Blue Eye & Gjirokaster Private Tour: Castle & Old Bazaar

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) near Saranda is a stunning natural spring with crystal-clear, vibrant turquoise waters. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s a peaceful spot perfect for nature lovers. Accessible by car or bus, it’s a must-see destination in Albania.(Drive time included)

   2 hAdmission included

2. Gjirokastër, often called the "City of Stone," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Albania. Nestled in the Drino Valley, it is renowned for its Ottoman-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic charm. The city is dominated by the Gjirokastër Castle, which offers panoramic views and a glimpse into its rich history. It's also the birthplace of notable figures like author Ismail Kadare and former leader Enver Hoxha. A visit here feels like stepping into a living museum, blending culture, history, and stunning landscapes.(Drive time included)

   2 h

3. Gjirokastra Castle, also known as Kalaja e Gjirokastrës, is a historic fortress perched on a hill overlooking the town of Gjirokastra in southern Albania. Dating back to the 12th century, it has been expanded and modified over the centuries, including significant additions by Ali Pasha of Tepelena in the 19th century. The castle offers breathtaking views of the Drino Valley and houses a military museum, an artillery gallery, and even the remains of a U.S. Air Force plane. It is also the venue for the National Folk Festival, celebrating Albania's rich cultural heritage. A visit here is like stepping back in time, surrounded by history and stunning landscapes.(Drive time included)

   1 hAdmission included

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 8 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Saranda

• Its from-price is 60% above the median of the 172 experiences we list in Saranda.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 63 of 172.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Saranda

Saranda is a sunny port on Albania's Ionian coast, curved around a wide bay with the Greek island of Corfu in sight across the water.

Saranda climbs a steep hillside above its bay, with a palm-lined promenade at the water's edge and apartment blocks stacked up the slope. Its name is a local form of the Greek for Forty Saints, after a monastery whose ruins lie among the houses. The mosaic floor of an ancient synagogue was found near the harbour, and Lëkurësi Castle, a sixteenth-century fortress on the ridge, looks over the town towards Corfu.

Top-ranked sights in Saranda: Lekursi Castle (Kajala e Lekuresit).

See all 172 experiences in Saranda