Day Tour To Ksamil Islands, Blue Eye & Saranda (Small Group)

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure and natural beauty to your Albanian itinerary, this small-group day tour offers a well-rounded experience. It combines scenic drives, swimming in crystal-clear waters, panoramic castle views, and a taste of local life—all in one day. The tour is designed for travelers who want a taste of Albania’s coastline without the hassle of planning multiple trips or managing transportation themselves.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the balance between organized convenience and enough free time to explore at your own pace. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge makes each stop more meaningful. On the downside, a 14.5-hour day means plenty of driving — if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer relaxed pacing, keep that in mind. But if you’re eager to see some of the best natural and cultural sights Albania has to offer, this tour might be just what you need.

This trip suits travelers who love scenic vistas, want a full day of sightseeing, and enjoy small groups that foster friendly, personalized interactions. It’s especially good for those visiting Tirana and eager to explore the coast’s highlights in a single, well-organized package.

Key Points

• Comfortable, organized transportation makes navigating Albania’s coastline easier and more enjoyable.
• Free time in Ksamil allows for swimming, relaxing, and sampling local cuisine.
• World-class views from Lekursi Castle offer a memorable perspective of Saranda and the surrounding area.
• Includes entry to The Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most iconic natural attractions.
• A full-day experience with a generally friendly group size ensures personalized attention and engaging guide explanations.
• Cost-effective at $72, providing a comprehensive sightseeing experience with many highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What’s This Tour All About?

This small-group tour from Tirana to the Albanian coast is like a condensed holiday—packed with stunning sights, cultural insights, and plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the scenery. We love how it combines beachtime in Ksamil, with its inviting waters and laid-back vibe, along with historical and panoramic views from Lekursi Castle. Add in a visit to the renowned Blue Eye, and you’re looking at an itinerary that offers a genuine taste of Albanian coastal life.

One of the standout features is the careful balance between guided explanations and free time. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—making each stop informative and lively. The scenic drive, with several well-timed breaks including a coffee stop by the Vjosa River, adds to the relaxing feel of the trip.

However, be aware that this is a long day, clocking in at nearly 15 hours. The travel involves quite a bit of driving, so if you’re sensitive to motion or prefer a slower pace, it’s something to consider. But for those eager to see multiple highlights in one go, the value here is hard to beat. This tour is perfect for travelers who want an efficient, well-organized day filled with natural beauty, history, and local flavor.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Will You Experience?

Starting Point and Pickup

The journey begins with a pickup from one of four strategic locations: Golem, Durrës, Shkëmbi i Kavajës, or Tirana itself. This flexible pickup setup helps travelers stay close to their accommodation, making the start of the adventure smoother. Once everyone is aboard, the 3-hour drive begins, giving you a chance to settle in, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the scenery.

Scenic Drive and Coffee Break by the Vjosa River

On the way south, we stop in Tepelene for a quick 15-minute break. It’s a good opportunity to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and enjoy the view of the Vjosa River—one of Albania’s most pristine waterways. The drive continues, with beautiful landscapes flashing by, and a 45-minute transfer lands you at your first highlight: Ksamil.

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The Magic of Ksamil Islands

Once in Ksamil, you’re given roughly three and a half hours of free time. This is your chance to swim in the ‘Maldives of Albania’, known for their transparent, turquoise waters. The beaches here are small but stunning, with powdery sand and gentle waves, perfect for relaxing or a quick dip.

Local restaurants serve fresh seafood and Albanian tapas—think grilled fish, calamari, and local salads—making lunch here a highlight. The guide emphasizes the local flavor, and many travelers attest to the delicious options.

During this stop, you can also explore, take photos, or simply soak up the laid-back island vibe. As one reviewer put it, “beautiful sights, delicious food, and friendly people,” sum up the experience well.

Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Perfection

Next, a 45-minute drive takes you to Lekursi Castle, perched on a hill above Saranda. The castle offers sweeping views over Saranda and the Ionian Sea, making it a photographer’s dream. The guide’s explanations help you appreciate the history behind this Ottoman-era fortress, while the vistas create perfect moments to just stand back and soak in the scenery.

