Tours & tickets

Gjirokastra Bazaar

Start with pickup in Saranda and relax in a comfortable and air-conditioned van on the transfer to the hilltop Lekuresi Castle. Have free time to explore its Ottoman architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, the surrounding countryside, and the nearby Greek island of Corfu. Relax on the scenic drive to the Blue Eye, a deep karst spring characterized by its vivid blue color, which contrasts sharply with the surrounding greenery. Go on a short hike to the spring or buy a ticket for the train. Spend some time soaking up the tranquility of this unique spot. Next, discover one of the largest and most well-preserved castles in Albania with a stop at Gjirokastra Castle. Buy a ticket to explore this imposing fortress that offers a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastër and the Drino Valley. Continue to the Gjirokastra Bazaar, a vibrant and historically rich market located in the heart of Gjirokastër that dates back to the 17th-century. Shop for local handicrafts like traditional clothing, textiles, and pottery, and enjoy its traditional Ottoman architectural style. Return to your meeting point at the end of your day trip with unforgettable memories of your time in Albania.

Explore the city of Gjirokastra on an exciting day trip from Saranda. Begin your journey by arriving at Gjirokastra Castle for a one-hour tour of the historic fortress. Walk through the fascinating Old Bazaar and make your way to the Cold War Tunnel, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the fascinating site for 30 minutes. Then take a leisurely stroll back to the Old Bazaar, where you will have 30–60 minutes free time to explore the local souvenir shops or enjoy a delicious lunch. Visit Skenduli House, a magnificent 300-year-old museum house and learn all about the local culture for another 30 minutes. Finally, head to the stunning Blue Eye Nature Park, where you'll walk a 1.2 km trail to see the exquisite springs. Enjoy an exciting and informative way to explore the treasures of the city of Gjirokastra.

Argirocaster (originally Gjirokaster) is the most unique and enchanting city of Albania. In this tour we invite you to experience history, tradition and culture in one day. Set among eight hills and valleys all around the magnificent castle, depicted with one hundred years old stone houses surrounded by vines, we are not responsible if you fall in love with this city! The day trip starts from Tirana, early in the morning. Along the road you will marvel at breathtaking views, stunning panoramas and picturesque landscape. Arrival in Gjirokaster strolling in the narrow pebbled streets, enjoying the Bazaar and the incredibly immersive atmosphere. Visit the home of the dictator Enver Hoxha, now the Museum of Etnography. A testimony of the past, the craddle, where the former leader of Albania who kept and entire countru oppressed for almost 50years, was born. Visit of the Zekate House A typical authentic grandiose stone house.m an example of how the houses of wealthy people were built and maintained since the 17th century. Lunch at one of the most ancient and traditional restaurants in the city. Build in the 17th century, offering of the best traditional cuisine, where we get to try some unique dishes that are found only in Gjirokaster. Visit of the home of the well known writer Ismail Kadare Now a museum, as well as a mirror of literature and art. The house of the international writer speaks volumes of the spirit of a great mind. Visit of the Castle of Argjiro where the name of the city derives from. The famous castle in the shape of a ship which stands powerful with overviews of the iconic city displaying weapons and objects mainly based in the Cold War. Highlight: Dress Up Activity & Photoshoot - Dress like a true authentic traditional man/woman of Gjirokaster Free time apperitif/dinner/shopping in the Grand Bazzar A unique experience that leaves speechless with all its beauty and highlights. Evening -return to Tirana

Start your day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Tirana. Hop aboard your comfortable vehicle and begin the scenic drive to the timeless city of Gjirokastra, the UNESCO World Heritage site also know as "The Stone City". Be amazed by the splendour of Southern Albania's eastern side of the mountain as you arrive. Marvel at Gjirokastra, which resembles a fortified city where every single home is like a small fortress. Immerse yourself in the city's fascinating history and its origins in the 4th century AD. Discover why it is considered one of the Balkans' best-preserved medieval cities. Pass by the incredible Medieval Bazar as you enter Gjirokastra. Feel the atmosphere in the old town as it cascades down the graceful hill, filled with beautiful and narrow stoned streets. Be amazed by the wide variety of handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. Visit one of the best-preserved houses of Gjirokastra, where every detail is original and authentic. Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Blue Eye, a natural wonder nestled in the heart of southern Albania. This mesmerizing spring, also known as Syri i Kalter, boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters that seem to shimmer with an otherworldly brilliance. Located near the village of Muzine, the Blue Eye is formed by an underground river that emerges from a stunning karstic spring, creating a mesmerizing pool of vibrant blue water. The spring is surrounded by lush greenery, including dense forests and verdant hillsides, adding to its picturesque allure. Visitors can marvel at the mesmerizing beauty of the Blue Eye as they stand on the wooden viewing platform overlooking the spring. The water's incredible clarity allows you to see all the way to the bottom, where the depths seem to disappear into an azure abyss. Finish your day of discovery with a comfortable ride back to Tirana.

Experience southern Albania in style with our trip featuring very comfortable cars, as shown in the photos, and child seats available upon request. This trip is like diving deep into the heart of southern Albania. From the old, famous Gjirokastër to the extra clear waters of the Blue Eye, get ready for a day full of jaw-dropping sights and cool discoveries! We’ll start the day bright and early, with a comfortable ride from Tirana or Durres. As we roll through the countryside, get ready to soak up some incredible views and learn all about the area from our friendly guide. When we hit Gjirokastër, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time with its ancient buildings and fascinating history. Then, we will check out the Blue Eye, a natural wonder that’ll blow your mind with its crystal-clear waters. Don’t forget your camera or phone for this tour, please!

Start your day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Tirana. Hop aboard your comfortable vehicle and begin the scenic drive to the timeless city of Gjirokastra, the UNESCO World Heritage site also know as "The Stone City". Be amazed by the splendour of Southern Albania's eastern side of the mountain as you arrive. Marvel at Gjirokastra, which resembles a fortified city where every single home is like a small fortress. Immerse yourself in the city's fascinating history and its origins in the 4th century AD. Discover why it is considered one of the Balkans' best-preserved medieval cities. Pass by the incredible Medieval Bazar as you enter Gjirokastra. Feel the atmosphere in the old town as it cascades down the graceful hill, filled with beautiful and narrow stoned streets. Be amazed by the wide variety of handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. Visit one of the best-preserved houses of Gjirokastra, where every detail is original and authentic. Finish your day of discovery with a comfortable ride back to Tirana.

Departure: 08:30 AM Depart from the Vlora Daily Trips office in a comfortable van. Get ready for a day full of nature, culture, and breathtaking views! Stop 1: Uji i Ftohtë, Tepelenë 09:30 AM – 10:00 AM A short refreshing break at the famous Uji i Ftohtë springs in Tepelenë. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, snap some beautiful photos, and stretch your legs. Stop 2: Gjirokastër ️ Arrival at 10:45 AM Guided Tour: ️ 10:45 AM – 12:45 PM Discover the charm of Gjirokastra, Albania’s UNESCO-listed "Stone City." Stroll through narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional Ottoman-style houses, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Bazaar full of local crafts, colorful shops, souvenirs, and authentic Albanian charm. Your guided tour will reveal fascinating stories and hidden corners of this beautifully preserved historic town. This tour includes visiting a Cold War Tunnel and Gjirokastra Castle Free Time: ⏳ 12:45 PM – 1:45 PM Enjoy time to explore at your own pace. Shop for local crafts, capture beautiful photos, or relax at a café with a traditional lunch. Stop 3: Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) Arrival at 2:30 PM Visit: ️ 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM Discover the mesmerizing beauty of the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most famous natural attractions. This stunning spring, with its deep sapphire and turquoise colors, bubbles up from unknown depths, surrounded by lush green forests. Take your time to walk around the viewing platforms, capture unforgettable photos, and enjoy the peaceful, refreshing atmosphere of this magical place. Return to Vlora: Departure from Blue Eye: 4:00 PM On the way back to Vlora, we will make a short stop to relax and refresh before completing the journey. Expected arrival in Vlora: ⏰ around 6:30 PM

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Saranda to the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastër, renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and historical significance. Your first stop will be the imposing Gjirokastër Castle, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views over the Drino Valley. As you explore its vast chambers and ramparts, learn about its rich history, including its use as a prison and armory. Next, descend into the heart of the city to wander through the bustling Gjirokastra Bazaar. Here, you'll find a vibrant mix of artisanal crafts, antiques, and local products. The cobblestone streets and traditional stone houses provide a picturesque backdrop as you interact with local craftsmen and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. Your tour continues as you stroll through the Old Town, a maze of narrow lanes flanked by historic stone houses. This area exemplifies the city's traditional architectural style and offers a glimpse into its storied past. Continue to the Zekate House, one of Gjirokastër's grandest and best-preserved Ottoman-era residences. Tour this magnificent house-museum to see its elaborate wood carvings, period furnishings, and impressive stone work, providing insight into the affluent lifestyle of the 19th-century Gjirokastër elite. Conclude your day with some free time to enjoy a traditional lunch and drinks at a local tavern. Savor the authentic flavors of Gjirokastrian cuisine, which blends unique spices and cooking techniques, offering a delightful culinary experience. This is the perfect time to relax, reflect on the day's discoveries, and soak in the ambiance of this historic city before your return to Saranda.

You will begin your tour with the exploration of the remarkable Kruja Bazaar, a 500-year-old market and the castle of Kruja. Ascend to the summit of Kruja mountain, where Tirana, Durres, Kruja and the Adriatic sea will be in the palm of your hands. Continue your journey to Shkodra. You will first visit the castle of Rozafa, where the 2000 year old history of the city is hidden in the walls of the castle. Explore the cities boulevard before heading to Theth. Overnight in Theth. On the following morning, awaken to the awe-inspiring setting of Theth village. Start your day with a delightful local breakfast before setting out on an adventure. Your first task is to uncover the hidden gem of Grunas waterfall nestled amidst the encircling mountains. Following this, indulge in a scenic one-hour hike through the mountain forest to discover the mesmerizing Blue Eye of Theth. Take in the natural beauty of the village surroundings before continuing your journey to Tirana. Now its time to head south. First visit of the day will be in the ancient city of Apollonia. Immerse yourself between the ancient temples and other construction build by the Greeks and Romans. Drive towards the main destinations, Berat city. Explore the old castle of Berat and the famous 1001 windows Mangalemi neighberhood. A traditional family that lives in the castle will invite you in their house and will serve you traditional food, deserts and alcohool. In the afternoon a Wine Tour in a local winner is optional. Overnight stay in Berat. On the 4th day your journey commences in Berat. You will head towards Gjirokastra City a.k.a The Stone City. Your first stop upon arriving in Gjirokastra will be the bustling Gjirokastra Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace where local crafts, textiles, and traditional Albanian products beckon visitors. Ascend the winding road leading to the magnificent Gjirokastra Castle, a true architectural marvel. Within its walls, you'll discover the castle's museum and the castle's notorious old prison. Enjoy a delicious lunch in the traditional Kardhashi Tavern. A last stop is made in the Zekate House, a local fortress house where you can learn how the rich families used to live back in the day. A mere 30 kilometers from Gjirokaster, a hidden gem awaits you within the heart of the forest. Explore the awe-inspiring natural wonder of the Blue Eye. Overnight stay in Saranda. On the last day you will explore Ksamil Islands and the Albanian Riviera. Experience the breathtaking shoreline of Ksamil village, encompassing three islands situated just 100 meters from the coast. Enjoy your time by the sea. Discover the ancient Greek Colony and Roman city of Butrinti, a UNESCO protected site. As you journey back to Tirana, your route will take you through the enchanting Albanian Riviera. Revel in the awe-inspiring landscapes where hills meet the shoreline. Take a break at various beaches, including Porto Palermo, Dhermi, Jale, Qeparo, and more.

Begin your day with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Tirana or Durrës, setting off on a scenic drive through the Albanian countryside. Your first destination is Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "City of Stone." Upon arrival, you’ll stroll through the charming streets of Gjirokastra, lined with well-preserved Ottoman-era houses and cobblestone paths. Your guide will lead you to the Gjirokastra Castle, perched high above the city. Explore the expansive fortress, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views of the Drino Valley. Inside the castle, you'll find a fascinating collection of armaments and a former prison that offers a glimpse into Albania’s turbulent past. Next, visit the Gjirokastra Bazaar, where you can browse traditional crafts, antiques, and local produce. Don’t miss the chance to see the Ethnographic Museum, housed in the former residence of communist leader Enver Hoxha, which provides insights into 19th-century Albanian life. After a morning of cultural immersion, it's time for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Albanian cuisine, featuring dishes such as byrek, fërgesë, and fresh seafood. In the afternoon, you'll head to the Blue Eye, one of Albania's natural wonders. This mesmerizing spring is renowned for its vivid blue and turquoise waters, which bubble up from more than fifty meters deep. Take a leisurely walk around the lush, wooded area, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. For the adventurous, there's an opportunity to take a dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters. After soaking in the natural splendor of the Blue Eye, relax on the drive back to your hotel, reflecting on a day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation in the early evening.