Visiting the highlights of southern Albania
Some of the top iconic things to see in the southern parts of Albania include the Blue Eye and UNESCO World Heritage City of Gjirokastër. You can visit these iconic spots on a day tour from Tirana but expect to be in the bus for hours getting to the southern part of the Albania. Alternatively, if you are spending time in Sarandë or Ksmail this is an ideal start to a tour to these amazing attractions. My friends and I did a tour from Ksamil through GetYourGuide that went to the Monastery of St Nikolla, the Blue Eye, Gjirokastër, and Lekuresi Castle in Sarandë. It was a great way to see these amazing parts of Albania and a perfect day tour. This post will give some information about the stops and how to make the most of your time there!
Doing a Day Tour Versus DIY
We elected to do a day tour for several reasons- it was a great way to see a lot in a short period of time and it took out the stress of renting a car and driving in Albania. The logistics were all handled for us and the tour was very affordable.
If you wanted to do your own thing the roads to the Blue Eye were well paved and there is a big parking lot for people visiting. Gjirokastër is about 65 km away or about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1.5 hours away depending which way you drive. Our tour bus parked in a paid garage just at the base of town and this would be feasible with your own car as well. Lekuresi Castle is in Sarandë and up a winding road. Lots of people visit during sunset but honestly I wouldn’t want to be driving that road in the dark. St. Nikolas Monastery we had to drive up a bit of a unpaved road and we stopped there on the way to the Blue Eye.
First Stop - Monastery of St Nikolla
Our first stop was the Monastery of St Nikolla. It was the largest monastery in Albania dating back to the 6th century. The monastery has both Catholic and Orthodox rites. It was then converted to a mosque by the Ottomans thus a blue wash covers the original frescos. Intact Byzantine-era frescoes were found under the white walls. It was a great short stop to admire the structure and frescos.
Next Stop-the Blue eye
The Blue Eye is a natural pool with stunning crystal clear waters. It remains around 10 degrees Celsius year round. Swimming is not permitted in the Blue Eye. You can walk around it and go up a platform to view it from above. There are souvenir shops and restaurants nearby. To get to the Blue Eye you have to walk 20 minutes or take a train shuttle or rent an electric bike. One part of the viewing includes walking down a little sandy hill. I was happy to be wearing sneakers for this part alone. The rest could have been done in sandals.
Next Stop-Gjirokastër
Visiting Gjirokastër, Albania’s “Stone City,” feels like stepping back in time. Its cobbled streets wind between Ottoman-era houses with slate roofs and stunning mountain views. Exploring the grand Gjirokastër Castle and lively bazaars is an absolute must. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers rich history, culture, and authentic Albanian charm. On our day trip here this is where we also had time to grab lunch. We got traditional food which was great!
Last stop- Lekuresi Castle
Visiting Lekuresi Castle near Sarandë, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, Corfu, and the Albanian Riviera. Perched on a hill, this 16th-century fortress is perfect exploring the ruins, taking in the views or grabbing a drink or food. It is a popular sunset destination. Our tour gave us some time to explore and take in the views. We were there during the afternoon for about 15 minutes which was sufficient.
Top Tips for a One day tour
What to Bring
Bring some cash because you have to pay entrance to Blue Hole 100 lek in cash only. It is also good to have cash for shops in Gjirokastër though some take credit cards. Bring cash or card for lunch if on day tour as lunch not included. Also entry to the Gjirokastër is not included they take cash or card. And of course don’t forget your camera!
What to Wear
The tour advised wearing sneakers- the only place it was really needed was in one area on the Blue Hole but the other stops I wore sandals. The stone streets in Gjirokastër could be slippery but I did ok in sandals. Comfortable shoes or sneakers makes sense. Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must for sunny days. You will not need a swimsuit as swimming is not permitted at the Blue Eye.
Go from Ksamil or Sarandë
While you can do a tour from Tirana to these sites I highly recommend doing it from Ksamil or Sarandë if you are visiting those areas. Geographically it is much closer so less travel in a bus or van. My friends and I did this tour and were back in Ksamil in time for some drinks for sunset. Even still is a packed day.
Book early
Especially during peak season booking your tour in advance is recommended. We were in shoulder season in September so was not as challenging but during the summer it may be more challenging. Also I would recommend going during the week if feasible as the weekends are busier at these attractions.
Take in the views
Wow! All of these stops had incredible views. There are fantastic views from the Gjirokastër Castle and from Lekuresi Castle in Sarandë. Bring your camera!
Plan your trip
If you haven’t made it to Albania yet, consider this your inspiration to go. It is beyond beautiful and you will not be disappointed. This day tour was a great adventure from Ksamil and it really packed in some of the top attractions in the southern part of Albania. I highly recommend visiting this area and doing this tour.
