2-Day Semi/Private South Albania Riviera & 2 UNESCO Sites
Description
Experience the ultimate 2-day journey through the breathtaking South of Albania, where history, nature, and paradise beaches come together. Discover the UNESCO city of Gjirokastër, the magical Blue Eye, and the ancient ruins of Butrint National Park. Relax in the crystal waters of Ksamil and explore the stunning Albanian Riviera with stops at Porto Palermo Castle, Dhërmi, and Llogara Pass. A perfect mix of culture, adventure, and unforgettable coastal views.
Tour Options
Itinerary
We will visit the historic city of Gjirokastër, exploring its charming Old Bazaar and the magnificent Gjirokastër Castle. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Gjirokastër is one of Albania’s most fascinating and well-preserved cities, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture.
The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is one of Albania’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This crystal-clear spring, famous for its deep blue and turquoise colors, emerges from more than 50 meters below the surface. Surrounded by lush forests and untouched nature, the Blue Eye offers a peaceful atmosphere and spectacular scenery, making it one of the most visited attractions in southern Albania.
Butrint National Park is one of Albania’s most important archaeological treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Settled for over 2,500 years, it was inhabited by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians, leaving behind remarkable ruins such as the ancient theater, baptistery, city walls, and basilica. Surrounded by a beautiful lagoon and rich biodiversity, Butrint offers a unique combination of history, culture, and nature. It is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Balkans.
Përkthim në anglisht zyrtare: We will spend the night in Saranda, where you will have free time to enjoy the city, relax by the seaside, explore the promenade, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of one of Albania’s most popular coastal destinations.
The "Blue Eye is a water spring and natural phenomenon. A popular tourist attraction, the clear blue water of the river can be seen from a depth of more than fifty metres. Divers have descended to fifty metres, but it is still unclear what the actual depth of the karst hole is. The source stands at an altitude of 152 m and has a discharge rate around 18400 L/s. The protected area of Blue Eye has been designated as a natural monument which covers an area of 180 ha.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
We will pick up all our guest. They can share only the hotels name and we will pick up.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(3)
Had a short time in Albania and was determined to get to Gjirokaster. Luckily Gjenc was available for this trip. The waterfall was amazing. I didn't have the perfect shoes but he was very accommodating getting us down there. My time in Gjirokaster was priceless. Walking the bazaar and the trip up to the castle and tour then the best authentic Albanian lunch I've had here. Wrapped up the day at the Blue Eye was was great as well. What I enjoyed equally was the conversation on the car ride I feel like I received a real cultural education. Highly recommend thanks again so much Gjenc! Sam Redden
Thank you very much for your positive review! 🤩🤩👌👌 We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you again soon! Best regards, Albania Tourism Guide Team 🇦🇱
We did this tour on January 1st, so it was already a particular day. In addition to that, it was supposed to rain, so the premises were far from good. Despite that, our guide Gjenc told us it would've been a light rain and so it was. Our tour started by enjoying a wondeful view of the Vjosa river in the area of the national park, then up the mountains towards the Peshtura waterfall. Gjenc knew all the best places to stop and enjoy the view and every time there was something we didn't notice, he made us aware of it. He guided us all the way down the Peshtura waterfall, to enjoy a spectacular view. Even my 70-year-old mother, despite her age, managed to go down almost midway and he helped her all the way back too. The place was so magical, we even forgot there was a light rain. Then we went to Gjirokaster and despite the light rain, the fog and even if the castle was closed, we enjoyed a beautiful city, took great photos and had a good soup for lunch in a beautiful restaurant. When we finished, the fog dispersed too and we managed to get a great view! Gjenc made also a little stop to make us enjoy another area of the river, as well as a beautiful hotel with a lot of smaller waterfalls. It was so beautiful, we even forgot it was raining! And during all this trip, we had a great time together: Gjenc told us a lot about Albania's history and culture, we shared stories and had fun. Thank you Gjenc for the beautiful experience and the wonderful day! It was the best way to spend my birthday :)
Thank you for this fantastic review 🤩🤩 So happy to hear that you and mama have felt that way😀 And do not forget that you are more than welcome in Albania anytime you choose to visit us again 🤩🇦🇱 Grazie mille Elenia 👌
Gjenc was fantastic - very attentive and helpful. Always taking care.to make sure we were comfortable. Great knowledge of this beautiful country.
Thank you for this fantastic review. So happy to hear that you and Ross have felt that way. And do not forget that you are more than welcome in Albania anytime you choose to visit us again 🤩🇦🇱Best regards Gjenc
