The short answer
Gjirokastër is only about 50 km inland from Sarandë — roughly a 1 to 1.5 hour trip up a scenic valley. It's an easy connection by furgon, taxi, transfer or rental car, and the Blue Eye spring sits right by the route, making a natural stop.
Furgon and bus — the cheap way
Furgons run between Sarandë and Gjirokastër several times a day, mostly across the morning and early afternoon, for roughly 300–600 lek (about €3–6), cash. As always, they tend to leave when full rather than to a strict timetable, so check the current departures locally and don't leave it too late in the day.
Rental car — with a Blue Eye stop
Driving takes about an hour and lets you pull in at the Blue Eye spring on the way — a short walk from the road to one of Albania's most famous natural sights. A car also makes it easy to continue on to Berat or back down to the coast.
Taxi or private transfer
A taxi or pre-booked transfer covers the trip door to door in around an hour — handy with luggage or if the furgon timings don't suit. Agree the fare before you set off.
Which option is right for you
For the cheapest ride, take a morning furgon. To combine the Blue Eye and travel on your own schedule, rent a car or take a taxi that can wait at the spring. Either way, both towns reward an overnight rather than a rushed day trip.
From the road
Practical tips
- → The Blue Eye spring is right by the route — build in a stop.
- → Furgons thin out later in the day — travel in the morning.
- → Carry small lek notes for the furgon.
- → Both Sarandë and Gjirokastër are worth an overnight, not just a day trip.
