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15 Best Things to Do in Corfu (Greece)

The second-largest Ionian Island has seen the Byzantines, Venetians, French and British come and go over the last 1,000 years, and all these cultures have left something behind.

If you need a place to begin, try the World Heritage Old Town of Corfu City, which is guarded by two mighty Venetian fortresses that withstood everything that the Ottoman Empire could throw at them.

Corfu’s coast is sprinkled with resorts, some more appealing than others.

But if you’re a free spirit you can get behind the wheel and set a course for secluded coves, sweeping sandy beaches and castles and monasteries stranded on rocky pedestals.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Corfu :

1. Corfu Old Town

A city packed tight between two fortresses, Corfu’s Old Town is a knot of walkable streets and alleys between Venetian and Neoclassical houses painted pale yellow and orange.

Allow plenty of time to see every corner and little square, and check out the Archaeological Museum and Casa Parlante, a quirky 19th-century mansion with period interiors and animatronic figures.

Defended by insurmountable ramparts, both the New Fortress to the west and Old Fortress to the east deserve your time.

The latter goes back to the 6th century and is separated from the city by a ditch and canal crossed by a bridge.

In the complex you can see the temple-like Church of St George and the 19th-century British barracks housing Corfu’s library.

From the highest walls you’ll be wowed by vistas of the city, coastline, Straits of Corfu and mainland Greece.

Recommended tour : Corfu History and Culture Walking Tour

2. The Esplanade and Liston

Between the Old Town and the old fortress is the esplanade, a long green square that is a remnant of the Venetian fortifications in the 17th century.

During the French occupation of Corfu at the turn of the 19th century the esplanade was planted with trees, while the cricket pitch is a holdover from the British period that followed.

Also dating to that time is the Maitland Monument, a Neoclassical peristyle, with 20 Ionic columns around a rotunda, commemorating the Lord High Commissioner Thomas Maitland.

The Liston, on the Esplanade’s western boundary is an elegant arcade, also from the French period and designed in the style of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

3. St Spyridon Church

Corfu’s foremost church is from 1580 and its Renaissance bell tower is the highest in the Ionian Islands.

Hosting the relics of St Spyridon, brought to Corfu City from Constantinople in the 15th century, the church moved to this location after its predecessor was demolished to make way for the citadel.

The marble iconostasis catches the eye for its classical lines, with a pediment and Corinthian columns bordering the paintings.

The ceiling is also stunning, with gilded stuccowork around paintings that were first composed by Panagiotis Doxaras in the 18th century, but had to be repainted after deterioration.

To the side of the iconostasis is the entrance to the crypt to where the saint’s remains are kept in a double sarcophagus plated with silver leaf.

4. Achilleion

In 1888 Elisabeth of Bavaria, Empress of Austria, commissioned a summer residence at this elevated setting about 10 kilometres south of Corfu City.

This Neoclassical palace was designed by the Italian architect Raffaele Caritto with the hero Achilles as its central theme.

The illustrious German sculptor Ernst Herter produced statues inspired by Greek mythology for the grounds (the most famous shows Achilles in his death throes). You can tour the gardens, enriched with balustrades, a colonnade, fountains and Herter’s statues amid palms and trimmed cypress trees.

The interior is a museum full of memorabilia relating to Elisabeth of Bavaria, Franz Joseph II, as well as the next occupant, Kaiser Wilhelm II. Upstairs there’s a massive painting of Achilles dragging the body of Hector from his chariot by the Austrian artist Franz Matsch, and the dining hall is decorated with stucco cherubs on blue walls.

5. Mount Pantokrator

Corfu’s highest peak is in the north of the island, cresting at 906 metres and accessible by road.

At the summit is a cafe, telecommunications station and a monastery dating from the end of the 17th century.

You get up here on mini-bus tours from many of the coastal resorts on Corfu, or drive yourself.

Now, the road and its drop-offs and countless hairpin turns is not for the faint hearted, but the views are incredible if you can relax for long enough to enjoy them.

When you do arrive at the mountaintop you can see the Ionian Islands, the Greek Mainland, Albania, but also Puglia at the heel of Italy’s boot 130 kilometres to the west.

Suggested tour : West Route Day Expedition

6. Paleokastritsa Monastery

Topping a rugged headland on the northwest coast, Paleokastritsa Monastery dates to the 13th century and is on the site of a Medieval castle that has long since disappeared.

The monastery has a small brotherhood of eight monks who give masses and offer tours of the buildings and lush gardens.

Almost every surface of the building is cloaked with bougainvillea and geraniums, and if you’d like to enter the chapel there’s a dress code, and shoulders and legs have to be covered up.

The monastery has a small museum with vestments, icons and, strangely, the skeleton of a whale.

The monks also cultivate olives and press their own oil, which is sold at the shop.

Recommended tour : North Corfu: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

7. Paleokastritsa Beach

Nestling just east of the monastery is the exquisite Paleokastritsa Beach.

Labelled on some maps as Agios Syridon Beach, this lies at the end of a long inlet with high walls of rock on both sides.

The water could hardly be calmer or clearer and is a snorkeller’s dream and just right for families with smaller children.

The beach, though narrow, has soft golden sand as opposed to the shingle coves nearby.

The limestone coastline around Paleokastritsa is perforated with sea caves, and there’s a jetty on the beach where you can catch boats for a tour.

8. Angelokastro

On a narrow rocky spur more than 300 metres above the sea, this castle was built in the 13th century as a far-reaching lookout over the sea, mainland Greece and inland across big swathes of Corfu.

The approach to Angelokastro is very dramatic, winding up through scrub and cypress trees to this unconquerable fortification which filling its small rocky podium.

Under the Venetians from the 14th century, Angelokastro was Corfu’s official capital and held strong against three sieges between the 16th and 18th century.

Beyond the walls, not a great deal of the fortress survives, save for the tiny Church of Archangel Michael, which has frescoes from the 1700s.

You can view seven sarcophagi hewn from the rock, peer into the castle’s vaulted cistern and gaze in awe at the sea, coast and mountains.

9. Vlacherna Monastery

One of Corfu’s signature images, the Vlacherna Monastery is on an islet at the end of a narrow jetty off the southern end of the Kanoni Peninsula.

The chapel, which you enter beneath a typical campanile, dates to 1685 and has tomb monuments going back to the middle of the 18th century.

You can combine a visit with a boat trip to nearby Mouse Island, which we’ll talk about below.

Vlacherna and Mouse Island make up a scene to behold from afar, and there’s a pair of hilltop cafeterias on high ground at end of Kanoni where you can take it all in.

10. Pontikonisi (Mouse Island)

For €2.5 you can catch a boat to this small island where a 12th-century Byzantine monastery is crowded by pine and cypress trees.

According to legend Pontokonisi is Ulysses’ ship after it was turned to stone by Poseidon.

The island is protected but you can disembark, climb the stairway to visit the bite-sized monastery, which has a cafe and a souvenir shop.

You may detect a strong similarity to the Swiss Symbolist Arnold Böcklin’s famous painting, Isle of the Dead, which could have been inspired by Pontokinisi.

11. Kassiopi

In the northeast of the island, looking across the straits of Corfu to Albania, Kassiopi is a traditional fishing village that has grown into a low-key resort.

The built-up area sits at the base of a small peninsula which is etched with little pebble coves and has a charming fishing harbour on its east side.

Rising at the centre of the peninsula is Kassiopi Castle, which has Byzantine origins and could be as old as the 6th century.

It was one of three strongholds that defended Corfu before the Venetians arrived in the 14th century.

A partial ruin, the castle is still an imposing presence, with more than a kilometre of walls and 19 towers around a rectangular plan.

12. Canal d’Amour Beach

The party resort of Sidari may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but what does make it unique is its otherworldly rock formations.

At Canal d’Amour there’s a long, almost rectangular creek with layered, sand-coloured walls.

The sea has weathered the rock, and near the entrance to the creek is a tunnel.

Pick a day when the sea is calm (which is most days in summer) and you can swim through the tunnel.

The local custom says that any couples who swim through together will soon get married, so swim at your own risk.

Further out the water is a little deeper, and you can watch brave divers jumping off the cliffs.

13. Old Perithia

A “Designated Area of Natural Beauty” to the northeast of Corfu, Old Perithia is a mostly abandoned upland village under Mount Pantokrator.

Once home to as many as 1,200 people the village sits at an elevation of 650 metres and dates back at least as far as the 1300s.

Most of the 130 remaining houses are in various picturesque states of disrepair though some have been turned into accommodation.

You could give yourself a while to amble around Old Perithea’s stone paths, tracking down its eight churches and basking in the distant views to the sea over oaks, vines and cypress trees.

14. Mirtiotissa Beach

At the bottom of the green cliffs beneath the Mirtiotissa Monastery is a heavenly little beach.

Mirtiotissa has a small ribbon of fine sand with perfectly clear waters, protected by a sequence of rocks a few metres from the shore.

Partly down to its isolated and secluded location, Mirtiotissa Beach has become the choice of naturists on Corfu, although everyone else is free to use the beach as well.

The unspoken rule is that naturists will bathe at the more private ends of the beach, screened by rocks, while non-nude bathers can stick to the middle.

15. Issos Beach

In contrast to Corfu’s rocky coves, the Blue Flag Issos Beach is an open bay bordering Lake Korission to the south of the island.

Traced by dunes, the golden sand at Issos seems to go on forever.

If you want a bit more life and amenities close at hand you can stay close to the resort village of Agios Georgios on the east end.

But you can also walk west and within a few minutes you’ll have broken away from the crowds.

Further from civilisation, Issos Beach is also popular with naturists, while the reliable winds attract windsurfers and kite-surfers.

15 Best Things to Do in Corfu (Greece):

• Corfu Old Town
• The Esplanade and Liston
• St Spyridon Church
• Mount Pantokrator
• Paleokastritsa Monastery
• Paleokastritsa Beach
• Angelokastro
• Vlacherna Monastery
• Pontikonisi (Mouse Island)
• Canal d'Amour Beach
• Old Perithia
• Mirtiotissa Beach
• Issos Beach

15 Stunning Things to Do in Corfu, Greece

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Corfu is not a typical Greek Island—no whitewashed villages are tumbling down arid hillsides like in popular destinations like Santorini.

