Old Perithia the Ghost Town and Northeast of Corfu

Exploring Old Perithia and the Northeast of Corfu: An Honest Look at the Highlight Tour

If you’re visiting Corfu and craving something beyond the typical beach day or crowded resort, this tour to Old Perithia offers a fascinating peek into the island’s past. Based on reviews and the itinerary, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines history, nature, and a touch of Greek hospitality. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy wandering through historic sites, scenic drives, and discovering local spots off the beaten path.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on authenticity and quiet charm—Old Perithia feels like stepping back in time, with its abandoned streets and untouched ruins. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy local cuisine in quaint restaurants adds a tasty layer to the day. The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, which makes a difference when exploring a place that’s a bit tricky to navigate alone.

One thing to consider is that this tour involves some moderate walking and outdoor activity—good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended. Also, the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to plan for that separately if you’re hungry after all the sightseeing. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate history or scenic landscapes and are open to a relaxed, less commercialized experience.

All in all, if you’re looking for a cultural, scenic, and slightly adventurous half-day trip, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Old Perithia is a genuine ghost town with roots dating back to the 14th century.
• Scenic Drive & Views: The coastal route offers stunning vistas of Corfu’s north-eastern coastline.
• Guides & Service: The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and excellent service, making the trip smoother and more enjoyable.
• Cost vs. Value: At around $174.50 per person, it offers a mix of history, scenery, and culture, which many find worth the price.
• Physical Activity: Moderate walking is involved—good for those comfortable with some outdoor exploration.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 8 travelers, expect a more personalized experience.
• Local Flavors: You can enjoy home-made Greek dishes at the village restaurants, though lunch is not included.
• Weather Dependency: The experience is outdoor-focused, so good weather enhances the visit.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

How the Tour Begins and What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with a pickup around 9:00 am in Corfu Town. The small group size of no more than 8 travelers promises a more intimate experience, which is a big plus in terms of personal attention and flexibility.

The journey to Old Perithia involves about 1 hour and 30 minutes of comfortable travel in an air-conditioned vehicle. This part of the trip is a chance to relax, chat with your guide, and start soaking in the scenery along Corfu’s northern coast. The coastal route is particularly praised for its spectacular views, and many reviews mention how scenic the drive is, with plenty of opportunities to take photos.

First Stop: Old Perithia

Arriving at Old Perithia, you’ll find yourself walking through what’s often called the “ghost village.” The village was originally built in the 14th century, strategically located in the Pantokrator mountains to ward off pirates. Back then, it was a buzzing hub of farming and livestock—full of life and activity.

Today, it’s a quiet, hauntingly beautiful place that feels like a time capsule. Many visitors mention that it’s well-preserved enough to give a true sense of what life might have been like centuries ago. The ruins are extensive, but the paths are manageable with standard footwear, although some reviews warn that it’s not suitable for those with walking problems.

The highlight here is the combination of history and nature. As you wander through the narrow, stone-paved streets, you’ll see abandoned houses, old churches, and scenic viewpoints. The guides tend to point out interesting facts and stories, adding context to the visual experience.

What Reviewers Say:
One reviewer called it “a little distressing place,” referencing how evocative and haunting the abandoned structures are, but also emphasizing the value of the experience. The two-hour duration is just right—long enough to explore without feeling rushed.

Local Cuisine and Rest Stop

While lunch isn’t included, there are a few local restaurants in the village serving homemade Greek dishes. Many travelers find this a charming addition, as it allows them to taste authentic flavors in a cozy setting. You can expect simple but delicious fare, adding a satisfying pause to your exploration.

Second Stop: Kassiopi

After soaking in Old Perithia’s atmosphere, the tour continues to Kassiopi, an important trading port historically and today one of Corfu’s most picturesque fishing villages. This part of the trip lasts about an hour, but you’ll want to linger longer if time permits.

Kassiopi boasts impressive rolling hills, a historic fortress, and some of the most beautiful views of the North-East channel. It’s a vibrant, lively place with narrow streets, waterfront tavernas, and a relaxed vibe. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to stroll along the marina and soak in the scenery.

What Reviewers Say:
One reviewer highlights the “most spectacular views” and the charm of the village. It’s ideal for those wanting a combination of history, local flavor, and seaside scenery.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This tour’s balance of history, scenic beauty, and local culture makes it stand out from more generic day trips. The knowledgeable guides, especially the mention of Dina being “amazing and very knowledgeable,” help bring the experience to life, making the history tangible and the scenery more meaningful.

Pricing is reasonable considering the personalized nature of the trip, the transport, and the unique stops. While it doesn’t include lunch, the time spent in Old Perithia and Kassiopi is well worth the expense for those interested in authentic, less-touristy parts of Corfu.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy history, scenic landscapes, and cultural surprises. If you’re comfortable walking outdoors and looking for a quieter, more immersive day, you’ll probably love it. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate small groups and personalized service, as the max group size is only 8.

However, if you’re after a quick, action-packed adventure or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. Also, since lunch is not included, food lovers should plan for a meal afterward, perhaps at one of the village restaurants or in Kassiopi.

FAQ

How long is the total duration of the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including approximately 1.5 hours of transportation, 2 hours in Old Perithia, and 1 hour in Kassiopi.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have the chance to buy local dishes at restaurants in Old Perithia or Kassiopi if you wish.

What’s the pickup time and location?
The tour starts at 9:00 am, with pickup offered from Corfu Town.

Is this tour suitable for people with walking difficulties?
The tour involves some moderate walking, often outdoors on uneven surfaces, so it may not be ideal for those with walking problems.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Is there a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended, as the outdoor parts can be quite sunny and involve some walking.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $174.53 per person, which many find fair given the personalized service, scenic stops, and local insights.

To sum it up, this tour to Old Perithia and northern Corfu offers a thoughtful mix of history, natural beauty, and local flavor. It’s best suited for curious travelers who want to see a different side of the island—away from the crowds and into its quiet, storied past. If you love a guided experience that feels personal and authentic, this one might be just right.