Achilleion Palace in Corfu – Visitor Guide
The magnificent Achilleion Palace lies just 10 kilometers south of Corfu’s historic old city and only 3 kilometers north of the charming village of Benitses.
Built in 1890 by Empress Elizabeth of Austria, this Neo-Classical palace is one of Corfu’s most iconic attractions and a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Corfu – Achilleion gardens
Visitor Information & Tickets
Location: Gastouri village, Corfu, Greece
Distance: 10 km from Corfu Town, 3 km from Benitses
Opening Hours (2026):
- April 1 – October 31: Daily 08:00 – 20:00
- November 1 – March 31: Daily 08:00 – 16:00
Ticket Prices:
- General Admission: €7
- Reduced (€5): Students (ages 6–18), large families, university students, military personnel, unemployed individuals with valid certificate, seniors 67+, tourist groups of 10+
- Free Admission: Children 0–5, persons with disabilities (with one escort), group leaders and drivers, licensed tour guides, info group staff
Contact: Phone 26610 56210, Fax 26610 56284, Email: msachil@hppc.gr
Highlights: Palace interiors, gardens, statues of Achilles, Dionysus, Lord Byron, panoramic views of the Ionian Sea
Exploring Achilleion Palace – History
Achilleion Palace is a Neo-Classical masterpiece, reflecting the vision of Empress Elizabeth, also known as Queen Sisi. Built on the former estate of diplomat Petros Vrailas Armenis, which she demolished, the palace stands as a symbol of elegance and classical inspiration. Its regal interiors and lush gardens make it a top historical attraction in Corfu.
History of Achilleion Palace & Queen Elizabeth
Empress Elizabeth of Austria, famed for her beauty and tragic life, fell in love with the Corfu estate. Initially, she visited frequently, later less so. Her life included personal tragedy, such as the loss of her son Rudolf and her assassination in Geneva. Locally, she was beloved for charitable acts, like digging a well for the women of Gastouri.
Achilleion Palace Architecture & Art
The palace is named after Achilles and features statues, paintings, and murals depicting scenes from Greek mythology. Highlights include the 11.5-meter statue of Achilles, Dionysus with Satyros, Lord Byron, and the triumph of Achilles, painted by Austrian artist Franz Matt.
The Empress supervised the decoration herself, showing her admiration for Classical Greece. Columns and balconies feature statues of gods, philosophers, and the nine muses. The gardens are equally impressive, offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, perfect for photography and sightseeing.
Visiting Achilleion Palace
Visitors can explore the palace and gardens at their own pace. Recommended tips:
- Visit in the morning to avoid crowds
- Allow 1.5–2 hours to explore interiors and gardens
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking in gardens
- Audio guides provide historical context
- Combine your visit with nearby Corfu attractions for a full-day itinerary
Interesting Facts About Achilleion Palace
- The Kaiser of Germany, William II, later owned the palace and built the Kaiser’s bridge 2 km from Benitses.
- During WWI, the palace served as a military hospital.
- In the 1970s–1980s, it housed the Corfu casino.
- Queen Elizabeth’s influence is still visible in the palace design and decoration.
Is it Achilleion or Achillion?
The correct spelling is Achilleion, named after the Greek hero Achilles. The variant “Achillion” appears commonly in searches. Both are used on our site to match user queries. See the Wikipedia page.
6 Responses
Jennifer
The kaiser certainly made no secret war plans! He never planned or wanted a war but he is the most demonished man in history due to allied propaganda.
Teo
All war plans are secret by definition, also war plans are not necessarily offensive.
Thanks for your comment, I can assure you that this sentence was written not offensively but as a figure of speech.
Diana Owen
Is the Palace open this week please?
Teo
Yes, it is.
Michael
Hi, I visited in June 2022 and the Palace was closed with the exception of the garden, for renovation.
Is the Place now fully open again, I will be visiting after 25th September 2022.
Thanks
Meri
HI, will the castle be open during summer 2023? 08-15 august? Thanks