OVERVIEW: Achilleion Palace and its gardens, built by Empress Elizabeth of Austria in 1891, are a highlight of Corfu as is the Venetian-built Old Quarter.
HIGHLIGHTS: Enjoy a guided walking tour of Achilleion Palace and its exotic gardens which include the Terrace of Muses. Stop for a photo of Mouse Island, the most photographed subject on the island. And stroll with your guide through the old quarter of Corfu where you will have approximately 30 minutes of free time for shopping on your own.
NOTES: Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile over even and uneven surfaces, inclines and 10 - 20 steps.
Overview:
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Achilleion Palace and its gardens as well as the Old Quarter of Corfu.
Highlights:
- Achilleion Palace: Guided tour of the palace rooms and gardens, including the Terrace of the Muses
- Photo Stop: The most photographed subject on the island, Mouse Island
- Old Quarter of Corfu: View the Royal Palace of St. George and St. Michael and Church of Saint Spiridon
Full Description:
Begin your journey with a drive from the ship through the lush Corfu countryside. Upon arrival to the traditional village of Gastouri, you'll proceed to the Achilleion Palace, built by the Empress Elizabeth 'Sissy' of Austria in 1891 and later owned by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. Your guide will lead you through the palace rooms and gardens, offering spectacular views of the Ionian Sea. The garden's exotic trees and flowers, brought by the empress from her international travel, are adorned with classical statues as she was very fond of Greek ancient history and mythology. View the 'Terrace of the Muses', decorated with statues of the nine Greek muses and the imposing figures of 'Achilles Victorious' and Achilles dying.
At the conclusion of your Palace tour, proceed to Corfu Town passing Benitses and Perama resorts. Enjoy an excellent view of the Convent of Vlacherna and the picturesque Mouse Island. Seize this opportunity to test your camera skills for a photo from this view, the most photographed subject on the island.
Upon arrival in the Old Quarter, your guide will lead you through the maze of narrow cobbled streets of the historic center. Visit some of the most elegant quarters of this Venetian-built town, which competes with Naples, Florence and Venice in terms of beauty, style, character, and charm. Pass the imposing Royal Palace of St. George and St. Michael, constructed entirely of yellow Maltese stone by the first British Commissioner of the island. Visit the 300-year old Church of Saint Spiridon with its priceless collection of icons and gifts offered to the patron Saint of the Island. Finally, pass through the arcades of the Liston Piazza, once the palace stables and into the heart of the old town, the busy shopping district where you will have approximately 30 minutes free time before re-boarding your coach for the return transfer to the ship.
What to Bring:
-You should always take your SeaPass card (provided onboard the ship) and photo identification when in port
-Camera
-You will need Euros and/or credit cards for purchases (foreign currencies are not accepted).
What to Wear:
-Comfortable walking shoes, hat and plenty of sunscreen are recommended.
Important Notes:
-Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile over even and uneven surfaces, inclines and 10 - 20 steps.
-Guests may experience long lines while waiting to visit the Achilleion Palace.
