Visitors to Corfu can experience a taste of royal life with a visit to the island’s historic sites. The Achilleion Palace, once the summer retreat of an Empress, captivates with its lavish frescoes and iconic statue of Achilles. Just a short distance away, the serene Vlacherna Monastery offers a peaceful respite from the regal opulence. As you wander through the enchanting streets of Corfu’s Old Town, you’ll be transported to a time when kings and queens walked these very paths. These glimpses into Corfu’s rich history and architectural grandeur promise an unforgettable journey for those seeking to step into the shoes of the aristocracy.

Key Points

Feel Like the Royals - Key Points

  1. Explore the opulent Achilleion Palace, featuring grand interiors, stunning frescoes, and a colossal statue of Achilles symbolizing strength.
  2. Visit the serene Vlacherna Monastery, with its elegant Byzantine architecture and intricately painted frescoes, for a touch of religious history.
  3. Step into the past at the Mon Repos Palace, the former summer residence of the Greek royal family, and learn about its royal legacy.
  4. Enjoy the rich royal history of the Old Town of Corfu, with its narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and the iconic Palace of St. Michael and St. George.
  5. Enjoy a seamless and inclusive experience with convenient transportation, stroller accessibility, and infant seats, making it easy to feel like royalty.

Explore Achilleion Palace

At the heart of the ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour lies Achilleion Palace, a captivating testament to the opulence and grandeur of Corfu’s royal history.

This elegant summer residence was built in the late 19th century by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, who was enchanted by the island’s natural beauty.

Visitors can explore the grand interiors, replete with stunning frescoes and marble statues, and stroll through the palace’s lush gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.

The highlight is the colossal statue of Achilles, the Greek hero after whom the palace is named, standing tall as a symbol of strength and power.

Discover Vlacherna Monastery

Feel Like the Royals - Discover Vlacherna Monastery

After exploring the grandeur of Achilleion Palace, the ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour takes visitors to the historic Vlacherna Monastery. This quaint, white-washed structure sits on a small island, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. Guests can admire the monastery’s Byzantine architecture and learn about its fascinating history. Inside, the interiors feature intricately painted frescoes and religious relics, offering a glimpse into the region’s spiritual heritage.

Feature Description
Location Picturesque island setting
Architecture Elegant Byzantine design
Interiors Frescoes and religious artifacts
Significance Important religious and cultural site

The monastery’s serene ambiance and architectural beauty make it a captivating stop on the ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour.

Tour Mon Repos Palace

The ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour next takes visitors to Mon Repos Palace, a former summer residence of the Greek royal family.

Originally built as a villa for the first British Lord High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands, the palace later became a summer home for King George I of Greece.

Today, the palace features beautiful gardens and opportunities to explore its museums, offering a glimpse into the royal history of Corfu.

Travelers can wander through the grand rooms and learn about the palace’s fascinating past as part of the comprehensive tour experience.

Stroll Through Old Town

Concluding the ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour, visitors stroll through the picturesque Old Town of Corfu, rich in royal history. The narrow streets and charming Venetian architecture transport them back in time, where they can imagine the footsteps of past kings and queens.

Highlights include the 19th-century Palace of St. Michael and St. George, once the seat of the British Lord High Commissioner. Visitors can also explore the Old Fortress, an impressive 15th-century structure that offers panoramic views of the island.

As they wander, they’ll uncover hidden gems like quaint plazas and bustling local markets, all while soaking in the unique blend of cultures that have shaped Corfu’s royal legacy.

Enjoy Palace Garden Views

As visitors explore the ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour, they’ll be captivated by the stunning palace gardens that line their path.

The tour offers a chance to witness the beauty of these meticulously maintained gardens, which complement the grandeur of the historic palaces.

Some key highlights include:

  1. The lush, terraced gardens of Achilleion Palace, featuring statues and fountains that reflect the palace’s Neoclassical architecture.

  2. The tranquil gardens surrounding Vlacherna Monastery, with their serene views of the Ionian Sea.

  3. The expansive parklands of Mon Repos Palace, home to a variety of exotic plant species.

  4. The charming, tree-lined squares and pedestrian lanes of Corfu’s Old Town, where visitors can stroll amidst the city’s royal legacy.

Visit Onsite Museums

Within the palaces and monasteries visited on the ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour, travelers can explore a variety of onsite museums.

At the Achilleion Palace, visitors can step inside the Imperial Apartments and view the palace’s art collection, providing a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of its former owner, Empress Elisabeth of Austria.

The Mon Repos Palace also houses a museum showcasing the history of the Greco-Roman site and the former summer residence of the Greek royal family.

These onsite exhibits allow travelers to delve deeper into the royal connections and rich heritage associated with each location along the tour.

Transportation and Accessibility

The ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour in Corfu, Greece, offers convenient transportation and accessibility options to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all travelers.

Pickup from a selected location is provided, making it easy to start your royal adventure. The tour is stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.

Plus, the tour is located near public transportation, allowing flexibility for those who prefer to explore the area further. For families, infant seats are available, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

  • Pickup from a selected location
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation

Booking and Cancellation Details

With flexible payment options, travelers can reserve their spot on the ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour in Corfu, Greece, from $142.97 per person. The price varies based on group size. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Booking Information
Price From $142.97 per person
Cancellation Policy Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Confirmation Received at booking

This tour provides an opportunity to explore the royal connections of Corfu and take in the rich history of the islands’ palaces and monasteries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Tour Group Size Limits?

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. This ensures an intimate and personalized experience as participants explore the royal sites and history of Corfu, Greece.

Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?

The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers per group, but there’s no mention of discounts. However, the price per person varies based on the group size, so larger groups may get a better rate.

What Languages Are the Tours Offered In?

The tours are offered in English. According to the information provided, there’s no mention of the tours being available in other languages. The focus seems to be on an English-language experience for visitors.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to individual preferences. Customers can request modifications to the itinerary, such as adding or removing attractions, to personalize their experience based on their interests and needs.

How Long Does the Entire Tour Typically Take?

The ‘Paths of the Kings’ tour in Corfu typically takes around 5-6 hours to complete. Visitors explore royal landmarks like Achilleion Palace, Vlacherna Monastery, and Mon Repos Palace, concluding with a walk through the historic Old Town.

The Sum Up

Corfu’s royal sites offer a chance to step into the lives of bygone rulers. From the opulent Achilleion Palace to the serene Vlacherna Monastery, visitors can enjoy the grandeur of the past. With easy access and on-site museums, these destinations provide an authentic taste of royal life, allowing travelers to truly feel like nobility amidst the island’s timeless beauty.