Gjirokaster, Ksamil & Blue Eye Day Tour from Durres or Golem
ID: GYG1054142-1620969
Category:
Country: Albania
Duration:
14:00 hours
Description
Discover the best of southern Albania on a day trip from Durres. Visit the UNESCO city of Gjirokaster, the Blue Eye spring, and the beaches of Ksamil.
Begin your journey early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Durres or Golem. After a scenic drive through the Albanian countryside, arrive in Gjirokaster, one of Albania’s most beautiful and historic towns.
Explore the magnificent Gjirokaster Castle, which offers panoramic views of the Drino Valley and mountains. Walk through cobbled streets, admire traditional Ottoman houses, and visit the vibrant Old Bazaar, filled with handmade crafts and local souvenirs. Your guide will share fascinating stories from the city's rich past, including its time under Ottoman rule.
After Gjirokaster, continue toward one of Albania’s most iconic natural attractions – the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër). This mesmerizing spring is famous for its bright blue water that bubbles from deep underground. Enjoy a short scenic walk through the forest to reach the spring, with plenty of time to take photos and soak in the natural beauty.
Your final stop is Ksamil, often called “the Maldives of Albania.” Here you’ll have free time to relax on the beach, take a swim in the crystal-clear water, enjoy a seaside lunch, or even take a short boat ride to one of the nearby islands (optional). Ksamil is the perfect place to unwind before you make your way back to Durrës or Golem in the evening.
Highlights
- Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gjirokaster
- Visit the magical Blue Eye, a natural spring of crystal-clear water
- Relax on the beaches of Ksamil, known for its turquoise waters
- Enjoy a scenic drive through the Albanian countryside
- Benefit from a hassle-free experience with transportation and tickets included
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Pick-up starts early in the morning
Free time in Ksamil for swimming or relaxing
INCLUDED
- Roundtrip transportation by AC vehicle
- English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees for Gjirokaster Castle and Blue Eye
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off from Durres or Golem
NOT INCLUDED
- Lunch
- Boat ride to nearby islands in Ksamil
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.