The Achilleion Palace

The Achilleion stands in the hills at Gastouri, south of Corfu Town, a neoclassical palace built in the 1890s for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, the Sisi of legend, who was obsessed with Achilles. After her assassination in 1898 it was bought by Kaiser Wilhelm II, who added a colossal bronze Achilles to the gardens.

For now, manage your expectations: because of restoration works only the gardens and outdoor areas are open, and the ticket is €7. That still gets you the terraces with sea views, the statue of the Dying Achilles and the Kaiser's giant warrior, but not the interiors. It is a standard stop for cruise excursions, so come at opening time or late in the day, and check the current status before you drive up.