Private Tour: Corfu Town and Achillion Palace Tour

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Corfu and want a personalized taste of the island’s highlights, this Private Tour of Corfu Town and Achillion Palace offers a well-balanced blend of sightseeing, culture, and stunning scenery. It’s a chance to enjoy Corfu’s best without the hassle of navigating on your own, thanks to a dedicated driver-guide who tailors the experience to your interests.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility—the private nature means you get to decide how long you linger at each spot, and you avoid the crowds often found on group excursions. Plus, visiting iconic sites like Achillion Palace and capturing memorable photos of Mouse Island with expert guidance makes for a memorable half-day of exploration.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour does not include admission fees for Achillion Palace and other sights, so budget accordingly if you want to explore inside. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, intimate experience with a touch of customization—perfect for families, older visitors, or anyone looking for a relaxed, curated taste of Corfu.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your group’s interests.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.
• Visit Corfu Old Town’s highlights, including the Fortress, Liston Square, and St Spyridon Church.
• Photograph Mouse Island and Vlacherna Monastery from scenic viewpoints.
• Tour Achillion Palace, notable for its statues and gardens—admission not included.
• Ideal for families and older travelers seeking comfort and flexibility.

Exploring Corfu in Comfort and Style

This tour is all about giving you a personalized, hassle-free day exploring Corfu’s iconic sights. From the moment your driver picks you up at your hotel, the experience feels tailored and relaxed. You won’t be part of a large group throwing elbows for photo opportunities or rushing through stops. Instead, this is your private window into the island’s essence, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or linger where you wish.

The vehicle is private, which means you’re not squeezed into a bus or minibus with strangers. This adds to the sense of comfort, especially if you’re traveling with family or a small group. The driver doubles as a guide, providing context and answering questions along the way, which elevates the experience beyond just a sightseeing list.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Corfu Old Town (1.5 hours)

Your tour begins in the historic heart of Corfu. We loved the way the driver smooths out the logistics, dropping you right at the entrance to Old Town—an area filled with narrow, paved alleys and picturesque squares. Key sites include the Old Fortress, which offers panoramic views over the harbor, and the Liston Square, reminiscent of Paris with its elegant arcades.

Walking through St. Spyridon Church, you’ll see its striking bell tower and the famed relics of the patron saint of Corfu. The Old Town’s architecture is a delightful mix of Venetian, French, and British influences, visible in the facades, balconies, and street layout. You’ll have enough time to stroll, take photos, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs in shops that line the alleys.

Mouse Island and Vlacherna Monastery (30 minutes)

Next, the driver takes you to a viewpoint on the mainland, where you can snap stunning photos of Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) and the Vlacherna Monastery. These iconic sights are postcard-perfect, especially with the airplanes taking off and landing nearby—a reminder of Corfu’s lively airport traffic. The views are so captivating that many visitors find themselves capturing dozens of shots.

While you won’t go down to the island itself, seeing it from afar offers a sense of its charm—tiny, green, and surrounded by shimmering water. The monastery’s white walls contrast beautifully against the blue sea, making it one of the most photographed spots on the island.

Achillion Palace (45 minutes)

The highlight for many visitors is the Achillion Palace, former summer residence of Empress Elizabeth of Austria. Even without stepping inside (admission isn’t included), the gardens and statues are worth the visit. We loved the impressive sculptures, especially the famous Aphrodite and Hercules, set amid lush greenery with sweeping views of the island.

The palace’s architecture and grounds reflect a romantic, classical style, giving a glimpse into the luxurious life of a European aristocrat. The gardens provide a peaceful backdrop for photos, and the overall setting is reminiscent of a fairy tale.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The personalized approach is what truly elevates this experience. Being able to customize how long you spend at each site gives you control—whether you want to linger in Old Town’s charming alleys or spend more time exploring Achillion Palace’s gardens.

The driver/guide is praised for their friendliness and professionalism. One reviewer summarized it perfectly: “The service was excellent! The bus on time and the driver really friendly and professional!” This kind of attentive service adds peace of mind, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Corfu or traveling with children or older relatives.

The price at $429.36 per group (up to 11 people) might seem high compared to public tours, but considering it covers all transportation, hotel pickup, and private guiding, it offers solid value for a tailored experience. Plus, the flexibility to avoid crowds and customize your itinerary often makes it worth the cost.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing.
• Admission fees for Achillion Palace are not included—budget extra if you wish to enter.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families and older visitors who prefer a comfortable pace.
• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel makes logistics easy, especially after a morning or afternoon of sightseeing.
• The tour operates on a confirmation within 48 hours and can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand—giving you peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want the convenience of a personalized experience without the hassle of self-driving or sharing with strangers. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but a desire to see key highlights, or for visitors who prefer a more relaxed, curated approach.

Families and older travelers will appreciate the comfortable vehicle, flexible pace, and direct attention from the guide. It’s ideal for those wanting to capture great photos, learn some local insights, and avoid the crowds at popular sites.

If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate way to discover Corfu’s top sights, this tour delivers. It’s not a comprehensive, in-depth visit to every site—admission costs and longer stays are outside its scope—but it provides a memorable overview with a personal touch.

The Sum Up

This Private Tour of Corfu Town and Achillion Palace offers a flexible, comfortable way to experience some of the island’s most beloved sights. With hotel pickup, a dedicated driver-guide, and the ability to tailor your stops, it’s a smart choice for travelers seeking a stress-free day with personalized attention.

While it doesn’t include entrance fees for Achillion Palace or the inside of some sites, the overall value lies in the convenience and the chance to see Corfu in a relaxed, authentic way. It’s perfect for families, older visitors, or anyone who wants a private, curated glimpse of the island’s highlights without feeling rushed or crowded.

If you’re after a peaceful, picturesque introduction to Corfu with a knowledgeable guide by your side, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making it easy to plan your day.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 4 hours, providing a relaxed pace to see the main sights.

Are admission fees included?
No, admission to Achillion Palace and other sites is not included. You’ll need to budget extra if you want inside access.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and allows for some customization based on your interests and timing preferences.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Absolutely. Its private, comfortable setup and flexible timing make it ideal for families or those with mobility considerations.

What sights will I see?
You’ll visit Corfu Old Town, Mouse Island, Vlacherna Monastery, and Achillion Palace gardens, with scenic views throughout.

Is the tour available for groups larger than 11?
No, the price listed is for groups up to 11 people. Larger groups would need to inquire about additional arrangements.

How do I confirm my booking?
You’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, and the tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the price per person?
At $429.36 for the entire group, the cost is shared among your party, making it a cost-effective way to enjoy a private tour.

What makes this tour a good value?
The combination of private transportation, personalized service, and the opportunity to see key sites at your own pace offers excellent value for a half-day experience.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this private Corfu tour matches your travel style. Whether you’re after iconic sights, scenic views, or a relaxed, intimate experience, it’s a solid pick for making your Corfu visit memorable.