From Tirana/Durres: Gjirokastra UNESCO city & Blue Eye

Exploring Albania’s Hidden Gems: Gjirokastra & Blue Eye in One Day

This tour promises a full immersion into two of Albania’s most captivating sights—Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, and the Blue Eye, a mesmerizing natural spring. It’s a long day, roughly 10 to 12 hours, but packed with history, culture, and stunning scenery. The fact that it’s run by Smart Tour Albania ensures a professional touch, and with a stellar rating of 4.9 from over 260 reviews, it clearly resonates with travelers.

What makes this trip stand out? We love how it balances guided exploration with free time, letting you soak in the atmosphere of Gjirokastra’s cobbled streets and bustling bazaar, then unwind at the peaceful Blue Eye spring. One consideration? The drive is quite lengthy—around four hours one way—so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of fitness and patience for long road trips. Yet, if you’re after a day filled with authentic cultural sights and incredible natural beauty, this tour is a real winner—especially for history buffs, photography lovers, and anyone keen to see Albania’s lesser-known treasures.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit Gjirokastra’s UNESCO-listed old town, castle, and lively bazaar.
• Natural Wonder: Marvel at the Blue Eye spring’s crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Ervin, Klajdi, and Bledi make the stories come alive.
• Great Value: At $38 per person, the tour covers transportation, guide, and major sights.
• Long but Worthwhile: A full day on the road, but with plenty of time for exploration.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vans and road taxes included, ensuring a smooth ride.

Setting Off: What to Expect from the Tour

The day kicks off early with hotel or meeting point pickup, depending on your booking. From Tirana, Durrës, or Golem, expect a scenic, approximately four-hour drive toward Gjirokastra, Albania’s charming “City of Stone.” Along the way, your guide will fill you in on local tales, and there’s a cozy stop for coffee, restroom breaks, and stretching your legs—an appreciated moment to relax before the main exploration.

Gjirokastra: A Step Back in Time

Once you arrive in Gjirokastra, you’ll immediately feel the charm. The town’s Ottoman architecture and unique stone houses create a fairy-tale vibe. Your guide will walk you through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, sharing stories about its history and the significance of its well-preserved structures. We found that the castle, towering above the town, offers sweeping views and a glimpse into the past, while the lively bazaar brings a splash of color and local life.

According to reviews, Gjirokastra is a place where you can wander at your own pace, browsing handmade crafts, local shops, or visiting museums. There’s about two hours of guided tour time, but you’ll also have over an hour and a half of free time to explore, shop, or grab a traditional Albanian lunch. Many visitors mention how friendly and passionate the guides are—like Ervin, who “played local music and shared his love for the country,” making the experience more personal.

The Blue Eye: A Natural Marvel

In the afternoon, it’s time for the highlight of many—the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër). This stunning spring is famous for its crystal-clear water that seems to gaze back at you like a giant, tranquil eye. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a perfect spot to walk around, take photos, or dip your feet in the refreshingly cold water (which stays chilly all year).

Reviews reveal that some travelers found the Blue Eye a bit underwhelming, calling it “not as grand as expected,” but most agree it’s a beautiful and peaceful setting. You’ll have about an hour here, enough time for a leisurely walk around, capturing photos, or just soaking in the tranquility.

Itinerary Breakdown: How the Day Unfolds

• Pickup and Drive: From Tirana, Durrës, or Golem, with stops for coffee and leg-stretching.
• Ardenica Monastery: A short 30-minute stop to admire the peaceful setting and historic monastery.
• Gjirokastra Guided Tour: 2 hours exploring the old town, castle, and bazaar, with insights from your guide.
• Lunch & Free Time in Gjirokastra: Over an hour and a half to enjoy lunch, shop, or visit a museum.
• Skenduli House Visit: A 45-minute tour of this traditional Ottoman-style house, adding depth to your understanding of local history.
• Blue Eye: An hour to enjoy the spring’s natural beauty and serenity.
• Return Journey: About 3.5 hours back to your starting point, with a quick stop in Golem if needed.

What Travelers Love and Some Considerations

Many reviewers highlight the expertise of guides like Klajdi, Ervin, and Bledi. They’re praised not only for their knowledge but also for their friendliness and attentiveness—like how Ervin “offered pain relief when feeling unwell” or Bledi “shared local music during the drive.” These personal touches make the long day more enjoyable.

However, with long travel times, some mention that the trip could start earlier or that the Blue Eye’s small size might not be as impressive as some expect. Still, given the amazing views and authentic experiences, most feel it’s well worth the effort.

Transportation & Comfort

The tour features air-conditioned vans, which is a big plus for comfort during the lengthy drive. Road taxes are included, so you won’t be hassled with extra charges. The small group size—often just a handful of travelers—encourages a more intimate and relaxed vibe, allowing guides to cater to individual needs and questions.

Some reviews mention that pickup times may shift slightly, so staying flexible and checking your messages is key. The guides communicate via WhatsApp, and most travelers appreciated the professional organization.

Cost and Value

For $38 per person, this tour offers a remarkable balance of price and experience. It includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance to key sights. While meals and the Blue Eye swim are not included, the free time allows you to choose whether to indulge in local cuisine or pack your own snacks.

Given the length and scope of this trip, the price feels fair. You’re getting a well-organized day of sightseeing that covers both cultural and natural highlights, with lots of opportunities to take photos, ask questions, and explore at your pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history enthusiasts wanting to see a beautifully preserved Ottoman town, or nature lovers eager to experience one of Albania’s most iconic springs. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a cost-effective day trip that hits multiple highlights without the hassle of organizing transport yourself.

Considering the long drive, it suits those with a moderate level of fitness and patience for a full day on the road. If you’re traveling with kids or have mobility concerns, note that walking around the Blue Eye involves a 20-minute walk, so planning accordingly is advised.

Final thoughts

This tour from Tirana or Durrës offers a well-rounded glimpse into Albania’s culture, history, and natural beauty. With expert guides, comfortably paced stops, and a chance to see two very different but equally spectacular sites, it’s a smart pick for travelers wanting to maximize their day.

The value for money is clear—the tour’s price covers transportation, guidance, and access to key sights, making it an excellent option for those wanting an authentic, hassle-free experience. While the long drive might be tiring, most reviews point out that the scenic journey and stunning destinations make it worthwhile.

If you’re after a balanced day trip that combines culture with natural wonder, this tour hits the mark. Perfect for curious explorers eager to get a taste of Albania’s diverse landscape and history without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned vans, with pick-up and drop-off from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem. Road taxes are also covered.

How long is the drive?
The round trip is about four hours each way, so it’s quite a long journey but with planned stops for breaks and refreshments.

Can I swim at the Blue Eye?
Swimming isn’t officially included and some reviews mention that swimming isn’t allowed, but you’ll have time to dip your feet and enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and water. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, giving you the freedom to choose where and what to eat in Gjirokastra.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best for those with a basic fitness level, as there’s a 20-minute walk at the Blue Eye. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or wheelchairs.

This detailed tour review highlights an experience that balances cultural discovery with natural beauty, all at a very reasonable price. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking sights, it’s a fantastic way to see some of Albania’s most treasured spots in one memorable day.