From Tirana: Saranda, Ksamil, and Blue Eye Day Trip

Discover the stunning coastline and natural wonders of southern Albania on a day trip from Tirana. Visit the coastal city of Saranda, relax on the beaches of Ksamil, and see the Blue Eye spring.

  • Duration

    16 hours

  • Type

    Day Tour

  • Starting

    Tirana, Durres

  • Ending

    Same as pickup point

  • Group size

    1 to 50

  • Live tour guide

    English

  • Difficulty

    Moderate

  • Cancellation

    Free cancellation 24h

Highlights

  • Relax on the white sandy shores and swim in the turquoise waters of Ksamil
  • Admire the stunning views of the Ionian Sea from the coastal city of Saranda
  • Discover the mesmerising Blue Eye spring, a vivid blue freshwater spring
  • Enjoy a scenic drive through the Albanian countryside and charming villages
  • Learn about Albania's history, culture and local traditions from your guide

Full description

Begin your journey with a comfortable morning pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in Tirana. Set off on a scenic drive through the diverse landscapes of central and southern Albania, passing rolling hills, traditional villages, and dramatic mountain scenery as your guide shares insights into the country’s history, culture, and everyday life.

Continue south toward the Albanian Riviera, where the landscape gradually transforms into lush greenery, olive groves, and breathtaking coastal views overlooking the Ionian Sea. Along the way, enjoy short photo stops and scenic viewpoints, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty that makes southern Albania so unique.

Upon arrival in Ksamil, often called the “Maldives of Albania,” enjoy free time to relax on its famous white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. You may choose to swim, sunbathe, or explore the small offshore islands that can be reached by boat or even by swimming. The area also offers excellent seaside restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy fresh seafood or a refreshing drink at your own pace.

Continue your journey toward the world-famous Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), one of Albania’s most stunning natural wonders. This mesmerizing freshwater spring features crystal-clear, deep blue water surrounded by lush greenery. Walk along the wooden pathways to admire different viewpoints, take in the serene atmosphere, and, for the adventurous, feel the icy spring water that remains at a constant 10°C throughout the year.

After visiting the Blue Eye, continue toward the coastal region for a short stop in Saranda, a vibrant seaside city overlooking the Ionian Sea. Enjoy a brief break along the palm-lined promenade, take in the beautiful sea views, and capture memorable photos of the coastline and surrounding islands.

In the afternoon, begin your return journey back to Tirana. Relax and enjoy the scenic drive as you pass once again through Albania’s diverse landscapes, reflecting on a day filled with history, natural beauty, and coastal charm. You will be dropped off at your original pickup point, marking the end of an unforgettable day trip.

Itinerary & Details

Your journey

StartFinishRoad route · 567 km

Suggested driving route in itinerary order. Walking, boat trips and local detours may differ.

  1. Tirana, Durres

  2. Drive

    (3 hours)

  3. Vjosa River

    (20 minutes)

  4. Drive

    (1,5 hours)

  5. Blue Eye of Saranda

    (1.5 hours)

  6. Drive

    (45 minutes)

  7. Ksamil

    (3 hours)

  8. Drive

    (30 minutes)

  9. Sarande

    (45 minutes)

  10. Drive

    (4.5 hours)

  11. Tirane, Durres

Pickup and meeting point

  • Please note that one day before the tour starts you will receive a message with pick up instructions via WHATSAPP.
  • You will be provided with an exact location via Google Maps link that will be at or very near your hotel along with the exact pick up time.
  • Kindly ensure you are at the provided location at the requested time.
  • The tour guide with the transportation will stop there, greet you and your trip will start!

What’s included

  • Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Included: Modern transportation with AC
  • Included: Live licensed tour guide
  • Included: Blue Eye Entrance fee
  • Included: Visit to Saranda
  • Included: Visit to Ksamil
  • Included: Visit to Blue Eye spring
  • Not included: Sunbeds and parasols in Ksamil
  • Not included: Optional train service at the Blue Eye
  • Not included: Personal expenses

Important information

What to bring

  • Sunglasses, Hat, Sunscreen
  • Swimwear

Know before you go

  • Please note that this tour has a very long duration as it extends all the way to the tip of South Albania
  • Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes.
  • Please carry cash for personal expenses, optional activities and beach services.

Q&A

How long does the tour last?

This is a very long day trip, it starts at 5:30 AM in the morning and lasts about 15 - 16 hours.

Can I swim during this trip?

Yes, you will have a few hours of free time in Ksamil that your can enjoy on your own.

What is included in the price?

The price includes: Live licensed tour guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Modern transportation with AC, Blue Eye Entrance fee, Visit to Saranda, Visit to Ksamil, Visit to Blue Eye spring.

What is not included?

Not included: Sunbeds and parasols in Ksamil, Optional train service at the Blue Eye, Personal expenses.

How big is the group?

This is a small group tour with up to 50 travellers.

From

€75per person

Start from:Tirana, Durres
  • Lowest Price GuaranteedThe final price may vary depending on date, participants, and availability.
  • Free cancellationCancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refundRead the cancellation policy

Customer reviews

Overall rating

5.0/5

Based on 6 reviews

Been on this tour?

Share your experience to help other travellers.

  • 5.0

    Aurora

    16/08/2025

    Albania è bellissima

    Ksamil è una zona dell’Albania davvero splendida. Il mare è cristallino e le persone sono molto accoglienti. Il cibo è ottimo, un po’ diverso da quello italiano, ma comunque delizioso. Bisogna fare attenzione ai prezzi per i turisti, che a volte possono essere più alti. L’Albania, in generale, è un paese meraviglioso, con mari e montagne spettacolari e laghi e fiumi limpidi come cristallo. Una destinazione da non perdere.

  • 5.0

    Elodie Laurent

    17/07/2025

    Perfect for sunsets and exploration

    Ksamil is a lively and vibrant holiday town, offering a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, bars, and cafés. The locals are honest, friendly, and helpful. The beaches are well-maintained, with affordable sunbeds and excellent service. The views are stunning, and all the scenic hotspots are nearby. I highly recommend taking an Albania tour for a sunset trip to the Blue Eye Lake and watching the sunset at Lëkurrezi Castle. Anest, our tour guide, is knowledgeable, friendly, and very helpful.

  • 5.0

    Ingrid Johansson

    02/07/2025

    Amazing tour from start to finish

    Amazing experience! The tour of Saranda and the Ksamil was beautiful, with stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters. Anest, our guide, were friendly and helpful, and the pace of the tour was just right. Highly recommended!

  • 5.0

    Valentina P

    21/08/2024

    Perfect

    This day tour with Albania Inbound is perfect for anyone wanting to see Saranda and the Ksamil Islands. The scenery is breathtaking, the schedule is relaxed, and our guide, Anest was knowledgeable and very friendly. Highly recommended!

  • 5.0

    Amara S

    25/06/2024

    Great tour highly recommended

    Absolutely stunning! Swimming in the turquoise waters of Ksamil and walking around Saranda was unforgettable. Great tour, great guides, great day!

You might also like

From

€75per person

Albania Insider newsletter

Get travel inspiration, special offers, and practical travel advice straight to your inbox.

Pay 10% Deposit or in Full
Trusted by 20,000+ Travelers
Flexible & Confirmed Departures
Great value for money