Best of Saranda: Blue Eye, Butrint, Ksamil & Lekuresi Castle

Exploring Albania’s southern coast just got easier with the Best of Saranda tour. This 6-hour journey packs in some of the region’s most iconic sights—from ancient ruins and stunning waterfalls to a historic fortress and idyllic islands. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances nature, history, and breathtaking vistas, all with the convenience of door-to-door transport.

What stands out most for many travelers is the chance to walk through UNESCO-listed Butrint and enjoy the mesmerizing Blue Eye Spring, a natural wonder with crystal-clear waters that seem to glow in the sunlight. Plus, the panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle and the serene beauty of Ksamil Islands make this tour a solid choice for those wanting a taste of everything.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include entry fees for all sites (like Butrint), and some stops, like Ksamil, can be brief—so if you’re eager to spend hours lounging at the beach, plan accordingly. This trip suits travelers seeking an immersive, hassle-free way to see South Albania’s highlights with knowledgeable guides and good value.

Key Points

Balanced itinerary covering archaeological, natural, and scenic highlights
Expert guides known for their friendliness and knowledge
Convenient transportation with pickup and drop-off from Saranda
Flexible free time especially at Ksamil and Blue Eye for photos and swimming
Entry fees are not included for Butrint (around 8 EUR) but free for Lekuresi Castle
Average ratings of 4.4/5 from 190 reviews reflect solid overall satisfaction

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is designed for those who want to make the most of a short visit, combining several top sights into a single day. The journey begins with a pickup from Saranda’s city center or port—an especially convenient feature if you’re arriving by cruise. From there, the vehicle, usually a comfortable private car, whisks you off to your first stop: Lekuresi Castle.

Visiting Lekuresi Castle: Panoramic Views and Photo Opportunities

Perched on a hill overlooking Saranda, Lekuresi Castle offers spectacular views of the city, the islands of Ksamil and Corfu in Greece, and the Albanian coastline. Visitors often appreciate the photo opportunities here, with the fortress providing a commanding vantage point. The guided tour lasts about 40 minutes, giving enough time to soak in the scenery and capture memorable shots. Notably, there’s no entry fee for this site, making it an easy start to the day.

Blue Eye Spring: Nature’s Stunning Display

Next, the tour heads to what many consider the highlight: the Blue Eye Spring. This natural spring surprises most visitors with its crystal-clear, deep blue waters, bubbling up from a 50-meter-deep pool. The surrounding area is tranquil, with towering trees and lush foliage, offering a peaceful escape. You’ll spend around 2 hours here—time enough for photos, a walk around the spring, and, for those inclined, a quick swim.

While some reviewers found the Blue Eye slightly underwhelming compared to expectations, most agree it’s still a sight worth seeing. The natural glow of the water and the peaceful setting make it a memorable stop. Pack your camera and a hat, as the area can get sunny.

Exploring UNESCO-Listed Butrint: Ancient Ruins and Cultural Heritage

The centerpiece for history buffs is the visit to Butrint National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site features ruins that span multiple periods—from Roman baths and temples to medieval fortifications. The guided tour, lasting approximately 100 minutes, takes you through the Trionch Palace, Baptistery, Basilica, City Walls, Gates, and Acropolis.

Reviewers love the well-informed guides, like Klavde and Fedele, who bring the ruins alive with stories and insights. One reviewer noted that their guide was “very kind and funny,” adding a personal touch to the experience. Entry fees for Butrint are around 8 EUR, so budget accordingly.

Ksamili Islands: Beachside Relaxation and Refreshing Dips

The final stop is Ksamil, a small island paradise with some of the region’s most inviting beaches. You’ll have about an hour here, which is enough for a quick dip, some sunbathing, or exploring the tiny islands. Many travelers appreciate the free time to relax and soak up the scenery, and some even wish the visit was longer—just to enjoy more of the beach and maybe grab a meal.

The trip’s flexibility means guides often encourage visitors to spend extra time in Ksamil if they prefer, which is a bonus for beach lovers. The area is known for its turquoise waters and a handful of cozy bars and eateries, perfect for a refreshment.

Return to Saranda

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to the port or city center, generally allowing you to reflect on a day filled with vivid sights and new knowledge. Many reviews mention the smooth organization and friendly guides, making the experience feel effortless.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

• Duration & Timing: The 6-hour schedule balances sightseeing with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop. You’ll want to check the start times, especially if you’re on a cruise, to ensure everything fits.
• Transportation: Private transport is included, which means comfort and convenience, especially when traveling between distant sites like Butrint and Ksamil.
• Guides: The reviews consistently praise the guides—like Fedele, Klajdi, and Kejsi—for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to personalize the experience.
• Entry Fees: While most sites are free, the entry to Butrint costs about 8 EUR. The castle is free, so no worries there.
• Comfort & Essentials: Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, and perhaps a small snack—some reviews suggest that bringing extra snacks would be helpful, especially if you’re hungry after the short stops.
• WiFi & Water: The onboard WiFi and bottled water add a touch of comfort, keeping you connected and hydrated.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers describe the tour as well-organized and value-packed. One reviewer found the guide Fedele to be “amazing, very kind and funny”, highlighting the importance of a personable guide. Others appreciated the perfect balance of guided activities and free time, especially at Ksamil, where they could relax or swim.

A few reviewers did mention minor drawbacks—such as the short time at Ksamil (only 20 minutes in some cases), which left some wishing for longer beach time. Others noted that Blue Eye might be slightly disappointing if expectations are high, but the overall consensus remains positive.

Importantly, many customers felt the trip offered good value for the price, especially given the inclusion of transportation, a guide, and entry fees for some sites. Solo travelers and groups alike find it a hassle-free way to see the highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re someone who wants to experience a little of everything—archaeology, nature, panoramic views, and beach time—this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suitable for first-timers in Saranda wanting a rundown without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Travelers with limited time will appreciate how much ground is covered in just a few hours, and those who prefer guided experiences find the knowledgeable guides invaluable. Couples, families, or solo travelers all seem to enjoy the relaxed pace and scenic stops.

However, if you’re a beach fanatic eager to spend hours lounging or a history buff wanting in-depth exploration, consider whether the brief stops meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

This Best of Saranda tour offers a well-curated taste of southern Albania’s scenic and historic treasures. The combination of easy logistics, expert guides, and breathtaking sights makes it a compelling option for many travelers. It’s especially ideal if you want a stress-free day packed with memorable moments, without the need to organize transport or tickets yourself.

While it isn’t perfect for those craving hours of beach time or deep dives into history, the tour provides a balanced introduction to one of Albania’s most beautiful regions. Expect plenty of photo opportunities, engaging stories from your guide, and an overall feeling of discovery.

For anyone seeking an authentic, practical, and enjoyable way to explore Saranda’s highlights, this tour deserves strong consideration.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, private transportation is provided for the entire day, making it easy and comfortable to visit all sites.

What’s the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability.

Are entry fees included? No, entry to Butrint costs about 8 EUR and is paid separately, but Lekuresi Castle is free to visit.

Can I swim at Ksamil? Yes, you’ll have about an hour to relax, swim, and enjoy the beach, making it ideal for those wanting some seaside downtime.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and a hat are recommended, and bringing some snacks might be helpful if you get hungry.

Are guides available in English? Yes, the tour is conducted in English and features knowledgeable guides from Klajdi Travel.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and site access considerations.