Instead, it’s one of the greenest Greek islands and, in parts, resembles Tuscany with its rolling hills, olive groves, and cypress trees. Part of the Ionian Islands group, it’s the closest major island to Italy and was ruled by the Venetians for over 400 years.

The coastline has the crystal clear turquoise water you expect from Greece, though, and the beaches range from golden sandy bays to picturesque pebble coves.

There are so many things to do in Corfu—relax on the beaches, explore the coastline by boat or on foot, snorkel with an array of colourful fish, eat al fresco at a taverna, and wander the historic lanes of the beautiful capital, Corfu Town (Kerkyra).

We spent six weeks on the island in June/July and still only managed to visit the northern half (which has the most dramatic scenery).

In this travel guide, we share our tips on what to do in Corfu as well as where to stay and eat plus a map of all these Corfu attractions.

Best Things to Do in Corfu Greece

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Exploring Corfu is best done by renting a car as bus service is limited. The roads are very winding and potholed, though, so getting anywhere takes longer than you’d expect. And the summer heat makes slow-paced sightseeing (with frequent swims) a necessity.

1) Hike to Porto Timoni Twin Beach

Visiting Porto Timoni is definitely one of the best things to do on Corfu. This beautiful double beach on a peninsula in the northwest of the island is undeveloped and can only be reached by a 30-minute hike from Afionas village or short boat trip from Agios Georgios Pagon.

The hike is well worth doing so you can admire the two bays from above. The trail is steep and rocky so decent shoes are essential.

Porto Timoni is one of the most popular places to visit in Corfu and it gets very crowded by midday. Visiting early in the morning is the best way to experience it at its most magical.

See my detailed guide to Porto Timoni beach for all my tips.

2) Relax on Agios Georgios Pagon Beach

Our favourite sandy beach on Corfu is Agios Georgios Pagon—we visited many times.

This long crescent of golden sand has dramatic rocky headlands at either end. Due to its size, it never feels too crowded, even in high season.

There’s a mix of quiet beach bars with sunbed rentals and empty sections where you can spread out your towel (but bring an umbrella as there’s no shade).

Agios Georgios is the best place to arrange a water taxi or pedalo to Porto Timoni.

As the bay is protected, it’s also a good place for kayaking or standup paddleboarding (from €15 for one hour). The wind can pick up in the afternoons, so mornings are best for water sports.

The water is usually a clear blue and there are a few fish around if you want to snorkel—Porto Timoni is much better for snorkelling, though.

Our favourite beach bar is San George Food Bar . In high season it costs €8 to rent two sunbeds and an umbrella, and you can order food and drinks right to your sunbed. We love the Greek Panini—a Greek salad stuffed in a pitta with a few perfect chips on the side.

You can also eat at the tables next to the beach or on their roof terrace. The mini market next door is surprisingly well stocked with beach gear, fruit and vegetables, fresh bread, and local products.

Note that there is another Agios Georgios beach in the south of the island, which is why this one often has Pagon added to its name.

I think Agios Georgios is the best of the North West Corfu beaches, but Arillas is also worth visiting (mostly for some excellent tavernas). The sandy beach at Arillas is narrow, but the water is shallow so is a good option for kids.

Agios Stefanos is another long sandy beach in the area, but we didn’t think it was as beautiful as Agios Georgios, and the sea is more exposed and wavier.

I would skip Sidari entirely—it’s package holiday central and the beach is rammed with sunbeds.

3) Rent a Boat to Explore the Coastline

One of the must-do Corfu activities is to get out on a boat. You could take a tour like this family-run boat trip around the North East coast , which also includes a BBQ lunch, but I highly recommend renting your own boat if you can.

There’s nothing like the freedom to zip along the coastline stopping at whichever beach takes your fancy, including many that aren’t accessible by road or foot.

It’s a great way to explore when it’s too hot to hike to undeveloped beaches—the sea breezes keep you cool and boats come with canopies for shade.

You don’t need a boat licence to rent a motorboat up to 30HP. The boats are easy to operate and you’ll be given a lesson before you head out.

We hired boats in Paleokastritsa (on the west coast) and in the northeast. If you have limited time (or budget), we enjoyed Paleokastritsa the most.

We rented from Ampelaki Boats (Corfu Rent a Boat on Google Maps) and were really happy with the experience. Prices start from €80 a day plus fuel (ours cost €15), but we went for a slightly bigger 30HP boat for €95 euros, which was perfect with plenty of space to sunbathe at the front.

It’s easy to book online—it’s best to do so about a week in advance as the cheaper boats sell out.

They provide a map and a cooler with ice, so bring a picnic and plenty of water. I also recommend bringing snorkelling gear as there are some good spots.

Note that there is a limited area you are allowed to go to—Porto Timoni is the furthest north and Kolyvri Island is the furthest south.

You also have to anchor 20 metres offshore, so you’ll need to swim to reach the beaches. If you want to spend a lot of time on the beach, bring a waterproof bag for your gear. We were fine making brief stops on the beaches and then relaxing on our boat.

In summer, there will be plenty of other boats out, but we did manage to find two coves to ourselves.

Here’s where we visited, starting from the south:

• Kolyvri Island – A little rocky island that we sailed around.
• Stelari Beach – A gorgeous long beach with some sunbeds to rent. The water was incredibly clear, but we could see lots of jellyfish so we didn’t go in.
• Paradise Beach (aka Chomi) – Another narrow beach backed by dramatic cliffs. We were warned not to go onto the beach because of falling rocks.
• Iliodoros Beach – Just round the headland is this tiny but picturesque cove.
• Kolias Beach (aka Marmara) – Next door this little bay was mostly in the shade in the morning so we had it to ourselves. We anchored here and swam to a lone sunny rock on the beach. The snorkelling was good with big schools of fish.
• Limni Beach – This looked pretty but a little too busy to stop at.
• Klimatia Beach – A tiny, quieter cove on the other side of the headland from Limni (you can walk there). We stopped here for more good snorkelling.
• Rovinia Beach – This is one of the most popular beaches to walk to, so it was really busy.
• Liapades Beach – A major beach in the area with sunbeds and boat hire.

We then headed out of the bay past the port and Ampelaki Beach (where we started) and off in the other direction.

• Mikro Kastelli Beach – Our last beach of the day was the best. See below.

We could have continued on to Agios Georgios and Porto Timoni, but we’d spent plenty of time there. We were out from 10am – 3pm but could have stayed out until 6pm.

You can see where we visited by boat on the east coast below.

Wherever you decide to explore, renting a boat is one of the most fun things to do in Corfu.

4) Swim at Mikro Kastelli Beach

Kastelli and Mikro Kastelli are two gorgeous pebble beaches beneath dramatic sheer cliffs with the clearest aqua water. They can only be accessed by sea so rent a boat in Paleokastritsa or Agios Georgios Pagon to get there.

When we arrived by boat we were the only ones at Mikro Kastelli at first. It was dreamy floating in the swimming pool clear water and swimming to the empty beach.

Be careful of falling rocks, though—we had no issues, but the beach is narrow.

Snorkelling wasn’t quite as good as the other Paleokastritsa spots, but there was still plenty to see.

5) Explore the Cliffside Beaches of Paleokastritsa

Paleokastritsa is a Corfu must see. This village in the northwest of the island consists of a series of small bays in a stunning location beneath dramatic mountains.

The beaches are beautiful with crystal clear water, but as they are small and this is a popular destination, they get very crowded.

Agios Spiridon is the main beach with a mix of sand and pebbles, sunbeds and umbrellas to rent, and plenty of restaurants nearby. Boat tours depart here.

You can walk up the hill to the Paleokastritsa Monastery , Moni Theotokou, which dates back to the 13th century. There are great views from the top. Entrance is free.

A more secluded beach a few minutes’ walk away is Ampelaki Beach, where we rented our boat. Other beaches in Paleokastritsa accessible by car include Agia Triada and Liapades. La Grotta is a popular beach bar built into the rocks.

To reach less developed bays, it’s best to rent your own boat (see the beaches we visited above) or take a water taxi from Agios Spiridon. Or you can hike to Rovinia Beach, but go early to avoid the crowds.

A boat ride is the best way to appreciate Paleokastritsa’s stunning scenery.

6) Beach Hop on the North East Coast by Boat or on Foot

North East Corfu is also well worth visiting. The mountainous coastline features many small pebble coves with crystal water and views across to Albania.

This is a more upmarket and expensive part of Corfu with many fancy villas on the hillsides.

Places to visit in North East Corfu include the lively harbour town of Kassiopi, with its Byzantine castle, and Avlaki Beach, the longest beach in the area, so there’s more space than most.

There are several picturesque villages with small pebble beaches and tavernas right on the water, including San Stefano, Kalami (famous for the White House where Lawrence Durrell lived), and Agni.

This is a good area for hiking as there are marked trails along the coast and you can stop at unspoilt beaches along the way. The Agios Stefanos to Avlaki coastal path is 6.5km (4 miles) and takes 1.5 hours each way (plus allow time for stops).

I really wanted to do the hike, but the 35ºC heat was too much for us, so we explored the coast by boat instead.

We rented from San Stefano boats and paid €130 for a day (plus €20 fuel). It was significantly more expensive than in Paleokastritsa and our boat was smaller. They provided a map and cooler.

We were allowed to take the boat from Kassiopi to Nissaki. To avoid the afternoon winds, we started by heading north to Kassiopi (about 15 minutes away direct) and drove south from there.

Our favourite section was the unspoilt Erimitis coast between Avlaki and San Stefano, where the beaches are undeveloped without sunbeds or tavernas.

In particular, we loved our stop at an unnamed bay around the headland from Avlaki. We didn’t risk sitting on the beach beneath the crumbling cliffs, but we swam in the glorious turquoise water and into a cool little cave.

Continuing on are more gorgeous pebble beaches, including Vrachli, Vouvalomantria, Arias, and Akoli, where we stopped for another swim in the wonderfully translucent sea.

From San Stefano south to Nissaki, the coast is more developed, and the small beaches are full of sunbeds, making it harder to find a quiet cove to stop at.

It’s hillier, though, so the scenery is beautiful and the waterside tavernas have jetties where you can stop for lunch (we had a picnic, though)—Agni is a particularly good choice.

We did manage to find a rocky area to anchor past Agni—there was no real beach, but the snorkelling was excellent.

