Adriatic Odyssey – Excursions From Corfu

Excursion Packages Departing from Corfu*

CORFU – Greece

After a very pleasant 20 minute drive from the port we reach the old traditional village of Gastouri to visit Achilleion Palace, built by the Empress Elisabeth “Sissy” of Austria in 1891, and later owned by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. Visit its interior halls, the terrace and its beautiful gardens offering spectacular view over the Ionian Sea. The gardens, full of exotic trees and flowers from around the world are adorned with classical statues (Achilles Victorius or Achilles Dying), as she was very fond of Greek Ancient History and Mythology. Continue to Corfu Town passing Perama coastal resort for our photo stop at the picturesque Mouse Island, the most photographed subject on the island.

Once in the Old Town Quarter right on foot of the Venetian Fortress (14th Century – UNESCO World Heritage), our guide takes us to the heart of the historic centre. Walk along the most elegant quarters and narrow cobble stone streets, see the old cricket grounds – a tradition left over by the British – and the Royal Palace of St. George & St. Michael, an imposing building built entirely of yellow Maltese stone by the first British Commissioner of the island. Passing by the spectacular arcades of the Liston Piazza, a down-sized replica of the Rue de Rivoli of Paris, built by the French in the 19th century – we reach the heart of the old town to visit the 300-year old Church of Saint Spiridon with its priceless collection of icons and gifts offered to the Patron Saint of the Island. Exploring the old colorful flea-market we will cross the old Town Hall to reach the busy shopping district. Here we will have free time to stroll around or shop until we re-join the bus to return to the ship.

Note: Dress code required for the church visit.

SARANTA – Albania

Your tour will start with Zodiac from the pier through Vivari Canal to Butrint gate. Butrint, a port from Hellenistic to Ottoman times, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in south-west Albania. Situated on the Straits of Corfu, and surrounded by a picturesque lagoon, it is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the Adriatic Sea region. Following twelve years of archaeological excavations the site and its museum make it an exceptionally attractive place to visit. Continue by bus to the Lekures Castle located on a strategic hill point overlooking the town of Saranda. The castle of Lekures was built on 1537 by Sultan Suleyman who attacked Corfu and needed to control the harbour of Saranda and the road that connected it with Butrint. We will be offered a cocktail at the Castle before we continue to Blue Eye (Syri I Kalter) natural phenomenon. The clear blue water of the river bubbles forth from a stunning, more than 50 meters deep pool.

KOTOR – Montenegro

In the most secluded part of Kotor Bay, old Mediterranean town of Kotor lies, surrounded by an impressive city wall, very well preserved and protected. The Old City of Kotor was built between the 12th and 14th century. Medieval architecture and numerous monuments of cultural heritage have made Kotor a UNESCO listed “World Natural and Historical Heritage Site”. In the Middle Ages, this natural harbour on the Adriatic coast in Montenegro was an important artistic and commercial centre with its own famous schools of masonry and iconography.

Between 1420 and 1797, Kotor was under the rule of the Republic of Venice; therefore the Venetian influence remains among the architectural influences. Through the entire city the building are criss-crossed with narrow streets and squares. At one of them there is the Cathedral of St. Tripum, a monument of Roman culture and one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. The Church of St. Luca (13th century), the Church of St Ana (12th century), the Napoleon Theatre (19th century) and many others are part of the rich heritage of Kotor.

DUBROVNIK – Croatia

You will depart from the pier by your private bus and with your local guide and driving along the new panoramic road, you will reach the view point, where you will enjoy a magnificent view of Dubrovnik and its Riviera. Continue with the bus down to the Pile Gate from where you will begin your guided walking tour, starting with the Stradun, the famous main street. Along the way you will visit the Rector’s Palace (15th century) where you will get a taste of how the aristocracy used to live. After the Rector’s Palace and the visit of the Maritime Museum, you will continue your guided walking tour viewing the Sponza Palace notable for its column courtyard with elaborate stone carvings, the church of Saint Blaise etc. At the end of your walking tour you will have some free time to wonder around before the return transfer to the Panorama.

KORCULA – Croatia

Your guide will meet you at the pier, starting point of your walking guided tour of the town. The Old Town of Korcula is a masterwork of architecture and urban planning where everything is built according to a plan. Your walk will include visits to the Cathedral of St. Mark, probably the best proof of the artistry of Korcula’s famous stone masons and the island’s excellent stone which has been used in buildings all over the world, to the Bishop’s Palace reveals the hidden treasures of the town and the Museum with exhibits from ancient Greek and Roman times. The town of Korcula is also known as the birthplace of Marco Polo who’s alleged birth house can be seen from the outside. After the tour you will have free time to explore Korcula on your own.

BAR – Montenegro

Our optional excursion today will bring us to the Town Fort – Old Bar, located on a three side protected hill, a small valley set near the Adriatic Sea. The Old Bar surprises the visitors with its thick alleys of everlasting plants and wide pavements of modest streets. The remarkable architecture, untouched by modern influences, will allow us to feel the difficulties of the Balkan Peninsula’s history. The symbol of Bar is the olive. Olive trees grow plentifully in the area. The oldest olive tree in the area is over 2000 years old, it has been declared a national monument and it’s located in Mirovica, next to the Old Bar. After sightseeing, we continue to Bar town for a visit of King Nicola Museum. At the end of the tour you will have free time to walk around the town.