Saranda: Lekursi Castle, Blue Eye, and Gjirokastra Day Trip

Thinking about exploring Albania’s southern treasures? This full-day tour from Saranda offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking vistas, natural beauty, and historic architecture. We’ve looked into what makes this trip stand out and what travelers can expect, and honestly, it’s a compelling way to see some of Albania’s most memorable sights without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings.

What we love most? First, the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle are simply spectacular. It’s a perfect spot to take in the Ionian Sea and Greek islands in one sweeping glance. Second, the Blue Eye’s crystal-clear spring provides a unique natural spectacle you won’t forget. The only consideration? The trip’s timing is tight, so if you love lingering at every site, be prepared for some quick visits.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate concise, guided experiences that maximize sightseeing in one day. It suits those who want a comfortable, organized, and informative journey with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic local flavor. If you’re after a relaxed pace and in-depth exploration, this might not be the best fit, but for a busy sightseeing day, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Convenience and Comfort: Round-trip air-conditioned van transfers from Saranda simplify logistics.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas from Lekursi Castle and Gjirokastra Castle are highlights.
• Natural Wonder: Blue Eye Spring offers a striking natural feature with clear waters and tranquil surroundings.
• Authentic Experience: Explore Gjirokaster’s Ottoman-era bazaar with chances to shop for crafts and souvenirs.
• Well-Organized Schedule: Most stops offer enough time for exploration without feeling rushed.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides are praised for their friendly, informative approach.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at OpenTour Albania’s office in Saranda, a central and easy-to-find spot. From there, you’ll hop into a full air-conditioned van, which most reviews agree is comfortable and well-kept. The group is kept small enough to allow for a personal experience, generally with a friendly driver who doubles as your guide.

The first leg is a quick 10-minute drive to Lekursi Castle. Here, the views are truly the star of the show. The castle’s Ottoman architecture adds a historic charm, but the real appeal is the sweeping panorama you get from the hilltop location. Expect roughly 30 minutes here, enough to enjoy the scenery, snap photos, and maybe wander around a bit.

From Lekursi to the Blue Eye

Next, it’s about a 30-minute scenic drive toward the Blue Eye. This natural spring is a truly eye-catching sight—literally. The spring’s vivid blue color, contrasting with the lush greenery, makes for fantastic photos. Visitors can hike a short distance or take a train ride (which is optional and costs extra) to get closer to this deep, 50-meter spring. Many reviews mention that this stop is well-paced; most spend around 1.5 hours here, which includes time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful setting.

One reviewer notes, “The Blue Eye was especially worth it,” and others appreciate the opportunity to capture this natural wonder before crowds arrive. While swimming isn’t recommended to preserve the spring’s purity, soaking in the tranquility is highly recommended.

Gjirokastra: History and Souvenirs

The afternoon takes you to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The drive from the Blue Eye is about 40 minutes, and during this part, you’ll enjoy the mountain scenery. Gjirokastra’s castle is one of the largest and best-preserved in Albania. Entry costs are included, allowing you to explore the ramparts and enjoy the views over the town and Drino Valley.

Most travelers praise the guided tour of Gjirokastra Castle for its informative commentary and impressive architecture. One reviewer describes the guide as “very knowledgeable,” adding that the walk through the castle and the panoramic views make the visit worthwhile.

Following the castle, you’ll visit the Gjirokastra Bazaar, a vibrant market that has been trading since the 17th century. It’s a lively place where you can browse handcrafted textiles, pottery, antiques, and souvenirs. The bazaar’s Ottoman architectural charm and lively atmosphere add a real sense of place that many visitors find delightful.

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Final Stops and Return

The tour wraps up with about 45 minutes of free time in Gjirokastra for a coffee, dessert, or some shopping, and then it’s back to Saranda. The drive home is about 45 minutes, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The strength of this tour is its organized approach and the expert guidance. Several reviews highlight how efficiently it’s run, allowing travelers to see key sights without long waits or feeling hurried. The included entrance fees to Lekursi Castle and Gjirokastra Castle add value, and the optional train ride at Blue Eye is a fun extra if you want a closer look.

While the water in Blue Eye is invitingly clear and photogenic, the tour emphasizes safety and preservation—swimming is discouraged, which is a good thing for the spring’s health and your safety. The visits to bunkers from the Communist era (if included) add a layer of historical context that many find compelling.

Transport and Timing

The van rides are smooth, air-conditioned, and well-paced. Most reviews mention how helpful the driver and guide are in managing timing, ensuring the group gets enough time at each site. The total duration is around 7 hours, making it suitable for a full day, but not so long as to be exhausting.

Price and Value

Considering the included entrance fees, the convenience of door-to-door transport, and knowledgeable guiding, this tour offers good value. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer to avoid navigating Albania alone or dealing with unreliable local transport. The reviews consistently praise the tour’s organization and the ability to beat crowds at popular spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want a well-planned, informative, and comfortable way to see Albania’s highlights. It’s especially suitable if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss out on major sights like Blue Eye and Gjirokastra’s castle. The guided format is ideal for those who appreciate hearing stories and history from friendly guides and want to maximize their sightseeing without stressing about logistics.

If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed pace with some free time to explore, keep in mind that most stops are relatively timed. However, if you love to linger or explore at your own speed, you might feel a little rushed, though most reviews suggest the schedule is well-balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, it does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. The meeting point is centrally located at OpenTour Albania’s office.

How long is the Blue Eye stop?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours at Blue Eye, which includes time to walk, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. An optional train ride is available for an extra fee.

Is swimming allowed at Blue Eye?
Swimming is discouraged in the spring to preserve its clarity and safety reasons due to the depth and cold water.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a sun hat, water, and comfortable clothes. Cash (either Euros or Albanian Lek) is recommended for small purchases or optional extras.

How long is the Gjirokastra visit?
Most of the time is spent exploring Gjirokastra Castle and the bazaar, with about 2.5 hours allocated for this part of the tour.

Can I pay for the train ride on-site?
Yes, the train ride costs around 600 Lek (cash only) and is paid on arrival.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and there’s some walking involved, including a 1.5 km walk to Blue Eye if you skip the train.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

How big are the groups?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a small group size, making for a more personal experience.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Saranda offers an excellent way to experience Albania’s highlights comfortably and efficiently. With stunning views at Lekursi Castle, the striking natural beauty of Blue Eye, and the historic charm of Gjirokastra, it packs a lot into a well-organized itinerary.

Most travelers rave about the friendly guides, the smooth transportation, and the ability to see these sights without the stress of navigating on your own. It’s a strong choice if you want a value-packed, authentic experience that covers some of Albania’s most photogenic and historically interesting spots.

If you’re looking for a day that mixes natural beauty with cultural discovery, and you appreciate a guided, well-paced adventure, this trip is likely to be a highlight of your time in the Albanian Riviera. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash, and a sense of curiosity.

You can check availability for your dates here: