Saranda Special Butrint Blue Eye Lekuresi Castle and Ksamil

Saranda , Albania

Saranda Special Butrint Blue Eye Lekuresi Castle and Ksamil

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About this experience

Saranda’s Special isn’t just a sightseeing trip—it’s a full experience of southern Albania’s most breathtaking highlights. You’ll explore iconic landmarks, uncover local stories, and enjoy the perfect mix of history, nature, and relaxation. Start your journey with panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle, marvel at the stunning colors of the Blue Eye Spring, and dive into centuries of history at Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. End the day in Ksamil, where you’ll have free time to swim in crystal-clear waters or enjoy fresh seafood by the beach. With a friendly local guide, comfortable transport, and well-paced stops, this tour blends nature, culture, and leisure—making it ideal for every type of traveler. Whether it’s your first time in Albania or you’re rediscovering its charm, this tour promises memories that last a lifetime. Join for an adventure where every stop is a highlight!

Available options

Saranda Special Butrint Blue Eye Lekuresi Castle and Ksamil

What's included

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Professional and Local Guide

All Entrancee Fees are included

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Begin your journey with breathtaking panoramic views at Lekuresi Castle, perched high above Saranda. Travelers will explore the ancient ruins of this 16th-century fortress, once built to guard against pirate attacks. From here, enjoy stunning vistas of the Ionian Sea, the town below, and even the island of Corfu on clear days. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the beauty of the Albanian Riviera and snap unforgettable photos to kick off your adventure.

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of the Blue Eye Spring, a natural wonder nestled in lush woodlands near Saranda. This enchanting freshwater spring captivates visitors with its crystal-clear, vibrant blue waters that resemble a deep, shimmering eye. While swimming is prohibited to preserve its pristine condition, travelers can enjoy leisurely walks around the area, take stunning photographs, and relax at the nearby café, soaking in the tranquil ambiance of this serene oasis.

Step back in time at Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Albania’s most important archaeological treasures. Travelers will wander through ancient ruins that span Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian eras—all nestled within a lush natural landscape. From the grand amphitheater and Roman baths to the tranquil lake and city walls, every corner of Butrint tells a story. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature that will leave visitors truly inspired.
The entrance fee is 1000 Lek/10 Euros per person.

Conclude your adventure in the idyllic coastal village of Ksamil, renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Travelers will have ample free time to unwind on the sun-kissed shores, take a refreshing swim, or explore the inviting waters by paddleboat. For those interested in dining, Ksamil offers a variety of seaside restaurants and beach bars where guests can savor fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Whether you choose to relax on the beach, take a dip in the serene waters, or indulge in local cuisine, Ksamil provides the perfect setting to reflect on a day filled with exploration and discovery.

What's not included

Lunch/Snacks are not included - Prices vary according to food preferences.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We meet travellers at our office location provided above. The office is located 200 meters from the port of Saranda, and it is just in front of the roundabout.

About Saranda

Saranda is a charming coastal town in southern Albania, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to the ancient ruins of Butrint. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Butrint National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a well-preserved theater, baptistery, and various temples.

Historical 2-3 hours €7

Lekursi Castle

A historic castle offering panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea. It's a great spot for sunset views.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Ksamil Beach

A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and small islands nearby. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free to €10 for sunbeds and umbrellas

Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

A natural spring with incredibly clear, blue water. It's a popular spot for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty.

Nature Half day €2 for parking

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian baked dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt.

Main Dish Contains dairy and meat

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat

Peshk në Zgarë

Grilled fish, often sea bass or sea bream, served with lemon and olive oil.

Main Dish Contains fish

Fërgesë

A traditional dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often served with bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Butrint National Park Scuba diving in Ksamil Boat tours to Ksamil Islands Sunbathing at Ksamil Beach Yoga on the beach Spa treatments Exploring Butrint National Park Visiting Lekursi Castle

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, ideal for beach activities and exploring the town. The sea is at its warmest, and the town is lively with various events and festivals.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Italian, Greek
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

GMT+1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Saranda is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport • 200 km from Saranda

By bus

Saranda Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Saranda. They are frequent and connect major points in the town.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Albania

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Ksamil Butrint

Day trips

Corfu, Greece

15 km from Saranda • Half day to full day

A beautiful Greek island with ancient ruins, historic sites, and stunning beaches.

Llogara Pass

80 km from Saranda • Full day

A stunning mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Albanian Riviera.

Gjipe Canyon

60 km from Saranda • Full day

A beautiful canyon with a hidden beach, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Saranda Summer Festival • July to August Butrint Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Butrint National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
Take a boat tour to the Ksamil Islands for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek for an authentic taste of Albanian cuisine.
Explore the town on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local secrets.
Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.