Achílleion Beaches

Overview

While famous for its palace, Achílleion's hilltop location offers a unique perspective for a beach holiday. It is not situated directly on the coast, but its central position provides stunning sea views and makes it an excellent base for exploring Corfu's varied shorelines. With a short drive, you can easily access the island's distinct east and west coasts, each offering a different seaside experience.

The closest option is the pebbly east coast, home to the convenient Benitses Beach. For the classic golden sand experience, you must head west. Here you will find the island's most popular and lively shore at Glyfada Beach, or the expansive, family-friendly sands of Saint Gordios Beach. No visit is complete without seeing the iconic coastline of Paleokastritsa, whose beauty is famous throughout the Ionian islands.

Having your own transport is key to discovering the full range of beaches, from the calm, clear waters of the east to the dramatic sunsets and sandy expanses of the west. Whether you seek a bustling resort or a quiet cove, Achílleion's location puts Corfu's diverse coastal treasures within reach. For more inspiration, explore our complete guide to the area's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Achilleion on a beach?

No, Achilleion is not located directly on a beach. It is a village situated on a hill, famous for the Achilleion Palace. The location offers stunning sea views from its elevated position, but you will need to travel a short distance to reach the nearest coastlines.

What are the closest beaches to the Achilleion Palace?

The closest beaches to the Achilleion Palace are on the east coast. Benitses beach, a well-organized pebble beach, is just a few kilometers downhill. A little further south of Benitses, you can also find smaller, quieter coves like Tsaki Beach.

Benitses Beach

Are the beaches near Achilleion sandy or pebbly?

The beaches on the east coast closest to Achilleion, such as Benitses, are predominantly shingle and pebble. For wide, sandy beaches, you'll need to travel to the west coast to places like Agios Gordios, Glyfada, or Halikounas.

Which is better: the east coast beaches (like Benitses) or the west coast beaches (like Agios Gordios)?

It depends on your preference. The east coast beaches, like Benitses, are typically pebbly with very calm, clear water, making them great for swimming. The west coast beaches, like Agios Gordios, are famous for their long stretches of golden sand, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful sunsets, but the sea can be wavier.

Benitses Beach

Saint Gordios Beach

Can you swim in the sea near Achilleion and what is the water like?

Yes, you can definitely swim at the nearby beaches. The water on the east coast at Benitses is known for being exceptionally clear and calm, ideal for swimming. The west coast beaches also have clear water, though it can sometimes be rougher with more waves. Water temperatures are warmest from June to September.

Benitses Beach

Do I need a car to get to the beaches from Achilleion?

While there are local buses (like the Blue Bus line 10 to Corfu Town and line 6 to Benitses), renting a car, scooter, or ATV is highly recommended. Having your own transport gives you the flexibility to explore the best beaches on both the east and west coasts, which are not easily connected by public transport.

Is Achilleion a good place to stay for a family beach holiday?

Achilleion can be a good base for families who have a car and want to explore more than just beaches, like the palace and Corfu Town. However, for families wanting direct beach access without daily travel, staying in a coastal resort like Agios Gordios (sandy) or Barbati (pebbly) might be more convenient.

Barbati Beach

What's the best time of year for swimming in the Achilleion area?

The best time for a beach holiday focused on swimming is from June to September. During these months, the weather is hot and the sea temperature is warm and pleasant, often exceeding 25°C in July and August. May and October are also possible, but the water will be cooler.

People Also Ask

Are there quiet, hidden beaches near Achilleion?

Yes, if you explore the coastline south of the main Benitses beach, you can find smaller, more secluded pebbly coves that are less crowded. One such example is Tsaki Beach. For truly remote-feeling beaches, a drive to the wilder parts of the southwest coast, like Halikounas, is recommended.

Benitses Beach

Halikounas Beach

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent on the beaches near Achilleion?

Yes, the main beaches on both the east coast (Benitses) and west coast (Agios Gordios, Glyfada) are well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. Prices for a set (two beds and an umbrella) can vary by beach and row, typically ranging from €8 to €20 for the day.

Benitses Beach

Saint Gordios Beach

Glyfada Beach

How far is Agios Gordios from Achilleion and how do I get there?

Agios Gordios is approximately 12-15 kilometers west of Achilleion. The drive takes about 25-30 minutes through scenic, winding roads. The best way to get there is by rental car or scooter, as there is no direct bus route between the two locations.

Are the beaches near Achilleion good for sunsets?

The beaches on the east coast, which are closest to Achilleion, are not positioned for sunsets over the water as they face east. For spectacular sunsets, you must travel to the west coast. Beaches like Agios Gordios, Glyfada, and Longás Beach are famous for their stunning sunset views.

Saint Gordios Beach

Glyfada Beach

Is the area around Achilleion better for beaches than Paleokastritsa?

Both areas offer access to stunning but different beaches. Achilleion is centrally located, providing a good base to drive to both the calm, pebbly east coast and the long, sandy west coast. Paleokastritsa, on the northwest coast, is famous for its own series of incredibly scenic, dramatic bays with cold, crystal-clear water and is a destination in itself. The choice depends on whether you prefer a central touring base or a stunning beach destination.

Paleokastritsa