Achilleion Palace in Corfu
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. This Neo-Classical palace, built in 1890 by Empress Elizabeth of Austria, is one of Corfu’s most famous attractions and a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Quick Visitor Information
- Location: Gastouri village, Corfu, Greece
- Opening Hours: Daily 08:00–19:00; Weekends & holidays 08:00–14:30
- Ticket Prices: Children up to 14: €2, Youth up to 18 & students/large families: €5, Adults: €7, Full ticket with audio guide: €10
- Contact: Phone 26610 56245, Email: msachil@etasa.gr
- Distance: 10 km from Corfu Town, 3 km from Benitses
- Highlights: Palace interiors, gardens, statues of Achilles, Dionysus, Lord Byron, panoramic views of Ionian Sea
Step into the Grandeur of Achilleion Palace
Achilleion Palace is a Neo-Classical masterpiece, reflecting the taste and vision of Empress Elizabeth, also known as Queen Sisi. The palace stands on the former estate of the diplomat Petros Vrailas Armenis, which she demolished to build this magnificent residence. Its façade, regal interiors, and lush gardens make it one of Corfu’s top historical attractions.
History and Queen Elizabeth of Austria
Empress Elizabeth of Austria, known for her beauty and tragic life, fell in love with the Corfu estate. After building the palace, she visited often initially, but later less frequently. Her life was marked by personal tragedy, including the loss of her son Rudolf and her eventual assassination in Geneva. Locally, she was beloved for charitable acts, like digging a well that served the village women of Gastouri.
Architecture & Decoration
The palace is named after Achilles and is adorned with 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 decoration was supervised by the Empress herself, reflecting 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 and a serene environment perfect for photography and sightseeing.
Visiting Achilleion Palace
Visitors can explore the palace and gardens at their own pace. Recommended tips:
- Plan a visit in the morning to avoid crowds
- Allow at least 1.5–2 hours to explore interiors and gardens
- Bring comfortable shoes for walking in gardens
- Audio guides are recommended for historical context
- Combine your visit with nearby Corfu attractions for a full-day itinerary
Interesting Facts
- 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.
- Visitors can still see Queen Elizabeth’s influence in the design and decoration of the palace.
Is it Achilleion or Achillion?
The correct spelling is Achilleion, named after the Greek hero Achilles. The variant “Achillion” is commonly used by mistake, but both versions appear on our website to match user search behavior. See the Wikipedia page.
Opening Hours, Tickets & Contact
The Achilleion museum is open daily from 08:00 to 19:00. Weekends and public holidays: 08:00 to 14:30. Ticket prices:
- Children up to 14 years: €2
- Youths up to 18, students, and large families: €5
- Adults: €7
- Full ticket with audio guide: €10
For additional information: Call 26610 56245, Mr. Ioannis Tsampodimos. Fax: 26610 56284. Email: msachil@etasa.gr
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