Saranda All Included: Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Imagine a day where you don’t have to worry about a thing, just relax and soak in the best of Southern Albania.
Our “Saranda All Included” tour brings you face-to-face with some of the country’s most stunning places: the ancient city of Butrint, the crystal waters of Ksamil, the hidden magic of the Blue Eye, and the sweeping views from Lekurësi Castle.
With guaranteed entrance tickets, comfy transport, and a local guide who’s been sharing these stories and places for over 13 years, you’re in the best hands.
We keep our groups small, our pace easy, and our vibe friendly, giving you time to dive into the culture, uncover hidden spots, and really connect with the beauty around you.
If you’re the kind of traveler who values authentic experiences, loves stunning landscapes, and enjoys taking the time to truly connect with each place, this journey was made for you.
Available options
Saranda All Included: Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle
Pickup included
What's included
Entrance fee to The Blue Eye
Entrance fee to Butrint National Park - at 11 euro per person
Private transportation
Bottled water
WiFi on board
Personalized Pick Up and Drop Off
Air-conditioned vehicle
Nationally licensed tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
We start at Butrint National Park, Albania’s most iconic site, and the first to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I’ve guided here for 15 years and even helped with excavations, getting to know this place well. We’ll begin at the Sanctuary of Asklepios, where ancient healing took place, and then move on to the Theater, Roman Baths, and the Gymnasium.
After that, we’ll see the beautiful Baptistry mosaics and the Great Basilica.
We’ll pass through the Monumental Gates and finish with stunning views from the Venetian Castle.
There is no rush here, just a chance to truly feel the past.
Relax, enjoy the stories, and connect with history along the way.
2
Ksamil- The Postcard Made Real
We’ll take a 30-minute pause in Ksamil, just long enough to soak in the postcard beauty of this coastal gem. With its powder-white beaches, crystal-clear shallows, and the tiny green islands scattered just offshore, Ksamil feels almost too perfect to be real. It’s the kind of place where time slows down—you’ll have a chance to snap a few unforgettable photos, breathe in the salty breeze, and maybe dip your toes in the Ionian Sea.
Even in a short stop, the magic of Ksamil leaves an impression
3
The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is a natural wonder, a karstic spring with waters so clear and deep they seem to glow with every shade of blue and green imaginable.
This is a place where the earth’s secrets bubble up to the surface, and the colors shift before your eyes, drawing you in like an artist’s brushstroke.
4
Stop 4
Lekursi Castle stands proudly 250 meters above sea level, offering an unparalleled 360-degree view of the entire region around Saranda and the Ionian coast.
From this hilltop fortress, you’ll have a sweeping panorama that stretches out over the sparkling waters, the hills, and the coastline. It’s not just about the castle—this vantage point gives you a chance to see it all: the Blue Eye, the ancient ruins of Butrint, and the shores of Ksamil, all from above.
You’ll feel like you’re standing on top of the world, with the history of the region and the natural beauty laid out before you, ready to be absorbed. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your journey—taking in the whole picture, from the land to the sea, and everything in between.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Meet your guide/driver right at the street sign displaying the bus station imagery. Look for a guide with a licensed badge and holding a sign with the travelers names.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