After returning our boat and driving back towards the west coast, we stopped at Ice Dream in Perithia, which I recommend for excellent homemade ice cream (the chocolate is very decadent).

If we’d had the energy, we’d have liked to drive up the mountain to Old Perithia, Corfu’s oldest village, where you can find medieval stone houses, churches, and some excellent tavernas.

7) Walk the Clifftop Path between Arillas and Agios Stefanos

From Arillas Beach on the northwest coast, you can do a beautiful and fairly easy hike on a clifftop path.

From the jetty in the centre of Arillas beach, head right (keeping the sea on your left) and walk towards the end of the beach where you’ll see a dirt path up the hill. The views from the cliff path are fantastic as you look back towards Arillas.

After about 15 minutes, you’ll reach Akrotiri Cafe, the perfect spot for a drink or meal with plenty of outside seating to admire the panoramic sea views. We enjoyed the vegetarian moussaka and Greek ciabatta. The sunset views would also be fantastic here.

After lunch we continued on the peninsula clifftop path enjoying views of Arillas and Gravia Island and Agios Stefanos on the other side.

You can continue on to a chapel and Agios Stefanos beach—maybe 20-30 minutes more—but in the heat of the day we turned back to Arillas.

8) Enjoy a Meal with a Panoramic Sea View

You can’t beat a delicious Greek meal with a sea view. Our favourite elevated spots are Akrotiri Cafe in Arillas (see above for details of the beautiful hike to get there) and Evdemon in Afionas (where the hike to Porto Timoni starts).

Evdemon is a destination-worthy restaurant. Its clifftop terrace has amazing sea views and is the perfect spot to watch the sunset. We made the mistake of dining a few hours before sunset in summer and struggled in the heat as there’s no shade when the sun is low.

Despite the heat, we loved the views and the excellent food. This isn’t a typical taverna menu—the small selection of seasonal dishes changes daily and includes good vegetarian options. Prices are higher than average but worth it for the quality.

We enjoyed the delicious Evdemon salad, stuffed aubergine, and a lovely fresh pasta with pesto.

Evdemon is open for dinner from 6pm and booking is highly recommended.

9) Admire the View at Cape Drastis

Cape Drastis in the far north of the island is known for one of the best views in Corfu, where chiselled white cliffs jut into the turquoise Ionian Sea.

While this is one of the most popular places to visit in Corfu, we found it a little underwhelming as there is no obvious viewpoint.

We parked at the area marked “Small car park of Cape Drastis” on Google Maps. The road does continue down from here, but it’s unpaved and bumpy, so we chose to walk down. After about 10 minutes, there were a few spots where you can see the famous cliffs, but the view was a little obscured.

You can continue down to the small beach where boat tours are available, but we turned back due to the heat of the evening (even at 8pm!).

Perhaps we missed the best viewpoint. Either way, Cape Drastis is worth a quick stop as you can combine it with nearby Loggas Beach.

10) Watch the Sunset at Loggas Beach

A five-minute drive from Cape Drastis in the village of Peroulades is Loggas Beach (aka Sunset Beach). This is the most famous place in Corfu to watch the sunset.

In the evening, visitors flock to 7th Heaven bar, where you can enjoy a drink as the sun disappears into the sea. There’s even a glass platform on the cliff’s edge for an uninterrupted view (and Instagram spot).

It’s a lively place so we walked down to the beach below, where it’s quieter. It’s a short but steep walk down including some rickety wooden steps—we sat at the top of the steps to watch the sun setting.

The beach is beautiful, backed by sheer white cliffs, but it’s very narrow and only accessible at low tide on a calm day. Even then, to get to the main section we would have had to walk through water. I did regret not bringing a swimsuit as the sea was so calm when we visited.

11) Snorkel in the Crystal Clear Sea

Corfu has some good snorkelling so it’s worth buying a mask and snorkel for your time on the island.

Some of the fish I saw included rainbow wrasse, ornate wrasse, cow bream, five spotted wrasse, common two-banded sea bream, parrotfish, wide-eyed flounder, and a crab. I also swam through huge schools of tiny silver fish (Mediterranean sand smelt, I believe).

My favourite snorkelling spot is Porto Timoni—both beaches have plenty of fish, but on my visit, the visibility was better on the beach on the left (after hiking down) as it’s more protected. You’ll see the most along the rocks.

Hiring a boat to visit small coves near Paleokastritsa and in the northeast is another great way to find snorkelling opportunities (see above).

12) Get Lost in Corfu Old Town

Visiting the island’s capital, Corfu Town (Kerkyra in Greek), is one of the top things to do in Corfu.

The Old Town is very picturesque with narrow lanes and idyllic squares that reminded me of Italy. Unsurprisingly, because the Venetians ruled here for 400 years and built both the Old and New Forts (both are worth visiting).

Its long history dating back to the 8th century BC, with a mix of Venetian, French, British, and Greek influences, earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The compact area is ideal for wandering. With many tourists in summer, it has a lively but relaxed atmosphere and it’s easy to turn down a side street to escape the crowds.

I recommend starting at the Liston, an arcade of restaurants with outdoor seating opposite the large Spianada Square. You can also see the Palace of St Michael and St George here, which houses the Asian Art Museum .

Then head down one of the main streets, Nikiforou Theotoki, where you’ll find plenty of shops. Make sure you stop at Papagiorgis for Italian-level gelato (the pistachio and caramel were amazing).

If you keep going, you’ll reach the New Fortress in about 15 minutes. It was closed on our visit, but it’s worth seeing from outside.

Afterwards, delve back into the maze of streets and explore at random.

If you need to cool off, head to the Faliraki area for a swim off the rocks. It’s nothing like the beaches you’ll find elsewhere on the island, but there are a couple of bars for a drink with views of the Old Fortress (we went to En Plo ).

To explore Corfu Town with a guide, check out this Corfu Town walking tour which includes local food tastings.

13) Visit Vlacherna Monastery

Vlacherna Monastery is a popular attraction in Corfu Town. It’s on the edge of town near the airport so is easiest visited by car (there’s a large free car park).

The cute little white monastery is located on an island with a walkway to reach it. There’s not much to see inside.

There’s another walkway into the sea where you can stand under the flight path of planes flying scarily low into the airport.

You can take a boat trip (€2.50) to nearby Mouse Island, but it’s tiny so there’s not much to see.

Flisvos Restaurant looks like a good spot for a drink or meal with views of the monastery. Or head up the hill to Cafe Kanoni for an elevated view of the planes flying in.

Vlacherna Monastery is a pretty spot that’s worth a quick visit. It would be most scenic at sunset (especially combined with a drink).

14) Walk to the Old Fortress Viewpoint

The 15th-century Old Fortress is one of the best things to do in Corfu Town. The dramatic Venetian fort dominates the view in the city, sitting on a rocky peninsula jutting into the sea. You won’t be able to miss it, but it’s worth heading up for a closer look.

It’s a large complex with plenty to explore, but a highlight is the view of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea from the cross at the top. We went in the evening, but the light would be better in the morning with the sun behind you.

We’d originally hoped to see the sunset here, but they close gate access to the top at 8pm. We entered at 7.30pm, just after they stopped charging (usually it’s €6), and had to rush to get to the summit in time.

15) Eat a Delicious Taverna Meal

A highlight of any Greece trip is the food. These are our favourite restaurants in North West Corfu:

• Brouklis Taverna , Arillas – Our top pick. Dimitris is the wonderful host of this traditional restaurant that has been in his family for decades. Charming outdoor seating under vines and delicious, affordable, home-cooked food—ask for the daily specials. Our favourites were the vegetarian moussaka and the mezze platter (can be made vegetarian), which includes the superb courgette balls and tzatziki. Book in advance or arrive by 7pm.
• Akrotiri Cafe , Arillas – Good food and gorgeous sea views—see #7 above.
• Kostas on the Beach , Arillas – On the seafront (good for sunset), this classic taverna has many vegetarian options and large portions.
• Evdemon , Afionas – Stunning sea views and not your typical taverna menu—see #8.
• The Grill , Afionas – Casual spot with vegan options. I loved the falafel plate with grilled vegetables, falafel, fries, hummus, and pita.
• Ilias Taverna , Avliotes – Off the beaten track in a small village but only a five-minute drive from Loggas Beach. Countryside views from the terrace. The appetisers are the best option for vegetarians so we shared a range of them with their tasty pitta bread.

In Corfu Town we recommend these restaurants:

• Aubergine – A vegetarian restaurant with outdoor seating under trees on the Liston. Lots of meat-free Greek classics like stuffed peppers and moussaka.
• Pane e Souvlaki – A casual place with seating in a lovely plaza in the heart of the Old Town. Souvlaki (meat on a skewer) is popular, but they also have vegetarian options. The grilled vegetable skewers and falafel wrap were good, but the starters were the highlight for us, especially the tzatziki and grilled feta with spicy tomatoes.

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Hotels in Corfu Town

For the best beaches I recommend staying outside the city, but it’s well worth spending your first or last night in lovely Corfu Town. If you are only on the island for a few days, it would make a good base to explore.

On our last night we stayed at Locandiera , a boutique B&B down a quiet lane in the perfect location in the Old Town (close to the Liston).

The hosts are very friendly and gave us baklava on arrival and good information about exploring the city. Breakfast is included but we left too early to try it (they did offer to leave us something).

Rooms are simple but comfortable. The only downside is that sound travels easily so you can hear other guests walking around.

Check prices for Locandiera here or search for other hotels in Corfu Town .

Accommodation in North West Corfu

North West Corfu is a great option if you want to be close to long sandy beaches (the North East is also beautiful but has smaller rockier beaches).

We spent six weeks at the Airbnb Country House on Top of the Hill . The remote location is an untouristy village won’t be for everyone—it’s a 15-minute drive to Agios Georgios and Arillas beaches and the roads are rough.

But we loved the tranquillity, beautiful garden, mountain views, and the cats who visited. It’s very homely and well-equipped.

While there are technically three bedrooms, two of these are on an open plan mezzanine, so it’s best for a couple or family with children who don’t need a lot of privacy.

Beach Stays

If you want to be closer to the beach, Agios Georgios Pagon is our favourite (it’s also close to Porto Timoni) and there are plenty of affordable apartments and guesthouse rooms available.

Search for accommodation in Agios Georgios Pagon here.

