Daily Tour : Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, Ottoman Bridge, Lekursi
Gjirokaster District, Albania
Join us on a daily trip from Saranda to Lekursi. Explore the Blue Eye Spring, the Mesopotam Monastery, and the Ottoman Bridge. Enjoy a traditional lunch (extra cost) in the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastra.
Daily Saranda to Gjirokaster and Blue Eye Tour with Expert Guide
This full-day guided tour from Saranda is ideal for history and nature enthusiasts exploring southern Albania’s key landmarks.
Tour Highlights
- Explore the rich history of Gjirokaster and Mesopotam Monastery
- Enjoy panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle and the Blue Eye spring
- Visit the Ottoman Bridge and remaining communist-era bunkers
- Travel comfortably in new luxurious Mercedes Vito Tourer minivans
- Expert English-speaking guide enhances the experience
- Return drop-off at your hotel in Saranda
Tour Description
The daily tour departs from Saranda at 8:50 am and returns by 6:00 pm, covering six main locations with professional guidance throughout.
Start at Lekuresi Castle (30 minutes, free entrance), a 16th-century Ottoman fortress atop a hill offering panoramic views of Saranda.
Next, visit Mesopotam Monastery (30 minutes, free entrance), dating from the 11th to 13th centuries. The site has served Catholic, Orthodox, and later Ottoman Muslim purposes, built on pre-Christian temple ruins.
Continue to the Blue Eye spring (2 hours, 50 cents entry), a natural underwater spring with a constant temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, set in a lush forest environment.
Visit the Ottoman Bridge and communist-era bunkers (30 minutes, free entrance) for insight into Albania’s layered historical periods and architectural heritage.
Conclude in Gjirokaster (3 hours), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, stone houses, castle, cobbled streets, and traditional Albanian cuisine opportunities.
Throughout the tour, travel in fully insured, air-conditioned Mercedes Vito Tourer minivans designed for 1 to 7 passengers. The English-speaking guide provides detailed commentary at each stop.
Includes
- Fully insured transport in new air-conditioned Mercedes Vito Tourer minivans
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Visit to Gjirokaster, Blue Eye, Lekuresi Castle, Mesopotam Monastery, Ottoman Bridge, and communist-era bunkers
- Return drop-off at your hotel in Saranda
Excludes
- Food and beverages
- Blue Eye entry ticket (50 cents)
Cancellation Policy
Full refund available for cancellations made up to 24 hours before the tour start time.
Booking Tips
Book in advance to secure your preferred date. Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, and a camera. The best months to visit are spring through autumn for mild weather and clear views.
