If you’re a fan of the beloved TV series The Durrells or Gerald Durrell’s books, this private tour offers a captivating glimpse into the life and times of the eccentric family that called Corfu home. But even if you’re just curious about the island’s lesser-known corners, this walk promises an intimate, authentic experience—far from the usual tourist crowds.
What we love about this tour is how it combines storytelling with real-life exploration, giving you a sense of the family’s personalities and their adventures. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge helps you see Corfu through a different lens, revealing secret spots that most visitors miss. A potential drawback? Since it’s only two hours, it’s a quick taste of the family’s story, so if you’re hungry for more in-depth history, you might want to supplement this with other activities. However, for those seeking a personalized, meaningful glimpse into Corfu’s literary and TV history, this tour hits the mark.
Ideal for literature lovers, TV fans, or anyone interested in authentic Corfu life, this private experience fits well into a broader exploration of the island, providing context and color that enrich your trip.
Key Points
- Personalized experience with a licensed English-speaking guide, tailored to your interests.
- Behind-the-scenes insights into the filming locations used in the TV series.
- Authentic local atmosphere—venture away from crowds and discover the “unknown” parts of Corfu Town.
- Family stories and personalities come alive through guided storytelling and sights.
- Convenient pick-up options available from your hotel or port.
- A compact, two-hour tour that maximizes your time with a focus on quality over quantity.
Discovering Corfu Through the Eyes of the Durrell Family
Corfu isn’t just about stunning beaches and picturesque towns; it’s also a literary and TV landmark, thanks to the Durrell family’s years on the island. This private tour zeroes in on the stories behind the scenes, making it a perfect blend of sightseeing and storytelling.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Corfu Town.
The Tour’s Itinerary: A Walk Through the Family’s Footprints
The starting point is in front of the statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg, near the entrance of Corfu’s Old Fortress. From here, your guide, a licensed English speaker, begins unraveling the tales of the Durrells’ life. The walk lasts about two hours, which means you’ll cover several key spots in the Old Town that have ties to the family’s history and the TV series.
Corfu Old Town is where the Durrells lived, explored, and created their stories. While the guide will point out the filming locations, they also share stories about the personalities of the family members—Gerald, Louisa, Leslie, Margo, and their father, Lawrence. These are stories that bring the family’s vibrant life in Corfu into focus, making their fictionalized adventures feel tangible.
Filming Locations and Personal Stories
Fans of The Durrells will delight in discovering actual sites used in the TV series. The guide emphasizes that traces of the family still remain in the city, even decades later. Because of the private, small-group nature, you’ll have plenty of time for questions and photo stops.
Travelers report that the guide effectively brings to life the quirks and controversies of the family—highlighting their relationships with locals, their peculiar habits, and their love for the island. One reviewer mentioned how they appreciated “the way the stories of the family members’ personalities unfolded during the walk,” making it more than just sightseeing.
Hidden Corfu: Away from Crowds
One of the most compelling aspects of this tour is how it leads you away from the usual tourist hotspots. You’ll explore “unknown” corners of Corfu Town that typically escape the guidebooks. This approach offers a more authentic, local experience—feeling like a resident rather than a tourist.
You might find yourself wandering through quiet alleys, intimate squares, or shops frequented by the Durrell family. These moments give you a sense of what life was really like for the family—an important context often missing from more commercial tours.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details: What You Can Expect
This is a private tour, meaning your group size is limited—ideal for personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. The tour lasts roughly two hours, making it manageable even during a busy travel schedule.
Meeting point is conveniently located in front of the Count Von Der Schulenburg statue, close to the Old Fortress. If you prefer, there’s the option for hotel or port pickup, which adds convenience.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility concerns. The guide speaks fluent English, ensuring clear storytelling and a rich understanding of the sites.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The price covers the licensed guide and pickup options, but doesn’t include meals or drinks. Since it’s a short, focused walk, you’ll probably want to plan for a meal or snack before or after. Remember, this tour is designed as a highlight reel, not an exhaustive exploration—so it pairs well with other activities.
The Value of a Private Experience
While the tour’s cost might seem modest, its value lies in the personalized storytelling and exclusive access to spots not crowded with other travelers. You’ll come away with a richer understanding of the family’s impact on Corfu’s culture and scenery. Reviewers highlight that having a private guide allows for more detailed questions and tailored insights—something you won’t get on larger group excursions.
Why You Should Consider This Tour
This experience is ideal if you’re a fan of Gerald Durrell’s books or the TV series, seeking a personal connection to the story. It’s also perfect for literature buffs or those interested in local Corfu life, wanting to explore beyond the typical tourist paths. Because it’s private, it suits travelers who prefer a relaxed, unhurried pace, and want to ask questions or focus on particular interests.
If you’re short on time but want a meaningful peek into the family’s life and the filming locations, this 2-hour walk offers excellent value. It’s a way to see Corfu through a different lens, blending history, storytelling, and authentic local atmosphere.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?
This private tour offers a genuine glimpse into Corfu’s connection with the Durrell family, blending film locations with personal stories. It’s especially suited for fans of the books or series, but also appeals to travelers eager to see a more authentic, less commercial side of Corfu Town. The focus on storytelling, combined with a relaxed, private setting, makes this experience memorable.
It’s a perfect addition if you want to connect with the island’s literary and TV history in a way that feels personal and authentic. While brief, it leaves a lasting impression by revealing the true heart of Corfu’s charm—its vibrant streets, hidden corners, and stories that still resonate today.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, offering a concise yet meaningful exploration of the family’s Corfu experience.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of the statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg near the Old Fortress and ends back at the same meeting point.
Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it possible for most people with mobility concerns to participate.
Can I request hotel or port pickup?
Absolutely. Pickup can be arranged upon request for added convenience.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers a licensed English-speaking guide and optional hotel or port pickup.
Are there meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You may want to plan meals around the tour time.
This walk combines the best of Corfu’s scenery, stories, and personal touches—an engaging way to walk in the footsteps of the Durrells and see a side of Corfu few visitors experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Corfu Town
More Tours in Corfu Town
More Tour Reviews in Corfu Town
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Corfu Town we have reviewed
- Corfu: Private Sunset Cruise to Mouse Island
- Corfu’s Best Beach Day: Glyfada Beach Escape
- Corfu: Private Sightseeing Boat Tour
- Corfu Sunset Cruise Escape with live DJ, drinks and snacks
- Corfu: The most famous Corfiot Products in one Tasting
- Corfu: Private Paleokastritsa, Kanoni and Town Van Tour
- The Durrells’ Pathway Tour
- Corfu Town express tour: 90 minutes of History and Culture
- Corfu Bites: Walking Tour with Tastings
- Photography Workshop & Tour in Corfu Old Town
- Corfu: Parga Village, Sivota Islands, and Blue Lagoon Cruise
- From Corfu Port: Shore Trip with Boat Cave Tour or Beach