This Corfu sightseeing map has all the destinations mentioned in this post.

We usually buy a SIM card and data plan locally in each country we visit to avoid high roaming fees.

For visiting Corfu, though, we used an Airalo eSim for the first time and were really impressed.

Prices are very affordable (3GB of data for 30 days for US $9), and as there’s no physical SIM card, you can keep your home country SIM in your phone to use as needed.

We signed up before we left and it was activated as soon as we arrived in Greece so we had internet access straight away.

It worked so well we got one for our next trip to Italy too.

The only downside is that it only works for data so you won’t get a local phone number, but most people don’t need that (we used WhatsApp to communicate with our Airbnb host).

Using an eSIM was so easy and convenient that I highly recommend it. Check out the Airalo eSIM options here .

Corfu grew on us. At first we were disappointed that the villages weren’t as pretty and charming as expected—outside gorgeous Corfu Old Town, the buildings are more modern.

But Corfu has a lot to offer including a green mountainous interior, golden sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, good hiking and snorkelling, and affordable boat rental to find a cove to yourself.

In summer it was busy but not overly crowded, prices were very reasonable, and we ate well as vegetarians.

Corfu might not have the classic Greek Island scenery, but it’s well worth visiting.

Don’t miss our guide to Porto Timoni Beach in Corfu .

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Hello 🤗 I will visit Corfu in September and I am so thankful for all your tips. It is so informative and is lovely to read, sounds like I am on holidays already Thank you very much

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10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Corfu Town

Written by Jane Foster Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Wandering the streets of the pedestrian-only UNESCO-listed old town, past terra-cotta rooftops and wrought-iron balconies, is a lovely way to pass an afternoon in Corfu Town. The capital of the island of Corfu (Kérkyra), the town sits in a stunning location on an eastern promontory, dominated by two sturdy fortresses and overlooking the sparkling turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.

The elegant Italianate architecture is the result of the nearly four centuries that Corfu spent under Venetian rule (1401 to 1797). Later, Corfu spent a period under British command (1815-1864), which has added some extra peculiarities to its cultural heritage and also made it a mecca for British tourists, even today. James Bond fans may recognize the town from the film For Your Eyes Only (1981), as a few scenes were filmed here. There are many fantastic things to do and rewarding places to visit. Narrow down your options with our list of the top attractions in Corfu Town.

See also: Where to Stay in Corfu Town

1. Old Fortress (Citadel)

2. the esplanade, 3. new fortress, 4. church of st. spyridon (áyios spyrídon), 5. mon repos, 6. the church of saints jason and sosipater, 7. pontikonisi (mouse island), 8. the achilleion, 9. the royal palace: museum of asian art, 10. casa parlante, where to stay in corfu town for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in corfu town, corfu, greece - climate chart.

Built by the Venetians in 1546 on the site of an older castle, the magnificent Old Fortress lies on a small, rocky peninsula, immediately east of the old town. It is accessed off the Esplanade via a bridge that spans a moat, the famous contrafossa, which is some 15 meters deep and up to 40 meters wide.

Inside the fortress is a small church, in the style of a Doric temple, which the British constructed in the 19th-century. Make sure to walk to the highest point of the site, which is marked by a lighthouse, as from here you have magnificent vistas of the town and east across the sea towards Albania.

Between the tightly packed buildings of the old town and the Old Fortress, the Esplanade (Spianada) is a vast green space and claims to be the second largest square in Europe. Corfu's main public gathering space, it is overlooked by the arcaded Liston, built by the French in the 19th-century, and home to a row of pricey cafés that are ideal for people-watching. Locals play cricket (a game passed down to them by the British) on the carefully tended lawns of the Esplanade, and there is also a bandstand where brass bands occasionally play.

An uphill climb past the open-air market selling seasonal fruit and vegetables brings you into the massive New Fortress, built in 1577 by the Venetians to protect the city against the Turks, making it only a little "newer" than the Old Fortress . Once inside, you are free to wander through the empty stone halls and passages and, best of all, climb to the top for amazing views over the terra cotta rooftops of the old town and out to sea. The entrance ticket also covers a free drink at the small café.

Address: Plateía Solomou, Corfu Town (Kérkyra)

A haven of peace and tranquility, just off the arcaded Liston, this church is named after Corfu's patron saint, St. Spyridon. Built in 1589, its red-domed bell tower dominates the skyline from afar. Inside, in a low-lit side chapel decorated with moody frescoes, note a silver sarcophagus adorned with precious stones, enclosing the remains of St. Spyridon.

A shepherd from Cyprus, Spyridon lived in the second century AD, and before he died, he became a bishop and began performing miracles. Since his remains are in Corfu, locals believe that his miraculous intervention saved their island from catastrophe on several occasions. The silver casket containing his relics is paraded around town to mark important religious festivals, and in tribute to him, Spiros is the most popular boy's name on the island.

Address: Agios Spiridon, 49100 Corfu Town (Kérkyra)

Set in a beautiful park and approached along a winding tree-lined avenue is the Neoclassical palace of Mon Repos, birthplace in 1921 of HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Built in 1831 for the British High Commissioner, it was later used as the summer home of the Greek royal family.

Sadly, the palace is falling into a state of disrepair, and the garden is overgrown in places. Besides being a tourist attraction, it is used to host conferences. You'll find it in the Kanoni area of town, a pleasant 30-minute walk from the center, and also served by public bus.

Close to Mon Repos , the tiny Church of Saints Jason and Sosipater is dedicated to two of St. Paul's disciples who brought Christianity to the island in AD 70. It is a typical example of 11th-century Byzantine architecture, based on a cross-in-square plan, and made of large blocks of stone, probably taken from nearby ancient buildings.

Originally, the interior was entirely covered in frescoes. Unfortunately, these were whitewashed in 1820, but some fragments of the paintings remain. However, there is an impressive 18th-century iconostasis (the screen between the nave and the altar) and some beautiful religious icons.

South of the center, off the southern tip of Kanóni, two small islets rise from the sea. On the nearer one, reached via a causeway, is the small 17th-century Monastery of Vlacherna, and beyond this is Mouse Island (Pontikonísi), crowned by a whitewashed Byzantine chapel and a cluster of cypress trees. A peaceful escape from the crowds, Pontikonísi is often featured on picture postcards. Catch a boat from Kanóni harbor to get here.

You can also pay a visit to the Vlacherna monastery, which served as a location for the James Bond flick For Your Eyes Only . It was a functioning monastery until 1980. Today it is used for celebrations, and serves as a tourist attraction. There is a small shop on the grounds selling trinkets and souvenirs. Animal lovers will notice a lot of cats and ducks hanging around and sometimes begging for snacks.

The Achilleion is about 10 kilometers from Corfu Town and is an impressive piece of architecture with a sad story. It was built in 1890 as a summer palace for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, a tragic figure who was plagued by misfortune (her husband was unfaithful, and her son committed suicide) and was eventually assassinated in 1898. Often referred to by her nickname, Sisi, the empress had the villa decorated in pseudo-classical style, complete with grand, sweeping staircases and frescoes.

A state property since 1928, The Achilleion is open to the public. Inside, you'll discover period furniture, paintings, and even some of Sisi's clothes. Whatever you do, don't skip the garden area. It is a highlight of a visit and filled with 19th-century statues and superlative sea views. Reach this attraction by public bus from Corfu Town.

In a building that was commissioned in 1816 as the Royal Palace for the British Lord High Commissioner, the Museum of Asian Art is one of the top things to do in Corfu Town. Today, the Neoclassical mansion at the north end of the Esplanade is a remarkable museum.

The museum itself was founded in 1928 following a donation of Sino-Japanese art. Today it features an impressive collection of Chinese, Japanese, and Indian paintings; porcelains; and sculpture, dating from the Neolithic era through the 19th century.

This is the only museum in Greece dedicated solely to Asian art, and it has more than 15,000 pieces of art in its collection. Check out the permanent and rotating exhibits here. There's also a lovely courtyard café with fantastic views across the sea channel to Albania.

Address: Plateía Spianáda, 49100 Corfu Town (Kérkyra)

Official site: www.matk.gr

In a 19th-century mansion in the heart of the old town, Casa Parlante is a unique historical museum. It brings to life the lives of The Count and Countess, who called this manse home in the 1800s, by using robotic technology, animated figures, and even smells.

As you wander through the home, you'll feel like you are stepping back in time into a real life scenario: smell food cooking, listen to children playing music, or check out the headlines in a newspaper placed in a room with replica decor and furnishing from this era.

For easy access to all the top attractions in Corfu Town, the best place to stay is near the old town or the Esplanade, where you'll also find the Liston, Church of St. Spyridon, and the Royal Palace with the Museum of Asian Art. From the Esplanade, the Old Fortress lies a short stroll to the east. Hotels on the seafront within walking distance of these attractions are especially desirable. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient and central locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Options for true luxury accommodation are limited in Corfu Town, but the elegant Corfu Palace Hotel , on the seafront, less than a 10-minute walk from the Liston, is one of the town's best hotels, with a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a Jacuzzi. Although listed as a five-star property, the hotel has lost some of its luster in recent years, however, and could use a refresh.
• Also on the seafront, steps to the beach, but about a 20-minute walk to Corfu Town, the adults-only Mayor Mon Repos Palace Art Hotel spotlights 18th-century antiques and is known for its friendly staff, ocean-view swimming pool, and well-appointed rooms with balconies.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Near the heart of the old town, the great-value Bella Venezia Hotel , with free breakfast in a wisteria-covered garden, resides in an elegant Neoclassical mansion. The boutique property is one of the most popular hotels in the capital city. The three-star property has just 30 rooms and a family suite. The beds are very comfortable.
• In a stately old building, a short walk from the ferry port, the adults-only Corfu Mare Boutique Hotel is a little far away to walk into town, but it offers contemporary-styled rooms, a gym, free breakfast, and an outdoor pool.
• On a busy road, a short bus-ride from the old town, the family-run Sunset Hotel has an outdoor pool and dated but clean rooms. There is a large garden area, breakfast is complimentary and this property welcomes children. If you are driving, parking is also free.

