The Durrells in Corfu Town: Private tour

Exploring Corfu’s Iconic Past with The Durrells in Corfu Town Private Tour

If you’ve ever been captivated by Gerald Durrell’s My Family and Other Animals or the beloved TV adaptation, then this private tour through Corfu’s Old Town offers a charming, personalized peek into the world of the Durrell family. Spanning roughly two hours, it combines scenic strolls, historical insights, and secret filming spots—perfect for fans and curious travelers alike.

What really makes this tour stand out is the chance to walk in the footsteps of the Durrells, uncovering the locations where they lived, loved, and created their stories. Plus, the guide’s knowledge about both the family and the island’s history elevates the experience from a simple sightseeing walk to a meaningful journey.

A key consideration? This tour is quite focused on the Durrell stories and filming locations, so if you’re after a broader cultural or culinary experience of Corfu, you might want to look elsewhere. But for those interested in the family’s life and its tv adaptations, this private outing offers a tailored, immersive experience.

Ideal for lovers of literature, TV fans, history buffs, or anyone wanting a deeper connection with Corfu’s unique personality—this tour promises genuine insights with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: As a private tour, it’s tailored to your group, offering flexibility and intimacy.
• Authentic Locations: Walk through the actual streets and corners where the Durrell family lived and scenes were filmed.
• Insightful Guide: The guide’s extensive knowledge makes the stories come alive, enriching your understanding of Corfu’s past and the Durrells’ influence.
• Convenient Start Point: Begins at the Old Fortress, a historic and scenic spot that sets the tone perfectly.
• Time-Efficient: At around two hours, it’s a manageable way to get a meaningful taste of Corfu’s connections to the Durrell family.
• Value for Money: For $138.82 per person, you’re paying for a private, guided experience that offers depth and exclusivity.

A Deep Dive into the Durrells in Corfu Town Private Tour

The Overall Experience and What to Expect

This private tour is designed to offer an intimate, detailed look at the life of the Durrell family, their quirky personalities, and their relationship with Corfu. The tour kicks off at the Old Fortress, where you’ll meet your guide—an essential starting point that’s not just scenic but historically significant. It’s a natural spot to begin understanding Corfu’s strategic importance and its historical ties to British influence, which also sets a vivid backdrop for Gerald Durrell’s stories.

From there, the journey lasts around 1 hour and 40 minutes, walking through Corfu’s Old Town where the Durrells once roamed. You’ll explore streets, shops, and secret corners, all sprinkled with tales about the family’s daily lives, their habits, and some of the more controversial stories that only add to their charm.

The Significance of the First Stop: Old Fortress Corfu

The Old Fortress marks the beginning of your adventure. This historic site offers sweeping views over the city and sea, and its strategic history is a fascinating backstory for Gerald Durrell’s narratives. Over the 20 minutes you spend here, your guide might share insights into Corfu’s military past, which the Durrells would have seen firsthand. The admission here is free, making it an economical start to the tour.

Walking in the Footsteps of the Durrell Family

The core of the tour is the walking through Corfu’s Old Town, where the Durrells lived and played. Our guide will point out specific locations tied to the family, their relationships with locals, and how their experiences shaped the stories and characters in Gerald Durrell’s books.

One of the most appreciated elements, based on reviews, is the guide’s depth of knowledge. Patricia_F, who took this tour in October 2024, said, “Learning the history of Corfu and seeing the filming locations of The Durrells of Corfu, my guide was amazing!” This highlights that the guide’s storytelling isn’t just surface-level, but delivers genuine context and interesting anecdotes.

Discovering the TV Series Filming Locations

It’s not just about the family’s real life—this tour takes you to the places where iconic scenes from the TV series were shot. For fans of the show, imagining the characters strolling through the very streets adds a layer of magic and nostalgia. Your guide will likely point out specific spots where scenes were filmed, making it an engaging experience for TV enthusiasts.

Traces of the Durrells Today

Despite the stories unfolding decades ago, there are still tangible signs of the family’s presence. Reviewers have noted that “traces of the famous family can still be seen on site,” which makes the walk feel like a treasure hunt. Whether it’s a particular shop, a corner house, or a scenic overlook, these elements help bring the stories to life.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for personalized questions and a flexible pace. It costs $138.82 per person, a reasonable price considering the private guide, the exclusive access, and the insider knowledge provided. The tour is suitable for most travelers and is accessible near public transportation, making it convenient to include in your day.

Weather can affect the experience—since it’s outdoors, bad weather might lead to rescheduling or a full refund if canceled. The tour is especially popular, often booked 65 days in advance, indicating its value and appeal.

Additional Insights from Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the tour for its guide’s expertise and the stunning views. Patricia_F’s comment about the “amazing guide” suggests that the guide’s storytelling makes all the difference. The ability to visualize the family’s life and see where key scenes were shot adds a special dimension.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This private tour offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Corfu through the lens of one of its most famous residents. It’s perfect for fans of Gerald Durrell, lovers of the TV series, or anyone interested in seeing Corfu’s streets with a storyteller who can turn history into engaging stories.

The combination of scenic walks, historical insights, and filming locations makes it a well-rounded experience that’s both educational and fun. The price reflects its private nature and the depth of storytelling, giving you excellent value for a customized experience.

Who Should Book This?

• Fans of My Family and Other Animals and the TV series
• Travelers interested in the personal stories behind Corfu’s charming streets
• Those who appreciate guided, intimate experiences
• Visitors looking for a manageable, 2-hour activity in Corfu
• Anyone keen to see authentic filming locations and secret corners of Old Town

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including a 20-minute stop at the Old Fortress and a 1 hour 40-minute walk around Corfu’s Old Town.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg in Corfu and ends back at the same point.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, providing a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are covered, along with an official tour guide.

Are there any additional costs?
Food and drinks, such as coffee, tea, or snacks, are not included and are at your own expense.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate; however, consider the walking involved and outdoor elements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What makes this tour special compared to others in Corfu?
Its focus on the Durrell family’s life, filming locations, and historical context, all delivered by a knowledgeable guide.

Is there a dress code?
No specific code, but comfortable footwear is recommended since it involves walking through streets.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot through Viator, with bookings often made well in advance given its popularity.

Final Thoughts

For those who have a soft spot for Gerald Durrell’s charming stories or the TV adaptation, this private tour of Corfu’s Old Town offers an engaging, personalized way to explore. The combination of scenic history, authentic filming locations, and expert storytelling makes it a standout experience. It’s a smart choice for fans seeking a deeper connection to the island’s character, or anyone wanting a guided walk that’s as informative as it is enjoyable.

While it’s best suited for those interested specifically in the Durrells’ story, the tour also provides a beautiful introduction to Corfu’s historic streets and scenery. The private format guarantees a flexible, intimate experience—one that turns a simple walk into a memorable journey through time.

Whether you’re a TV enthusiast, a lover of literature, or just a curious traveler, this tour promises a charming glimpse into Corfu’s beloved past, sprinkled with stories that will make the streets feel alive with history.