Sarande: Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, and Ottoman Bridge Tour
Albania
Activity
Official tickets via GetYourGuide
Discover the Blue Eye spring, explore the UNESCO town of Gjirokastra, and walk across the historic Ottoman Bridge—all in one guided tour. Enjoy breathtaking nature, culture, and history.
Highlights
- Visit the breathtaking Blue Eye spring with its crystal-clear waters
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Gjirokastra
- Discover traditional Ottoman architecture and cobbled streets
- Walk across the historic Ottoman Bridge
- Enjoy a guided experience that blends nature, history, and culture
Description
The day tour will include 3 destinations. The departure is at 8:45 and we are ready to enjoy a wonderful day exploring the beautiful nature of Southern Albania. The first stop is at the Blue Eye. Entrance ticket is 50 lek, however it is included in the tour so you will not have to pay. Then you can walk a 2 km trail or take the train (ticket costs 600 lek). The Blue Eye is a natural spring, at a depth of more than 50 meters. The spring is wonderfully created by the nuances of colors, which the human eye is amazed to see. Nature has painted this spring in the shape of an eye. The shape of the eye looks deep blue in the middle and blue on the sides. After refreshing ourselves in the cold water, we leave for our second destination the Ottoman Bridge. The construction, intertwined with the style of oriental Ottoman architecture, the three magnificent decorative arches and the complete paving with cobblestones give it great historical and architectural values, while it is now functional for the passage of pedestrians and vehicles. The bridge is 20 meters long and 7 meters high at its peak. The third destination is Gjirokaster. Gjirokaster has wonderful and picturesque views. The characteristic houses and special architecture give it the appearance of a ship in the Drino valley. What makes Gjirokaster quite famous are the architectural values of the construction of stone houses, tiled roofs and cobblestones. There you can visit the historical center, the unique bazaar, its characteristic cobblestones, the magnificent castle. There is an entrance fee to the Gjirokaster Castle that costs 400 lek or 4 euros, however the visit at the castle is not mandatory. Departure and arrival will be made with very comfortable and air-conditioned Hunday or Mercedes minivans.Includes
1. Fully insured transport in a new, air-conditioned minivan (suitable for 7 passengers) 2. Professional driver-guide 3. Visit to Gjirokaster, Blue Eye, Ottoman Bridge, the Bunkers from Albania's communist era 4. Entrance ticket at the Blue Eye (50 lek).Excludes
Not included: 1.Food or snacks. 2.Entry ticket for the castle of Gjirokaster and the train at the Blue Eye.Important Information
- You should wear light clothes, hats , comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle with you. It is very important that you bring some cash with you because most businesses do not accept cards.