Corfu Shore Excursion: Private Island Tour Including Achillion Palace

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.

1. 1

   Achilleion Museum

   1.5 hours

   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.

2. 2

   Paleokastritsa Monastery

   40 min

   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.

3. 3

   Mouse Island

   40 min

   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.

• 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

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.