Corfu: Walking & Boat tour The steps of the Durrells

Exploring Corfu through this combined walking and boat tour offers a captivating look into the island’s historical charm and natural beauty. From strolling through ancient alleyways to cruising past pastel-colored Venetian houses, this experience feels like stepping into a postcard. What really makes this tour special is the blend of cultural sights with stunning seascapes, making it perfect for those who love a mix of history, scenery, and authentic local flavor.

One aspect we truly appreciate is the detailed storytelling from the guide, which enriches each stop with stories about the Durrell family’s time on the island. On the flip side, some travelers might find the amount of walking moderate, so comfortable shoes are a must. Suitable for active travelers who enjoy a mix of walking, sightseeing, and boat cruising, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Corfu in just six hours.

A key perk is the small group setting, which means more personalized attention, and the flexibility of a private tour makes for a more relaxed pace. However, if you’re not keen on walking or boat trips, this might not be the ideal choice. Overall, it’s a fantastic option for those wanting an immersive experience that combines history, scenery, and a touch of the Durrells’ magic.

• Balanced Experience: Combines walking and boat cruising for a full perspective of Corfu.
• Historical Insights: Guided commentary offers authentic stories about the Durrell family and local landmarks.
• Scenic Views: Expect picturesque coastal scenery, pastel Venetian houses, and iconic islands like Mouse Island.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to old forts, churches, the Esplanade, and the White House in Kalami.
• Flexible & Private: Small group or private options enhance comfort and personalization.
• Practical Details: Includes Wi-Fi, beverages, and beach towels, with optional additional entry fees.

An Overview of What You Can Expect

This Corfu walking and boat tour offers a well-crafted blend of history, architecture, and stunning scenery, perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of the island without rushing. It starts from the central Durrells spot in Corfu town, where your guide, whose knowledge and storytelling are often praised, will lead you through the city’s most significant sites.

The tour lasts around six hours, making it ideal for a half-day adventure that can fit into most itineraries. It’s specially designed to be accessible for private groups, with a focus on providing a personalized experience. You’ll explore both on foot and by open-speed boat, which adds an exciting aquatic dimension to your sightseeing.

The Walking Tour: Exploring Corfu’s Historic Heart

Starting at the Durrells spot—a favorite for fans of the series—you’ll get a sense of the family’s life on the island. From here, the guide takes you through the Town Hall square, a lively hub anchored by the early 18th-century San Giacomo Theater. The square’s elegant architecture and vibrant atmosphere lay the groundwork for understanding Corfu’s blend of Venetian, French, and British influences.

Next, the tour moves to the Esplanade square, arguably the heart of Corfu town. Surrounded by the French arcades of the Liston buildings, it’s reminiscent of Paris’s Rue De Rivoli. Here, you can soak in the lively atmosphere, watch street performers or just enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes lining the square. Nearby, the Old Byzantine Fortress stands as a testament to the island’s defensive history, with its origins dating back to the 6th century AD and reinforcement during Venetian rule. Some reviews mention that the fortress offers impressive views over the sea, making it a worthwhile stop.

A visit to the Boschetto garden, dedicated to Lawrence and Gerald Durrell, offers a peaceful break amid lush greenery. The garden’s role in the Durrells’ story adds a personal touch to your exploration. Not far from here is the majestic Palace of St. George and St. Michael, built during the British protectorate, featuring elegant regency architecture and idyllic gardens.

The Church of St. Spyridon, housing the relic of the patron saint, is a must-see religious and cultural site. Its interior’s small crypt and revered relic provide a glimpse into local devotion. Walking through the Campielo neighborhood, you’ll find narrow alleyways, Italianate houses, and cozy squares that showcase Corfu’s authentic character.

Crossing into the new fortress area, built in the 16th century, you’ll find a well-preserved example of Italian military architecture. The surrounding streets feature traditional houses and the historic Jewish neighborhood, adding layers of cultural complexity.

The Boat Cruise: Coastal Sights and Iconic Islands

Once you’ve soaked in the history and architecture, it’s time to hop aboard an open-speed boat—the highlight for many. Cruising along Corfu’s coastline, you’ll enjoy stunning views of pastel Venetian houses that cling to the shoreline, a hallmark of Corfu’s picturesque charm.

From the water, you’ll spot Mon Repos Palace, where Prince Philip was born, giving a regal touch to the scenery. The boat then heads towards Mouse Island (Pontikonisi), with its tiny white chapel, a postcard icon and one of the most photographed spots on the island. The journey continues to Vlacherna Monastery, which sits on a tiny island near the coast, often seen in photographs representing Corfu.

A visit to the uninhabited island of Vidos follows, where you can observe local flora and fauna—an untouched piece of nature. Many reviews mention the peaceful atmosphere here, perfect for relaxing and imagining life away from tourist crowds.

Throughout the cruise, the guide shares short stories about the Durrells, adding a personal and literary flavor to the scenery. The cruise also includes a glimpse of the Venetian Villa in Kontokali, which served as the Durrells’ home in the series, making it a favorite for fans.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour includes amenities such as Wi-Fi, beverages, beach towels, and sunscreen, ensuring comfort during your day out. It’s wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most travelers. However, it’s important to note that lunch is not included, so bringing a snack or planning to dine in Kalami afterward is advisable.

Most travelers found the timing and pacing quite reasonable, with the boat cruise providing a refreshing break from walking. The small group size or private setting helps ensure your guide’s attention is tailored to your interests.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and sunscreen, and bring a camera to capture the beautiful views. As some reviewers point out, the moderate walk involved is manageable but may be tiring for those with mobility challenges.

Authenticity and Unique Insights

What sets this tour apart is how it balances cultural storytelling with visual beauty. Multiple reviews praised the guide’s storytelling, which made sites like the Boschetto garden and Campielo neighborhood more meaningful. Travelers appreciated the personal stories about the Durrell family, making the experience resonate emotionally for fans of the series.

The boat ride was highlighted as a highlight by many, offering stunning vistas of Corfu’s coastline and landmarks. Some mentioned how the cruise provided excellent photo opportunities, especially at Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery—perfect spots for capturing memories.

In terms of value, the combination of walking, boat, and storytelling offers a well-rounded experience. The inclusion of amenities like Wi-Fi and beverages adds to the convenience, making it a comfortable day out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, series fans, and scenery lovers alike. If you enjoy learning about local culture while soaking in beautiful views, you’ll find plenty to love. The boat cruise especially appeals to those who want a bit of adventure and a different perspective of Corfu’s coast.

It’s perfect for those who prefer small groups or private tours, as the more personalized approach allows for a relaxed, engaging experience. However, travelers with mobility issues or who dislike walking might want to consider the moderate walking involved.

Final Thoughts

This combined walking and boat tour provides a rich snapshot of Corfu’s heritage and natural beauty. The mix of cultural sites, stunning coastal scenery, and stories about the Durrell family creates a memorable and engaging experience. It’s a great way to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed, especially if you value storytelling and picturesque views.

The tour’s balance of walking, sightseeing, and cruising makes it a value-packed option, especially for those wanting an authentic and immersive day on Corfu. The small-group or private setting ensures a more intimate experience, perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the place.

While the moderate pace and walking are manageable for most, be prepared with comfortable shoes and sun protection. This tour offers an enjoyable, well-rounded way to fall in love with Corfu’s scenic and historic charm.

Is transportation included in the tour?
The tour begins at a designated meeting point in Corfu town, where you’ll meet your guide and start walking. The boat cruise is included, so transportation between land and sea is part of the experience.

How long is the boat trip?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the entire tour lasts around six hours, including both walking and boat cruising. The boat trip itself offers plenty of time to enjoy the views and visit landmarks like Mouse Island and Vlacherna.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and moderate physical activity, so it’s best for children who are comfortable with that. Younger kids or those with mobility issues might find the walking challenging.

Can I customize the tour?
This tour is designed as a guided experience with a set itinerary. However, the private group option allows for some flexibility in pacing or focus areas, depending on your preferences.

Are food and drinks included?
Beverages are included, but lunch is not. You might want to plan ahead or enjoy lunch in Kalami after the tour at the White House or other local eateries.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended. The tour provides beach towels and Wi-Fi for convenience.

Is there any entrance fee I need to pay?
Entrance fees to sites like the White House Museum are not included and are based on availability. Check in advance if specific sites require tickets during your visit.

This Corfu walking and boat tour is a thoughtfully curated experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural richness, and storytelling. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the island’s highlights while enjoying a touch of the Durrells’ magic, all in a comfortable, small-group setting.