Full-Day Cruise to Corfu Town and Palaiokastritsa from Saranda

Key Points

• Convenient full-day cruise from Saranda to Corfu lasting approximately 10 to 12 hours
• Visit Corfu’s Old Town, including Spianada Square, Saint Spiridon’s church, and the Royal Palace with free admission
• Explore Palaiokastritsa, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, local tavernas, and scenic monastery hike
• Tour includes boat service, air-conditioned transport, and a knowledgeable guide
• Optional boat hire offers the chance to discover caves and secluded beaches
• Small group size with a maximum of 50 travelers ensures a comfortable experience

Full-Day Cruise from Saranda to Corfu with Guided Old Town Tour

This full-day cruise from Saranda offers a seamless trip to the Greek island of Corfu, combining scenic boat travel with enriching sightseeing. At $72.23 per person, it provides a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation, with most of the major sights and attractions included. The tour runs for about 10 to 12 hours, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive day trip.

A highlight is the guided tour of Corfu’s Old Town, where Corfu’s diverse history comes alive through visits to historic landmarks and picturesque streets. The tour also takes travelers to Palaiokastritsa, famous for its stunning beaches, local tavernas, and crystal-clear waters. The optional boat hire at Palaiokastritsa allows discovering hidden caves and private beaches, adding a sense of adventure to the day.

While the tour covers a lot, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included**, and there is a small optional fee for transportation from your hotel to the port. This cruise suits those who enjoy scenic boat rides, cultural sightseeing, and leisurely beach time, all led by a friendly and knowledgeable tour leader.

From the Albanian Coast to the Greek Islands

The journey begins at Saranda’s port, where the boat service departs for Corfu. The cruise includes taxes, and the vessel offers a comfortable way to cross the Ionian Sea. The travel time allows for a relaxed experience on the water, with scenic views of the coast as the boat heads towards Greece.

Upon arrival at Corfu’s main port, passport control is brief, and travelers transition smoothly to the sightseeing portion of the day. The coach transfer from Saranda to the port is optional and incurs a small fee—around 8 Euros for adults and 4 Euros for children.

This part of the journey emphasizes convenience and efficiency, ensuring most of the day is dedicated to exploring Corfu’s highlights. The small group size helps keep the experience personal and manageable, with up to 50 participants.

Exploring Corfu’s Old Town: Spianada, Fortresses, and Cultural Gems

The Old Town of Corfu is the core of this tour, and it’s easy to see why. The two-hour guided tour covers key sites like Spianada Square, the largest square on the island, which serves as a lively hub for locals and visitors alike. The guide explains the history behind Saint Spiridon’s church, a stunning example of architecture, and the Royal Palace, which houses the Museum of Asian Art.

The New and Old Fortresses offer panoramic views over the sea and city, giving a glimpse into Corfu’s strategic importance over centuries. Visitors are encouraged to wander the narrow streets, browse the souvenir shops, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The admission to these sites is free, making the sightseeing both accessible and enriching.

This part of the tour provides a balanced mix of guided insights and free exploration, appealing to those interested in history, architecture, and local culture.

Palaiokastritsa: Village Charm and Scenic Coastline

The second major stop is Palaiokastritsa, where 2 hours and 30 minutes allow ample time to enjoy the village’s beautiful beaches, local tavernas, and the Monastery of the Virgin Mary. Palaiokastritsa Beach is famed for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, making it a favorite for swimming and relaxing.

Visitors can opt to hire a boat (at their own expense) to explore nearby hidden caves and more isolated beaches. This optional activity adds an adventurous element to the day, offering a chance to discover less accessible parts of the coast.

The village’s lively atmosphere and scenic views make this stop a highlight, especially for those who enjoy combining cultural sites with seaside leisure. The local tavernas provide a great opportunity to sample local cuisine or simply enjoy the coastal vistas.

The Guide’s Role and Tour Pacing

Throughout the tour, Mary, the guide, provides a rundown of Corfu’s landmarks and history. Review comments praise her friendly demeanor and clear explanations. She helps keep the day well-organized, ensuring that each stop runs smoothly.

The tour’s pacing is generally well-received, with enough time allocated to each location without feeling rushed. The early start is noted, but this allows the group to maximize sightseeing and beach time. The 3-hour visit in Palaiokastritsa is considered sufficient, though some suggest it could be slightly shortened to allow more time in other areas.

Optional Boat Hire and Cave Exploration

At Palaiokastritsa, optional boat hire provides an exciting way to explore coastal caves and hidden beaches that are otherwise inaccessible by land. This additional activity is not included in the base price but offers a memorable adventure for those interested.

The crystal waters make for excellent swimming and snorkeling, and exploring the caves can be a highlight for those who enjoy sea-based excursions. This flexibility enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to tailor their day to their interests.

Logistics and Meeting Points

The tour begins at Ionian Seaways – Ferry Saranda on Rruga Mitat Hoxha 4. Travelers can use public transportation to reach the meeting point easily, as the tour location is accessible and near transit options.

The activity ends back at the same meeting point, simplifying logistics for those staying in Saranda or nearby. The all-in-one nature of this tour, with transportation included, makes it convenient for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

Value and Booking Considerations

For $72.23 per person, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, culture, and coastal relaxation. The included boat service and air-conditioned vehicle add to the comfort, while the free admission to key sites enhances value.

Cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful for travelers with changing plans. The maximum group size of 50 ensures a comfortable and manageable experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This full-day cruise is perfect for those who value organized sightseeing combined with scenic boat crossings. It’s ideal for visitors interested in Corfu’s history, architecture, and beaches, as well as those looking for a relaxed pace with guided insights.

Because food and drinks are not included, guests who want to experience local cuisine should plan to visit tavernas during the Palaiokastritsa stop. The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to the amount of walking and hiking involved, especially at the monastery.

Final Thoughts on the Corfu and Palaiokastritsa Cruise

This full-day cruise from Saranda provides a well-rounded experience of Corfu’s historic neighborhoods and coastal beauty. The guided tour of Old Town offers rich cultural insights, while the beach stop in Palaiokastritsa allows for relaxation and optional exploration.

The professional guides and smooth logistics make this trip a reliable choice for those seeking a comprehensive day trip. While the price is reasonable for the length and inclusions, travelers should budget for optional boat hire and food.

Most importantly, the tour’s warm, friendly atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a memorable way to experience both Corfu’s charm and the Ionian Sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The boat service, admission to key sites, air-conditioned vehicle, and a tour leader are included in the $72.23 price.

How long is the total tour?
The total duration is approximately 10 to 12 hours, including travel time from Saranda and sightseeing.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan to eat during the Palaiokastritsa stop or bring their own.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is accessible to most travelers, but those with mobility challenges should consider the walking and hiking involved.

Can I hire a boat at Palaiokastritsa?
Yes, boat hire is available optionally to explore caves and isolated beaches. This costs extra and is not included in the base price.

What are the main attractions in Corfu’s Old Town?
The Spianada Square, Saint Spiridon’s church, Royal Palace, and the New and Old Fortresses are highlights.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The activity begins at Ionian Seaways – Ferry Saranda on Rruga Mitat Hoxha 4, accessible via public transport.

Is there any free cancellation available?
Yes, cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What is the group size limit?
The tour accepts up to 50 travelers for a more personal experience.