spots, adding to the overall value.

Group Size and Custom Options

The tour is available for private groups, which can be a plus if you prefer a more personalized experience. The minimum of four participants means it’s best for small groups or families.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

One traveler, Wajeeh from the UK, shared, “The guides are friendly and passionate about their country,” underscoring the personalized feel of the trip. The guide, Skerdi, is praised for his professionalism, particularly during the long drive, which can be taxing but is made easier by his attentive driving.

Another key aspect highlighted in reviews is the breathtaking scenery—the Blue Eye’s surreal blue waters and Ksamil’s inviting beaches. Several visitors note that the views from Lekursi Castle are absolutely stunning, making it a highlight for photography enthusiasts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see a mix of natural wonders and coastal scenery in a single day. It suits those who don’t mind a long travel day and value guided experiences that remove the stress of planning logistics.

It’s particularly good for first-time visitors wanting an organized, authentic taste of southern Albania without the hassle of transportation or navigating unfamiliar roads. Families with children over five and those with limited mobility might want to consider the long driving hours, but otherwise, it’s suitable for most active and curious travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For a little over $100, you get a comprehensive day packed with highlights that showcase the diversity of Albania’s southern coast—from surreal natural springs to beautiful beaches and panoramic hilltop views. The guided aspect adds educational value, making the journey more meaningful.

The long hours of travel are balanced by the variety and beauty of the stops, and the reviews suggest that the guide Skerdi is passionate and careful, making the experience smooth and engaging. It’s a fantastic way to tick off some of Albania’s must-see sights in one well-organized trip.

If you’re craving a day of diverse sights, epic scenery, and local insights, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments. Just pack your swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with plenty of stories to tell.

FAQ

How long is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 15 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks.

Where do I get picked up?
Pickup options include Tirana, Durrës, or Golem, depending on your accommodation location.

Is lunch included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included, but you’ll have about 3 hours in Ksamil to find a restaurant or bring your own picnic.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many travelers mention the Blue Eye spring as the top highlight, along with the stunning views from Lekursi Castle.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
You might need to pay for train tickets to Blue Eye if you choose to explore further, as the tour includes entrance fees but not train tickets.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under five or travelers with limited mobility due to the long drive.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, comfortable walking shoes, and any personal snacks or extra money for meals.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private groups are available for a more personalized experience.

What happens if the minimum number of participants isn’t met?
If the minimum of four isn’t reached, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This full-day tour from Tirana offers a well-rounded look at southern Albania’s natural beauty and scenic vistas, perfect for those eager to see more of what this stunning region has to offer with minimal fuss.

You can check if your dates are available here: