Full Day trip to Stone City of Gjirokastra & Blue Eye

Introduction

If you’re itching to explore Albania beyond its recent tourist footprints, the full-day trip to Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye offers an authentic glimpse of the country’s hidden treasures. This guided tour combines history, architecture, and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for curious travelers who enjoy learning while wandering through stunning scenery.

What we love about this experience is how it balances culture with spectacular vistas—from the stone fortress of Gjirokastra to the mesmerizing depths of the Blue Eye spring. Plus, the convenience of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide means you get a comfortable, educational, and visually rewarding day.

One potential drawback is the long travel time—around 11 to 12 hours—so if you’re not used to extensive days on the road, this might feel a bit exhaustive. However, for those who cherish in-depth exploration and want to see some of Albania’s most iconic sights in one go, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love history, natural wonders, and authentic small-town charm, especially those eager to see Albania before it becomes more popular and crowded.

Key Points

• Covers essential sights: Gjirokastra’s Old Town, castle, bazaar, and the Blue Eye spring, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides help unlock the stories behind each site, enriching your visit.
• Flexible itinerary: Around 10 to 12 hours with included breaks, allowing for a relaxed pace amidst a packed schedule.
• Value for money: For $138.91, you gain transportation, guided tours, and entry to key attractions—an efficient way to see a lot in one day.
• Authentic local food: Enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch at a top-rated restaurant, adding a flavorful touch to your trip.
• Beautiful scenery & history: From the stone streets of Gjirokastra to the mysterious depths of Blue Eye, nature and history combine for a memorable day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Tirana

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am. We loved the seamless pickup and the comfortable private transportation, which meant no stress about navigating ourselves. After about two hours on the road, there’s a short 30-minute coffee stop—an ideal way to shake off any early-morning grogginess. It’s a nice touch that the tour includes these breaks, making long days more manageable.

Gjirokastra: A UNESCO Jewel

Within roughly an hour after the coffee break, you arrive in Gjirokastra, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is one of Albania’s most visually captivating spots, with its stone streets, fortress, and traditional houses. The old town area is compact but packed with charm—winding cobblestone alleys that feel like stepping back in time.

You’ll spend about an hour wandering the streets, soaking in the atmosphere, and snapping photos. The Gjirokastra Bazaar follows, providing a glimpse into the city’s commercial past. Although much of the bazaar was destroyed by fire in the 19th century, the remaining structures evoke an old-world charm that makes wandering feel like a step into history.

Gjirokastra Castle: A Fortress with a View

The highlight for many visitors is the Gjirokastra Castle, which is the largest in Albania. Over two hours are allotted here, giving ample time to explore its ramparts, towers, and the museum inside. The castle’s vantage point offers sweeping views of the city and surrounding valleys, perfect for panoramic photos.

Historically, the castle’s origins trace back to the 4th-5th centuries, with significant construction in the 12th-13th centuries. It served as a defensive stronghold during Ottoman times and later as a prison, adding layers of stories to its stone walls. The inside is a mix of preserved rooms and exhibits, offering insights into its past.

Lunch with Local Flavors

After a morning of exploration, you’ll enjoy a 1-hour traditional Albanian lunch at one of Gjirokastra’s best restaurants. Expect hearty, authentic dishes—think slow-cooked meats, fresh vegetables, and local bread—that turn a sightseeing trip into a culinary experience. The reviews praise the food highly, describing it as a delightful addition that feeds both body and soul.

The Old Bazaar and City Streets

Post-lunch, you’ll have time to stroll the historic Bazaar area again, taking in the smaller shops, local artisans, and the ambiance of a town that’s proud of its heritage. Although it’s not as intact as in its heyday, the bazaar still offers a sense of the city’s bustling past.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Hidden Gem

The last major stop is the Blue Eye spring, a natural water pool famed for its vivid blue waters and mysterious depths. You’ll spend about an hour here, observing the clear water that plunges into a karst hole over fifty meters deep. Divers have explored its depths, but the bottom remains a mystery, adding an element of intrigue.

The Blue Eye is a stunning natural monument, with the water’s transparency and vibrant color making it an Instagram favorite. Its protected area covers a vast 180 hectares, emphasizing its ecological importance.

What Travelers Are Saying

Elenia, who traveled in January, appreciated the light rain that day but still enjoyed the tour’s highlights. She praised guide Gjenc, noting, “Despite that, our guide Gjenc told us it would be a light rain and so it was. Our tour started as planned.” Her detailed account suggests this tour is flexible enough to adapt to weather, which is reassuring for outdoor-focused trips.

Rebecca, meanwhile, called the guide “fantastic,” highlighting Gjenc’s attentiveness and knowledge. She appreciated that the guide made sure everyone was comfortable and well-informed, which adds immeasurable value to the experience.

Most travelers seem to agree that the guides are knowledgeable, enhancing the visits with stories and context that turn sightseeing into storytelling.

Practical Details and Value

For around $138.91 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—transport, guide, and entry fees for the castle—making it a good value for those wanting to see Gjirokastra’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips.

The tour’s duration, about 11 to 12 hours, means you’ll spend a full day immersed in the sights. The flexibility in timing, with a 30-minute coffee break and a relaxed pace, helps prevent the day from feeling rushed. It’s perfect for travelers who want a thorough experience without feeling overwhelmed.

Transportation is private, which means more comfort and fewer strangers, and the group size is capped at 15, maintaining an intimate vibe. The inclusion of a professional guide ensures you get the stories behind the sights, especially at historical sites like the fortress and castle.

While the food isn’t included in the price, the recommended restaurant and the quality of Albanian cuisine make this a worthwhile splurge. Plus, the optional entry fee to Gjirokastra castle is modest—around €4—adding to the transparency about costs.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour to Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye excels in providing a well-rounded cultural and natural experience. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and scenic landscapes but prefer to have the logistics handled for them. The guide’s expertise and the opportunity to sample local cuisine elevate the day beyond simple sightseeing.

While the long travel hours might not suit everyone, the value of seeing Albania’s Most Photogenic Town and one of its most stunning natural wonders in one day makes this a worthwhile adventure.

If you’re ready to explore Albania’s charm without the stress of self-driving or multiple bookings, this trip is a solid choice. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to learn, explore, and enjoy beautiful scenery in a single, memorable day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, starting at 8:00 am, including stops, breaks, and travel time.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is provided, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees?
Entry to Gjirokastra Castle is included in the price, but some other attractions, like the bazaar, do not require an entrance fee. The castle fee is about €4 if you decide to visit independently.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and some cash for optional expenses, like entrance fees or snacks. An umbrella might be handy if the weather looks uncertain.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers a flexible schedule within the 10-12 hour framework, but specific customization options aren’t detailed in the description.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a highly recommended restaurant offers authentic Albanian cuisine, which is well worth trying.

To sum it up, this guided full-day trip offers an excellent introduction to Gjirokastra’s historic charm and the natural beauty of the Blue Eye. It strikes a good balance between guided storytelling and free exploration, perfect for those who want to maximize their time without feeling rushed. It’s especially suited for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone eager to see one of Albania’s most picturesque towns with ease and comfort.