You’ll have about an hour here to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the cool breeze. Multiple reviews praise the panoramic views—some call it “a memorable perspective of Saranda,” and note that it’s a great spot for a quick escape from the bustling town below.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Hidden Treasure

The tour then heads to the famous Blue Eye of Saranda, a natural spring renowned for its vibrant blue waters. Here, you’ll have about 45 minutes for sightseeing and photos. The clear, deep blue spring surrounded by lush greenery makes for a captivating backdrop—ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Your guide explains the significance of this site, and many visitors mention that the Blue Eye’s striking color and tranquil surroundings are highlights that live up to the hype.

Return Journey with Coffee and Rest Stops

On the way back north, the group makes two brief stops—one in Tepelene for 15 minutes, and another for a quick refreshment. These breaks help balance the long drive with moments to stretch and rehydrate.

The return trip takes approximately 3 hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights or nap before reaching your starting point.

Final Drop-offs

The tour concludes with convenient drop-offs at Golem, Tirana, Shkëmbi i Kavajës, or Durrës, making it flexible for different travel plans. Many reviews mention the ease of being dropped right at their hotels, adding to the overall convenience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price ($72 per person) are comfortable transportation (van or bus), an English-speaking guide (with French, German, or Italian available on request), free time in Ksamil, and the entrance ticket to The Blue Eye.

What’s not covered are meals and drinks, which gives you the freedom to choose local eateries and sample Albanian cuisine at your own pace. The Lekursi Castle entry fee is also not included, but the views from the outside are free.

The Value and Practical Considerations

At $72, this tour offers good value considering the number of highlights and the guided experience. The inclusion of transportation, the Blue Eye entrance, and the guide’s insights make it a hassle-free way to see a lot in one day. Travelers praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with reviewers mentioning how they made the journey enjoyable and informative.

However, it is a long day with approximately 7 hours of driving. For some, this could lead to fatigue or motion sickness, so bringing medication if needed is wise. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems, as the walking involved can be taxing.

The experience offers a well-rounded glimpse of Albania’s coast—combining natural beauty, history, and local life—at a reasonable price point.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an efficient way to see multiple highlights in one day, especially if they’re based in Tirana and short on time. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, panoramic views, and natural attractions like the Blue Eye. Food lovers will appreciate the chance to sample local dishes in Ksamil.

It’s best for active travelers comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and driving, but who also want to enjoy moments of relaxation and memorable photo ops. Solo travelers, couples, or small groups will find the small-group dynamic enhances the experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, flexible, and enriching day out that balances nature, history, and local flavor, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you will be picked up from designated locations in Tirana, Golem, Durrës, or Shkëmbi i Kavajës, and transported comfortably in a van or bus.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear if you plan to swim, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, giving you flexibility to dine in Ksamil or other spots on your own.

Can I visit Lekursi Castle?
The tour includes a visit with views and photo opportunities. Entry to the castle is not included, but the outside offers stunning vistas.

Is the Blue Eye free to visit?
The Blue Eye entrance ticket is included in the tour price.

How many people typically go on this tour?
It’s a small-group experience, typically with a handful of travelers, which allows for a more personalized atmosphere.

Is it suitable for children or infants?
Infants are allowed but must occupy their own paid seats. The tour might not be ideal for babies due to the long hours and driving.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides can speak French, German, or Italian on request.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, the best weather for coastal sights is likely late spring to early fall, avoiding the peak heat and rain.

This day tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey through some of Albania’s most captivating sights. You’ll appreciate the professional guides, the opportunity to swim in some of Europe’s clearest waters, and the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle. The Blue Eye, with its mesmerizing blue waters, is a must-see natural wonder that will leave a lasting impression.

For travelers eager to experience Albania’s coastline without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves, this tour provides excellent value—combining natural beauty, cultural sights, and local flavors in one full day. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of adventure, scenic views, and authentic sites, all within a manageable schedule.

If your time is limited but you crave a comprehensive coastal experience, this tour is an excellent choice. Just be prepared for a long day of travel, bring plenty of water, and wear comfortable shoes. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, expect to come away with a suitcase full of memories and plenty of photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: