Benja Hot Springs & Përmet · 9:00–18:00
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Gjirokastra & Blue Eye tour from Vlorë: history and nature in one day
The fortress of Gjirokastra, the Ottoman bazaar and Albania's most photographed karst spring: two wonders of the hinterland in a single day, with transfer from Vlorë included.
Direct booking with local operators: no hidden fees, free cancellation up to 48h before.
At a glance
Duration9:00–18:00 (full day)
Priceon WhatsApp
Difficultyeasy, some uphill walking
StopsGjirokastra Fortress, old bazaar, Blue Eye
Includestransfer and guide
Seasonall year round
Gjirokastra is the 'city of stone', a UNESCO World Heritage site: Ottoman houses with slate roofs, the great castle overlooking the valley and the old bazaar full of wood and textile crafts. It is also the birthplace of Ismail Kadare, Albania's greatest writer.
In the afternoon you reach the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a karst spring of unreal turquoise gushing from more than 50 metres deep. The water is 10°C all year: swimming in the main pool is forbidden, but the sight — and the photos — are worth the trip.
What's included
- Round-trip transfer from Vlorë with air conditioning
- Guide (English/Italian on request)
- Visit of Gjirokastra fortress and bazaar
- Stop at the Blue Eye
- Free map and recommended itineraries
What's NOT included
- Entrance fees (castle ~400 LEK, Blue Eye ~50 LEK)
- Lunch (free stop at the bazaar or a local restaurant)
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes for cobblestones and trails
- Cash in LEK for entrances and lunch
- Water bottle and hat in summer
Who it's for (and who it's not)
Perfect for history and photography lovers, couples and families. A long day at a relaxed pace; less suitable for anyone with mobility issues (the bazaar is uphill).
Weather and cancellation
Runs all year round, even in light rain (umbrellas recommended). Exceptional weather = rescheduling or refund.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Vlorë?
About 2 hours 15 minutes each way to Gjirokastra, with coffee stops along the way.
Is swimming allowed at the Blue Eye?
Swimming in the spring pool is forbidden; you can swim in the river a little downstream, but the water is 10°C all year.
Are entrance fees included?
No: Gjirokastra castle about 400 LEK and Blue Eye about 50 LEK, payable in cash on site.
Can I do it with children?
Yes, it is a family-friendly itinerary; just mind the bazaar climb and the Blue Eye trails.