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Gjirokastra and Blue Eye Tour from Saranda

2 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 2 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Saranda, Albania
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 16 (0) days in advance.

5 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 4 more
French, German, Italian, Spanish
Instant confirmation

Overview

The austere and beautiful town of Gjirokastra began to spread downhill from its castle in the 13th century. The castle still stands on its hill, overlooking the whole city and the river valley below. From that lofty point, the grey stone of the houses below and the grey slates of their roofs blend into the hillside, distinguished from it only by their whitewashed walls. As one of the city's most famous sons Ismail Kadare, wrote in Chronicle in Stone, Gjirokastra is "a surprising city, which seemed as if it had come out of the valley unexpectedly, like a prehistoric being, and clambered up with difficulty, stitching itself on the side of the mountain". Gjirokastra became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in July 2005. It had been awarded the status of a 'museum-city' by the Albanian government, which gave legal protection to its architectural heritage and kept new building out of the historic center.
*Minimum number of travelers per booking is 2. For solo travelers there is an extra charge.

What's Included

  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Private transportation
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    Meeting and Pickup

    Pickup point
    Pickup details

    We can pick you up in Saranda City Center. We can also provide hotel pickup and drop-off. We can also pick you up at Saranda port if you are visiting the town on a cruise ship as our office is just next to the port ,or you are a daily visitor entering the town from a seaway like from Corfu from example. *Minimum number of travelers per booking is 2. *For solo travelers there is an extra charge.

    OR
    Meeting point

    Rruga Mitat Hoxha
    Saranda, Albania

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    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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    Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

    Gjirokastra Bazaar

    Here, tourists can find some of the best-handcrafted travel mementos in wood, stone, and fabric, all handmade with pride by true masters of their crafts.
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    1 hour Admission Ticket Free

    Gjirokaster Castle

    Inside the castle, you can visit the Museum of Weapons, opened in 1971. Weapons from the prehistoric times up to the World War II are exhibited on here.There is also a small church and the prison from the communist regime.At the exit of the castle, the fortified courtyard and ruins are another sight to enjoy. The beautiful valley of the Drino River, the strong wind over the fortress and the magnificent view of the stone houses.
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    1 hour Admission Ticket Included

    Skenduli House

    Visiting Skenduli House in Gjirokastra offers a vivid glimpse into traditional Ottoman architecture and Albanian cultural heritage. This well-preserved 19th-century mansion features original decorative elements, including intricate wood carvings and beautiful frescoes. As you tour the house, you'll experience the historical lifestyle of the Skenduli family, exploring rooms that showcase period furniture and authentic artifacts. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the daily lives and customs of historic Gjirokastra, making it a memorable step back in time for any visitor.
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    40 minutes Admission Ticket Included

    The Blue Eye

    As you travel towards the Blue Eye via winding, steep, uphill roads, you will pass through different landscapes; from palm trees on the shore, to green and dense, almost mountainous forest areas.The Blue Eye is a water spring and natural phenomenon. The clear blue water of the river bubbles forth from a depth of more than fifty metres.
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    1 hour Admission Ticket Included

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    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Specialized infant seats are available

    Frequently Asked Questions (7)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Gjirokastra and Blue Eye Tour from Saranda?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-121028P4

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    5.00
    2 reviews

    Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 2 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

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    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 16 (0) days in advance.

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    What's Included

    Activity name

    • Snacks
    • Bottled water
    • Private transportation
    • WiFi on board
    • All Fees and Taxes
    • Air-conditioned vehicle

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Specialized infant seats are available

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    Activity name