Day Trips from Saranda: Exploring Butrint, Blue Eye, and Gjirokastër

If you’ve spent even a few days in Saranda, you’ve probably already fallen for it. The sea, the mountains, the laid-back vibe—it’s easy to see why more and more people are looking for Saranda apartments for sale or even beachfront property for a second home. 

But what many don’t realize is just how much you can explore around Saranda in just a short drive. Some of the most jaw-dropping places on the Albanian Riviera are less than an hour or two away. Trust me, I’ve lived here for years—and I still catch myself saying “wow” out loud on these drives. 

Whether you’re visiting, house hunting, or already lucky enough to live here, these three day trips—Butrint, the Blue Eye, and Gjirokastër—will give you a deeper appreciation for what southern Albania really offers. 

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1. Butrint: History That Just… Hits Differently 

Let’s start with Butrint. It’s only about 25 minutes from Saranda, but stepping into this ancient city feels like you’ve crossed centuries. The first time I walked through those ruins, I remember thinking: Why isn’t this place packed with tourists like Pompeii or Delphi? 

Last week, I showed a client a stunning property in Ksamil (this one, actually: White Residence ) and after we wrapped up the viewing, I convinced them to swing by Butrint for a quick walk. They ended up staying three hours. That’s just the kind of place it is—quiet, powerful, almost spiritual. 

Butrint was once a Greek colony, then a Roman city, and later part of the Byzantine Empire. You’ll find everything from a 3rd-century BC theatre to Venetian towers and even a baptistery with original mosaics. Pro tip: visit early in the morning or right before sunset. The light hits the ancient stones just right, and it’s eerily beautiful. 

And here’s a local secret: there’s a tiny fishing village called Ksamil i Vjetër nearby. The grilled mullet there? Unreal. Especially after a long walk through the ruins. 

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2. Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër): A Natural Wonder You Have to See to Believe 

Okay, let me be honest here. The Blue Eye used to be one of those spots I took for granted. I’d gone so many times, it became routine. But recently, I went back with some friends from Tirana who had never seen it before, and watching their reaction made me fall in love with it all over again. 

It’s about a 30-minute drive from Saranda, winding through olive groves and hills. Then you get there and boom—a deep, electric blue spring that bubbles up with such force you can’t see the bottom. No joke, even in the middle of August, the water temperature stays icy cold. 

There’s a small wooden platform where you can stand and just stare into the blue vortex. Or, if you’re feeling brave (and Albanian-level bold), you can jump in. Locals say it brings good luck. I say it brings a near heart attack—but it’s worth it. 

Here’s a little insider tip: after you cool off, stop by the roadside café just past the main entrance. They make fresh mountain tea with wild honey from nearby villages. Sit down, sip slowly, and enjoy the view of the valley. Life doesn’t get more peaceful than that. 

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3. Gjirokastër: Stone City, Soul City 

If you’ve got a soft spot for cobbled streets, Ottoman architecture, and that feeling of walking through history, Gjirokastër is a must. It’s a bit further—about an hour and a half from Saranda—but it’s 100% worth the drive. 

Now, a lot of blogs and travel guides will mention Gjirokastër’s castle and bazaar (and yes, they’re amazing), but what they often skip is how emotional this place can feel. It’s not just pretty—it’s proud . 

My grandmother used to bring me here as a kid. She’d tell stories about the old stone houses, about how strong the people were, especially during hard times. Even now, when I walk through the alleys, I can feel that resilience. 

If you’re into culture, you’ll love the ethnographic museum (it’s actually inside Enver Hoxha’s old home). And if you’re into food—well, Gjirokastër might just be the underrated food capital of southern Albania. Order qifqi. Don’t ask, just do it. 

One random tangent while we’re at it: I recently talked to a couple who bought a property with a sea view near Borsh. They told me their favorite part wasn’t the house (although, wow— check this one )—it was how easy it was to explore so many different parts of the country from their base. You get beach mornings and castle afternoons. That mix is something special. 

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Real Talk: Why These Trips Matter (Especially If You’re House-Hunting)

When clients ask me about buying in Saranda or along the Albanian Riviera, I always say this:

Don’t just look at the property. Look at the lifestyle.

Sure, we’ve got amazing beachfront property and some of the most affordable seaview apartments in the Mediterranean—but it’s what surrounds them that makes them truly valuable.

One day you’re sipping coffee in a seaside apartment, the next you’re wandering through UNESCO sites or swimming in icy blue springs. This kind of variety? You’d pay three times the price for it in Italy or Greece. I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast.

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Before You Go… A Few Local Tips

• If you’re planning a trip to Butrint and Ksamil on the same day, avoid weekends in peak season. Go midweek and early.

• Driving to Gjirokastër? Stop at Uji i Ftohtë near Tepelenë for a coffee with a view. That place is something else.

• Want a real local lunch near the Blue Eye? Try the small place with the red chairs right by the riverbank. No name. Just good food.

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If you’re already picturing your life here (and honestly, who wouldn’t?), take a look at some of our properties. Whether you’re after a cozy apartment near the promenade or a luxury villa up in the hills, we’ve got something to match your dream.

And hey—if you’re ever in town, drop me a message. Even if you’re not ready to buy, I’m always happy to grab a coffee and talk about life on this beautiful stretch of coastline.

See you in Saranda.