Tour to Butrint National Park-Blue Eye-Lekuresi Castle

If you’re planning a day trip from Saranda to explore some of Albania’s most captivating sights, this guided tour offers a tidy package of history, natural beauty, and breathtaking scenery. While we haven’t personally experienced it, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest a well-organized way to get a taste of Albania’s diverse treasures—all in just half a day.

What truly stands out are the striking beauty of the Blue Eye spring and the well-preserved ruins at Butrint, both of which promise memorable moments for travelers. Plus, the scenic views from Lekuresi Castle are a highlight that leaves many visitors eager to snap photos and soak in the landscape.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some walking—about 20 minutes to reach the Blue Eye—so comfortable shoes are essential. Also, the cost of entry tickets to Butrint and Blue Eye are not included in the base price, which can be a little confusing at first. Still, the overall value for those interested in Albania’s natural and historical sights makes it a worthwhile choice, especially for those with limited time or prefer guided insights.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, ancient history, and scenic viewpoints. It’s perfect for those who want a structured day without the hassle of organizing transportation or entrance tickets, and small groups or private options add a personalized touch.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering three top sights in one day
• Expert-guided tours provide context and local insights
• Transport included for convenience and comfort
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Saranda
• A mix of natural beauty and historic ruins offers diverse experiences

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This 6-hour tour is designed for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a short amount of time. Starting from Saranda, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or Airbnb, with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The organized nature of the trip means you won’t have to worry about logistics—just enjoy the ride and the stories shared by your guide.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Miraculous Spring

Your first stop is the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), about 25 km from Saranda. This natural spring is a visual treat—its vibrant turquoise waters look as though they belong in a postcard. From above, the spring resembles a giant eye, which is why it’s called the Blue Eye. The water’s clarity is striking, and the fact that its depth remains largely unknown adds an air of mystery.

In reviews, visitors have described the Blue Eye as a beloved spot for photographers and nature lovers, who marvel at the water’s vivid color and peaceful surroundings. You’ll get around two hours here, which includes some free time to relax, take photos, or enjoy a guided explanation about the underground river feeding the spring.

A noteworthy aspect is the walk to reach the spring—about 20 minutes on foot, which some might find a bit tiring if they’re not prepared. You might prefer to take the small train ride available for a small fee (300 lek or about 3 euro). Many reviewers mention the walk is manageable, but it’s worth being prepared with comfortable shoes.

Lekuresi Castle: Panoramic Views and History

Next, the tour takes you to Lekuresi Castle, built by Sultan Suleiman the Great. This hilltop fortress offers a sweeping view of the surrounding region. From this vantage point, you can see the island of Corfu, the town of Saranda, and the clear waters of Butrinti Lake—an impressive panorama that makes for wonderful photos.

Visitors have praised the guide’s knowledge about the castle’s history, and many appreciate the photo opportunities from the castle walls. The visit lasts about an hour, giving you time to explore, learn about its past, and soak in the scenery.

Butrint National Park: An Archaeological Treasure

The final stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, an ancient city with roots stretching back to Greek times. The well-preserved ruins include a Roman theater, baptistery, city walls, and temples—each telling a story of different civilizations that once thrived here.

This part of the tour lasts approximately two hours, and it’s a favorite for many reviewers who enjoy walking through history amid lush surroundings. The site’s natural setting near Lake Butrint adds a tranquil backdrop, and guides are on hand to provide insights into the archaeological and cultural significance of each ruin.

Admission to Butrint costs €10 (or 1000 lek), which isn’t included in the tour price. This is a small expense considering the quality of the site and the depth of history you’ll encounter.

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What the Tour Offers in Practical Terms

Transportation is a strong point here—your guide arranges everything, from hotel pickup to drop-off, making logistics seamless. The tour operates in small groups or privately, which enhances the experience and allows for more personalized attention.

The entire trip lasts about six hours, which is a good balance, especially if you’re trying to fit in multiple sights in one day. You’ll depart in the morning, and depending on the availability and your schedule, starting times vary—so it’s wise to check in advance.

Cost-wise, the tour is designed to be a good value for travelers who want to explore without the hassle of planning each stop individually. While entry tickets to Blue Eye and Butrint are extra, many reviews highlight that guides provide interesting insights, making the additional cost worthwhile.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are round-trip transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a guide/driver. The Blue Eye ticket is included, but you’ll need to budget for the €10 entry to Butrint and the small train ride if you choose to take it.

Food and drinks aren’t included, so it’s a good idea to bring water, especially for the walk to Blue Eye. The tour also emphasizes comfortable shoes, given the walking involved.

Flexibility and Booking

Booking is straightforward, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility to your plans. Private or small-group options are available, which can be a real treat for those seeking a more tailored experience.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Reviewers consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One described their guide as “very knowledgeable and informative,” and many appreciated the cultural conversations that went beyond just sightseeing. Several rated the tour 5 out of 5, praising the ease of logistics and the variety of sights covered.

The scenery, especially from Lekuresi Castle, earns high marks—“marvel at the 360-degree view of the surrounding region,” one reviewer said, noting how spectacular the vistas are. Many got memorable photos of Corfu, Saranda, and Butrint Lake from this vantage point.

Nature lovers appreciated the Blue Eye for its tranquility and visual impact, with some remarking it’s a “peaceful spot” perfect for relaxing and taking photos. The combination of ancient ruins, scenic views, and natural springs provides a well-rounded experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a compact yet diverse day of sightseeing. If you’re interested in history, archaeology, and scenic landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. It’s also perfect for those who prefer guided experiences that take care of logistics and offer local insights.

Because of the walking involved and the ticket costs, it might not be suitable for very young children or people with mobility issues. But for active travelers and curious minds, this package offers a rich taste of Albania’s highlights without overloading your day.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a good balance between natural beauty and historical discovery. From the mesmerizing Blue Eye spring to the ancient ruins of Butrint, you’ll get a diverse and engaging experience that showcases Albania’s best features. The guide’s knowledge and small-group setting add to the appeal, making it a memorable adventure for those who want to see a little bit of everything.

While there are some extra costs for tickets and transportation to Blue Eye, many reviewers feel that the overall value is high considering the convenience and depth of experience provided. It’s a great choice for travelers interested in exploring Albania’s scenic and archaeological treasures in a single day, especially if they appreciate guided insights and comfortable logistics.

This tour is best suited for active, curious travelers who don’t mind a bit of walking, and who want to maximize their time with a knowledgeable guide showing them around. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply someone eager to see the most photogenic spots, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of southern Albania’s highlights.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, along with hotel pickup and drop-off in Saranda.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential because there’s about a 20-minute walk to reach the Blue Eye spring. Water and sun protection are also recommended.

Are tickets included?
Tickets for the Blue Eye spring are included in the tour price. However, entry to Butrint costs €10 (1000 lek), and the train ride to Blue Eye costs about 3 euro (300 lek), which are paid separately.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the tour private or group?
Both options are available: small groups or private tours, allowing for a more tailored experience.

How long does each stop last?
Blue Eye is approximately 2 hours, Lekuresi Castle about 1 hour, and Butrint around 2 hours, totaling 6 hours including travel and breaks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for active children, but very young babies under 1 year or people over 95 may find the walking challenging. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic vistas, historical sites, and natural wonders in Albania, making it a smart choice for travelers eager to see a variety of what the country has to offer. With expert guides, flexible booking, and a well-organized itinerary, it’s geared toward those who want a hassle-free, enriching day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: