Daily Tour: Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, Ottoman Bridge, Lekursi

Traveling through Albania often feels like unwrapping a gift box of unexpected wonders. This 8.5-hour tour from Saranda promises a balanced mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and panoramic vistas—all in a comfortably small group. The experience is delivered by ALBANIA MINIVANS TOURS, with a well-reviewed guide to elevate the day from merely sightseeing to a genuine connection with this often-overlooked corner of Europe.

What we particularly love about this trip is the way it combines iconic sights with authentic insights—you’re not just ticking off monuments, but getting a sense of Albania’s layered history and vibrant landscapes. Of course, with a packed itinerary, some might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if you prefer more relaxed exploration. Still, for those seeking a full, well-organized day with plenty of photo ops and cultural moments, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value a guided flow through diverse attractions, from natural springs to ancient castles. It’s especially fitting for those with limited time in Saranda who want to see as much as possible without the hassle of planning each stop independently. If you appreciate a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transport, this tour offers excellent value at just $43 per person.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering natural, historical, and cultural highlights.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Expert English-speaking guide provides engaging stories and context.
• Comfortable transport in a new luxury Mercedes Vito Minivan.
• Affordable price point for a full day of sightseeing.
• Flexible timing with plenty of opportunities for photos and individual exploration.

The Journey Begins: What the Tour Offers

Starting from Saranda, the tour kicks off at 8:50 am in a sleek, air-conditioned Mercedes Vito Tourer. It’s clear from the start that comfort and efficiency are priorities. With just a handful of travelers, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience, and your guide, Ilir Shehu, quickly establishes a friendly, informative tone. His reputation for being knowledgeable, approachable, and capable of balancing historical facts with light humor comes through in countless reviews.

Lekursi Castle: A First Look at Albanian History

The first stop is Lekursi Castle, built in the 16th century by the Ottoman Empire. Perched atop a hill, it offers sweeping views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea. Visitors often describe this as a perfect photo opportunity, and you’ll likely hear the guide sharing stories of the castle’s strategic importance. Reviewers like Evangelos from Australia emphasize Ilir’s engaging storytelling, which makes history come alive. The entrance is free, so this is an excellent way to start soaking in the local atmosphere without opening your wallet immediately.

Mesopotam Monastery: A Spiritual Journey

Next is Mesopotam Monastery, dating from the 11th and 13th centuries. Built on the remains of an even older pagan temple, it provides a fascinating peek into the region’s religious evolution. Visitors highlight the contrast between the monastery’s serene setting and the bustling modern world outside. The site has been both a Catholic and Orthodox place of worship before becoming a mosque, illustrating the area’s complex religious history. The entrance is free, allowing you to absorb the tranquil atmosphere and appreciate the craftsmanship of ancient stonework.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Marvel

After an approximately 2-hour window for exploring and taking photos, the tour moves on to Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most famous natural attractions. This enchanting spring, with waters that maintain a steady 10°C, draws visitors with its mesmerizing appearance—like a giant, eye-shaped abyss. The cool water is both refreshing and inviting, especially on hot days. The surrounding lush forest adds to the tranquil feeling. Many reviews mention the breathtaking views and the opportunity to walk along the streams. The small ticket fee of 50 cents is a minor expense for such an impressive natural wonder.

Ura e Kordhocës & Bunkers: Echoes of the Past

Next, the journey takes in Ura e Kordhocës, an Ottoman-era bridge that once connected different parts of the region. The site offers wonderful photo opportunities and insight into Ottoman engineering. Paired with visits to remnants of bunkers from the communist era, these sites reveal contrasting chapters of Albania’s history—oppressive, yet fascinating. Entry to both is free, and the guide’s explanations help contextualize these structures beyond their appearance.

Gjirokastër: The UNESCO Gem

The day’s highlight is Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-listed town renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. You’ll have nearly three hours to explore its cobblestone streets, stone-built houses, and imposing castle. Reviewers like Robert from Poland appreciate the balance of free time and guided insights, noting that the old bazaar and castle are perfect spots for wandering and photography. This city feels like stepping into a living museum, and the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Albanian meal (at your own expense) makes the visit even richer.

Practical Details That Make a Difference

The tour departs early in the morning and returns by around 6 pm, fitting perfectly into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The use of luxury Mercedes Vito Minivans ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, which is especially important given the winding roads between sites. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) means you get more personalized attention and can ask all your burning questions, which many reviewers praise highly.

The guide, Ilir, is consistently described as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. He shares historical facts, cultural tidbits, and even some local humor, making the journey both educational and fun. Several reviews mention how Ilir’s personality and storytelling made the day memorable, with travelers noting his ability to keep everyone entertained and informed throughout.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $43, this tour offers value for money, including insured transport, a professional driver-guide, and entrance to all key sites, except for the Blue Eye spring (which costs just 50 cents). Food is not included, but the time allocated in Gjirokastër allows for a traditional meal or a quick snack—whatever fits your preferences.

Accessibility and Group Size

Given the small group size and the nature of the sites, this tour isn’t suited for pregnant women or wheelchair users. The emphasis on walking and uneven surfaces at sites like Gjirokastër means you should be prepared for some light trekking and cobblestone streets.

What the Reviews Reveal

The wealth of positive reviews underscores the importance of a well-organized, informative guide. Anderson from Brazil lauds the “friendly and supportive” guide, while Lisa from the UK mentions how “Ilir knew everything about the sites and shared it with humor and clarity.” Many travelers point out that the pace is just right, with enough time at each stop to enjoy without feeling hurried.

In particular, the views from Lekursi Castle and the Blue Eye spring receive consistent praise, with Snyden from the UK calling Blue Eye “absolutely stunning” and Matthew from Australia praising the “beautiful sights and history packed into one day.” The thorough explanations about Albania’s past—both Ottoman and communist—help visitors connect more deeply with their surroundings.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

Given its focus on covering a variety of highlights in a single day, this tour is ideal for travelers who want a structured, guided experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning. The small-group format and knowledgeable guide make it especially appealing for those who prefer a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.

If your goal is to see some of Albania’s most photogenic spots—like Blue Eye and Gjirokastër’s old town—without the hassle of planning and driving, this tour offers great value at a reasonable price. The inclusion of natural wonders, historic sites, and panoramic views makes it a well-rounded choice for a short trip.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, or have mobility constraints, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. Still, for most active travelers eager to tick off several must-see sights in one day, this experience delivers on its promises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is engaging, the sites involve some walking and uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for older children who can handle light hiking and are comfortable in a group setting.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Since there’s some walking, light layers are useful, especially if the weather is variable.

How long is the stop at each site?
You’ll have roughly 30 minutes at Lekursi Castle, Mesopotam Monastery, and Ura e Kordhocës, about 2 hours at Blue Eye, and nearly 3 hours in Gjirokastër, giving ample time to explore or relax.

Is the Blue Eye spring entrance fee included?
No, it’s a small fee of 50 cents, which is paid directly at the site.

Can I buy lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included in the price, but the tour’s timing in Gjirokastër allows you to find a local restaurant to enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine.

Are the vans comfortable?
Yes, the Mercedes Vito Tourers are new, air-conditioned, and designed for comfort, making the winding drive much more pleasant.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides like Ilir providing detailed, easy-to-understand commentary.

This full-day tour from Saranda offers a carefully curated blend of Albania’s natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural insights. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience the country in a short time, guided by experts who genuinely care about enriching your understanding. With stunning vistas, fascinating stories, and a comfortable journey, it’s a highly recommended option for those seeking authentic Albanian adventures without the stress of independent planning.

Whether you’re into breathtaking landscapes like Blue Eye or intrigued by Ottoman architecture in Gjirokastër, this tour manages to balance everything beautifully, making it an excellent value at just $43. If you’re looking for an engaging, well-organized day out that leaves you with wonderful memories and plenty of photo opportunities, this experience is hard to beat.