How to Plan Your Tour to Visit Ancient Butrint, the Fortress of Lekuresi, and the National Park of Blue Eye in Saranda

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience exploring the history and nature of Albania, a visit to Ancient Butrint, the Fortress of Lekuresi, and the National Park of Blue Eye is a must. This full-day tour will show you some of the best sights that the beautiful city of Saranda has to offer. Here’s what you can expect from the tour:

Overview

This tour is an extraordinary opportunity to visit three of the most beautiful and important landmarks of Southern Albania. You will start from the stunning Blue Eye, where you can admire this natural wonder and learn about its fascinating history. From there, you will visit the Lekuresi Castle, a fortress that offers panoramic views of the city of Saranda and Ksamil Bay. Finally, you will explore the ancient ruins of the Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the rich history and culture of the region.

What’s Included

– Entry fee to the National Park of Butrint and the Blue Eye – Live guide – Air-conditioned vehicle – Pickup from the Port of Saranda or your local hotel or the Tea Tours Main Office (Lagjia no:1 Rruga – Skënderbeu No: 3)

Meeting And Pickup

You have two options for meeting your guide and starting your tour. You can head directly to the meeting point at the Port of Saranda, or you can request a pickup from your local hotel or the Tea Tours Main Office at Lagjia no:1 Rruga – Skënderbeu No: 3. Pickup times vary depending on your location, but the tour typically begins at 9:30 AM and ends at 4:00 PM.

What To Expect

1. The Blue Eye

The first stop on your tour is the stunning Blue Eye. This natural phenomenon is a crystal-clear spring that creates an enchanting blue pool surrounded by lush vegetation. Your guide will take you through the forest to the Blue Eye and tell you all about its history and significance. You’ll have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the natural beauty of this amazing place.

2. Lekuresi Castle

Next, you’ll visit the Lekuresi Castle, a fortress that sits atop a hill overlooking Saranda and Ksamil Bay. The castle was built in the 14th century to protect the city from invaders, and it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. You’ll have time to explore the castle and take in the breathtaking scenery.

3. Butrint National Park

The final stop on your tour is the Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains some of the most well-preserved ancient ruins in Albania. Your guide will take you through the ruins and tell you about the rich history and culture of the region. You’ll see impressive Roman amphitheaters, ancient temples, and Byzantine churches, among other fascinating landmarks.

Additional Info

– Confirmation will be received at the time of booking – Infant seats are available upon request – The tour is not wheelchair accessible – Most travelers can participate – This tour requires a minimum of 2 people. We reserve the right to change or cancel your booking should this minimum guest requirement not be met. For an unforgettable experience exploring the history and nature of Albania, book your tour to visit Ancient Butrint, the Fortress of Lekuresi, and the National Park of Blue Eye here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Saranda

Saranda is a beautiful city located in the southern part of Albania. Known for its stunning beaches, warm climate, and rich cultural heritage, Saranda attracts thousands of tourists every year. If you’re planning a trip to Saranda, you may have questions about the city, its attractions, and what to expect. To help answer your questions, we’ve put together this FAQ about Saranda.

1. What is the best time to visit Saranda?

The best time to visit Saranda is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is perfect for swimming. During the summer months, Saranda can get busy with tourists, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in May or September.

2. What are the top attractions in Saranda?

Saranda has many attractions that you can visit during your stay. Some of the top attractions include:

The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye is a natural phenomenon located about 22 kilometers northeast of Saranda. It’s a spring of clear blue water that’s over 50 meters deep and surrounded by dense vegetation. It’s a popular spot for swimming and diving.

Lekuresi Castle

Lekuresi Castle is a castle that dates back to the 16th century. It’s located on a hill overlooking Saranda and offers breathtaking views of the city and the Ionian Sea.

Butrint National Park

Butrint National Park is an archaeological site located about 20 kilometers south of Saranda. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains the ruins of an ancient city that dates back to the 4th century BC.

3. How do I get to Saranda?

You can get to Saranda by plane, ferry, or bus. The nearest international airport is in Corfu, Greece, which is about 2 hours away by ferry. You can also take a bus from Tirana, the capital of Albania, which takes about 5 hours.

4. What is the currency in Saranda?

The currency in Saranda is the Albanian lek (ALL). You can exchange foreign currency at banks or exchange bureaus in Saranda.

5. What languages are spoken in Saranda?

The official language of Albania is Albanian. However, many people in Saranda also speak English, Italian, and Greek.

