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

Traveling through Albania can feel like stepping into a lesser-known paradise, filled with striking landscapes, ancient ruins, and inviting beaches. This full-day tour promises a packed itinerary that hits some of the most beloved sights in the south, all comfortably arranged and led by knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

What we like most about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with historical charm—particularly the Blue Eye spring, with its mesmerizing turquoise waters, and the pristine beaches of Ksamil. Plus, the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle offer a perfect conclusion to the day. That said, with a 16-hour schedule, it’s quite a long day, so travelers should be prepared for a full itinerary. This trip works best for energetic travelers eager to make the most of a single day and curious about Albania’s coastal allure.

Key Points

• Incredible sights including Blue Eye, Ksamil beaches, Sarandë, and Lekursi Castle.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles with hotel pickups.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable guides, many praised for their friendliness and information.
• Long but rewarding day—expect about 16 hours of touring and sightseeing.
• Great value for the price, especially considering entry fees and transport are included.
• Authentic local experiences with free strawberries, cherries, and a friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Southern Albania in one day. Starting from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, setting off early morning for a full day of exploration. The tour mixes natural wonders with historical landmarks, giving you a full picture of this often-overlooked region.

The core appeal lies in the diversity of sights: from the crystal waters of the Blue Eye to the lively seaside town of Sarandë, the laid-back beaches of Ksamil, and the historic vantage point at Lekursi Castle. Many reviews highlight how smoothly everything runs, thanks to attentive guides and drivers who keep the day moving efficiently.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Pickup from Golem, Tirana, or Durrës

Depending on where you stay, your day begins with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation. This hassle-free start means you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics, which is a huge plus considering the long day ahead.

Stop 2: Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

Your first major stop is the Blue Eye, a natural spring famous for its startlingly clear, vibrant blue waters. It’s a perfect photo opportunity—many travelers find themselves captivated by the contrast of lush greenery and the spring’s depth. You get about 40 minutes here, enough to take photos, walk around, or just sit quietly and soak in the serenity.
Several reviews mention how the guides help make this stop special, with some even offering tips on the best angles for photos or sharing interesting facts about the spring.

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Stop 3: Ksamil Beaches

After the Blue Eye, the tour heads to Ksamil, a small village with pristine sandy beaches and inviting turquoise waters. You’ll have around 3 hours and 12 minutes here—ample time to relax, swim, or explore the small islands nearby. Many visitors rave about the beauty and tranquility of Ksamil, calling it a highlight of the trip.
According to reviews, guides often share local insights and sometimes offer complimentary strawberries and cherries, adding a friendly, personal touch.

Stop 4: Lekursi Castle

Your final sightseeing stop is Lekursi Castle, perched on a hill overlooking Sarandë. The panoramic views of the coastline and distant islands — including the coast of Corfu — make for a memorable photo backdrop. Wander through the ruins, imagine the history that once played out here, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas.
Travelers say this is a fitting end to their sightseeing, providing a mix of history and spectacular scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable tour leader/driver, and entry tickets to the main sites. This means you can relax without worrying about extra costs or logistics.

However, meals, beverages, beach umbrellas, or train tickets for Blue Eye are not included. Many travelers find it wise to bring snacks, water, and sun protection, especially since it’s a long day with limited opportunities for free breaks.

The Experience on the Road

One of the aspects travelers consistently praise is the smooth transportation and professional guides. Several reviews highlight helpful guides who are well-versed, cheerful, and eager to share stories and tips. For example, “Deni, our guide, was very helpful and well versed in what he’s doing,” says one traveler, emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable and friendly guide in making the day enjoyable.

The long duration—about 16 hours—can be tiring, but most agree it’s worth it for the variety of sights. The transportation in air-conditioned vehicles makes the long hours more comfortable, and frequent stops break up the journey nicely.

Pricing and Value

Considering the full itinerary, the cost is quite reasonable. Entry tickets are included, reducing extra expenses, and the transportation and guide service are part of the package. Several reviews mention that it’s good value for money, especially when you factor in the convenience of having everything arranged for you.

While the trip is lengthy and a bit demanding, many travelers describe it as an excellent way to see a broad slice of Albania’s coast and countryside without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple day trips.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

If you’re curious about local flavors, some guides are known to share free strawberries and cherries, adding a friendly, hospitable touch. The scenic views from Lekursi Castle and the peaceful beauty of Blue Eye are frequently described as unforgettable moments, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

A recurring theme in reviews is the friendly, attentive guides who enhance the trip with their knowledge and enthusiasm. Many travelers appreciate the informative commentary that accompanies each stop, making the experience richer than just sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits active travelers who are comfortable with long days on the road, as well as those eager to see a diverse range of sights in Southern Albania. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview and those interested in natural beauty, coastal scenery, and historical sites.

If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive day of exploration, this tour offers excellent value. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend more time at each location, you might prefer smaller, more focused excursions.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Tirana, Durres, or Golem is a great way to experience some of Albania’s most memorable sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. From the stunning Blue Eye spring to the relaxing beaches of Ksamil and the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle, it offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s coastal charm.

The tour’s success is largely thanks to knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a carefully curated itinerary, making it a practical choice for travelers eager to maximize their time. While it’s a long day, many reviewers find the experience energizing and rewarding, with sights that stay with them long after the trip ends.

This trip is perfect for those who want an efficient, value-packed introduction to Southern Albania’s natural beauty and history, especially if visiting for a short time or looking for a reliable, guided experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 16 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and travel.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, food, drinks, sunscreen, rain gear, and enough cash or credit card for extras.

Are there any included tickets?
Yes, the entry tickets to Blue Eye, Ksamil, and Lekursi Castle are included in the price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it suits travelers of most ages, especially those comfortable with a long day and some walking.

In the end, this tour offers a fantastic way to see a slice of Albania that many travelers overlook. With scenic views, hospitable guides, and a mix of natural and historic sites, it’s an adventure that’s both practical and memorable for those eager to explore Albania’s southern coast in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: