Achilleion Palace in Corfu – Visitor Guide
Achilleion Palace is one of the most famous attractions in Corfu, located in Gastouri village, 10 km south of Corfu Town. Built by Empress Elizabeth of Austria (“Sisi”), the palace is known for its gardens, statues of Achilles, Ionian Sea views, and Neo-Classical architecture.
This visitor guide includes:
- Tickets and prices
- Opening hours
- How to get there
- What to see inside
- Travel tips for visiting Achilleion Palace
Parts of Achilleion Palace have undergone restoration works in recent years, but the gardens and main visitor areas remain among the top attractions in Corfu.
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
Corfu – Achilleion gardens
Renovation and Current Status
Achilleion Palace is a protected historical monument and may undergo maintenance or restoration works from time to time.
Such restoration efforts require delicate and time-consuming work in order to preserve the architectural details and historical integrity of the site. The site is subject to ongoing conservation and maintenance works as part of its preservation.
In such cases, some indoor areas may have limited access, while the gardens and exterior sections usually remain open to visitors.
For the most up-to-date information before visiting, it is recommended to check locally or with official tourism sources.
History of Achilleion Palace & Queen Elizabeth
Achilleion Palace is a Neo-Classical masterpiece built in 1890 by Empress Elizabeth of Austria, widely known as Queen Sisi. Constructed on the former estate of diplomat Petros Vrailas Armenis in Gastouri, the palace reflects her admiration for Classical Greece, mythology, and elegance.
Following personal tragedies, including the loss of her son Rudolf, the Empress spent time in Corfu seeking peace and inspiration. She became deeply attached to the island and was remembered locally for charitable acts, including funding a well for the women of Gastouri. After her assassination in Geneva in 1898, the palace later passed to Kaiser Wilhelm II and became one of Corfu’s most important historical landmarks.
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.
How to Get to Achilleion Palace
Getting There
Achilleion Palace is located in Gastouri village, about 10 km south of Corfu Town. Visitors can reach the palace by car, taxi, local bus, or organized tours from most resorts in Corfu.
Visitor Tips for 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. 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