Corfu Shore Excursion: Private Island Tour Including Achillion Palace

Corfu , Greece

Corfu Shore Excursion: Private Island Tour Including Achillion Palace

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(3 reviews)

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

When your cruise ships docks at the Port of Corfu, set off to see the island’s highlights with a private guide! Start with a visit to Achillion Palace, the former home of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Due to re-construction of the Palace, the venue shall be visited only from outside (gardens, outdoor statues and photo boards gallery showcasing the Palace inside). Then head inside the gorgeous 13th-century Monastery of the Virgin Mary near Paleokastritsa. An approximate walk 20 minutes will be required from the bus parking to reach the Monastery. After passing through Gastouri village, finish the half-day shore excursion with a visit to Corfu Town to discover the delights of St Spyridon Church.

Available options

Option 1

Pickup included

What's included

Transport by private vehicle and professional driver

Private guide

Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee

Port pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Depart the port of Corfu with direction Achillion Palace. Upon arrival, leave your motorcoach and follow your guide to visit the famous Palace, which was constructed in 1892 for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria. This ill-fated Empress obsessed by the Greek hero, Achilles, commissioned a statue of Achilles “Dying”. In 1907, the Palace was bought by Kaiser William II of Germany, who erected a contrasting statue, of Achilles “Triumphant”. Today, both statues are still standing in the gardens.

As you drive inland, see the traditional villages before arriving at beautiful Palaeokastritsa where you will visit the 13th Century Monastery of the Virgin Mary, located on top of a hill.The Monastery of Paleokastritsa in Corfu: On a green hill above the beach of Paleokastritsa, on the northwestern side of Corfu, there is a large Monastery complex dedicated to Panagia (Virgin Mary) of Paleokastritsa. This monastery dominates the whole region. Built on top of a remote hill, it gives a gorgeous view of the island and the sea. This Byzantine Monastery dates back to 1228, however the current complex, the cells of the monks and the yard date from the 18th century. The monastery has a small ecclesiastical museum with rare Byzantine icons, holy books, and other relics. Inside the monastery, there works a traditional olive oil press. The road to the monastery passes through a forest of olive trees and cypresses.

Stop 3

Continue your sightseeing tour through this beautiful and luscious island, driving past the Kaiser’s Bridge to view, from a distance, the convent of Vlachernae and the Mouse Island, the landmark of Corfu. On your way back to the port, stop in Corfu Town and visit on foot, the St. Spyridon Church, the patron saint of Corfu, or for those who would like, stroll through the numerous narrow balconied streets.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Achilleion Palace

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children who do not occupy a seat are free of charge. Children who occupy a seat and are up to 11 years old, benefit from a discount

Important notes

• You MUST contact Achtypis Tours as soon as you will receive this voucher in order to receive all the pick-up details
• Entrance fees are not included (payable on the spot cash)
• If your Cruise details have changed from the original details advised please contact Achtypis Tours either:
• Email: info@achtypistours.gr
• Locally on 26 210 26 301
• Internationally on +30 26 210 26 301

If you do not contact the local supplier in due time before your activity to arrange a departure time, your guide and transportation will be waiting at specified meeting point half an hour after the indicated by you (in the booking form) disembarkation time. In this case guide/vehicle in service will be standing-by at meeting point, no longer than 1 hr 15min after your disembarkation time (after this time frame client will be considered as "non show" and staff will leave).

Opening hours are:

09:00 - 14:00 Monday to Friday

This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.

About Corfu

Corfu, also known as Kerkyra, is a stunning Greek island in the Ionian Sea. Renowned for its lush greenery, Venetian architecture, and rich history, Corfu offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. It's a destination that caters to history buffs, beach lovers, and food enthusiasts alike.

Top Attractions

Old Fortress

A massive Venetian fortress built in the 16th century, offering panoramic views of Corfu Town and the sea.

Historical 1-2 hours €6

Paleokastritsa

A picturesque village with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery.

Nature/Beach Half day to full day Free to access beaches, boat trips cost around €15-20

Achilleion Palace

A stunning palace built for Empress Elizabeth of Austria, featuring beautiful gardens and statues.

Historical 1-2 hours €8

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sofrito

A traditional Corfu dish made with finely chopped beef or pork, garlic, and vinegar, served with crusty bread.

Appetizer Contains meat and garlic

Pastitsada

A slow-cooked pasta dish with beef or pork, flavored with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, served with a rich tomato sauce.

Main Course Contains meat and spices

Koum Koutouki

A traditional Corfu dessert made with almonds, sugar, and rosewater, shaped into small, bite-sized pieces.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Ropa Valley Scuba diving and snorkeling Beach lounging Spa treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals Boat trips and water sports Exploring hidden beaches and caves

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time of year with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant nightlife. Ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, Italian
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Corfu is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting the journey
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance

Getting there

By air

Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport • 3 km from Corfu Town

By bus

Corfu Town Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient, with routes connecting major towns and tourist spots.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi apps like Beat are available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Corfu Town Paleokastritsa Kavos

Day trips

Paxos and Antipaxos

15 km from Corfu (by boat) • Full day

Two beautiful islands known for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages.

Achilleion Palace and Gastouri Village

10 km from Corfu Town • Half day

A day trip to the Achilleion Palace and the charming village of Gastouri, offering a mix of history and local culture.

Festivals

Corfu Easter • March or April (dates vary) Corfu Festival • June to September

Pro tips

Visit the Old Fortress early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Rent a car or bike to explore the island's hidden beaches and villages.
Try local dishes like Sofrito and Pastitsada for an authentic taste of Corfu.
Attend a local festival or event for a unique cultural experience.
Take a boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos for stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.