The Durrells in Corfu Town: Private tour

Exploring Corfu through the Eyes of the Durrells: A Private Tour Review

If you’re a fan of Gerald Durrell’s beloved books or the hit TV series “The Durrells,” this private tour of Corfu Town promises a chance to walk in the footsteps of the famous family. For those wanting an intimate, well-guided exploration of the city’s most iconic spots—and some hidden gems—this experience offers both. We love how this tour connects literary history with real places, and the opportunity to see filming locations that still carry traces of the family’s personality.

One standout feature is the knowledgeable guide, who brings the family’s stories and Corfu’s local character to life in a friendly, engaging manner. The tour also boasts stunning views and secret corners, giving travelers a genuine feel for the charm that drew the Durrells to Corfu.

A potential drawback? The tour’s length—about two hours—means it’s a quick snapshot rather than an exhaustive deep dive. It’s best suited for travelers who want a focused, personalized experience rather than an extensive sightseeing marathon. This private walk is perfect for those who love a good story, appreciate authentic local ambiance, and want to see Corfu from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: As a private tour, it offers a tailored look at Corfu’s streets and stories.
• Authentic Locations: Walk where the Durrells lived, loved, and filmed for the popular TV series.
• Expert Guide: Guides bring the family’s personalities and local history to life with enthusiasm.
• Historical and Cultural Insights: Learn about the Durrell family’s relationship with Corfu’s locals and the city’s past.
• Location Focus: Starts at the Old Fortress, an iconic entry point with panoramic views of the city.
• Value for Money: While priced at around $138 per person, the personalized attention and exclusive access make it worthwhile for fans and curious travelers alike.

An In-Depth Look at the Durrells Private Tour in Corfu

When considering a tour like this, it’s helpful to understand what makes it stand out. The tour’s core strength lies in its focus on the famous Durrell family—their life, stories, and the filming locations of the beloved TV series and Gerald Durrell’s books. This isn’t just a walk; it’s an opportunity to connect with the characters and the setting that inspired countless fans.

Starting Point: Old Fortress Corfu

The tour begins at the Old Fortress of Corfu, a location rich in history and stunning views. Meeting here offers an immediate sense of the city’s strategic importance over centuries, but for this tour, it’s mainly a launchpad for the stories to come. The fortress area is ideal for photo opportunities, with sweeping vistas of the city, and it’s free to enter, making it an accessible starting point.

Here, your guide will introduce the family’s story, setting the tone for the walk ahead. As the first stop, it’s a perfect way to get both a sense of Corfu’s history and its scenic beauty.

Walking through Corfu: The Family’s Footsteps

The majority of the tour takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, wandering through the streets and neighborhoods where the Durrells once lived. What makes this segment fascinating is the personalized storytelling—your guide will highlight the distinct personalities of each family member, their quirks, and their relationships with the locals.

You’ll visit the streets, shops, and corners that feature prominently in the TV series and Gerald Durrell’s book My Family and Other Animals. It’s a kind of literary and cinematic treasure hunt, with real locations still bearing traces of their history. It’s astonishing to think that despite the decades, the footprints of the family are still visible—vivid enough to make the stories come alive.

Secret Corners and Filming Locations

One of the most praised aspects, based on reviews, is the discovery of secret corners where scenes from the TV series were shot. The guide’s familiarity with these spots makes the experience particularly engaging. For fans, spotting a familiar street or shop can be a highlight, adding a layer of authenticity and fun.

While the tour doesn’t specify every particular filming site, the inclusion of “secret corners” hints at some hidden alleyways and intimate spots that aren’t typical tourist stops. These authentic finds provide a contrast to the more popular, tourist-heavy locations.

Corfu’s Local Character and Family Stories

Beyond the scenery, this tour is as much about personality and relationships. The guide will share controversial stories, local interactions, and the family’s habits, helping you understand what drew the Durrells to Corfu and kept them there for years.

