Tour of Riviera from Tirana / Durres Ksamil Saranda and Blue Eye

Explore Albania’s Coastal Highlights on a Full-Day Tour

This day trip from Tirana offers a glimpse into some of Albania’s most captivating seaside destinations for $191.58 per person. The tour covers around 12 to 13 hours, including visits to Blue Eye, Ksamil, Saranda, and Porto Palermo, with convenient hotel pickup and private transportation. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive experience of southern Albania’s natural beauty, history, and culture in a single day.

While the tour provides a rich mix of scenery, history, and local flavor, it involves a substantial amount of road time—so it suits those who enjoy long scenic drives and are prepared for a full day of exploration. The tour has received a strong 4.5/5 rating based on 43 reviews, with 95% recommending it for its impressive sights and knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Full-day trip lasting approximately 12 to 13 hours from Tirana
• Visits to Blue Eye spring, Ksamil beach, Saranda city, Lekursi Castle, and Porto Palermo Castle
• Private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Entrance fees included for major sites; lunch and snacks are not included
• Tour operates most days with advance booking recommended, booked about 17 days ahead on average
• Guided experience with an experienced guide providing historical stories and local insights

Starting the Journey: Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins early at 7:30 am with hotel pickup arranged through the tour provider, Go as Local. The vehicle is air-conditioned and designed for comfort during the long drive across southern Albania. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, which allows for flexibility and personalized attention from the guide.

Expect to spend a good portion of the day on the road—approximately 3.5 hours before reaching the first stop at Blue Eye. The route takes you along the scenic coast, with panoramic views across the Llogara Pass overseeing the seashore, setting the tone for the day’s highlights.

Visiting Blue Eye: Nature’s Magical Spring

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) marks the first major stop after a 3.5-hour drive. This natural spring features extraordinarily clear water that makes it look almost surreal, especially under sunlight. The spring is situated in a small village near Finiq, with a 25-minute walk from the parking area to the spring itself.

For those who prefer a quicker visit, a €3 mini train shuttle is available from the administration, making the journey to the spring more accessible. Visitors can enjoy a brief hike and take stunning photos or take a quick swim in the spring’s refreshing waters. Admission costs €30 per person, included in the tour.

Ksamil: The Maldives of Europe

Next on the itinerary is Ksamil, renowned for its vibrant blue waters and pristine beaches. Many describe Ksamil as the most beautiful beach in Albania and have dubbed it The Maldives of Europe. The free stop here lasts about an hour, giving ample time to stroll along the shore, dip your toes in the water, or snap vibrant photos for social media.

During peak summer months, Ksamil becomes quite busy, so the tour may be adjusted to accommodate crowds. Still, the beautiful scenery and crystal-clear sea leave a lasting impression, making this stop a true highlight of the trip.

Saranda: Coastal Charm and Cultural Flavor

The bustling city of Saranda provides a lively contrast to the natural stops. Here, visitors enjoy a two-hour break for lunch and exploration. Saranda features a scenic promenade, modern resort hotels, and a variety of local Albanian-Greek cuisine. The city’s olive trees and relaxing atmosphere make it an excellent place for a casual meal and a walk along the waterfront.

This stop also offers a chance to experience local life and enjoy some downtime before heading to the castle overlooking the bay.

Kalaja e Lëkurësit: Panoramic Views and a Historic Castle

A brief 20-minute drive from Saranda leads to Lekursi Castle (Kalaja e Lëkurësit). This historic fortress offers sweeping panoramic views of the bay of Saranda and the nearby Island of Korfu. Visitors can take photos of the spectacular landscape and enjoy a refreshing drink or dessert at the site.

The castle, built during the Ottoman period, provides an excellent vantage point to appreciate the coastline and the surrounding sea, making it a popular photo stop.

Porto Palermo: The Fortress and Submarine Base

A highlight of the tour is Porto Palermo, a cape with a well-preserved castle built by Ali Pasha in the 19th century. The Porto Palermo Castle overlooks the bay, and visitors can explore its historic walls. The site also features the Porto Palermo Tunnel, which was a submarine base constructed in 1969 during Enver Hoxha’s regime.

The bay’s beautiful beach makes it an ideal spot for photos and relaxing moments. The military history combined with natural beauty creates a unique setting for visitors.

Return Route via “Lumi i Vlores”

After a full day of sightseeing, the return trip begins with a drive back through Lumi i Vlores. This scenic route offers further views of the Albanian countryside and coastline before arriving back in Tirana. The transfer is 20 minutes, with entrance fees included for all sites visited during the day.

Practical Aspects: What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour fee covers private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, professional guide, fuel, and all entrance fees to sites like Blue Eye and Porto Palermo Castle. However, lunch, snacks, and personal expenses are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with most reviews emphasizing the friendly and knowledgeable guide and the well-organized schedule. The long day requires good stamina and a willingness to spend time on the road—some reviews note the trip can be exhausting, especially due to the long driving hours.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Reviews highlight Daniel as an exceptionally warm and informative guide. He shares stories and historical context at each stop, making the experience more meaningful. The guide’s flexibility and consideration stand out, ensuring the group feels comfortable throughout the day.

Some feedback suggests that the long hours on the road could be tiring, but the guide’s friendly manner and frequent scenic stops help keep the mood positive.

Overall Value and Suitability

This tour offers excellent value given the comprehensive itinerary and included entrance fees. The private setup ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives and want a full overview of Albania’s coastal treasures in one day.

While the trip is long and busy, the stunning views, historic sites, and cultural stops justify the effort. It’s ideal for travelers with moderate stamina who want to see key highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings.

Final Thoughts on the Albanian Riviera Tour

This full-day excursion from Tirana provides a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture. The stops at Blue Eye and Ksamil showcase Albania’s pristine coastline, while Saranda and Porto Palermo offer urban charm and historic intrigue.

The guide’s expertise and personalized service add value, though travelers should be prepared for a substantial amount of traveling. The price reflects the comprehensive experience and convenience of private transportation, making it well-suited for those eager to explore southern Albania in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, guide, fuel, and entrance fees to sites like Blue Eye and Porto Palermo.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, but there is ample opportunity to enjoy local cuisine during the stop in Saranda.

How long is the drive to Blue Eye?
The drive from Tirana to Blue Eye takes approximately 3.5 hours each way, with scenic views along the route.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the long hours on the road may be tiring for young children or elderly guests. The walk to Blue Eye takes about 25 minutes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection, water, and cash for snacks or souvenirs are recommended.

Is it easy to customize the schedule?
As a private tour, there’s some flexibility, but the itinerary is largely fixed to ensure all stops are covered within the day.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour operates most days, but good weather is preferable for the outdoor stops like Blue Eye and Ksamil.

How strenuous is the tour?
It involves a long drive and walking at Blue Eye, so good stamina is recommended. The long hours on the vehicle can be tiring but are balanced by the scenic stops.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those interested in Albania’s coastline, history, and natural beauty, and comfortable with a full day on the road.