Corfu Island: Old Town and Achilleion Palace Coach Tour

Travelers seeking a taste of Corfu’s lush scenery and historic elegance will find this 6-hour coach tour a rewarding experience. For $451 per group of up to 15, you’ll visit the iconic Achilleion Palace, built for Austria’s Empress Sissy in 1890, and explore the vibrant, authentic Old Town of Corfu. With the convenience of hotel or port pickup, this tour offers a comfortable way to see some of the island’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of navigating yourself.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines stunning natural scenery with a glimpse into European aristocratic history. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Ionian Sea from the palace gardens, and the drive itself through Corfu’s verdant countryside—dotted with orange, lemon, cypress, and olive groves—is a feast for the senses. The second highlight, exploring the Achilleion Palace, is a chance to walk through rooms filled with exotic trees and flowers and admire statues linked to Greek mythology.

One potential consideration is the duration—at six hours, it’s a relatively quick overview, so those wanting a deep dive into local culture or history might find it a bit superficial. Also, since entrance fees and food are not included, budget accordingly if you plan to visit the palace interior or enjoy a meal afterward.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives and easy access to historic sights, especially those who prefer organized excursions with a small group. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time on the island who want a balanced taste of Corfu’s natural beauty and elegance.

Key Points

• Comfortable group size: Up to 15 people ensures a more personal experience.
• Beautiful countryside: Drive through orange, lemon, cypress, and olive groves, with vineyards and wildflowers.
• Majestic Achilleion Palace: Built in 1891, with stunning gardens and sea views.
• Spectacular vistas: Enjoy panoramic views over the Ionian Sea from the palace gardens.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance; pay later for flexibility.
• Inclusive pickup: Hotel or port pick-up and drop-off included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation

This coach tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel or the port, making logistics straightforward. The coach is comfortable enough for a six-hour trip, allowing you to sit back and relax while your guide takes care of navigation and commentary. The small group size—up to 15 travelers—helps keep the experience intimate and engaging, avoiding the overly crowded feel of larger bus excursions.

The drive from the port or your hotel takes around 20 minutes. During this time, you’ll get a first glimpse of Corfu’s lush landscape, a contrast to the more arid Greek islands. The scenery is a highlight in itself—interwoven olive groves, citrus trees, and vineyards—which all add to the island’s charm and explain why Corfu is often described as the greenest of the Greek islands.

The Journey Through Corfiot Countryside

As you leave the coast, your guide will point out the distinctive flora—orange and lemon groves perfuming the air, tall cypress trees lining the roads, and wildflowers blooming in the fields. It’s this verdant landscape that sets Corfu apart from many other Greek islands, and the drive offers perfect photo opportunities.

We loved the way the scenery transitions gradually from coastal views to the traditional village of Gastouri. This journey gives you a sense of Corfu’s rural charm, where life moves at a gentler pace and history is woven into everyday scenes.

Visiting Achilleion Palace

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the Achilleion Palace, built in 1891 by Empress Elisabeth of Austria—affectionately called Sissy—who sought a refuge amidst Corfu’s idyllic setting. The palace’s architecture is stately, surrounded by exotic gardens filled with classical statues inspired by Greek mythology and flora from all over the world.

Inside, you can explore the rooms decorated with ornate furnishings, and imagine the Empress’s retreats. Outside, the gardens are a paradise of colors and scents—palm trees, cypresses, and colorful flowers—set against the spectacular backdrop of the Ionian Sea.

One of the most memorable features is the view from the gardens, which offers a sweeping vista over the water, perfect for photos or simply soaking in the beauty of the island’s coastline.

Insider Tip:

While you can wander freely in the gardens, entrance fees are not included, so consider bringing some cash if you wish to explore the interior thoroughly. The palace also has a gift shop, where you can pick up souvenirs.

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Exploring Corfu Old Town

After the palace visit, the tour typically includes a brief stop in the Old Town. Here, you’ll experience the lively, narrow streets, filled with colorful buildings and quaint cafes. It’s a perfect place to absorb the local atmosphere, whether for quick souvenir shopping or just strolling at your own pace.

Though the tour’s main focus is the palace and countryside, many travelers enjoy this part for its authentic charm. Be prepared for some steep alleys and cobbled streets, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Return and Reflection

After about six hours, the coach will return you to your hotel or port. Travelers often note how smoothly the day runs, leaving plenty of time to relax or grab a bite after the tour.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Value

Based on reviews, this tour provides authentic views and a well-rounded taste of Corfu’s scenery and historical sites. One traveler praised the “very nice day,” highlighting the exceptional driver and attentive service. Others appreciated the spectacular views that made the trip memorable.

While the cost might seem high for a half-day trip, the value lies in convenience, comfort, and the ability to see a lot in a short time. It’s especially suited for those who want to maximize sightseeing with minimal hassle.

This tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want to see Corfu’s highlights. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who prefer a small-group experience and enjoy beautiful scenery paired with historic architecture. If you’re traveling with limited mobility or prefer a comfortable, guided outing, this fits the bill. Keep in mind, if you’re eager to explore interiors or museums in depth, you may want to budget extra for entrance fees or consider a more comprehensive tour.

The Corfu Island: Old Town and Achilleion Palace Coach Tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and historic charm. You’ll love the spectacular sea views, the serene gardens, and the opportunity to step into a palace that once hosted European royalty. The drive through the lush landscape alone makes it worth considering, especially if you’re seeking an easy, relaxing way to experience Corfu’s best sights.

For those who enjoy small-group tours, scenic drives, and a touch of aristocratic elegance, this trip promises a memorable slice of Corfu. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting a well-organized, insightful, and picturesque overview of this captivating island.

What is included in the tour?
Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or the port are included. The tour covers transportation, the visit to Achilleion Palace, and the gardens. Entrance fees and food are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 6 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the palace and gardens, plus a brief stop in Old Town.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and designed for small groups, making it suitable for most travelers with different mobility levels.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around the palace gardens and Old Town. Dress according to the weather—layered clothing is usually best.

Can I visit the interior of Achilleion Palace?
Yes, but entrance fees are not included in the tour price. If you wish to explore inside thoroughly, plan to pay at the entrance.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The views from the gardens and the palace grounds are stunning, and the colorful streets of Old Town offer plenty of photo opportunities.

What does the drive through the countryside offer?
It’s a scenic ride through Corfu’s lush landscape, with plenty of stops for photos and to enjoy the fragrant citrus groves and ancient trees.

What if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 15 people, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which helps keep your travel plans flexible.

This detailed review gives you a clear sense of what to expect from the Corfu Old Town and Achilleion Palace Coach Tour. Whether you’re after spectacular views, historic elegance, or just a relaxing day on the island, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of Corfu’s best features.

You can check availability for your dates here: