Tour Gjirokaster,Blue Eye & Lekursi Castle

Experience the Charm of Albania with the Gjirokaster, Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle Tour

This highly-rated tour offers a wonderful taste of Albania’s cultural and natural gems—all in a manageable 5 to 6 hours. Perfect for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without feeling rushed, this small-group experience combines history, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure.

One standout aspect is how personalized the experience feels, thanks to the small group size and attentive guides. However, if you’re expecting a guided, narrated tour everywhere you go, be aware that it’s mostly a scenic drive with some guided moments. It’s an ideal choice for those who love authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and for travelers keen on seeing both historical towns and natural wonders.

If you enjoy exploring historical sites at a relaxed pace, savoring spectacular landscapes, and benefiting from expert local insights, this tour will suit you perfectly. It offers a flexible and value-packed way to discover some of Albania’s top sights in just half a day.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures a more personal touch and better attention from your guide.
• Visit two major sites—Gjirokaster’s UNESCO-listed old town and the Blue Eye spring—within one day.
• Comfortable transportation with pickup from your hotel or port simplifies logistics.
• Authentic insights from guides enhance understanding, especially about Gjirokaster’s history and Blue Eye’s natural phenomenon.
• Flexible timing allows 1-3 hours at each site, leaving you free for the rest of your day.
• Great value at just $41.50 per person, including entrance fees to Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Gjirokaster (Old Town)

Your day kicks off with pickup from your hotel or the port in Saranda, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free experience. The drive to Gjirokaster, a city often called the “stone city,” is scenic—think winding mountain roads and lush countryside. Once there, you’ll spend about two hours wandering through its Ottoman-era streets, filled with dark slate roofs and stone houses that seem to tell stories of centuries past.

The highlight here is Gjirokaster’s castle, which dominates the hillside. While some reviews mention that the hike up might be daunting, the views from the top are absolutely worth it. The castle, built in the 12th century, is a key historical site and provides sweeping vistas of the Drina Valley. Many visitors, like one reviewer, appreciated the well-preserved 600 stone houses and the town’s charming atmosphere. It’s also noteworthy that Enver Hoxha, Albania’s former dictator, was born here—though the town today isn’t overly memorialized, which keeps things feeling authentic rather than touristy.

Next stop: The Blue Eye

After Gjirokaster, it’s about a 45-minute drive to the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most photogenic natural wonders. Here, you’ll get to witness the turquoise waters of the spring, a phenomenon that has captivated visitors for generations. The spring’s deep blue and light turquoise hues create a mesmerizing contrast against the surrounding dense forest.

What we loved, based on reviews, is how accessible the Blue Eye is, with a short walk from the parking area to a viewing platform. A metal balcony allows close-up views, though swimming isn’t permitted—despite some people jumping in, signs clearly prohibit it. The clarity and coldness of the water come as a shock, but that only adds to the thrill. Expect about two hours here for plenty of photo opportunities and a peaceful stroll through nature.

Final stop: Lekuresi Castle

The last destination is Lekuresi Castle, perched on a hill with panoramic views over Saranda and the Ionian Sea. A quick 30-minute visit is enough to soak in the scenery and snap some memorable pictures. The castle isn’t just about history; it’s about the sweeping vistas that make the climb worthwhile. One reviewer mentioned that the views from here are simply breathtaking, perfect for a relaxing end to the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Comfort and Convenience: The air-conditioned vehicle and hotel or port pickup mean you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics. This turns what could be a complicated day into a smooth experience.

Authentic Guided Experience: Guides like Orlando, who many reviewers praise for his knowledge and friendliness, bring history and local insights to life. As one reviewer put it, Orlando’s storytelling made the trip “so much better,” and he was both well-informed and engaging.

Value for Money: At only $41.50, including entrance fees to Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle, the tour offers a lot. The optional entrance fee for Gjirokaster Castle ($4) and Blue Eye’s train ticket ($6) are minor additional costs, but even without these, the experience is quite comprehensive.

Flexibility and Free Time: After about 1-3 hours at each site, the rest of the day remains free—ideal for those who want a relaxed pace or plan to explore more independently afterward.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers repeatedly praised the guides for their friendliness and knowledge. One noted how Orlando provided interesting tidbits about Albania and the sites, making the experience richer. Another mentioned that the mountain roads to Gjirokaster are “beautiful,” adding to the overall enjoyment. While some found the hike up Gjirokaster’s castle challenging, others found the town to resemble a Swiss village—highlighting its picturesque charm.

A reviewer cautioned about the absence of a guided tour in some parts, clarifying that the experience is more of a scenic transfer with stops rather than an in-depth guided walk everywhere. Still, most appreciated the personalized attention and the opportunity to customize the day according to their pace.

Practical Details and Tips

• Transportation: The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the drive between sites pleasant and hassle-free.
• Timing: Starting at 9:15 am ensures you’ll beat the midday crowds at some sites and fit everything comfortably within about six hours.
• Group Size: Limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• Booking and Cancellation: Flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—perfect if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers craving a combination of cultural exploration and natural beauty in a relaxed setting. If you appreciate guided insights and want to avoid the hassle of planning transport or tickets, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, historical towns, and stunning landscapes without too much walking or strenuous activity.

On top of that, if your time in Saranda is limited but you still want a meaningful taste of Albania’s highlights, this tour packs a lot into a half-day adventure. It appeals to curious travelers who value authentic experiences, friendly guides, and breathtaking scenery all rolled into one.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Saranda to Gjirokaster, the Blue Eye, and Lekuresi Castle delivers an engaging mix of history, natural wonder, and stunning vistas. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and included entrance fees make it a practical and enjoyable way to see some of Albania’s most beloved attractions. You’ll appreciate the relaxed pace, the scenic drives, and the authentic atmosphere that makes each stop memorable.

While it’s not filled with lengthy guided tours at every site, what you gain—beautiful landscapes, insightful commentary, and the chance to explore at your own pace—more than makes up for it. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking a balance of culture, nature, and scenic views without overloading the day.

Overall, if your goal is to see Albania’s highlights in comfort and style, this tour offers excellent value. It’s an adventure that will leave you with plenty of photos, stories, and appreciation for this enchanting country.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel or port pickup is provided, making it easy to start your day without transportation worries.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 5 to 6 hours, with plenty of flexibility at each stop.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance to Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle is included, but the optional Gjirokaster Castle entrance (~$4) and Blue Eye train ticket (~$6) are extras.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, guided by knowledgeable local guides, like Orlando, who provide insights and interesting stories during the trip.

What is the group size?
Limited to around 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is designed with a set itinerary, but the flexible timing allows some personal pacing at each site.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Bring a camera for the stunning views and a small snack or water if desired.

This tour offers a balanced, authentic look at some of Albania’s finest sights, all in an accessible, friendly format—perfect for travelers seeking meaningful exploration without the fuss.