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

Exploring Albania’s hidden gems can be a highlight of any Balkan trip, and this day tour from Tirana, Golem, or Durres offers a fantastic way to see some of its most striking sights. While it’s a fairly comprehensive itinerary packed into just one day, it balances natural beauty, cultural insights, and plenty of opportunities to relax on pristine beaches.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides bring the destinations alive with stories and local insights, enhancing the experience beyond just sightseeing. Second, the stunning scenery at the Blue Eye and Ksamil Islands truly feels like stepping into a postcard. Lastly, the carefully structured itinerary maximizes your time at each location while providing comfortable transport.

A possible drawback? Some reviews mention that the schedule can feel tight—with less time at certain spots than some might prefer. It’s worth considering if you’re looking for a more leisurely pace or extended beach time.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full-day introduction to Albania’s coastal and natural highlights without the hassle of planning multiple transportation legs. It suits those eager to combine scenic landscapes with cultural highlights in a single, well-organized trip.

Good To Know

• Great value at $80, including transport, guide, and entrance fees.
• Efficient itinerary covering the Blue Eye, Ksamil, and Saranda in one day.
• Knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories and local tips.
• Stunning scenery perfect for photo lovers—particularly at Blue Eye and Ksamil.
• Some time constraints might limit extended exploration or beach lounging.
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles ensures a relaxed journey.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Durres, Golem, or Tirana. The journey to the coast is part of the adventure, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle making the roughly 2 to 3-hour drive feel quick and easy. Depending on your starting location, you might appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup, though some reviews note that the initial meeting point could be a walking distance from your accommodation.

The group size tends to be manageable, and the drivers and guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness. One traveler from Austria highlighted that the “driver was full of kindness,” and others appreciated the smooth, stress-free transportation, which makes a big difference when covering multiple sites in a single day.

Visiting the Blue Eye

First stop is the Blue Eye, a natural spring famed for its startlingly vivid blue waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, the Blue Eye’s depth remains a mystery—known to be very deep and its waters quite cold even in summer. This natural wonder looks like something out of a fairy tale, with its crystalline waters contrasting sharply against the rocky edges.

From a practical standpoint, visitors typically spend about 2 hours here. This includes time for photos, exploring the surrounding area, and soaking in the cool ambiance. Reviewers like Yvonne from the UK remarked that the views at Blue Eye are breathtaking, and it’s a highlight worth experiencing despite the brisk water temperature.

However, some travelers found the time a bit tight, wishing for a little longer to relax and take more photos. The site involves a bit of walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Ksamil and Its Beaches

Next, the tour heads to Ksamil, often called the “pearl of the Albanian Riviera.” The white sandy beaches are inviting, with shallow, crystal-clear waters perfect for a gentle swim or just lounging with a good book. The tour includes a photo stop and a guided tour, with about 3 hours allotted for free time.

Reviewers like the one from Germany appreciated the stunning beaches and the opportunity to relax, but some noted that 2-3 hours is just enough for a quick dip and a snapshot of the iconic view of four small islands. If you’re a beach lover, you might find this short stay leaves you wishing for more time to sunbathe or enjoy water activities like the boat trip some tours offer separately.

While entrance fees for the beaches are included, extras like sunbeds and umbrellas are not. If you prefer to set up your own space, bringing your own sunshade could be a good idea.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Saranda and Its Panoramas

The final stop is Saranda, where you’ll take in panoramic views of Corfu and the bay. This part of the tour is less about physical activity and more about capturing the scenic vistas. It’s a perfect spot for a few photos and to appreciate Albania’s rugged coastline from a higher vantage point.

Guests like Andreas from Austria called the overall experience “amazing,” especially praising the scenery and the guide’s knowledge. As the tour wraps up, you’ll head back to your starting point, typically arriving in the late afternoon.

Additional Inclusions and Tips

The tour includes entrance fees to Lekursi Castle, offering another scenic stop with fantastic photo opportunities. Transport is comfortable, and the guide provides commentary in English, sharing stories that bring the locations to life.

What to bring? Sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are essentials. The water at Blue Eye is refreshingly cold—so prepare for a brisk splash—while the beaches at Ksamil are warm and inviting.

Assessing the Value and Practicalities

Price and What’s Included

At $80 per person, this tour offers good value considering the transportation, guide, and entrance fees included. It’s a budget-friendly way to see some of Albania’s top natural and scenic spots in a single day. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off is another plus, especially if you don’t want to navigate public transport or hire a car.

Potential Downsides

While the itinerary is well-organized, some guests have noted that timing can be tight—particularly at Ksamil, where only about 2 hours are allocated. The early start (around 7:20 am pickup) and the schedule’s punctuality are critical for making the most of each stop. If you prefer leisurely exploration or extended beach lounging, this might feel rushed.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The reviews suggest a friendly, attentive atmosphere, with guides engaging and informative. Smaller groups tend to get more personalized attention, which elevates the experience, especially when asking questions or seeking local insights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of southern Albania without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. It’s especially suited for those who value expert guides who can share interesting stories and details that bring the scenery alive. If you’re short on time but eager to see iconic sights like Blue Eye and Ksamil, this tour makes it possible.

However, if relaxing on the beach for hours or exploring at a slower pace is your priority, you might find the schedule a bit constrained. Also, if you’re traveling with young children or prefer minimal walking, consider the terrain involved at sites like Blue Eye.

The Sum Up

For a single day, this tour offers an impressive sampling of Albania’s natural beauty, from the enchanting Blue Eye to the idyllic beaches of Ksamil, topped off with panoramic views in Saranda. The organized nature, coupled with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport, makes it a practical choice for travelers looking to maximize their sightseeing with minimal fuss.

While it’s not designed for extensive beach lounging or slow-paced exploration, the value lies in the variety and quality of experiences packed into one day. It’s especially suited for those who want to get a quick, yet memorable, taste of Albania’s stunning coast and landscapes.

If your trip includes Tirana, Golem, or Durres and you’re ready for a scenic adventure that hits all the highlights, this tour is worth considering. Expect breathtaking views, interesting stories, and a snapshot of Albania’s natural charm—all for a fair price.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the drive from Tirana, Golem, or Durres to the Blue Eye?
The drive takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on your starting point, with comfortable transportation included.

What is the best time of day to visit Blue Eye?
Most tours start early morning to make the most of daylight and avoid larger crowds, especially in peak summer months.

Is the water at Blue Eye cold?
Yes, even in summer, the water at Blue Eye is very cold, so bring a towel or dry clothes if you plan to swim.

How much time do we get at each location?
Expect about 2 hours at Blue Eye, and around 3 hours at Ksamil for free time and exploration. The panoramic views in Saranda are more about sightseeing than extended stops.

Are there any additional costs?
Entrance fees to Lekursi Castle are included, but extras like sunbeds or umbrellas at Ksamil are not.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It can be, but note that some walking on uneven terrain is involved, particularly at Blue Eye. Check your group’s mobility before booking.

This day tour combines the best of Albania’s natural scenery and coastal charm into a single, well-organized package. Whether you’re snapping photos, lounging on beaches, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, it’s a memorable way to experience Albania’s southern coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: