Achillion Palace and Corfu Town, Half Day Private Tour

Discover the captivating allure of Corfu on a half-day private tour that unveils the island’s most treasured gems. Venture to the majestic Achillion Palace, a neoclassical summer retreat once belonging to Empress Elisabeth, and marvel at its exquisite frescoes and grand courtyards. Then, explore the enchanting Old Town, where Venetian, French, and British influences have converged to create a cultural tapestry unlike any other. As you wander the charming cobblestone streets, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Corfu’s rich heritage, indulge in local cuisine, and uncover hidden gems that few travelers ever stumble upon. This captivating tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the island’s captivating beauty and a yearning to discover more.

Quick Points

• This private half-day tour takes visitors to the Achillion Palace, a 19th-century neoclassical residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, and the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Corfu.
• The tour includes scenic views of the Kanoni peninsula, Mouse Island, and Vlacherna Monastery, as well as a visit to the traditional Gastouri Village.
• Guests can explore the architectural grandeur and royal history of the Achillion Palace, featuring frescoes, sculptures, and stunning Ionian Sea vistas.
• In Corfu Town, visitors have free time to wander the captivating streets, shop, and dine, experiencing the Venetian, French, and British influences on the island’s cultural heritage.
• The tour’s accessibility features, such as wheelchair and stroller access, ensure it is suitable for a diverse range of travelers.

Tour Overview

This private half-day tour of Corfu allows visitors to discover the island’s historical and cultural highlights.

The knowledgeable driver-guide will take you to the Achillion Palace, a stunning 19th-century summer residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria.

Next, you’ll visit the Kanoni peninsula, home to the iconic Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery.

The tour then heads to the traditional Gastouri Village before culminating in the picturesque Old Town of Corfu, where you’ll have free time to explore the charming streets, browse the shops, and savor the local cuisine.

Ideal for those short on time, this comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the beauty and heritage of Corfu.

Highlights of the Tour

The highlights of this private half-day tour of Corfu begin with a visit to the magnificent Achillion Palace. Commissioned by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, this neoclassical villa offers a glimpse into the island’s royal past.

Next, the tour takes you to the picturesque Kanoni peninsula, where you’ll admire the iconic view of the Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery.

Lastly, you’ll explore the charming Gastouri Village and the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Corfu, affording you free time to wander the cobblestone streets, browse local shops, and indulge in the island’s culinary delights.

Inclusions and Logistics

The tour includes local taxes and provides hotel or port pickup and drop-off within 24 km of Corfu Town. Transportation is by private vehicle, and bottled water is provided. Confirmation is received at booking, and there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Inclusions	Logistics
Local taxes	Pickup/Drop-off
Private vehicle	Bottled water
Confirmation at booking	Free cancellation

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and it operates in all weather conditions, so guests should dress appropriately. It is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available.

Accessibility and Participation

According to the information provided, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, allowing for broad participation.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so participants should dress appropriately for the day’s conditions.

Plus, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available for those with young children.

• The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, ensuring inclusive participation.

• The tour operates in all weather, so participants should dress appropriately.

• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with infant seats available for families.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

Reviews of the Achillion Palace and Corfu Town Tour have been mixed. While some guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable exploration, others focus on a specific driver’s lack of engagement and professionalism. Accessibility at the Achillion Palace has also received varying satisfaction from travelers.

Positive Experiences	Negative Feedback	Accessibility
Knowledgeable guides	Disengaged driver	Mixed reviews
Enjoyable exploration	Unprofessional conduct	Varying satisfaction
–	–	Achillion Palace

Pricing and Booking

The tour price starts from $165.62 and varies based on group size. Booking this half-day private tour of Corfu’s top sights is flexible, with various payment options available.

• Travelers can reserve their spot online with just a few clicks.
• The tour is offered year-round, subject to availability.
• Cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour are fully refundable.

With hotel or port pickup and drop-off included within 24 km of Corfu Town, this tour provides a convenient and customizable way to explore the Achillion Palace, Kanoni peninsula, Gastouri Village, and historic Old Town.

Bottled water is provided during the private transport between sites.

Exploring Achillion Palace

Perched atop a verdant hillside, the Achillion Palace stands as a commanding presence on the island of Corfu. Constructed in the late 19th century as a summer retreat for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, the palace is a harmonious blend of Neoclassical and Baroque architecture.

Visitors can explore the opulent interiors, adorned with frescoes, sculptures, and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. The highlight is the central courtyard, showcasing a grand staircase and the iconic statue of the mythological hero Achilles.

While the palace’s accessibility may vary, guests can enjoy the grandeur and history of this magnificent structure, gaining insight into Corfu’s illustrious past.

Discovering Corfu Town

Beyond the grandeur of the Achillion Palace, the tour also introduces visitors to the captivating Old Town of Corfu.

Strolling through the winding streets, one is transported back in time, with the influence of Venetian, French, and British architecture evident in the buildings.

The tour allows for free time to explore the charming shops, bustling markets, and enticing dining options.

Visitors can marvel at the imposing Venetian Fortress, the Old Town’s UNESCO-listed centerpiece.

The tour’s comprehensive nature ensures that travelers gain a well-rounded understanding of Corfu’s rich history and cultural diversity, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting destination.

Since You Asked

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Achillion Palace?

Photography is generally allowed inside Achillion Palace, though some restrictions may apply. Visitors should check with tour guides or staff upon arrival for the latest policies and guidelines regarding photography within the palace grounds.

What Are the Best Local Cuisine Specialties to Try in Corfu Town?

The top local cuisine specialties to try in Corfu Town include classic Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita, as well as seafood delicacies like bourdeto, pastitsada, and sofrito that showcase the island’s Mediterranean flavors.

Are There Any Additional Entrance Fees at the Achillion Palace?

There are no additional entrance fees at the Achillion Palace. The tour price includes admission to the palace and grounds. Visitors only need to pay the tour’s cost, which covers all the necessary fees.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is fluent in multiple languages, typically English and the local language of the destination. This allows them to communicate effectively with travelers from various backgrounds throughout the tour.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit customers’ preferences. The private nature of the tour allows for adjustments based on travelers’ interests and schedules within the defined tour highlights.

The Final Verdict

This half-day private tour offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Corfu. Visitors can enjoy the neoclassical grandeur of the Achillion Palace, once the summer retreat of Empress Elisabeth, before exploring the enchanting streets of Corfu Town, where Venetian, French, and British influences converge. It’s an engaging and comprehensive way to experience the island’s natural beauty and architectural wonders.