Paleokastritsa: Day Trips and Tours from Corfu

The seaside village of Paleokastritsa sits on the west coast of Corfu and perfectly encapsulates the charm and splendor that the Greek island holds.

With soft golden sands that are warmed by the sun, deep turquoise waters, and jagged rock formations covered by thickets of cypress trees, the village is bound to be a highlight of any vacation.

Paleokastritsa day trips from Corfu are easy to arrange and not to be missed by nature enthusiasts and sun seekers alike.

Here's all you need to know about Paleokastritsa, one of the most exciting day trips from Corfu.

Where is Paleokastritsa located and how do I get there from Corfu?

Paleokastritsa is a village located on the northwest coast of Corfu. It is just over 20 kilometers from Corfu Old Town, which is the main tourist area on the island.

From Corfu to Paleokastritsa by car

To make the simple 30-minute journey to Paleokastritsa by car, you'll drive north out of Corfu Old Town, following the coastal route. This road continues onto Route 24, which leads you all the way to the village.

From Corfu to Paleokastritsa by bus

Another easy way to make the jaunt to Paleokastritsa from Corfu Old Town is by hopping on a public bus from the main bus station. The journey takes approximately an hour and the service runs several times throughout the day.

Guided tour to Paleokastritsa from Corfu

Alternatively, book a guided excursion to Paleokastritsa and allow someone else to take care of the details. These day trips last between 4 and 8 hours, and can include a hotel pickup.

What is the typical itinerary?

All Paleokastritsa day tour itineraries vary significantly. However, you'll usually have the option to meet at a public starting point or select a hotel pickup.

From there, you'll journey to your first destination, which is typically Paleokastritsa. You'll have free time to enjoy the village, discover its monastery and relax on its famed beaches before hopping back into your vehicle and continuing on to a wealth of other Greek destinations, such as Corfu Old Town or Achilleion Palace.

At these locations, you may participate in a walking tour or discover their history and architecture at your own pace. Once you've spent several hours roaming the isle, you'll return to your starting point, where your Paleokastritsa day trip ends.

What are the most popular Paleokastritsa day tours?

There are several different types of Paleokastritsa day tours on offer, which visit a variety of other destinations around the Greek island.

Day tour to Paleokastritsa plus Achilleion Palace from Corfu

On this Paleokastritsa day tour, you'll visit Achilleion Palace, which was built for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria after the death of her son in the late 19th century. Stroll the grounds or sit in the tranquil gardens admiring the perfectly-manicured flower beds and the spectacular view out to sea.

Pay a visit to Paleokastritsa where you'll have leisure time to relax or wander to the nearby monastery. Along your tour, you'll stop to try Corfu's local produce during an olive oil tasting and sample the unique kumquat liquor.

Private tour to Paleokastritsa plus Glyfada from Corfu

Traveling away from the tourist thrum, you'll make your way to the captivating village of Paleokastritsa where you'll have the opportunity to bathe on its silky shores or take a dip in the mild waters of the Adriatic Sea.

You'll have the option to hop on board a boat tour and discover the region's spectacular caves before moving on to Glyfada Beach. Here, you can simply relax or take advantage of the myriad of water sports on offer before returning to your hotel.

Day trip to Paleokastritsa plus Corfu Old Town from Corfu

As a private group, you'll embark on your adventure around Corfu, starting with Paleokastritsa. Discover the charms of this traditional seaside village before continuing on to the 13th-century clifftop Monastery of the Virgin Mary.

Amble through picturesque back alleys and wind your way through architectural gems on a walking tour of Corfu Old Town.

Along the way, you'll visit some of the city's main attractions, which include its 15th-century Venetian castle, red-domed Saint Spyridon Church and the green lungs of the town — Spianada Square.

How much do day trips to Paleokastritsa from Corfu cost?

The cost of a day trip to Paleokastritsa from Corfu largely depends on which other sites you visit and whether or not the tour is private.

The most budget-friendly option for a Paleokastritsa day trip includes Achilleion Palace and costs approximately €70 per person.

Private excursions to Paleokastritsa plus Glyfada cost €150 each, while those that tour Corfu Old Town cost €340 per group of up to 11 participants.

What will I see and do there?

Paleokastritsa is know for its acclaimed beaches, which attract people from far and wide. There are six bays in total, although the main one in front of the village is the most popular.

These coves are filled with silky sand and crystal clear waters that provide the perfect setting for a spot of sunbathing and swimming. If you can, take the opportunity to embark on a boat tour to the secluded caves for a spectacular immersion in nature.

Alongside its sands, Paleokastritsa is also home to a Byzantine monastery, the Monastery of the Virgin Mary, which dates back to the 13th century and features a Christian museum on site. However, the most striking feature of this religious abode is its magnificent view over the ocean from its clifftop location.

Paleokastritsa also has numerous tavernas, restaurants, and cafes where you can sample traditional Greek and Corfiot dishes while enjoying sea views.

When is the best time for a visit to Paleokastritsa?

Sun worshippers will argue that the best time to plan a Paleokastritsa day trip is the summer months when temperatures soar to over 30 degrees Celsius.

However, others prefer the balmier conditions of April, May and September when temperatures typically range between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius.

What other day trips can I join from Corfu?

• Paxos Island day trips from Corfu
• Antipaxos Island day trips from Corfu
• Sivota day trips from Corfu
• Parga day trips from Corfu
• Blue Lagoon day trips from Corfu

Travel tips

• Take your swimsuit and towel with you on any Paleokastritsa day trip to make the most of its turquoise waters.
• Book an excursion that visits several destinations for an easy way to experience more of Corfu in just a few short hours.
• Many of the beaches in Paleokastritsa are pebbly, so it's a good idea to wear water shoes or sandals with good grip to protect your feet and avoid slipping.