Budget Hotels:

• Near the airport and about a 15- to 20-minute walk to the old town, the no-frills Hotel Bretagne has simple rooms and helpful staff. It is a great option if you just need a place to stay near the airport, as it is about a five-minute walk from the terminal.
• The Arion Hotel Corfu is another good budget option. It is just a short stroll to the seafront, but a bus or taxi ride from town, has modern rooms and free parking.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Around Greece : Corfu is just one of many wonderful attractions in Greece, which is home to stunning scenery, compelling history, and lots of gorgeous beaches. For help narrowing down your Greek vacation options check out our article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greece . or look through our piece on the top Greek Islands .

Athens: A trip to Greece often begins in Athens, and this city is a must-visit for history buffs. To find out more about what you need to see in Athens, our article on the Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens breaks it all down.

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Corfu   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Alexander Spatari | Getty Images

8 Best Things To Do in Corfu

Updated February 12, 2021

Most of the attractions in Corfu are perfect for relaxation seekers. The biggest draw is the abundance of beaches on the island, but you can head to Corfu Town on the eastern coast to explore historical attractions, such as the Church of Saint

• All Things To Do

Corfu Beaches Corfu Beaches free

With more than 130 miles of coastline, Corfu offers a bounty of beaches for travelers to choose from. These shores range from sandy to pebbly and quiet to rowdy. All beaches offer the gorgeous backdrop of aquamarine waters and stunning cliffs and rock formations.

The most popular village for beachgoers is Paleokastritsa. Located on the western side of the island about 20 miles from Corfu Town, the village is home to six individual beaches that offer a variety of amenities, such as restaurants and water sports rentals. Some beaches include umbrella and sun bed rentals as well as marinas for docking boats.

Achillion Palace & Museum Achillion Palace & Museum

The Achillion Palace is just one example of famous figures falling in love with Corfu. Originally built in 1890 for a former Empress of Austria, the palace was also home to the last German Emperor, Wilhelm II, before World War I. The majestic palace sat empty until after World War II.

Now fully restored, the palace and grounds feature statues of famous Greek mythological figures like Zeus, Hera and Achilles – which the palace is named after. Inside, you'll find ceiling frescos and artwork that dates back to the palace's construction. The property and grounds now function as a museum, telling the history of the property and its famous owners.

Paleokastritsa Monastery Paleokastritsa Monastery free

For sweeping views of the ocean and prime photo ops, travelers recommend visiting the Paleokastritsa Monastery. Located on a remote cliff peninsula in the village of Paleokastritsa, the Byzantine monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the site dates back to the early 1200s.

The grounds of the monastery are surrounded by lush olive and cypress trees. Inside, you'll find a small museum of Byzantine icons, books, relics and a traditional olive oil press.

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Palaio Frourio (Old Fortress) Palaio Frourio (Old Fortress)

At one point in time, all of the residents of Corfu lived inside the walls of the Palaio Frourio, or Old Fortress. Built in the 14th century by Venetians, Palaio Frourio lies at the eastern end of Corfu Town, separated by a moat. Some sections of the fortress offer breathtaking views of Corfu and its surroundings. Another major highlight of the fortress is the Church of St. George which was built by Venetians and utlitized by the British during their occupation of the island in the 1800s. 

Recent travelers say a visit to the Old Fortress is a must-do for first time visitors, but there isn't much signage to guide visitors around. 

Corfu Donkey Rescue Corfu Donkey Rescue free

Animal lovers will want to take time to visit the Corfu Donkey Rescue. Established in 2004, this refuge is home to more than 500 donkeys that were abandoned or mistreated.

The sanctuary offers former working donkeys a peaceful retirement with comfortable barns, plenty of food and medical treatment. When you visit the rescue, you'll have the opportunity to take one of the donkeys for a walk (unless it's feeding time).

Church of Saint Spyridon Church of Saint Spyridon free

This church is named for the patron saint of Corfu, St. Spyridon, who is said to have saved the island on more than one occasion. In fact, a large segment of the male population in Corfu is named "Spyros" in his honor. His remains are housed in a crypt inside the church. The structure dates back to the 1580s, and still functions as a Greek Orthodox Church. 

Recent visitors said they were more impressed with the church's interior than its exterior, and recommend stopping by to snap a few photos of the church's red domed bell tower – the highest point in Corfu Town. 

Corfu Museum of Asian Art Corfu Museum of Asian Art

The Corfu Museum of Asian Art is a favorite among visitors and locals alike. Founded in 1928, the museum is the only in Greece to be solely dedicated to Asian art. The collection includes about 15,000 pieces of art from throughout the continent. You'll find Chinese pottery, Japanese anitquities, Buddhist sculptures, Central Asian textiles and more. Recent visitors said the museum offers an impressive collection that you wouldn't expect to find on the European island. 

The museum resides in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, a British structure built in the early 1800s. Throughout its history, the structure has been home to the British High Commissioner, the Ionian Senate and the Ionian Parliament. The museum is located in the Old Town, northwest of the Old Fortress . The Museum of Asian Art is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with some exhibits closing at 1:30 p.m. Admission costs 6 euros (around $7.50). If you're visiting between Nov. 1 and March 31, you can enjoy a discount admission of 3 euros (about $3.75). The museum also offers free admission during special Greek holidays; check the website for more details. If you don't have your own set of wheels, you can reach the museum via the No. 2 blue city bus.

Aqualand Aqualand

If you tire of visiting the beaches and ruins on the island, check out Aqualand. This waterpark boasts over 800,000 square feet of pools, slides, games and facilities. The park is split into areas for children (ages 4 to 8), families (ages 8 and older) and extreme slides for visitors ages 12 and older. Children's areas include splash pools and water games, while families can enjoy a lazy river, kayaking and a wave pool. Adrenaline seekers have their choice of slides that twist and turn, as well as a free fall slide that drops visitors 78 feet.

Other facilties include complimentary daybeds and umbrellas, a selection of quick service restaurants, an arcade, a souvenir shop, two bars for adult beverages and plenty of parking and locker rooms. Recent guests to the park said the huge selection of slides were perfect for kids and adults of all ages, and lines were rarely long. 

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18 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Corfu, Greece

A fantastic place to visit and vacation, Corfu lies in the Ionian Sea , just off the coast of both Albania and Greece. Also known as Kerkyra in Greek, it has a remarkably rich history to delve into with many also holidaying here for its divine scenery and the sparkling waters that surround it.

Due to its strategic setting, everyone from the Romans and Venetians to the British and French ruled over the idyllic isle at one point or another. As such, all kinds of impressive archaeological sites and age-old castles and ruins dot its scenic shores and soaring mountain ranges. Numerous locations are even linked back to the very beginnings of Greek mythology.

While Corfu Old Town attracts the most attention due to its charming cobbled streets and countless cultural landmarks, the rest of the island is also awash with amazing landscapes and attractions. Besides basking on its breathtaking beaches and exploring Corfu’s quiet little fishing villages, other fun things to do in Corfu include watersports and boat trips around this gorgeous Greek island.

18. Angelokastro Fortress

Set in a very dramatic spot, the ancient Angelokastro Fortress is perched atop a very precipitous and rocky hilltop overlooking the Ionian Sea. Nestled away along the isle’s northwest coastline, not far from Paleokastritsa, its fortifications are fascinating to tour about with the views being just as good.

Certainly one of the most imposing architectural sites in the Ionian Islands, it was built sometime in the thirteenth-century by the Byzantines. Over the years, the castle suffered innumerable attacks and sieges but never fell. The Ottomans even abandoned their attempts at conquering Corfu after being defeated at its gates.

It is easy to see why they struggled as even the rugged, winding route up to the fortress would make it tough to attack. Asides from seeing its sturdy walls and taking in the phenomenal views of the sea and village below, you can also photo its small cave church and intricately hewn sarcophagi.

17. Paleokastritsa Monastery

Far, far below is another hugely interesting historic site for you to check out that is also situated in a spectacular spot. Constructed atop a clifftop alongside the sea, Paleokastritsa Monastery has lots of amazing old art and architecture to see with lush gardens lying all around it.

Located just a short stroll from the beautiful village and beach of the same name, the lovely historic monastery dates to 1226 with a medieval castle once having stood in the same spot. After climbing up its hill, you can see all the impressive icons and art in its chapel and peruse artifacts and exhibits in its small museum.

As they are coated in bougainvillea and geraniums, its buildings make for some fantastic photos as do the commanding views out over the craggy coast and shimmering sea before you.

16. Glyfada Beach

Head just half an hour’s drive directly west of Corfu Old Town and you’ll come across the gorgeous Glyfada Beach. One of the most popular places to soak up some sun on the island, it is hemmed in by high hills and olive trees with countless beach bars also lining its sandy shores.

Due to the tree-covered cliffs and striking rock formations around it, the beach’s fine, golden sands are a treat to lounge on lazily while taking in the spellbinding scenery. Other than splashing about in the shallows and swimming in the sea, beachgoers can try its fun inflatable obstacle course or book boat trips up and down the coast.

Sunbeds, umbrellas and showers are all readily available while dozens of tavernas and hotels cluster about its charming cove. In summer, the beach can get quite full at times with its lively bars usually attracting a younger crowd.

15. Aqualand Corfu Water Park

If you’re after even more splashtastic fun in the sun, then the enormous Aqualand Corfu Water Park is definitely the place to go. Full of thrilling rides, slides and relaxing pools, its green grounds have something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

One of the biggest and best waterparks in Europe, it can be found just twenty minutes drive outside of Corfu Town, along the Pelekas national road. In total, it now has over fifty slides for you to shoot down with lazy rivers and wave pools also lying alongside sunbathing areas.

On top of all its exciting slides and pools, the park also has a jacuzzi and spa treatments for visitors to make use of. With restaurants and a video arcade also scattered about its sprawling site, you can easily spend all day at Aqualand.

14. Corfu Museum of Asian Art

Packed with fabulous paintings, ceramics and sculptures, the Corfu Museum of Asian Art occupies a stately palace right by the old town waterfront. The only collection of its kind in the country, it really is a must-visit for art lovers with some 11,000 unique objects now on display.

First opened to the public in 1927, its innumerable holdings were mainly assembled by two Greek diplomats that were passionate about Asian artworks. In the museum’s grand rooms, guests can now see everything from fine Chinese porcelain and elaborate Indian sculptures to samurai swords and Tibetan textiles. Various sections also focus on the Himalayas and culture of Central Asian nomads.

Just as impressive is the delightful building itself which once served as the official residence of the British Lord High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands. One of the largest and most important of its time, the palace still features ornate furniture and decorations from when it was built in 1819.

13. La Grotta Beach

On the eastern side of Paleokastritsa is one of the most enchanting spots on the island: the stunning La Grotta Beach. Besides basking in its epic scenery and views, you can go swimming, snorkeling and cliff diving here or enjoy a delicious meal or drink at its famous bar.

In truth, it is more of a rocky bay than a beach as lots of large boulders and a few wooden platforms for sunbathing lie between its two towering cliffs. It paints quite a pretty picture though what with the twinkling turquoise waters lapping at its dramatic-looking rocky outcrops.

At night, the small bay is majestically illuminated with many people heading to the lively La Grotta Bar for either tasty cocktails or a magical dinner under the stars.

12. Corfu Donkey Rescue

Just fifteen minutes drive from Paleokastritsa along little winding roads amidst the hills is the Corfu Donkey Rescue . At their tranquil site, you can meet, stroke, feed and photo their cute residents and learn all about the animals and the invaluable work the organization does.

Since being founded in 2004, over 500 abandoned, ill, old and abused donkeys have thankfully been taken in at the sanctuary where they are cared for by its loving staff and volunteers. Watching them amble happily about their spacious enclosures and interact with their friends is a moving experience that many animal lovers will cherish.

Also roaming about the rescue are dozens of dogs, cats and chickens, many of which are also happy to be petted and photographed either playing or lazing about in the sun.

11. Corfu Trail

A wonderful way to see even more of the idyllic island’s striking scenery, nature and historic sights is to hike along the Corfu Trail . Well off the beaten path, it takes you through loads of unspoiled and untouched landscapes both inland and along the coast.

Stretching 220 kilometers in length, the well-signposted path starts near Asprokavos along the south coast before slowly meandering its way right up to Agios Spiridon in the north. On the taxing hike, you’ll pass through rolling olive groves, rugged gorges and alongside vast beaches with the landscapes and views changing every hour or so.

This makes the small trail a delight to explore with ancient monasteries and traditional villages also lining the route. As it would take a week to complete, you can also just stop off and hike a few short sections to get a better feel for life in Corfu away from the crowds.

10. Saint Spyridon Church

Arguably the most beautiful of the churches on the island of Corfu is the Saint Spyridon Church, which was constructed in the 1580s. It boasts the highest bell tower in the Ionian Islands, and it is located in the heart of Old Town Corfu.

The church houses a collection of relics from St. Spyridon, which belonged to the Voulgaris family until the 16th century. The church’s crypt also houses the remains of the saint himself in a double sarcophagus.

Venetian silver and stunning paintings decorate the church, making it a truly breathtaking interior that even those without religious affiliation will appreciate.

9. Mount Pantokrator

The highest peak in all of Corfu is Mount Pantokrator, making the mountain an easily identifiable landmark for residents and visitors alike. From the summit of the peak, it is possible to see all of Corfu in one panoramic view, and even Albania can be spotted off in the distance.

Hiking to the summit of Mount Pantokrator takes an average of two hours for a reasonably fit adult, but it is also possible to drive to the top. A 17th century church stands near the summit, reminding visitors about the strong connection between mountains and gods in Greek culture.

8. Old Perithia

For anyone interested in history, or anyone simply fascinated by the traditional culture of the island, one of the top attractions in Corfu is Old Perithia. This village is the oldest that remains in Corfu, though it is almost completely abandoned.

Located at the base of Mount Pantokrator, the town was founded as a secure location that offers vantage points to the sea but can’t be seen from the coast. Old Perithia still boasts eight churches and more than 100 traditional Corfiot homes.

Travelers can walk through Old Perithia and see some of the few locals that still call the village home, dine at the few tavernas in the village and watch the sheep roam among fig and cherry trees.

7. Old Fortress, Corfu Town

On the easternmost point of the peninsula where Corfu Town is located stands the Old Fortress of Corfu. Known to Greeks as the Paleo Frourio, this incredible medieval structure was built in 1546 when the Venetians ruled over the island. The history of the site goes back even further, however, as a Byzantine castle one stood where the fortress is currently located.

Separated from the town by a moat, the Old Fortress boasts two small peaks, or korypha, that are responsible for the island’s name of Corfu. Inside the fortress, visitors will find several British structures, such as the Church of St. George, which were installed in the place of the original Venetian buildings.

6. Kassiopi

Tucked away right along the northeastern coast of the island is the charming little fishing village of Kassiopi. As well as boasting a very scenic center and the remains of a centuries-old Byzantine fort, its wealth of top-quality restaurants and luxury villas attract hordes of holidaymakers each summer.

Unlike the rest of the region’s beach-focused resorts, its main hub of activity is based around its tiny horseshoe-shaped harbor. Here you’ll find terrific tavernas, seafood restaurants and souvenir shops with the whole area being delightfully lit up at night.

Aside from hiking up the hill to the castle and seeing its ruins, there are several beaches to visit just ten minutes walk away. You can also book to go on boat trips or swimming and snorkeling outings from Kassiopi along the coast.

5. Canal D’Amour, Sidari

On the western side of the island are several popular resort areas, most of which are busy year-round thanks to international tourism. One, called Sidari, is especially popular thanks to its proximity to a natural landmark known as the Canal de l’Amour.

Accessible on foot right at one end of the beach, the Canal de l’Amour is a series of narrow inlets created by sandstone cliffs. Each of the inlets offers something unique, ranging from a pristine strip of white sand to paths that lead to gorgeous stone archways or hidden caverns. Thanks to the cliffs, the inlets are protected by the winds, making them a great place to soak up the sun on cooler days.

4. Vlacherna Monastery

One of the most iconic landmarks, and one closely associated with the Corfu’s history, is the Vlacherna Monastery. The woman’s monastery is located on a tiny island off the coast. In order to access the island, which is almost entirely covered by the monastery itself, visitors have to walk along the narrow wharf that leads from the coast to Vlacherna.

The bright white architecture of the Vlacherna Monastery, built at the end of the 17th century, stands out against the background of the blue waters surrounding it, creating an iconic image that is even more beautiful in person than in photographs.

3. Achilleion Palace

One of the most beautiful landmarks in Corfu is the Achilleion Palace . As the name suggests, the palace was built with the theme of Achilles himself, so there is an emphasis throughout the structure on beauty, symmetry and sculpture.

The opulent palace was built in 1890 by Empress of Austria Elisabeth of Bavaria (also known as Sisi), a woman known to be obsessed with physical beauty. After the death of her son in 1889, she threw herself into the creation of Achilleion Palace, which served as a summer palace for decades.

Visiting the palace today offers the chance to see inside the refurbished rooms as well as the sculpture garden, including the noteworthy sculpture of Achilles dying.

2. Paleokastritsa Beach

Undoubtedly one of the most popular and pristine swathes of sand on the isle, Paleokastritsa Beach is set right by the village and monastery of the same name. Surrounded by little bars and tavernas, it is a lovely spot to sunbathe, swim and take in the spectacular scenery all around you.

Curved about a sparkling bay with high walls of rock bordering it, the beach is sandy unlike most of the shingle coves up and down the coast. As it is quite narrow, it often gets quite full during the day with sunbeds and umbrellas studding its shores.

The beach is definitely well worth visiting though for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the soaring cliffs and shimmering sea. After topping up your tan, you can grab a bite to eat at one of the local tavernas before making your way to the nearby monastery and hilltop castle.

1. Corfu Old Town

Home to a mesmerizing mess of enticing streets and attractive squares, Corfu’s Old Town really is a treat to stroll about. The heart and soul of life on the island, its fine Venetian buildings and countless bustling businesses occupy a broad peninsula in between two fabulous old fortresses.

As the island was long ruled by the Republic of Venice, its Italian influence is ever present though both Spianada Square and The Liston are respectively more British and French in nature. Scattered about its winding streets are loads of interesting historic sites and museums with all its pretty pastel buildings draped in bougainvillea appearing as if out of a movie set.

Other than exploring the amazing Old Fortress which is perched atop a promontory overlooking the town and harbour, the phenomenal Palace of St. Michael and St. George is also a must-see. As well as enjoying its ambience and architecture, there are lots of great cafes and restaurants to try out with plenty of other sights like the serene Saint Spyridon Church also packing out its streets.

Map of Things to Do in Corfu

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Reader interactions.

June 10, 2020 at 12:05 pm

On the Sidari part you say the resorts are busy year round.. They aren’t.. The season is late April until end of October.. Otherwise nice article..

May 11, 2016 at 6:36 am

Comprehensive report! Corfu is a beautiful island !

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From the writings of Gerald and Lawrence Durrell to the place where the shipwrecked Odysseus was soothed and sent on his way home, Corfu has been portrayed as an idyll for centuries. Today this reputation has led to parts of the island being defiled by mass tourism, but despite this, the Corfu of literature does still exist. All you need to do is sail around the corner, walk over the next headland or potter about the rugged interior and a place of bountiful produce, cypress-studded hills, vertiginous villages, and sandy coves lapped by cobalt-blue waters awaits.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Corfu. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palaio Frourio

The rocky headland that juts east from Corfu Town is topped by the Venetian-built 14th-century Palaio Frourio. Before that, already enclosed within…

Corfu Museum of Asian Art

Home to stunning artefacts ranging from prehistoric bronzes to works in onyx and ivory, this excellent museum occupies the central portions of the Palace…

Achilleion Palace

Set atop a steep coastal hill 12km south of Corfu Town, the Achilleion Palace was built during the 1890s as the summer palace of Austria's empress…

Myrtiotissa Beach

Writer Lawrence Durrell hailed Myrtiotissa as arguably the best beach in the world. Now dominated by nudists, it remains relatively pristine because it’s…

Palace of St Michael & St George

Beyond the northern end of the Spianada, the smart Regency-style Palace of St Michael and St George was built by the British from 1819 onwards, to house…

Corfu Town owes the elegant, photogenic Liston, the arcade that lines the northern half of the Spianada, to neither the Venetians nor the British but to…

Vidos Island

Hourly boats from the Old Port make the 10-minute crossing to tiny, thickly wooded Vidos Island (€4 return), immediately offshore. The island is the final…

Church of Agios Spyridon

Pilgrims and day-trippers alike throng this Old Town landmark. As well as magnificent frescoes, the small 16th-century basilica holds the remains of Corfu…

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Chic and delicate by nature

Unique experiences.