6. What is the food like in Saranda?

The food in Saranda is influenced by Mediterranean and Balkan cuisine. Some traditional Albanian dishes to try include:

Tavë Kosi

Tavë Kosi is a traditional Albanian dish made with lamb, yogurt, and rice.

Byrek

Byrek is a savory pastry typically filled with spinach or cheese.

Qofte

Qofte is a type of meatball made with beef or lamb and served with a tomato-based sauce.

7. Is Saranda safe for tourists?

Saranda is a safe city for tourists. However, as with any tourist destination, you should take precautions to avoid common scams and pickpocketing. Be wary of people offering you unsolicited help or trying to sell you something.

8. What is the nightlife like in Saranda?

Saranda has a lively nightlife scene, especially during the summer months. You’ll find many bars and clubs along the main promenade, as well as in the side streets.

9. What should I pack for a trip to Saranda?

When packing for a trip to Saranda, consider the warm climate and the beach. Some essential items to pack include: – Sunscreen – Swimwear – Sunglasses – Hat – Light clothing – Comfortable walking shoes

10. Can I use my credit card in Saranda?

While many places in Saranda accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you in case of emergencies. Be sure to notify your bank of your travel plans before you leave to avoid having your card declined.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Saranda

Saranda is a popular destination in southern Albania known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and historical sites. If you’re planning your trip to Saranda and wondering how to spend your time as a tourist, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll share some of the best things to do and see in Saranda.

1. Visit the Butrint National Park

Located just a short drive from Saranda, the Butrint National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to ancient Greece. The park is home to ruins of a once-great city that was inhabited over several centuries. The area is stunningly beautiful and allows visitors to explore ancient ruins while enjoying the beauty of nature. The park is also home to various species of birds, including pelicans and herons. You’ll need to buy an entrance ticket to enter the park, and you can take one of the guided tours available onsite.

2. Lounge at the beaches

Saranda boasts some of the most scenic beaches in Albania. Some of the top beaches worth visiting include Ksamil Beach, Mirror Beach, and Mango Beach. The beaches are perfect for swimming, relaxing in the sun, and enjoying the beautiful views. Renting sunbeds and umbrellas is a common practice, and it is worth spending a few Euros to enjoy your day in comfort.

3. Explore the Castle of Lekuresi

The Castle of Lekuresi is an impressive fortress located on a hill overlooking Saranda. The castle is a popular tourist attraction from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the city of Saranda. The castle was built in the 16th century to protect the city from the Ottoman invasion. It’s worth noting that the road leading up to the castle is steep and winding. Therefore, taking a taxi or renting a car to get there is advisable.

4. Take a boat tour to the Blue Eye

The Blue Eye is a natural phenomenon located just outside of Saranda. It’s a crystal-clear freshwater spring in the shape of an eye, with a depth of 50 meters. The water is of an incredible blue color, and the place is mesmerizing to behold. The best way to reach the Blue Eye is by a boat ride. You can hire a boat from Saranda port or take one of the many organized tours.

5. Visit Syri i Kalter

Syri i Kalter, also known as Blue Eye in Albanian, is another natural wonder located near Saranda. It’s a stunning and clear natural spring that produces a bright blue color. The water is mesmerizing to see and is an excellent place to enjoy nature’s beauty. Visitors can enjoy the views from several viewpoints located on the surrounding hills or book a guided tour.

6. Sample the local cuisine

Saranda is known for its delicious and hearty food. It’s worth sampling some of the local dishes, such as Qofte or fergesë. Qofte is a traditional Albanian meatball that is made from beef, lamb, or pork. Fergesë is a typical Albanian dish made with pepper, tomato, and pieces of meat. The local ouzo or boza is the perfect accompaniment for these dishes and is a must-try.

7. Visit the old city of Butrint

The old city of Butrint is an ancient city located near Saranda. It was once an important trading center during the Greek and Roman periods. Many of the buildings and structures in the city have been well-preserved, and visitors can stroll through the ancient streets and visit the acropolis, theater, and other ancient buildings.

8. Shop in the local markets

Saranda has several local markets where you can find various items, including souvenirs, clothes, and other gifts. The markets are perfect for picking up some Albanian coffee or honey, magliç, or rug, the traditional Albanian clothing that looks like a poncho.

Book Your Tour Now

Saranda is a beautiful place with many exciting things to do and see. From exploring ancient ruins to enjoying the crystal-clear waters, there is something for everyone. By following this guide, you can make the most of your trip to Saranda and experience the best of what this stunning destination has to offer.