Mon Repos is a quiet escape from the old town, a leafy estate on a promontory south of the centre, in the area known as Palaiopolis, the site of the ancient city of Corfu. The neoclassical villa was built in the early nineteenth century for the British High Commissioner and later became a royal residence. It is also the birthplace of Prince Philip. Today the villa houses the Museum of Palaiopolis, which tells the story of the ancient city through finds from the surrounding area, including remains from the Archaic and Classical periods. The grounds are wooded, with paths that lead down towards the sea past archaeological remains, so a visit is part museum and part woodland walk. The estate is peaceful even in summer and especially restful in winter, when you can have the paths almost to yourself.
How it works
The museum is run by the Greek state through the Hellenic Heritage organisation. In the winter period, from 1 November to 31 March, it is open Monday and Wednesday to Sunday from 08:30 to 15:30 and closed on Tuesdays, with the last entry twenty minutes before closing. It is also closed on 1 January, 25 March, 1 May, Easter Sunday and 25 and 26 December.
Entry is free on the first and third Sunday of each month from November to March. A reduced ticket is available for eligible visitors. The museum has had short closures for works in the past, so check the Hellenic Heritage page or ask locally before making a special trip.
What to expect
Allow time for both the villa and the park. The museum is modest in size and the displays are straightforward, while the estate offers shade, birdsong and glimpses of the sea. Paths can be muddy after rain. The estate is on the way to Kanoni and the airport, and buses run from the centre, though a short taxi ride is easy.
Making the most of it
Begin in the museum, then walk the woodland paths toward the sea and the old temple foundations. Finish with a coffee near the sea at Kanoni, which is a short drive away, and make a pair of the two outings.
What to expect
The experience
A visit to the villa museum and a gentle walk through the wooded estate to the ruins of ancient Palaiopolis.
Best time
Mid-morning, because the museum closes at 15:30 in winter and the paths are most pleasant in good light.
How long
One and a half to two hours, depending on how far you walk.
Tips
Remember that it is closed on Tuesdays, and wear walking shoes in case the paths are muddy.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History lovers and anyone who wants a green, quiet break from the old town.
- Families
- Children can run along the woodland paths, and the museum is short enough not to wear them out.
- Couples
- Take the estate paths slowly, then move on to Kanoni for coffee by the water.
- Pair with
- Kanoni and Mouse Island, and the Old Fortress.
- Time needed
- Two hours.
Good questions
When is Mon Repos open in winter?+
From 1 November to 31 March the museum is open Monday and Wednesday to Sunday from 08:30 to 15:30, and closed on Tuesdays. The last entry is twenty minutes before closing.
Is entry to Mon Repos free on some days?+
Yes, entry is free on the first and third Sunday of each month from November to March, plus a few national days. Otherwise a modest ticket applies.
How do I get to Mon Repos from the old town?+
It is a few kilometres south of the centre. A local bus or a short taxi ride works, or it is a long but pleasant walk along the seafront.
Who was born at Mon Repos?+
Prince Philip, later the Duke of Edinburgh, was born at Mon Repos. The villa was a royal residence in the twentieth century.
Is the estate suitable for children?+
Yes, the paths are easy and the grounds are shady, and the museum is small. Keep to the paths near the cliff edges.