Sightseeing

• The impressive 15th century Old Fortress, as well as the New Fortress.
• The Saint Michael and George Palace at the northern part of Spianada, built during the British occupation.
• A considerable number of churches. The most imposing one is the city’s Cathedral, the Church of St. Spyridon , the island’s patron Saint, whose relics are kept here. The church’s immensely tall bell tower certainly reminds us of that of San Giorgio dei Greci in Venice. Four processions are held every year during which the body of Saint Spyridon is carried around the streets of the city (on Palm and Easter Sunday, on April 11th and the first Sunday in November). All the philharmonic bands of the city accompany the processions creating a remarkable awe-inspiring spectacle.

Call in at the city’s fascinating museums:

• The Museum of Asian Art : Being the only one of its kind, it was founded in 1927 after the donation of 10.500 items by Gregorios Manos. Until 1974 it was a Chinese and Japanese Art museum, but it was then enriched with other private collections.It is housed in Saint Michael and George Palace .
• The Archaeological Museum : Here you can admire important finds from the temple of Artemis and excavation finds from the ancient city of Corfu.
• The Byzantine Museum : It is housed in the Church of the Virgin Mary Antivouniotissa and houses an interesting collection of icons and ecclesiastic items from the 15th to the 19th century.
• The Banknote Museum showcases a collection of Greek coinage from 1822 to the present day.
• The Museum of Dionysios Solomos : The national Poet of Greece left Zakynthos and moved to Corfu, important intellectual centre of the Ionian islands in those years. Solomos lived in a state of self-imposed isolation, and Corfu offered him the ideal environment to work on his studies in poetry. Today his house hosts a museum dedicated to his honour.
• Mon Repos Palace was built by the British Commissioner Adams as a gift to his Corfiot wife. It is a small but beautiful palace with colonial elements, which today operates as a museum. In this luxurious dwelling, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh and husband of Elisabeth the Second, was born in 1921. The park around the palace is ideal for long romantic walks.
• Kanoni (meaning canon) offers from its circular terrace an amazing view across the island of Pontikonissi (meaning Mouse Island), one of the most photographed spots of Corfu! According to the legend, this rocky islet was a Phaeacian ship that was turned into stone.
• Paleopolis (at Mono Repos estate ) stands where the Agora of the ancient city of Corfu was located. Admire the remains of several public buildings erected there along with sanctuaries, workshops and residencies.
• Achilleion is a fairy palace built among cypresses and myrtles by the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, who wished to escape from the Austrian court. Elisabeth truly fell in love with the island, and she dedicated this palace to Achilles as she cherished the belief that he represented the very soul and fairness of Greece.

Filming in Corfu

FEDORA (1978)

A Hollywood producer travels to Greece to try to lure Fedora, a famous but reclusive film actress, out of retirement to star in his new version of 'Anna Karenina'. His attempts to contact her are thwarted by her overprotective secretary, her plastic surgeon, her chauffeur, and the Countless at whose island villa she's living...

DIRECTOR: BILLY WILDER FILMING LOCATION: CORFU, LEFKADA

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY (1981)

After a British information-gathering vessel gets sunk into the sea, Agent 007 is given the responsibility of locating the lost encryption device and thwarting it from entering inimical hands. Therefore, he comes to Greece and collaborates with the charming Melina Havelok, daughter of archaeologists who seeks revenge for the unjustified murder of her parents.

DIRECTOR: JΟΗΝ GLEN FILMING LOCATION: CORFU, KALABAKA

THE GREEK TYCOON (1978)

She was the most famous woman in the world. He was a peasant, a pirate, a shark. The Greek Tycoon is the story of their fiery romance. Liz Cassidy, the unhappy widow of an assassinated American president, is pursued by womanising millionaire businessman Theo Tomasis, who proves to be very persistent. Starring Jacqueline Bisset, Anthony Quinn, Edward Albert and James Franciscus.

DIRECTOR: J. LEE THOMPSON FILMING LOCATION: CORFU, ATHENS, MYKONOS

THE BURGLARS (1971)

A band of crooks, led by a professional jewel thief, break into a mansion on the outskirts of Athens to steal a priceless collection of emeralds. The robbery is a success, but the gang miss their escape transport out of the country. Meanwhile, their leader is pursued by a crooked police chief, who will stop at nothing to lay his hands on the stolen jewels...

DIRECTOR: HENRI VERNEUIL FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS, CORFU

ESCAPE TO ATHENA (1979)

The movie is set during the II WW. It is an adventure war film with some comedy elements about a strong Greek resistant movement that took place on a small island. This movement prepares the landing of the Allies and plans to overtake a prisoner camp, run by an Austrian general (Roger Moore). This Austrian general loves antiques and actually has forced his prisoners to work in archaeological excavations, in exchange for a more comfortable treatment. Also starred Terry Savalas, Claudia Cardinale, and David Niven.

DIRECTOR: GEORGE COSMATOS FILMING LOCATION: RHODES, CORFU, HALKIDIKI

THE DURRELLS (2016-2019)

In 1935, Englishwoman Louisa Durrell's life has fallen apart. Her husband died some years earlier and she has financial problems and troubled children. She suddenly announces that the five of them will move from Bournemouth to the Greek island of Corfu. A Homeric battle ensues as the family adapts to life on the island, especially when they discover that Corfu doesn't even have electricity yet. But it is inexpensive, an earthly paradise, and the Durrell family makes the big step that will change their lives.

DIRECTOR: ROGER GOLDBY, STEVE BARRON, NIALL MACCORMICK, EDWARD HALL FILMING LOCATION: CORFU

JUPITER'S THIGH (1980)

A honeymoon turns into a breathless country chase for a police inspector and a researcher of ancient Greek civilization.

DIRECTOR: PHILIPPE DE BROCA FILMING LOCATION: KALABAKA, PARGA, CORFU, ATHENS

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Corfu Sights & Attractions

The old fortress of Corfu Town

The Achillion Palace of Empress Sissy of Austria

Kanoni and Mouse island, landmark of Corfu

Discover the Best Sights of Corfu! The historical and religious monuments, the picturesque villages, the beautiful nature and the hospitality of the locals make Corfu a destination that is difficult to forget. Impressive sights are located throughout the island, while Corfu Town is a gem in terms of historical and cultural points of interest.

In brief, the top sights in Corfu include the quarter of Kanoni and the Mouse Island , the Achillion Palace and the Monastery of Paleokastritsa . Within Corfu Town's limits, noteworthy are the Old Fortress , the Museum of Asian Art and the Church of Saint Spyridon .

You can see the best Sights of Corfu below: Ancient sites, Museums, Churches, Castles, and more points of interest . You can filter all attractions by category and location. After seeing all the sights, don't miss to check out All Things to Do in Corfu (best beaches, villages, restaurants, and more)

Kanoni and Mouse Island

The region of Kanoni and Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) is the most picturesque spot in Corfu Town. A canon is situated high up on a hill; from there, people can see the Mouse Island and the little church of Panagia Vlacherna, linked with the mainland with a narrow pathway.

Achillion Palace

Note: The palace is temporarily closed due to restoration works. The outdoor spaces and the gardens remain open to visitors. The Achilleion Palace was built in 1890 for Elizabeth (Sissy), the Empress of Austria. It used to serve as the summer retreat of the Empress, who named it Achillion after her favorite Greek hero, Achilles. After her assassination, it was sold to the Kaiser of Germany.

Old Fortress

The Old Fortress of Corfu stands next to Spianada Square and Liston. It is an impressive castle built on a peninsula into the sea and connected to the mainland via a narrow bridge. A lighthouse stands on its top and offers a great view of the Town and the sea.

Spianada Square

Spianada is the most impressive square of Corfu Town and lies between the Old Fortress and the Old Town. It is the largest square in Greece and one of the largest and prettiest squares in Europe.

The Town Hall of Corfu is housed in an elegant mansion of Venetian style, constructed in the late 17th century. It used to serve as a club for noblemen, then a theatre and from 1903 onwards as the Town Hall.

Museum of Asian Art

The Museum of Asian Art of Corfu is the only Asian museum in Greece and is housed in the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George. It was founded in 1927 after an ambassador, donated hid private collection of 10,500 objects of Sino-Japanese origin to the prefecture.

Byzantine Museum

This museum is housed in the church of Antivouniotissa, one of the oldest and richest churches in Corfu Town. In 1979, this church was turned into a museum and it exhibits a rich collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons and relics, representing more than five centuries of religious fervor and art.

Municipal Art Gallery

The Municipal Gallery of Corfu is housed inside the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George. It houses brilliant works of local artists of the 19th century and frequently it hosts important exhibitions.

New Fortress

This fortress is also known as the New Fortress of Corfu, in contrast to the Old Fortress near Spianada Square. It played an important role in the protection of the town against pirates and enemies in Medieval times. The entire fortress is an intricate network of compartments and galleries.

Temple of Artemis

The magnificent temple of Artemis was a typical Doric temple. Dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, the temple was located near the lagoon of Chalikiopoulos.

Mon Repos Palace

Mon Repos used to be the summer residence of the former royal family of Greece. It is located on the way to Kanoni, Corfu Town, among a lovely green setting.

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum was built to house the Gorgo pediment from the temple of Artemis which was found in the area of Paleopolis. Visitors can also admire other findings from excavations from the archaeological sites of the island, the ancient town of Cassiopeia and items from a private collection.

Saint Spyridon

The church of Saint Spyridon is located in the Old Town of Corfu, right behind Liston. It has the largest bell tower of all churches in the city and it is its red dome that visitors first see when they arrive by boat to Corfu. 

Paleokastritsa Monastery

Built in the 13th century on the hill of Paleokastritsa, the monastery houses a small museum with Byzantine and post Byzantine icons. The museum gives great views to the sea and it is open to visitors.

Ionian Academy

The Ionian Academy is the first University in Greece. It worked as a university building from 1824 to 1864, then as a library and today it hosts cultural events and exhibitions. The academy suffered much damage by German bombs in 1943 but it has been restored.

Angelokastro Castle

The name of the castle means "Castle of the Angels" in Greek. It is located on top of a steep cliff overlooking the sea, near Paleokastritsa. It takes a bit of rough walking to get there but the view rewards visitors.

