South Riviera, Blue Eye & Gjirokastër Tour from Vlorë

I. The Riviera Departure: Vlorë to the Ionian Coast

The Experience:
We depart from the Trips4Fun office in Vlorë and begin one of the most scenic road journeys in South Albania. Leaving the city behind, we pass through the coastal villages of Vlorë Bay before crossing the Llogara tunnel and reaching the Ionian side of the Riviera.

The Refinement:
This is the “Gateway to the South.” Instead of stopping inside Llogara National Park, we use the tunnel to save time and keep the rhythm of the day focused on the bigger South Albania loop.

The Moment:
A short panoramic stop after the tunnel, where the coastline opens dramatically toward the Ionian Riviera.

II. The Ionian Road: Dhërmi, Vuno & Himarë

The Experience:
We continue along the Riviera road, passing some of Albania’s most beautiful coastal villages, including Dhërmi, Vuno, and Himarë.

The Refinement:
This section is not a long stop, but a scenic storytelling drive. Your guide introduces the character of the Riviera: stone villages, mountain slopes, hidden beaches, and the old routes connecting the coast with the interior.

The Moment:
Guests experience the contrast between the high mountain road and the blue Ionian coast below.

III. The Sea Fortress: Porto Palermo Castle

Main stop: around 1 hour

The Experience:
Our first major stop is Porto Palermo, one of the most photogenic locations on the South Riviera. We visit the coastal fortress associated with Ali Pasha of Tepelena, standing between the mountains and the sea.

The Refinement:
We frame this stop as “The Fortress Between Two Worlds.” Porto Palermo is where military history, Ottoman power, and Ionian beauty meet in one place.

The Moment:
Around 30 minutes are dedicated to visiting the castle, followed by a short break near the bay for photos, coffee, or a refreshing drink.

IV. The Living Spring: Blue Eye Natural Reserve

Main natural stop: longest nature stop of the tour

The Experience:
We continue inland toward the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most famous natural springs, known for its crystal-clear water and intense blue color  surrounded by greenery, slopes, and small forests.

The Refinement:
This is “The Living Spring.” After many hours of road and coastal landscapes, the Blue Eye gives the tour a fresh natural pause — cool water, forest shade, and one of the most recognizable natural symbols of South Albania.

The Moment:
From the parking area, guests can choose between walking to the spring or using the shuttle/train service where available. In summer, we recommend the shuttle option because of the heat. This service has an extra cost and is not included in the tour price.

Important note for guests:
The walk from the parking/gate area can feel long during hot summer days, so comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are recommended.

V. The Stone City: Gjirokastër

Main cultural stop: castle + old town atmosphere

The Experience:
From the Blue Eye, we continue to Gjirokastër, one of Albania’s most important historic cities. UNESCO describes Gjirokastër as a city in the Drinos valley, known for its outstanding traditional houses, bazaar, religious monuments, and historic urban character.

The Refinement:
We frame Gjirokastër as “The Stone City.” After the sea fortress of Porto Palermo and the natural spring of the Blue Eye, Gjirokastër completes the triangle of the tour: coast, nature, and heritage.

The Moment:
We visit Gjirokastër Castle, with time to explore the fortress and enjoy views over the old town and valley. Guests who want a deeper visit can also enter the museums inside the castle, such as the prison area, weapons/arms collection, and historical museum, depending on opening conditions and available time.

Entrance note:
Castle entrance and museum tickets may be separate. Museum access is optional and may require an extra fee.

VI. Return to Vlorë

The Experience:
After Gjirokastër, we return to Vlorë, completing the South Albania loop after a full day of landscapes, history, nature, and road adventure.

The Refinement:
This is not a tour built around long restaurant stops. It is a complete regional journey of around 300 km, designed for travelers who want to see the essential highlights of South Albania in one ambitious day.