Tirana Tours

Blue Eye Day Trips

Handpicked tours
Handpicked tours
Effortless planning
Effortless planning
Expert guides. Unique insights
Expert guides. Unique insights
Blue Eye water spring in Albania surrounded by lush greenery and mountains.
























































Top things to do in Tirana

Hidden deep in southern Albania, the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter) is a crystal-clear natural spring famous for its unreal shades of blue and emerald. Visiting independently is tricky, which makes a guided day trip from Tirana, Saranda, or nearby coastal towns the easiest way to experience it.

Overview:

  • Best season: April–October (late spring & early fall offer fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures)
  • Meeting/drop-off points: Hotel pick-up and drop-off available from Tirana, Durres, Golem, Saranda, Ksamil, and Gjirokaster (varies by tour)
  • Key sites/activities covered: Blue Eye spring, Saranda, Ksamil beaches or islands, Butrint National Park, Gjirokaster Old Town, Lekuresi Castle (sunset on select tours)
  • Duration: Full-day guided tours, typically 10–14 hours depending on starting city and inclusions

What to expect on a Blue Eye day trip

Saranda port cityscape with boats and hillside buildings in spring.
Minivan driving on coastal highway with sea and mountains in the background.
Guests standing on a wooden platform at Blue Eye springs, Albania, with lush greenery and clear water.
Kayaking on clear waters at The Blue Eye, Albania with lush greenery and mountains in the background.
Passengers seated inside a minivan
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Hotel pickup & scenic departure

Your day begins with hotel pickup from Tirana, Durres, Golem, Saranda, Ksamil, or Gjirokaster, depending on the tour. Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, passing coastal roads, river valleys, and mountain scenery as your guide sets the context for the day ahead.

Journey through southern Albania

The drive itself is part of the experience, offering views of olive groves, rugged hills, and seaside towns. Longer routes from Tirana or Durres include planned rest stops, while shorter transfers from Saranda or Ksamil get you to the highlights faster.

Exploring the Blue Eye spring

At the Blue Eye, walk shaded forest paths to reach the famous karst spring, where intensely blue water bubbles from deep underground. Expect some crowds in peak season, but free time allows you to explore, take photos, and enjoy the cool, misty surroundings.

Optional add-ons & nearby highlights (if included)

Depending on your chosen tour, the day may continue with time in Saranda, a boat trip to the Ksamil islands, a visit to Butrint National Park, kayaking near the Blue Eye, Gjirokaster’s Old Town, or sunset views from Lekuresi Castle.

Relaxed return journey

After a full day of nature and culture, return comfortably to your original pickup point. Drop-offs are typically in the early evening for coastal tours, or later at night for Tirana-based trips, with transport and pacing handled for you throughout.

Things to know before booking your Blue Eye guided day trip

  • Booking window & availability: Blue Eye day tours are popular between May and September, especially from Saranda and Tirana. Book 1–2 weeks ahead in peak season to secure your preferred date, starting point, and add-ons like kayaking or boat tours.
  • Why a guided day trip makes sense: The Blue Eye is difficult to reach by public transport, and parking is limited near the entrance. Guided tours bundle transport, timing, and nearby highlights, making a day trip far more practical than visiting independently.
  • Departure points & transport: Tours operate from Tirana, Durres, Golem, Saranda, Ksamil, and Gjirokaster, using air-conditioned coaches or minivans. Pickup is usually from central hotels or designated meeting points, depending on the city.
  • Tour duration & pacing: Expect 10–14-hour full-day tours depending on your starting location. Coastal departures allow more time at each stop, while Tirana-based tours include longer scenic drives and scheduled rest breaks.
  • What’s included (and what varies): Most tours include round-trip transfers, a local guide, and free time at the Blue Eye. Some options add Ksamil island boat trips, kayaking near the spring, Butrint National Park, Lëkurësi Castle viewpoints, or lunch, check inclusions carefully before booking.
  • Group size & guidance: Group sizes vary by tour type, with small-group formats common for kayaking and Saranda-based trips. Guides provide logistical support and local insights rather than in-depth historical narration.
  • Accessibility & physical effort: The Blue Eye involves walking on forest paths and uneven ground and is not wheelchair accessible. Swimming inside the spring is prohibited, but photo stops and viewpoints are accessible to most visitors.

Which Blue Eye day trip to choose?

Ticket typeDurationInclusionsTransfersGroup sizeBestAdd-ons/UpgradesPrice
Blue Eye, Saranda & Ksamil

12–14hrs

Blue Eye, Saranda, Ksamil

AC coach, hotel pickup

Small–mid

First-time visitors

Free time in Ksamil

From €0.62

Blue Eye Day Trip + Boat Tour

12–14hrs

Blue Eye + Ksamil boat ride

AC coach + boat

Small–mid

Beach & sea lovers

Island stops

From €44.58

Ksamil, Saranda & Blue Eye

12–13hrs

Blue Eye, Ksamil, Saranda

AC coach

Mid-size

Coastal explorers

Extended beach time

From €103.46

Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle

12–13hrs

Blue Eye + castle views

AC coach

Mid-size

Sunset seekers

Viewpoint stop

From €44.58

Blue Eye from Gjirokaster

6–8hrs

Blue Eye + lunch

AC minivan

Small

Short on time

Traditional lunch

From €71.19

Blue Eye Kayak Tour (Saranda)

4–5hrs

Kayaking near Blue Eye

Minivan

Small

Active travelers

Kayak gear

From €41.45

Blue Eye & Castle Sunset Tour

5–6hrs

Blue Eye + sunset stop

Minivan

Small

Couples, photographers

Sunset views

From €0.27

Blue Eye Kayak + Castle Tour

6–7hrs

Kayak + Blue Eye + castle

Minivan

Small

Adventure lovers

Combo experience

From €40.35

Blue Eye, Gjirokaster & Castle

13–14hrs

Blue Eye + old town

AC coach

Mid-size

Culture-focused trips

Castle stop

From €41.38

Why choose a guided Blue Eye Albania day trip over going solo?

Guided Blue Eye day trips handle long drives, hotel transfers, and timing, so you enjoy the spring, nearby beaches, and historic stops without worrying about routes, parking, or planning.

Aerial view of the Blue Eye spring surrounded by lush greenery in Albania.

Highlights of the Blue Eye

The Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kalter)

The heart of the visit is the Blue Eye spring itself, where crystal-clear water emerges from deep underground in striking shades of blue and turquoise. Wooden viewing platforms and riverside paths let you admire the spring safely while understanding why swimming is restricted.

Forest walks & riverside paths

Reaching the Blue Eye involves a gentle walk through shaded forest and along the Bistrica River. The trail is scenic and refreshing, especially in summer, offering photo opportunities, cool air, and a calm transition before reaching the spring.

Changing colors & natural light

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Blue Eye is how its color shifts with sunlight and depth. From deep sapphire to bright turquoise, the spring looks different throughout the day, making it a favorite stop for photographers.

Viewing platforms & photo stops

Designated viewpoints allow you to get close without damaging the ecosystem. These platforms are ideal for wide-angle shots of the spring, close-ups of water movement, and group photos, without needing to venture into restricted areas.

Peaceful nature setting

Beyond the spring itself, the surrounding nature reserve is part of the experience. Tall trees, flowing water, and minimal development make this a calm break from coastal towns, balancing the busier stops like Saranda or Ksamil on full-day tours.

Sun loungers and umbrellas on Ksamil beach, Albania, with turquoise water and trees in the background.
Saranda city waterfront with boats and hillside buildings, Albania.
Amphitheater ruins at the ancient Baptistery in Butrint, Albania, surrounded by lush greenery.
Sunset view of Lekuresi Castle on a hill in Sarande, Albania.
Clock tower in the Ottoman Castle Fortress of Gjirokaster with mountain backdrop.
Kayaking on clear waters in Blue Eye, Albania.
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Ksamil beaches & islands

White-sand beaches and turquoise islands, often paired with a short boat ride for swimming and island hopping.

  • Sights covered: Ksamil coast, nearby islands
  • Time required: 1–2 hours
  • Included in: Select Blue Eye day trips

Saranda seafront

A lively coastal town stop for seaside walks, cafés, and views across the Ionian Sea toward Corfu.

  • Sights covered: Promenade, viewpoints
  • Time required: 45–60 minutes
  • Included in: Many coastal Blue Eye tours

Butrint National Park (UNESCO)

Ancient ruins set among wetlands and forests, showcasing Roman, Greek, and Byzantine layers of history.

  • Sights covered: Amphitheatre, basilica, ruins
  • Time required: 1.5–2 hours
  • Included in: Select Blue Eye combo tours

Lekuresi Castle

Hilltop fortress overlooking Saranda, best known for panoramic views and sunset photo opportunities.

