Gjirokaster & Blue Eye: Day Tour from Vlore

Explore Albania’s Historic Gjirokastër and the Blue Eye in One Day

This day tour from Vlore offers an engaging journey through southern Albania’s most captivating sights. For $152 per person, travelers spend 10 hours exploring Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-listed city known for its stone architecture and Ottoman heritage, alongside a visit to the Blue Eye spring—a natural wonder famous for its vibrant, deep blue waters. The tour is ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and nature, providing a well-rounded experience with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included.

The itinerary balances cultural exploration with scenic beauty, topped off with a traditional Albanian lunch. The tour’s professional guides speak both English and Italian, ensuring clear commentary throughout the day. While the pace is generally relaxed, some walking on cobblestone streets and forest trails is involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended. This tour suits curious travelers eager to see both historical sites and natural springs in a single day.

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Key Points

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Gjirokastër, also called the “City of Stone,” is a well-preserved Ottoman-era town.
• Major Attractions: Gjirokastër Castle, Old Bazaar, and Skenduli House showcase the city’s history and architecture.
• Blue Eye Spring: Enjoy a 1.5-hour free visit at Syri i Kaltër, famous for its icy blue waters bubbling from over 50 meters below.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle takes you smoothly through southern Albania’s countryside.
• Inclusive Tour: Hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and all taxes are included, with options to buy additional food or souvenirs.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; pay later to secure your spot.

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup in Vlore

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Vlore, making transfer straightforward. Once aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, travelers relax as the scenic drive takes them south through rolling hills, olive groves, and charming villages. The landscape offers a glimpse of Albania’s countryside, setting a peaceful tone for the day ahead. The journey to Gjirokastër lasts approximately 1 hour.

This comfortable start ensures that the focus remains on sightseeing rather than logistics. The friendly, professional guide provides briefings along the way, sharing insights about the local landscape and history. The small group size keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

Discovering Gjirokastër Castle and Its Panoramic Views

Upon arrival, the highlight is Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest fortresses in the Balkans. The guided 1-hour tour covers the castle’s impressive stone walls, towers, and its collection of historical weapons. From this vantage point, visitors receive stunning panoramic views of the Drino Valley.

The castle’s strategic position and well-preserved structure make it a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s medieval past. Its size and commanding presence showcase the importance of Gjirokastër during Ottoman times. Visitors can also explore the interior courtyards and learn about the castle’s historical role in regional defense.

Wandering Through the Old Bazaar and Traditional Zekate House

Next, a free hour is dedicated to exploring the Old Bazaar, where cobblestone streets are lined with artisan shops, craft stalls, and souvenir stores. This lively area provides opportunities to photograph traditional architecture and purchase handmade crafts.

A highlight here is the Zekate House, a 30-minute guided tour of an Ottoman-era tower house. The well-preserved Skenduli House offers insight into traditional Albanian domestic life, with its authentic furnishings and architecture. Walking through these historic homes provides a tangible connection to the region’s past.

During this time, visitors enjoy coffee or a quick snack, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Gjirokastër’s historic center.

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Authentic Albanian Lunch in the Old Town

After exploring, the tour includes a lunch break at a traditional restaurant in Gjirokastër. The 80-minute meal features authentic Albanian cuisine, allowing visitors to taste local flavors. The restaurant offers a warm, welcoming environment, with dishes that highlight regional ingredients and cooking styles.

This meal provides a restorative pause before heading to the natural highlight of the day. It’s an opportunity to relax, admire the historic setting, and perhaps reflect on the morning’s sightseeing.

Visiting the Blue Eye: Nature’s Magical Spring

The drive continues for approximately 45 minutes to the Blue Eye spring, Syri i Kaltër. This natural wonder is renowned for its deep, icy blue waters bubbling from over 50 meters below surface. Surrounded by lush forests, the site feels peaceful and pristine.

Visitors are free to spend about 1.5 hours at the Blue Eye. The short walk to the viewpoint offers excellent photo opportunities, capturing the vivid blue waters contrasted against green foliage. The area is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a calming natural environment. Some may choose to swim, as the waters are notably cold.

The site’s beauty and tranquility make it a memorable stop, giving travelers a chance to connect with Albania’s outdoor scenery.

Scenic Return Drive and Optional Additional Stop

On the way back to Vlore, travelers enjoy scenic views of southern Albania’s rolling hills. The relaxed pace allows for reflection on the day’s sights. An optional stop at a family-run traditional restaurant can be arranged at additional cost, offering more authentic Albanian cuisine.

This optional meal provides an extra opportunity to experience local hospitality and flavors before concluding the tour.

Convenient Drop-off in Vlore

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your Vlore hotel, completing a full day of exploration. The straightforward logistics and included transportation make it easy to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The entire experience is designed for comfort, learning, and enjoyment.

Why Choose This Tour? A Balance of Heritage and Nature

This Gjirokastër & Blue Eye tour offers a well-curated mix of historical sites and natural beauty. The visit to Gjirokastër Castle and the Old Bazaar highlights Ottoman architecture, while the Blue Eye spring showcases Albania’s untouched landscapes. The inclusion of a traditional Albanian lunch and hotel transfers enhances the overall value.

The tour’s 5-star rating from one review reflects its engaging content and well-organized structure. The knowledgeable guides, speaking English and Italian, help bring each location to life. The 10-hour duration provides a rundown without feeling rushed, making it suitable for first-time visitors.

While the walking involves cobblestone streets and forest trails, most travelers will find the pace manageable. The free entry to Blue Eye (subject to seasonal changes) and all taxes included simplify the experience.

Final Thoughts on the Gjirokaster & Blue Eye Day Tour

This full-day excursion from Vlore offers a rewarding combination of cultural discovery and natural scenery. The accessible route, engaging guide, and well-balanced schedule make it an attractive option for those wanting a comprehensive Albanian experience in a single day.

It suits travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and outdoor adventures, especially those eager to explore UNESCO-listed sites and renowned springs. The tour is a practical choice, providing transportation, guiding, and entry to key attractions, with the flexibility of optional additional stops and meals.

If you appreciate a blend of heritage and nature, and prefer an organized, hassle-free experience, this tour from Vlore is likely to meet your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $152 per person fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Vlore, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide speaking English and Italian, all taxes and fees, and free time at the Blue Eye with bottled water.

How long is the drive to Gjirokastër and the Blue Eye?
The drive to Gjirokastër takes around 1 hour, while the trip from Gjirokastër to the Blue Eye spring is approximately 45 minutes. The return drive also follows the scenic route back to Vlore.

Is the Blue Eye spring entry fee included?
Currently, entry to the Blue Eye is free, but this could change seasonally. No additional costs are specified for entry.

What should I bring for this tour?
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones and forest trails, a camera for photos, water to stay hydrated, and weather-appropriate clothing based on the forecast.

Can I customize the tour or add extra meals?
An additional stop at a family-run restaurant offering traditional cuisine can be arranged at extra cost. The tour offers flexibility for optional activities, depending on availability.

How do I cancel this tour if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing added flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most of the tour involves walking on cobblestones and some forest trails. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some light walking, but the overall pace remains manageable.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Italian, ensuring clear explanations during visits and walks at each site.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby