Skenduli House

Your day begins with a scenic drive from Tirana to Gjirokastra, taking about four hours in total. Along the way, we’ll stop at Ardenica Monastery—a peaceful hilltop spot where you can enjoy a short visit, relax, and grab a coffee. After the break, we continue toward Gjirokastra, one of Albania’s most beautiful and historic towns. When we arrive, your guide will introduce you to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and stone houses. We'll walk through the charming old bazaar, full of colorful shops, handmade crafts, and photo-worthy spots. Next, we visit the famous Gjirokastra Castle, sitting high above the town with amazing views. During our one-hour visit, you’ll learn about its fascinating history and explore the ancient towers and walls. Afterward, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, try some traditional Albanian food, and explore the old town on your own if you wish. In the afternoon, we head to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), one of Albania’s most magical natural wonders. This deep spring, surrounded by trees and clear blue water, looks like a giant eye. You’ll have time to walk around, take in the peaceful nature, and maybe dip your feet in the refreshing water, which stays cold all year round! After visiting the Blue Eye, we’ll begin our return trip to Tirana, Durrës, or Golem, ending a day filled with culture, nature, and beautiful views.

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.

Join us in this Day Tour of Gjirokastra and The Blue Eye to explore the secrets behind this Stone City and Castle of Gjirokaster. Part of Albanian UNESCO World Heritage. This Tour brings you nearer to the Unique Architecture, Local life, delicious food, and a stunning water spring. It is a complete guide with the best of what to visit in Gjirokaster, carefully selected by us, along with the last destination being The Blue Eye. Probably it is one of the steepest cities in the world, as Ismail Kadare describes it in his book. Gjirokastra will amaze you with its unique architecture and its dominant castle of Gjirokastra on the top of the hill. It is a city with a rich and glorious history, culture, and delicious local cuisine. Tour of Gjirokaster will start with the Pride of the city, the Castle of Gjirokaster. Walking through the coble stone paths sliding from the castle, you will explore a charming city, strangely attractive, and very Instagramable. While in Gjirokastra, we will explore also most of the Historic city, including some characteristic houses to understand more about how everyday life was organized in the family. Lastly, our final stop will be The Blue Eye water spring, which will leave you speechless and eager to jump in those vibrant blue colors and take a dip. Tour of Gjirokastra The history of the “Stone City” of Gjirokastra dates since the IVth Century AD. Known as Argyrokastro (Silver Castle) it has been an important economic, political and cultural city since the early Byzantine Era. Since 2005 the City is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. In addition, it is known for its highly preserved Ottoman Style Buildings and Architecture. The main components of the unique style are - Stone House Rooftops - Unique “Small Fortes” house style - The old Bazaar Blue Eye The “Blue Eye” is a water spring and a natural phenomenon occurring in a village in Finiq, southern Albania. The clear blue water of the Bistricë River can be seen from a depth of more than 50 meters, which is truly a magical view and makes the Blue Eye one of the most preferred destinations among tourists.

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.

From Tirana To Gjirokastra Departing Tirana at the dawn of 8 o'clock, we shall journey towards Gjirokastra, a place 230 kilometers away, renowned for its remarkable preservation of the Ottoman architecture and its prominent agricultural land. We will traverse through the depths of Southern Albania, admiring the green fields that the countryside has to offer. Along our path, we shall be accompanied by the Vjosa River, one of the few untamed rivers of Albania and the surrounding Balkan region. Gjirokastra Bazaar Once we arrive in the city, you will soon recognize that this metropolis is unlike any other. At the heart of the city lies the main square, proudly named after the renowned Albanian Patriot of the 19th century, Cerciz Topulli. Here, the cobblestone streets culminate in a splendid spectacle, their journey from the castle's lofty heights finally at an end. Dating back to the 17th Century, the Ottoman era saw the flourishing of a bustling epicenter that sent its vitality reverberating throughout the city. A hub of economic activity, this was the place where news, gossip and rumors were propagated with remarkable swiftness. All manner of transactions were conducted here, as well as leisurely gatherings over coffee. Countless unions were arranged here, providing the perfect milieu for families to come together prior to the wedding rites. This day, the city proudly displays its history to all who visit, with a splendid array of souvenirs and stories shared by the affable inhabitants. Gjirokastra Castle Majestically, we tread through the bustling Bazaar to reach the grand Gjirokastra Fortress. Upon the hilltop's natural defenses, it was the first settlement of the city, Thusly, it is commonly referred to as the Crown of the City. R On Mondays the castle is closed so instead we visit the Skenduli House , a heritage house of the 1800s to see how people lived at the time and to learn more about the life and traditions of the time. Aqueduct of Ali Pasha On our way to Progonat, we make a short stop at the remains of the Ali Pasha Aqueduct, a 19th-century structure built during the rule of Ali Pasha of Tepelena. Peshtura Waterfall From Progonat, we take a short 10–15 minute hike to reach the Peshtura Waterfall, following an easy trail that requires a bit of attention due to the slightly slippery terrain. Surrounded by lush nature, the waterfall is a refreshing and scenic spot, especially in spring and early summer. Please note that during the very dry season in September, the waterfall may be reduced to a trickle or completely dry — but the walk and setting are still worth the visit. Canyon Viewpoint (scenic stop) We also make a stop at a beautiful canyon viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and natural landscape of the Kurvelesh region. It’s a great photo opportunity and a chance to take in the wild beauty of southern Albania.

Embark on a journey to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the rugged mountains of southern Albania. Begin your exploration in the atmospheric Old Bazaar, where narrow cobblestone streets wind past traditional stone buildings housing artisan workshops, bustling cafes, and local eateries serving up authentic Albanian cuisine. Next, ascend to the imposing Gjirokastra Castle, perched high above the city on a rocky hilltop. This medieval fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and provides insight into the city's storied past. Explore its ancient walls, towers, and courtyards, and learn about the illustrious history of the castle, which once served as the stronghold of the formidable ruler Ali Pasha Tepelena. As you wander the winding streets of Gjirokastra, take time to admire the unique architecture of the city's iconic stone houses. Built with distinctive slate roofs and featuring intricately carved wooden balconies, these historic homes offer a glimpse into Albania's rich cultural heritage. Next is time to visit Skenduli House, one of Gjirokastra's most renowned architectural landmarks. This beautifully preserved Ottoman-era mansion showcases the craftsmanship and elegance of traditional Albanian design, with its ornate interiors and charming courtyard garden. 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.

Explore the city of Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a guided walking tour. Discover the city's Ottoman-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history. Begin your tour at the Bazaar, a bustling marketplace with a variety of shops and stalls selling everything from traditional Albanian clothing to handmade crafts. The bazaar is also home to several restaurants and cafes, where visitors can sample local cuisine. Next, head to the Gjirokastra Castle, which was built in the 12th century and is now a museum. The castle offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. After exploring the Castle, visit the Skenduli House, a traditional Ottoman-era house that has been converted into a museum. The house is filled with antiques and artifacts from the Ottoman era, and visitors can learn about the history of the city and its people. Finally, take a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Gjirokastra, which are lined with beautiful old buildings. The city is also home to several churches and mosques, which are worth visiting.

Begin your adventure in the early morning as you depart from Durrës (Golem) and head south toward the coastal city of Vlorë. Upon arrival in Vlorë, embark on a boat trip to begin your guided exploration of the stunning marine destinations. First, head to Sazan Island, a hidden gem with unparalleled natural beauty. Choose to explore the island's pristine beach and go swimming in its crystal-clear waters or enjoy hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding sea. The island is also home to a former military base. Explore the area by yourself and learn about its strategic significance throughout history. If you're interested in wildlife, observe the various bird species and marine life in the island's protected areas. Next, head to Haxhi Ali Cave. Enter the large cave, do some snorkeling, and explore the area. Listen to tales from your skipper and learn about the history of the legendary pirate Haxhi Ali. Sail along the Karaburun Peninsula, enjoying views of rock formations and wild beaches with blue crystal waters. Stop at Shen Vasil, one of the most beautiful beaches of the Karaburun Peninsula. After enjoying the crystal-clear waters and scenic views, jump back on the boat and return to Vlorë. After the boat tour, begin your journey back to Durrës (Golem), concluding this full-day experience filled with exploration, nature, and unforgettable memories.

Departing Tirana at the dawn of 8 o'clock, we shall journey towards Gjirokastra, a place 230 kilometers away, renowned for its remarkable preservation of the Ottoman architecture and its prominent agricultural land. We will traverse through the depths of Southern Albania, admiring the green fields that the countryside has to offer. Along our path, we shall be accompanied by the Vjosa River, one of the few untamed rivers of Albania and the surrounding Balkan region. Once we arrive in the city, you will soon recognize that this metropolis is unlike any other. At the heart of the city lies the main square, proudly named after the renowned Albanian Patriot of the 19th century, Cerciz Topulli. Here, the cobblestone streets culminate in a splendid spectacle, their journey from the castle's lofty heights finally at an end. Dating back to the 17th Century, the Ottoman era saw the flourishing of a bustling epicenter that sent its vitality reverberating throughout the city. A hub of economic activity, this was the place where news, gossip and rumors were propagated with remarkable swiftness. All manner of transactions were conducted here, as well as leisurely gatherings over coffee. Countless unions were arranged here, providing the perfect milieu for families to come together prior to the wedding rites. This day, the city proudly displays its history to all who visit, with a splendid array of souvenirs and stories shared by the affable inhabitants. Majestically, we tread through the bustling Bazaar to reach the grand Gjirokastra Fortress. Upon the hilltop's natural defenses, it was the first settlement of the city, deeply rooted in the captivating legend of Argjiro, the young princess who sacrificed herself. Thusly, it is commonly referred to as the Crown of the City. Renovated significantly in the 19th Century, it has been used as a fortress and prison by countless regimes and political parties of the past. Undeniably, the Fortress holds great historical significance, yet its stony visage still provides a stunning view of the city, placidly spread along the hills. Time includes transportation. After visiting the heritage city of Gjirokastra we will drive for about an hour to arrive the biggest and most beautiful city of Albanian Riviera , Saranda. We have a short stop in by the sea and walk on the main promenade that offers wonderful view of the sea and the neighboring country of Greece, the island of Corfu. As we make our way through the charming streets of Ksamil, we will soon arrive at the renowned Butrint Archaeological Park, a true gem of Albanian archeology. From Butrint we return back to Tirana

An epic journey starting from the ancient city of Apollonia, and its glory as one of Julius Cezar’s stops on his way to Rome. Going through Berat and Gjirokaster, two of the most important gems of typical architecture in Albania, where even the stones have lots to tell. Furthermore, the magnificence of antiquity will be nicely blended with the scenic Albanian Riviera and the charming little villages along the coast or also the “Blue Eye” natural water fountain. A mosaic of colors, flavors, and sceneries when the typical architecture will be mixed with history, culture, delicious food, and very welcoming locals. This two-day tour of South Albania is a combination of History and Nature. We will be visiting three major destinations and numerous sites in between them. We will be spending our first day exploring the Albanian Riviera and the UNESCO World Heritage city of Gjirokaster and its most iconic places, like the Castle, Old Bazaar, Skenduli House, etc. During our first day, we will also be taking a short trip to visit the amazing Blue Eye water spring where you can take a swim or capture bomb Instagram photos to liven up your Feed. After spending some time at The Blue Eye we will head back to Gjirokaster where we will spend our night in a nice hotel. After having breakfast at the hotel, we hit the road again with Berat being our next destination. This ancient city has a very rich history and we will learn all about it while visiting the Castle of Berat or just walking through the city and taking a good look at the architecture and culture that mirrors the historical past of this UNESCO World Heritage site. After spending some free time and strolling through Berat we will head back to Tirana on a nice comfortable drive.