  • Sights covered: Castle walls, viewpoints
  • Time required: 30–45 minutes
  • Included in: Select day & sunset tours

Gjirokaster Old Town

Ottoman-era stone houses and cobbled streets in Albania’s historic ‘City of Stone.’

  • Sights covered: Old Bazaar, viewpoints
  • Time required: 1–2 hours
  • Included in: Select extended day trips

Kayaking near the Blue Eye

Paddle calm, clear waters near the spring for a closer, nature-focused experience away from crowds.

  • Sights covered: River sections near Blue Eye
  • Time required: 1–1.5 hours
  • Included in: Select active tours

Plan your visit to the Blue Eye

Blue Eye spring surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in Albania.

Duration

  • Full-day tours: 10–14 hours (from Tirana/Durres/Golem)
  • Shorter tours: 4–8 hours (from Saranda, Ksamil, Gjirokaster)

Best time of day

  • Late morning to early afternoon for the strongest blue colors at the spring
  • Sunset hours if visiting Lekuresi Castle (select tours)

Best season

  • April–June & September–October for pleasant weather and fewer crow
  • July–August is vibrant but busiest
Minivan transfer service to Harry Potter Studios, Tokyo.

From Tirana / Durres / Golem

  • By coach/minivan: 4–5 hours each way
  • Scenic inland and coastal routes with rest stops

From Saranda / Ksamil

  • By minivan: 30–60 minutes
  • Short, direct transfers allow more on-site time

From Gjirokaster

  • By minivan: ~1 hour
  • Ideal for half-day or relaxed day trips

By boat

  • Available only for Ksamil island add-ons
  • Short coastal boat rides included in select tours
Beach essentials for snorkeling including a hat, towel, sunglasses, flip-flops, and sunscreen.
  • Comfortable walking shoes (uneven forest paths)
  • Light layers; the area stays cool near the water
  • Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (limited shade midday)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Swimwear & towel only if your tour includes kayaking or beach stops
  • Small backpack (large bags not recommended)
Restroom signs at Reichstag Berlin indicating male, female, and accessible facilities.
  • Marked walking paths and viewing platforms
  • Cafes and restrooms near the entrance area
  • Kayak equipment provided on kayak tours
  • Not wheelchair accessible due to natural terrain
  • Moderate walking required; suitable for most fitness levels
Visitors observing the Blue Eye spring in Albania with vibrant turquoise water.
  • Swimming inside the Blue Eye spring is prohibited
  • Follow marked paths to protect the ecosystem
  • Drones may be restricted without prior permission
  • Weather can affect boat and kayak add-ons
  • Always follow guide instructions for safety and timing
Traveler with luggage at Tirana Airport bus terminal for Durres transfer.

Tirana / Durres / Golem

  • Central hotels or fixed city meeting points
  • Exact pickup shared after booking

Saranda / Ksamil

  • Hotel pickup or central promenade meeting spots
  • Easy walk access for most travelers

Gjirokaster

  • Central town pickup points or hotels
  • Lunch-included tours usually depart mid-morning

Visitor tips for your Blue Eye day trip

  • Arrive early at pickup points: Be at your meeting spot 10–15 minutes before departure, especially for Tirana and Durres tours, as long-distance itineraries follow strict schedules.
  • Visit during the best light: The Blue Eye looks most vibrant late morning to early afternoon, when sunlight intensifies the blue and turquoise tones. Earlier visits are quieter but less colorful.
  • Pick the right starting city: Tours from Saranda or Ksamil allow more relaxed pacing and longer stops, while Tirana-led tours cover more ground in a single, well-planned day.
  • Wear proper footwear: Forest paths near the spring can be wet and uneven. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip make a noticeable difference.
  • Dress for microclimates: Even in summer, the area around the spring feels cool. Carry a light jacket or layer, especially after kayaking or boat add-ons.
  • Bring some cash: Small cafes and vendors near the entrance often prefer cash, and ATMs are limited in the area.
  • Check add-ons carefully: Activities like kayaking, boat tours, Butrint visits, or sunset at Lekuresi Castle are included only in select tours, verify your inclusions before booking.
  • Follow site rules strictly: Swimming inside the Blue Eye is prohibited. Stick to marked paths and viewing platforms to protect the ecosystem and avoid fines.

Frequently asked questions about day trips to the Blue Eye

Tirana-based tours last around 12–14 hours, including scenic drives, rest stops, guided time at the Blue Eye, and visits to nearby coastal or cultural attractions.