
1 / 5Achillion Paleokastritsa Corfu Private Tour
About this activity
Explore two of Corfu's most iconic sites on this curated 5-hour private tour: the opulent Achilleion Palace, a 19th-century royal residence steeped in European history, and the picturesque coastal village of Paleokastritsa with its Byzantine monastery and turquoise bays. This intimate experience combines cultural heritage, stunning gardens, and panoramic viewpoints unavailable on larger group tours.
First stop is Achilleion Palace, built by the Empress Elisabeth “Sissy” of Austria in 1891, and later owned by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. You will visit the museum, as well as its beautiful gardens with spectacular views. The palace was designed with the mythical hero Achilles as its central theme. We continue north to beautiful Paleokastritsa described as the jewel of Corfu, this Arcadian, red-roofed town never fails to enchant. Paleokastritsa is one of the most famous locations on the island.You will visit the Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin, monastery’s gardens where you have spectacular views over the beautiful green and blue bays of the area with their crystal-clear turquoise waters. Then to Bella vista one of the most famous photo places in Corfu. Small stop in Makrades to the local souvenir shop for local spices extra virgin olive oil hand made soup and many more. On the way to troumbeta crossroad one last look at the beauty of Corfu north and south both.
Highlights
- ✓Achilleion Palace interiors and manicured gardens themed around the mythical hero Achilles
- ✓Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin in Paleokastritsa with gardens overlooking emerald and sapphire bays
- ✓Bella Vista—Corfu's most celebrated photo vantage point
- ✓Stop at Makrades for local artisan products: olive oil, spices, and handmade goods
- ✓Scenic overlook at Troumbeta crossroads capturing north and south island views
- ✓Private transport with personalised pacing suited to your interests
Insider tips
- ★Arrive at Achilleion early to avoid midday heat and enjoy the palace gardens in softer light—they're at their most photogenic in late morning
- ★Bring a swimsuit or water shoes; the crystal-clear bays near Paleokastritsa are tempting for a quick dip
- ★The monastery's garden viewpoint is free but serene early in the day before tour groups arrive; ask your guide to time the visit accordingly
Good to know
- •Private tour means flexible duration and stops; confirm with your operator if the 5-hour timeframe includes travel to/from your hotel
- •Comfortable walking shoes essential for palace grounds and monastery paths; some sections involve uneven terrain
- •Makrades shop stop is informal; small cash useful for local crafts, though most vendors accept cards
- •Tour operates year-round; confirm if any sites have reduced hours during off-season visits
Who it's for
Best time to visit
Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer pleasant temperatures without summer crowds; visit Bella Vista in late afternoon for golden-hour photography. Avoid peak midday heat (12–3pm) when exploring the palace and monastery.






