Achilleion Palace - Palace of Sisi - Achilleion
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Achilleion Palace

4.2
·24k reviews·Achilleio, Greece

A 19th-century neoclassical palace built for Empress Sisi, featuring Achilles-themed gardens and breathtaking sea views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
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Achilleion Palace - Palace of Sisi - Achilleion

Achilleion Palace

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 19th-century neoclassical palace built for Empress Sisi, featuring Achilles-themed gardens and breathtaking sea views.

4.2
(24k reviews)

"The gardens are extremely beautiful and you have very nice view."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Renovation Status First

Verify if the interior is open before you go; gardens offer great views if it's closed.

Arrive Early for Parking

The free car park gets busy by midday. Aim for an early arrival to snag a spot. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Achilles Statue

Achilles Statue

Gardens

The iconic, imposing statue of Achilles is a must-see, dominating the garden landscape.

Panoramic Sea Views

Panoramic Sea Views

Gardens

Breathtaking vistas of Corfu and the Ionian Sea offer stunning photo opportunities.

The Gardens

The Gardens

Exterior

Explore beautifully landscaped gardens with statues and lush greenery, even during renovations.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Renovation Status

The main palace interior is often closed for renovations. Verify current access before your visit to manage expectations and ensure you can enjoy the gardens and views. Reddit

Timing is Key for Parking

The free car park fills up quickly, especially by midday. Arrive early to secure a spot, or be prepared for a short walk from alternative parking. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Save for when you’re going to Corfu 🩵🇬🇷 #corfutravel #corfugreece #greecetravel #greece🇬🇷 #corfuisland #corfuholidays
@janinedebart
36.4K likes • 628.8K views

Check Renovation Status First

Verify if the interior is open before you go; gardens offer great views if it's closed. Reddit+1

Arrive Early for Parking

The free car park gets busy by midday. Aim for an early arrival to snag a spot. :car: Reddit

The Achilleion is a palace built on Corfu for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi 🏰 Achilleion Palace 📌Achilleio 490 84, Corfu, Greece 🎟️ 5€ children above the age of 5 7€ adults #corfu #travel #travelguide #inspiration #greece #achilleion #palace #panoramic #view #holidays #island #aesthetic #sisi #castle
milena.jastak
52 likes • 1.1K views
Must see places in Corfu! •Corfu Old Town: Wander through Venetian streets •Achilleion Palace: Explore the stunning royal palace •Paleokastritsa Beach: Dive into crystal-clear waters •Canal d’Amour: The most romantic swim spot •Day Trip to Paxos & Antipaxos: Tiny islands with paradise beaches •Mount Pantokrator: Views that take your breath away •Old Fortress: Walk through centuries of histo...
sandhyawanders
957 likes • 42.1K views

Enjoy the Garden Statues

Even with interior closures, the gardens boast impressive statues and beautiful scenery. :statue:

Cafe Break with a View

There's a cafe on-site perfect for a refreshing drink while enjoying the sea breeze. :coffee:

reddit.com

Going to Corfu in september with my partner - any recomendations?

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Renovation Status First

Verify if the interior is open before you go; gardens offer great views if it's closed. Reddit+1

Arrive Early for Parking

The free car park gets busy by midday. Aim for an early arrival to snag a spot. :car: Reddit

Enjoy the Garden Statues

Even with interior closures, the gardens boast impressive statues and beautiful scenery. :statue:

Cafe Break with a View

There's a cafe on-site perfect for a refreshing drink while enjoying the sea breeze. :coffee:

Learn History via Videos

Informative videos on-site explain the palace's history and ongoing restoration work. :movie_camera:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(24k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the beautiful gardens and spectacular sea views at Achilleion Palace, highlighting the impressive Achilles statue. However, many note disappointment due to ongoing interior renovations, which limit access to the main palace rooms. Despite this, the site is generally considered a pleasant and worthwhile visit, especially for its historical context and scenic beauty.

"The palace is under restauration but the gardens are extremely beautiful and you have very nice view. Entrance is only 7 EUR and it has a parking place at 1 min from where the palace is. It also has a cafe bar where you can enjoy a lemonade ans watch the planes fly above the sea. It was a very pleasant visit!"

Petite Jalapeño

"Nice to learn about the history of the palace, and there are some great views from the gardens (which have some fantastic statues!) but I don't think it's worth the entrance fee while renovation works are still ongoing. At the moment you can't go inside, and some of the gardens are also being worked on, so there really isn't much to do here other than admire the spectacular Achilles statue. If you're desperate for something to do or don't mind spending the €7 it's a decent place to spend a little bit of time. The free car park gets quite busy by midday but I guess that's the same with everything on this island!"

Andrew Gentry

"Lovely gardens to walk around whilst the interior is being renovated. Short wait to get in, few steps up and down around the gardens. Lots of renovated statues. The garden is getting there, hopefully with a little more funding and care the garden will be flourishing and more areas open. Toilets on site, however only one or two of them actually had seats on.
Informative videos available on the grounds to help understand the site history and work being done.
Can use your camera against the glass on the front doors to see the beautiful foyer, and the videos show much or the inside artwork. Really interesting to visit, really gutted to not be able to see inside first hand as looks stunning!!!
Beautiful scenes views of Corfu, worth the visit just for these."

Rhi

What People Like

Beautiful gardens
Stunning sea views
Impressive Achilles statue

What People Dislike

Interior renovations
Limited access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Achilleion Palace by car, taxi, or local bus from Corfu Town. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes by car. Buses are a budget-friendly option, but check schedules as they can be infrequent. TikTok

Yes, there is a free car park located very close to the palace entrance. However, it can get quite busy, especially by midday, so arriving early is recommended. Reddit

While possible, walking from Corfu Town is a significant distance (around 10-15 km). It's more practical to use public transport, a taxi, or rent a vehicle. TikTok

If you're staying in Perama, Achilleion Palace is quite close. A short taxi ride or a pleasant walk (around 20-30 minutes) is feasible. Reddit

Many organized tours of Corfu include a stop at Achilleion Palace, often combined with other popular sites like Corfu Old Town or Paleokastritsa. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to arrange transport yourself. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Standard adult tickets are typically around 7 EUR. There are often discounted rates for children and seniors. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing. TikTok

Opening hours can vary seasonally. Generally, the palace and gardens are open daily, but it's best to confirm the exact times for your visit on the official Achilleion Palace website to avoid disappointment. TikTok

Currently, the main interior of the palace is often closed for extensive renovations. Visitors can typically explore the beautiful gardens and admire the exterior. Informative videos are available to showcase the interior. Reddit+1

While online booking might be available, tickets are usually purchased on-site. Given the potential for renovations affecting access, purchasing on the day allows flexibility. TikTok

Yes, discounts are often available for children, students, and seniors. Some reviews mention reduced prices for those over 67. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

When the interior is accessible, photography rules can vary. However, with current renovations, you can often take photos of the exterior and gardens. Some visitors have used their cameras against the glass doors to glimpse the foyer. Reddit

The gardens offer stunning backdrops with the Achilles statue and panoramic sea views. The terraces provide excellent vantage points for capturing the landscape. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is generally restricted at historical sites and palaces to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed in the gardens. However, professional photography or commercial shoots may require special permits. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the grand statues and the sweeping sea views. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the gardens. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Even with interior renovations, the Achilleion Gardens are beautiful and well-maintained, featuring impressive statues, including the famous Achilles statue. You can also enjoy spectacular sea views from the terraces. Informative videos explain the palace's history. Reddit+1

If the interior is closed, a visit focusing on the gardens and views can take about 1-2 hours. If the interior is open, you might spend 2-3 hours exploring. Reddit

Yes, there are restroom facilities on-site. Some reviews mention that not all stalls have seats, but they are generally available. There is also a cafe. Reddit

The gardens involve some steps and uneven paths, which might pose challenges for those with significant mobility issues. The cafe and some viewing areas are more accessible. Reddit

Achilleion Palace was built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi) in the late 19th century and later owned by German Emperor Wilhelm II. It's dedicated to the Greek hero Achilles. TikTok

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

There is a cafe on the grounds of Achilleion Palace where you can enjoy refreshments like lemonade and coffee while taking in the views. Reddit

The area around Achilleion Palace has several tavernas and restaurants offering traditional Greek cuisine. Perama, a nearby village, also has good dining options. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best practice to consume your own food and drinks outside the main palace grounds or in designated picnic areas if available, to respect the site. TikTok

The cafe typically offers simple refreshments like drinks and possibly light snacks. For more substantial vegetarian or vegan meals, you'd need to explore local tavernas outside the palace. Reddit

Prices at the cafe are generally reasonable, offering a convenient spot for a drink or light snack during your visit. Expect prices typical for tourist attractions. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Achilleion Palace can be an engaging visit for families, especially if the children have an interest in mythology or history. The impressive Achilles statue is often a hit with younger visitors, sparking imagination. The gardens provide space to explore, and the sea views are always a pleasant distraction. TikTok

Be aware that the interior of the palace is frequently closed for renovations, so the visit might focus primarily on the outdoor areas. Pack snacks and water, as facilities can be limited. The on-site cafe offers a good spot for a break. Consider the heat during summer months and ensure children have sun protection. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Achilleion Palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi) and Kaiser Wilhelm II. The neoclassical architecture and the Achilles-themed decor (even if viewed virtually) speak volumes about the era and the owners' tastes. TikTok

While the interior renovations limit direct exploration, the informative videos and on-site displays provide rich historical context. The story of Sisi's personal retreat and Wilhelm II's later use of the palace adds layers of intrigue. The statues and garden design are also rich with mythological and historical references, offering plenty to study and appreciate. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

Achilleion Palace is a dream for photographers, offering a blend of classical architecture, stunning sculptures, and breathtaking natural scenery. The iconic Achilles statue is a must-capture subject, as are the sweeping panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. TikTokInstagram

Even with interior closures, the gardens provide endless opportunities for creative shots, from detailed close-ups of statues to wide-angle vistas. The terraces offer dramatic perspectives. The golden hour light can transform the already beautiful scenery into something truly magical, making it perfect for capturing those sought-after Instagram-worthy moments. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Empress Sisi Connection

Achilleion Palace holds a special place in history as the summer residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, famously known as Sisi. She commissioned the palace in the late 19th century, seeking a sanctuary away from the rigid court life of Vienna. Her deep admiration for Greek mythology, particularly the hero Achilles, heavily influenced the palace's design and name. Many of the statues and artworks within the palace and its gardens reflect this fascination, aiming to create an idyllic retreat inspired by classical ideals. TikTok

Visitors can still feel Sisi's presence through the palace's elegant neoclassical architecture and the serene atmosphere of its grounds. Although the interior is often undergoing restoration, the essence of her vision—a place of beauty, contemplation, and escape—remains palpable. The palace serves as a poignant reminder of her life and her quest for personal freedom and artistic expression. Reddit

Navigating Renovations and Access

A recurring theme in visitor feedback is the ongoing renovation work at Achilleion Palace. While this is essential for preserving the historical site, it means the main interior is frequently closed to the public. This can be a point of disappointment for those expecting to explore the opulent rooms firsthand. Reddit+1

However, the palace grounds and gardens remain accessible and are often praised for their beauty and the spectacular sea views they offer. Visitors are encouraged to check the current status of interior access before their visit. Informative videos are usually available on-site to provide insights into the palace's history and the restoration efforts, offering a virtual glimpse of what lies behind the closed doors. Reddit The gardens themselves are a significant attraction, featuring impressive statues and well-maintained pathways, making the visit worthwhile even with partial closures. Reddit

Gardens and Views: The Unmissable Elements

Despite potential interior closures, the Achilleion Gardens are consistently highlighted as a major draw. These meticulously designed spaces are adorned with numerous statues, the most prominent being the striking Achilles statue, which commands attention. Wandering through the gardens offers a peaceful experience, with lush greenery and classical sculptures creating a picturesque setting. Reddit+1

The panoramic views from the palace's terraces are another standout feature. Overlooking the Ionian Sea and the coastline of Corfu, these vistas provide breathtaking backdrops for photographs and moments of quiet reflection. Many visitors find the views alone to be worth the entrance fee, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. TikTokInstagram The combination of artistic sculptures and stunning natural scenery makes the gardens and viewpoints a truly memorable part of the Achilleion experience. Reddit

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