From reviews, we know that the guide’s storytelling is a highlight—“My guide was amazing,” one traveler noted. This personalized touch turns a simple walk into a memorable narrative experience.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Old Fortress Corfu: Free entrance, panoramic views, historical significance, and a storytelling starting point. Expect a brief but insightful intro to Corfu’s history and the Durrell family’s connection to the city.

Corfu Streets and Hidden Corners: As you stroll, your guide will point out homes, shops, and streets associated with the family’s life and filming locations. Expect to see familiar settings from the TV series and learn about the family’s relationships with locals.

Secret Scenes and Personalities: Your guide might reveal lesser-known stories—quirks, controversies, or anecdotes—that deepen your understanding of the family and the city. This part of the tour is where authenticity shines, and you’ll get a sense of what life was like for the Durrells.

The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and What You Get

At around $138.82 per person, this private tour isn’t the cheapest option, but its value lies in the personalized experience and exclusive access. It lasts approximately 2 hours—ideal for travelers with a limited schedule who want a meaningful, focused encounter with the city’s Durrell-related sites.

The tour includes all fees and taxes and an official guide, ensuring you get expert insights without extra costs. It’s a private activity, so it’s tailored to your group, which means more attention to your questions and interests.

While not including coffee or snacks, the tour’s main draw is its narrative and location visits—an experience more about storytelling than physical activity. Its meeting point at the Statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg is centrally located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

What Past Participants Say

The glowing reviews highlight some key aspects that travelers love. One recent traveler remarked, “I loved seeing where Gerald Durrell lived,” emphasizing the tangible connection to the family’s life. Another praised the knowledgeable guide and the chance to see filming locations, describing the experience as “amazing.”

These reviews reinforce that the tour’s success hinges on the guide’s storytelling ability and the authentic feel of the locations. The fact that all reviews are perfect (5/5) suggests a consistently high level of satisfaction.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is especially well-suited for literature and TV series fans, those interested in Corfu’s local character, or travelers who appreciate a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at a famous family’s life. It’s also perfect if you prefer a relaxed, intimate pace rather than large, bus-style sightseeing.

If you’re curious about the stories behind the scenes, love discovering hidden corners of a city, or enjoy an engaging guide, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This private tour offers a rare blend of literature, television, and local flavor. The chance to walk through Corfu’s streets while hearing about the Durrell family’s life makes for a uniquely engaging experience. The expert guide’s storytelling and focus on authentic locations mean you won’t just see the city—you’ll feel it.

While the price might seem steep compared to group tours, the personalized attention and exclusive access justify the cost for fans and curious travelers eager for a meaningful, story-rich experience. It’s ideal for those who want to connect with the city’s past and its most famous residents in an intimate setting.

If you’re looking for a delightful, authentic slice of Corfu’s cultural tapestry with a dash of literary magic, this tour could be a highlight of your visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s a walking tour focusing on historical and personal stories, suitable for adults and older children.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable segment of your day without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are covered, plus an official guide. It is a private experience, so only your group will participate.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour price does not include coffee, tea, or snacks. Entrance to the Old Fortress is free, but other sites are included in the tour’s walk.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg and ends back at the same meeting point.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, a new date or full refund will be offered.

What makes this tour different from other Corfu tours?
Its focus on the Durrell family’s life, filming locations, and personalized storytelling sets it apart from more general city walks.

How does the guide make the stories engaging?
The guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm help personalize the stories, bringing the family members and locations vividly to life.

Would this be a good experience for someone not familiar with the books or series?
Yes, the stories and locations are interesting on their own, and the guide will provide enough context to appreciate the sites even if you’re new to the Durrells.

This private tour of Corfu, centered on the Durrell family, offers a charming blend of history, storytelling, and authentic local flavor. Perfect for fans and curious travelers alike, it’s a worthwhile way to connect with the city’s past and its cinematic magic.