Private Corfu Highlights and Beach Escape
Meet your private and local, professional guide at the pier for a drive through the lush countryside blanketed with endless groves, vineyards and beautiful wild flowers on your way to the traditional village of Gastouri. Upon arrival, you will visit Achillion Palace, an impressive 19th century palace built exclusively for Empress Elisabeth "Sissy" of Austria, and later owned by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany following the Empress' assassination.
Walk through the rooms open to the public, and be sure to visit the gardens decorated with the Empress's beloved Greek statuary as well as the exotic trees and flowers she brought back with her from her global trips. The gardens also offer spectacular views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding countryside thanks to its position on the island.
From there you will drive down to the coastal area of Perama for excellent views of the Convent of Vlacherna and the picturesque Mouse Island. According to legend, Mouse Island was created when Poseidon turned Odysseus's ship to stone. Continue through central Corfu's countryside to Paleokastritsa, commonly considered Greece's version of Capri. Once here enjoy some free time for lunch (at your own expense and discretion) and a refreshing swim in the beautiful bay with its stunning backdrop of verdant hills and a Byzantine monastery (from October to April this part of the tour will be replaced with a visit to a traditional village, due to weather conditions).
Your last stop on the tour is the Old Town of Corfu that will welcome you at the New Fortress, one of the entrances into the Old Town. Enjoy some free time to walk up and down the small, paved streets, passing by old houses, hidden gardens, and friendly locals. Pop into one of the ancient cellars to buy traditional products, and be sure to visit the Esplanade with its romantic gallery of Liston before your return trip to port.
Book this 6.5-hour private tour now for a special day in Corfu that you will fondly remember for years to come.