From Tirana/Durrës/Golem: Saranda, Ksamil, Blue Eye Day Tour

Travelers looking to explore Albania’s stunning coastline and natural sights often wonder if a day trip can deliver both beauty and value. This 12-hour guided tour from Durrës or Golem offers a perfect blend of scenic views, cultural stops, and seaside relaxation—all for an approachable price.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off takes the hassle out of logistics. Second, the variety of destinations—ranging from historical sites to turquoise beaches—ensures you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Albania’s coastal charms. Lastly, the knowledgeable guides, often highlighted in reviews for their helpfulness and local insights, add a layer of authenticity to the journey.

A potential consideration? The tour’s long duration means a full day on the road, which might be tiring for some. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at one site, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those eager to see major highlights in a single day, it’s an efficient and rewarding choice.

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy sightseeing, scenic drives, and exploring multiple spots without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a structured overview of Albania’s coastal gems, or those with limited time who still want a taste of everything.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Saranda, Ksamil, Lekursi Castle, and Blue Eye, providing diverse experiences.
• All-inclusive price covers entry tickets, transportation, and guiding, making it a convenient value at $65.
• Flexible pickup/drop-off options in Durrës, Golem, and Tirana add to the tour’s accessibility.
• Expert guides are frequently praised for their helpfulness and local knowledge.
• Beautiful scenic stops like the panoramic view from Lekursi Castle and the crystal-clear Blue Eye are highlights.
• Long but well-structured day with about 3.5 hours in Ksamil, 1 hour at Lekursi, and 2 hours at Blue Eye.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Albania’s Coastal Treasures in one Day

This tour packs a lot into a single 12-hour day, making it a solid choice if you want to see several of Albania’s top sights without the need for extra planning or overnight stays. We’re talking about a scenic drive through Vlorë County, with highlights like Saranda’s charming port, historic Lekursi Castle, the white sands of Ksamil, and the magical Blue Eye spring.

Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

The trip begins with hotel pickup in Durrës, Golem, or Tirana, depending on your choice. The air-conditioned coach ensures a comfortable ride, especially appreciated on hot summer days. Your guide, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, sets the tone for a fun, engaging day. For many travelers, the convenience of a guided tour means no stress about navigation, tickets, or timing.

Saranda: The Pearl of the Albanian Riviera

Arriving in Saranda, you’re greeted with a view that immediately makes an impression: a natural bay bordered by rocky cliffs and lush greenery, with a distant glimpse of Corfu Island. This area is not just pretty; it’s a lively port city with a bustling promenade, where you can stroll, sip coffee, or simply soak in the views.

Travelers have noted that Saranda’s vibe is very much like a small Italian town, with scenic cafes and friendly locals. One reviewer mentioned that her guide took time to point out the significance of the port, emphasizing its role as a Mediterranean gateway. You’ll appreciate the opportunity to stretch your legs, take photos, and perhaps grab some ice cream by the water.

Ksamil: Beaches and Islands

Next, the tour heads to Ksamil, often called the pearl of the Albanian Riviera. Expect soft white sands and transparent waters, perfect for a few hours of relaxation. The highlight here: the view of four small islands just offshore, which you can admire from the beach or explore if time permits.

In reviews, many mention the boat ride to the islands as a key highlight—some even cite it as the most fun part of the day. Travelers love that they get about 3.5 hours of free time to swim, sunbathe, or explore independently. One person noted that the guided tour included a visit to the local tavern, where they enjoyed delicious Albanian tapas.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Views and Culture

After Ksamil, the group visits Lekursi Castle, perched above Saranda. The brief stop here offers panoramic views of Corfu and Saranda Bay, making it a photographer’s dream.

Visitors frequently comment on how breathtaking the scenery is from this vantage point. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the castle’s history—though brief, the guided narrative adds context and depth. One reviewer appreciated that the guide took time to explain the castle’s significance, making it more than just a photo stop.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Fairy Tale

The last major stop is the Blue Eye, a natural spring famous for its stunning turquoise waters. Surrounded by lush greenery and evergreen trees, the Blue Eye’s mysterious depths and crisp waters captivate visitors.

What sets this apart? The crystal-clear water appears almost surreal, and many mention how cool and refreshing it feels—perfect after a long day of sightseeing. Some reviews note the train ride to the site (covered in the tour ticket) adds to the fun, and the free time here allows you to take photos, explore the surrounding nature, or just marvel at the natural wonder.

Wrapping the Day

After the Blue Eye, the group heads back to the vehicle for the return journey, ending the day with a drop-off in Durrës, Golem, or Tirana. Most travelers report feeling satisfied with the balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and scenic drives, though some mention it’s a long day—but well worth it for the variety of experiences packed in.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour ticks many boxes. For $65 per person, you get hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, a professional tour guide, and entry tickets to all sites. The focus on convenience and inclusivity adds to the overall value, especially since many reviews praise the guides for their helpfulness.

However, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to bring water and snacks or buy options along the way. Since the bus does not have a bathroom, reviewers advise drinking water in moderation and using stops wisely.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Helpful

Reviewers highlight that their guides, like Mirsad and Ervin, are friendly, informative, and attentive—frequently going above and beyond, such as covering the cost for train rides or helping with small needs. This personalized touch elevates the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to a memorable day.

Transport & Comfort

The coach bus, often praised for its comfort, allows for a relaxed journey. You can pack your bags with outfits, snacks, and essentials, which adds flexibility. The length of the trip—about 12 hours—means you should be prepared for a full day on the move, but most agree the scenery and stops justify the time invested.

Final Thoughts

This day tour offers a practical, value-packed way to see some of southern Albania’s most beautiful spots without the need for multiple bookings or overnight stays. Besides its stunning landscapes, the experience is enhanced by friendly guides, smooth transportation, and a well-organized itinerary.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or couples eager to tick off major sights in one go. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives, cultural stops, and beach time, this trip delivers a comprehensive Albanian coastline experience in one affordable package.

While the long hours might be tiring for some, the variety of stops and the opportunity to relax at beautiful beaches make it a worthwhile adventure. Just remember to bring water, sun protection, and a sense of curiosity for Albania’s natural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for this tour?
You can be picked up from your hotel in Durrës, Golem, or Tirana, based on your preference.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, including travel time and sightseeing stops.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase refreshments during the stops.

What sites will I visit?
You’ll visit Saranda, Ksamil, Lekursi Castle, and the Blue Eye spring, with some free time for exploration and relaxation.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, travelers report the coach bus is air-conditioned and comfortable, making the long day more manageable.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a guided tour with a set itinerary, so flexibility is limited, but guides are often praised for their helpfulness.

How much free time will I have?
Expect around 3.5 hours in Ksamil, 1 hour at Lekursi Castle, and 2 hours at Blue Eye for photos, swimming, or exploring.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the tour’s length and outdoor stops suggest adult supervision is recommended for younger children.

This trip stands out as a cost-effective way to experience Albania’s highlights with ease, making it a smart choice for travelers eager to see a lot without the hassle of planning.

You can check if your dates are available here: