This Corfu shore trip is the most popular choice for guests with a full day available. You visit the island's two historic palaces, then enjoy a scenic driving tour of the island with stops at panoramic viewpoints, including a chance to taste the local liqueur.
After meeting your private licensed guide you leave the city and drive into the fertile area of orange and lemon groves until you reach the Achillion Palace. This Neo-Classical villa was built between 1889 and 1891 for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sisi, who used it as a summer retreat. Her daughter later sold it to German Emperor Wilhelm II in 1907, and it still contains mementos of both former owners. The gardens are adorned with statues and the views over the densely wooded countryside are magnificent.
After your visit you drive to Mon Repos Palace, built in 1828 for the second British Lord High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands, Sir Frederick Adam, and his Corfiot wife Nina Palatianos. From then on the palace was used as the summer residence of the High Commissioners.
Many important personalities stayed at the palace after the Ionian Islands were ceded to Greece in 1864, when it was donated to the Greek Royal family. The second son of King George I, George II, was born here in 1869, and in 1900 Princess Maria, daughter of King George I and Queen Olga, was married here to Grand Duke George Mikhailovich of Russia. The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, was born here on June 10, 1921 and baptized here as well. The Greek Royal family summered at Mon Repos until the last King, Constantine II, went into exile following the 1974 referendum that abolished the monarchy.
After visiting these palaces you drive into the town of Corfu, where you have free time for lunch (meal not included).
This afternoon you embark on a driving tour to wonderful viewpoints on the island. First you travel along the scenic west coast to the hilltop village of Lakones, known as Bella Vista, with spectacular views over the Bay of Paleokastritsa, its emerald waters and unusual rock formations. In the distance sits the Monastery of Panagia Paleokastritsa, founded in 1225 and rebuilt several times since.
Next you drive inland to the scenic village of Makrades, the Troumbetta Pass and the village of Scripero, leading through the fertile Ropa Valley.
Your next stop is at a distillery producing an island favorite, Koum Kouat liqueur, with time for tasting this specialty along with fruit glace.
After this refreshing stop you start the trip back to Corfu town. Along the way a short stop is made at Kanoni, named for the old cannons still in place that once protected the harbor entrance, with wonderful views of the bay, Mouse Island and its little chapel.
If you cannot find what you are looking for, our Corfu tours and Corfu Shore Excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private Corfu tour using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.
Review Location- Corfu 
