Embarking on a scenic day trip from Saranda, travelers can discover the captivating sights of Corfu Town and Palaiokastritsa. This 10-hour journey begins with a ferry ride to the historic streets of Corfu’s capital, where a guided tour unveils the Royal Palace and the iconic Saint Spiridon’s Church. After seeing the town’s rich heritage, visitors will then venture to the picturesque Palaiokastritsa, renowned for its Byzantine Monastery and stunning beaches. With the promise of memorable experiences and breathtaking vistas, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Corfu’s treasures. What lies in store for those who embark on this captivating day trip?
Key Points
- This day trip from Saranda takes visitors to Corfu Town and Palaiokastritsa, with a ferry ride, guided tours, and free time for exploration.
- The tour includes a 3-hour guided visit to the historic Corfu Town, featuring photo stops at the Spianada, Saint Spiridon’s Church, and the Royal Palace.
- Visitors can explore the Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin Mary and enjoy free time in the scenic Palaiokastritsa village.
- Boat trips are available to discover nearby beaches and caves, and local shops and tavernas offer culture.
- The tour is available in English, Italian, and Romanian, with hotel pickup and drop-off options and a duration of 10 hours.
Tour Overview
The tour, titled "Saranda: Corfu Town and Palaiokastritsa Day Trip with Cruise," offers visitors a comprehensive day excursion from Saranda port.
Priced from $67.16 per person, the 10-hour trip provides a diverse experience exploring Corfu Town and the scenic Palaiokastritsa.
Available in English, Italian, and Romanian, the tour boasts a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Given its popularity, it’s advisable to check availability as the tour is likely to sell out.
Itinerary Details
Departing from Saranda port, the day trip encompasses a combination of ferry and bus/coach transportation.
The journey begins with a 1-hour ferry ride, followed by a 15-minute bus transfer to the historic Corfu Town.
Visitors will enjoy a 3-hour guided tour, with photo stops and opportunities to explore the Spianada (Liston), Saint Spiridon’s Church, the Royal Palace (Museum of Asian Art), and the New and Old Fortresses.
After Corfu Town, the tour moves on to Palaiokastritsa, a 35-minute bus ride away.
Here, travelers can visit the Byzantine Monastery, browse local shops and tavernas, and optionally hire a boat to explore the nearby beaches and caves for 3 hours before returning to Saranda.
Departure and Travel
The journey begins with a 1-hour ferry ride from Saranda port, followed by a 15-minute bus transfer to the historic Corfu Town. The tour itinerary is as follows:
| Stage | Duration | Mode of Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Saranda Port to Corfu Town | 1 hour | Ferry |
| Corfu Town to Palaiokastritsa | 35 minutes | Bus/Coach |
| Palaiokastritsa to Corfu Town | 35 minutes | Bus/Coach |
| Corfu Town to Saranda Port | 1 hour | Ferry |
After exploring Corfu Town, the group travels to the picturesque coastal town of Palaiokastritsa, where they can visit the Byzantine Monastery and enjoy the renowned Paleokastritsa Beach.
Corfu Town Activities
Upon arrival in Corfu Town, the tour group embarks on a captivating exploration of the city’s historic landmarks.
They make a photo stop at the Spianada, the largest square in the Balkans, featuring neoclassical Liston arcades and the iconic Old Fortress.
Next, they visit Saint Spiridon’s Church, the patron saint of the island, known for its magnificent Byzantine architecture.
The group then tours the Royal Palace, now housing the Museum of Asian Art, marveling at its elegant Venetian-style design.
After the guided tour, travelers enjoy free time to swim, shop, and soak up the lively atmosphere of Corfu’s charming old town.
Palaiokastritsa Activities
After exploring the historical charm of Corfu Town, the tour group boards a bus for the scenic 35-minute drive to Palaiokastritsa, one of the island’s most picturesque destinations.
Upon arrival, the group visits the Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin Mary, dating back to 1228.
Afterwards, they’ve free time to browse local shops and enjoy Greek cuisine at the charming seaside tavernas.
For the more adventurous, there’s an optional boat hire to explore the nearby beaches and caves, allowing them to discover the breathtaking natural beauty of this coastal gem.
The tranquil atmosphere and stunning vistas make Palaiokastritsa a highlight of the day trip.
Return Journey
Following the completion of the activities in Palaiokastritsa, the tour group boards the bus once again for the 35-minute journey back to the Saranda port.
The coach transports the travelers along the scenic coastal roads, offering one last glimpse of the breathtaking Paleokastritsa Bay.
Upon arrival at the port, the group boards the ferry for the 1-hour return crossing to Saranda.
The ferry ride provides an opportunity to relax and take in the views of the Ionian Sea.
Once back in Saranda, the tour concludes with the travelers being dropped off at the original meeting point or their hotel, if the pickup option was selected.
Highlights and Attractions
The tour provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the highlights of Corfu Town and the picturesque Palaiokastritsa. In Corfu Town, the tour includes a photo stop and guided tour, allowing participants to visit the Spianada (Liston), Saint Spiridon’s Church, and the Royal Palace, which now houses the Museum of Asian Art. The tour then heads to Palaiokastritsa, where the Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin Mary from 1228 and the renowned Paleokastritsa Beach can be discovered. Visitors can also opt for a boat trip to explore the nearby secluded beaches and caves, offering a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
| Corfu Town | Palaiokastritsa |
|---|---|
| Spianada (Liston) | Monastery of the Virgin Mary |
| Saint Spiridon’s Church | Paleokastritsa Beach |
| Royal Palace (Museum of Asian Art) | Boat trips to secluded beaches and caves |
| New and Old Fortresses | Local shops and tavernas |
| Photo stop and guided tour |
Inclusions, Exclusions, and Important Information
Included in the tour price are the boat service (with taxes), hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), coach transportation in Corfu, and a knowledgeable guide to lead the activities.
However, food and drinks aren’t included. It’s important to bring your passport/ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a swimsuit.
Unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed, and children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Parking is available at the Saranda port.
Based on 114 reviews, the tour is generally well-organized, with helpful guides, though the overall rating is 3.6 out of 5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Requirement for Travel Insurance?
The information provided does not mention any requirement for travel insurance. Travelers should check with the tour operator or their own insurance provider to determine if travel insurance is recommended or necessary for this tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruise?
The tour has age restrictions – unaccompanied minors are not allowed, and children under 18 must be accompanied by two parents or an adult. This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
Can We Book Additional Activities During the Tour?
Yes, travelers can book additional activities during the tour, such as optional boat hire to explore nearby beaches and caves in Palaiokastritsa. However, the cost of these optional activities is not included in the tour price.
Is Wi-Fi Available on the Ferry and Buses?
The tour does not mention whether Wi-Fi is available on the ferry or buses. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator or travel provider for the latest information on connectivity during the day trip.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour provider doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility features, so individuals with disabilities should contact them to inquire about specific accommodations available. They’ll likely need to evaluate the tour’s activities and transportation on a case-by-case basis.
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Recap
This day trip offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the historic charm of Corfu Town and the breathtaking scenery of Palaiokastritsa. Travelers will enjoy a scenic ferry ride, guided tours, and free time to discover the Byzantine Monastery and stunning beaches. With language options and flexible cancellation, this tour provides a memorable and picturesque experience throughout the day.