Old Perithia

Old Perithia (Palea Perithia) is a ghost village located on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator, the highest mountain in Corfu. Although the village today is almost uninhabited, it is frequently visited for its Venetian architecture and impressive atmosphere.

Ionian Parliament

The Ionian Parliament is a neoclassical construction in the Old Town of Corfu, at the end of Moustoxidi Str or Plati Kandouni, as it is known to the locals.

Kaizer Bridge

Although not a very famous attraction of Corfu, this now non-functional bridge was built in order to connect the Achillion Palace with the sea.

Kapodistrias Mansion

Ioannis Kapodistrias' mansion, which belonged to the first governor of the modern Greek State, is an impressive building of Corfu Old Town. It is located in the quarter of Mouragia and has housed the offices of the Prefecture of Corfu as well as the Department of Foreign Languages, Translation and Interpretation of the Ionian University.

Vidos Islet

The small islet of Vidos is located right at the entrance of the port of Corfu and boats sail there from the old port of Corfu Town frequently during summer. It has small beaches for swimming, trekking paths and a nice tavern.

DISCOVER MORE THINGS TO DO IN CORFU

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Corfu – An Unspoilt Island Guide

With countless beaches and secret coves, stunning mountain scenery, the Venetian streets of its historic capital, it’s no wonder that Corfu is one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

I happen to love Corfu. It was the first place I ever visited in Greece, on a family holiday back in my teens. I think the landscape is dreamy. One of the most northerly and greenest Greek islands, Corfu has an established tourist infrastructure – it was one of the first islands to embrace package tourism in the 1960s.

There a wide variety of resorts all around the coast, so there’s something to suit everyone here. And despite the number of visitors and developments, it has retained a wild beauty thanks to the rugged coastline which has charmed visitors for centuries (just look at the literature produced by the Durrells).

This travel guide covers:

• What’s the vibe like?
• Where to Stay on Corfu
• Food and Drink
• Best Beaches on Corfu
• What to Do and See on Corfu
• Hidden Gems
• Getting There and Around

WHAT’S THE VIBE?

The colours on Corfu are something else – from the aquamarines and emeralds of its seas, the dense inland evergreens, to the soft pinks and ochres of its weathered buildings which are echoed in the sunsets.

The beauty of the island is not confined to one part, and resorts are spread out around the island. But broadly speaking, the north of the island is more hilly and craggy with lots of little bays. The pretty stretch between Nissaki and Kassiopi is popular with wealthy Brits and Russians who like to hide away in discrete villas in the hills.

Safe sandy beaches attract package holidaymakers and families, particularly in the cheap and cheerful resorts that spread out along the coast in either direction from Corfu Town.

Corfu’s key strategic position – close to the mainland but controlling access to the Adriatic Sea – has ensured a rich and colourful history. Its Byzantine fortresses and are evidence of centuries of struggle against attacks. It was a key touch point between the Venetians and the Ottoman Empire.

The island never fell to the Ottomans, though, unlike many of the islands in the Aegean Sea. Instead, the legacy you see here is many Venetian and British – with a touch of French and Russian thrown in for good measure. Nowhere else in Greece will you find a cricket lawn and ginger beer.

Knarly olive trees dominate the landscape – thanks to a Venetian policy that encouraged its cultivation.

Corfu Town is a historical gem but also an administrative hub and home to the Ionian University, which keeps it lively even in the low season (in comparison to other island destinations, at least). Acharavi and Lefkimmi are two alternative options for winter.

The downside of its popularity is that the coastal regions aren’t exactly undiscovered – head to the mountainous interior if you want to escape tourism altogether.

One thing to note – Corfu has an ongoing issue with trash collection. The main landfill site is overflowing and illegal sites are popping up around the island. This isn’t a problem everywhere (you’re most likely to notice it on the roads leading into Corfu Town, and in the Lefkimmi/Kavos area) and it doesn’t affect the beaches –  I suggest checking the Tripadvisor forums if you’re concerned. You can help by separating your waste whilst you’re there – recycling bins are available.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed streets of the Corfu Old Town ; a unique part of Greece. Formerly known as Kastropolis – city of castles – this historic city upon first glance appears to have more in common with the fortified towns of nearby Croatian and Italian coasts than with its fellow Greek islands.

Corfu Town has a cosmopolitan and upmarket vibe. The nexus of the Old Town is the area around the Venetian Old Fortress, the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George, and next to it the Spiniada (the bit with the cricket lawn) and the Liston (the French-influenced promenade).

For food and drinks try :

• To Dimarcho ,
• The Venetian Well .
• Rooftop drink at Cavalieri Hotel.

For evening vibes head to  Bristol Cafe , 54 Dreamy Nights , or Sessions Cafe .

Read More: Exploring Corfu Old Town

WHERE TO STAY

Corfu Town may seem like the obvious choice however accommodation is surprisingly hard to come by. It’s a popular (and easy) day trip from pretty much every resort on the island. As such, it hasn’t really developed an accommodation scene of its own – except the big resort hotels on the outskirts of town. The lack of budget accommodation is annoying if you have an early or late flight or ferry.

Top end choices in Corfu Town include classy boutique townhouses  Siora Vittoria and Bella Venezia . Otherwise, it’s best to try  Airbnb .

The best beach hotels on Corfu are MarBella , Ikos Dassia,  Corfu Imperial Grecotel at Kontokali, and Mayor La Grotta Verde Grande at Agios Gordios. The blissful little beachfront Bella Mare Hotel  is now an exclusive Simpson Travel property.

( read more – Corfu’s 10 Best Luxury Beach Hotel s)

The lush and rugged north of the island is where you’ll find upmarket little villages popular with the speedboat set, who stay in expensive villas up in the hills. This is also Durrells-country – Kalami and Koulouri.

And over on the west, Paleokastritsa is worthy of its popularity. The west is home to some dramatic coastal scenery, small resorts that are popular with independent travellers – Agios Gordios is the hostel epicentre with Pink Palace (for spring break vibes) and further up the coast is Sun Rock in Pelekas (for a more traditional family-run feel). Lovely Liapades around the corner is another good spot.

For good-value aparthotels and rooms check out the resort towns Kassiopi, Agios Gordios and Paleokastritsa, which haven’t lost their soul to development. Cheaper still are family favourites Acharavi, Sidari, Barbati, and Ipsos – the latter two are conveniently close to Corfu Town.

Check out Where to Stay on Corfu – The Ultimate Beach Resort Guide for a complete rundown on the coastal towns plus some accommodation picks in Corfu Town.

FOOD AND DRINK

There’s a strong Venetian element to the food on Corfu. You’ll find more Italian influences (and unique slow-cooked meat dishes) here than in other parts of Greece; pasta dishes, polenta, and tomato-based sauces are not uncommon.

A trio of traditional Corfiot dishes worth trying are pastitsada , bourdeto and sofrito .  Pastitsada is a pasta dish made with rooster and a bright red sauce. Bourdeto is fish cooked in a tomato. And sofrito a dish made with veal or beef braised with wine and herbs. I’m also a fan of tsigarelli , which is a side dish of wild greens in a spicy tomato sauce.

Of course, you’ll also find all of the usual Greek taverna classics.

Corfu has its own microbrewery producing naturally brewed real ales. The brewery in Arilla is open to the public on Saturdays. I particularly enjoyed the Red Special Ale. Along with specialist Chimarios, they also make traditional Corfiot ginger beer, another legacy of British rule (the recipe was brought over by the army in the 19th century) and very refreshing in hot weather.

Kumquat trees (a type of tiny citrus) are common on Corfu and you’ll see kumquat liqueur in all the souvenir shops. I also once tried a delicious olive oil liqueur from Corfu but haven’t managed to find anything out about it (send me an email if you find it!).

And fig puddings ( sykomaida ) are a treat unique to Corfu – look out for small round bundles wrapped in leaves.

Don’t miss the seafood tavernas at Agni Bay.

BEST BEACHES ON CORFU

Corfu has some of the best beaches in the Greek islands ; there’s a staggering variety – from white sandy beach to strange rock formations and idyllic coves. Here are the most beautiful worth checking out:

• Paleokastritsa . This popular resort town is built across a couple of bays and has a number of beaches; the sandiest is Agios Spyridon and the most Instagrammable is rocky La Grotta with its unique beach bar (be prepared for steps). Kastelli is cliff.
• Liapades and Rovinia . Two gorgeous pebbly beaches just around the coast from Paleokastritsa. This area of coast is full of hidden beaches and secret bays which are difficult to access.
• Agios Gordios . Perhaps the most versatile beach on the island, Agios Gordios has 2km of calm Blue Flag waters and soft sands surrounded by dramatic cliffs, excellent sunsets, and just enough watersports and entertainment without being overdeveloped. If it gets too crowded just head to Pelekas , Glyfada or the nudist beach at Mirtiotissa .
• Paradise Beach . Also known as Chomi, Paradise Beach has a small pebble beach at the bottom of steep white cliffs. It’s located south of Liapades and is only accessible by water taxi. To the south is the equally grand Stelari .
• Halikounas . If you prefer wide and wild unorganised natural beaches then head for Halikounas which edges Lake Korission in the south-west.
• Bataria and Pipitou are the key beaches at Kassiopi.
• Loggas . In the north, Loggas is another wild cliff-backed beached – this one accessible by steep steps.
• Porto Timoni . Also known as Afionas, this photogenic landmark is a narrow strip of land with a beach on either side. It’s hikeable from the wide sandy bay at Agios Georgios.
• Sidari . This beach resort is home to the famous rock formations of the Canal d’Amour (pictured above), which is now a popular selfie.
• Cape Drastis . Keep going north of Loggas to reach the white rock formations of Cape Drastis (or Drasti), the most northerly point of the island. You can visit by boat from Sidari, or hike here; there’s a small beach with a bar selling refreshments.

Looking to stay by the beach? Check out the  complete guide to Corfu’s beach resorts .

WHAT TO DO ON CORFU

It’s worth knowing that religious sites, museums and galleries often shut on a Monday in Greece.

Best things to do in Corfu Town:

• Old Fortress . The main attraction in Corfu Town is the Old Fortress (Paleokastro). St. George’s Church.
• Mon Repos is a historic villa (and birthplace of Prince Philip) on the outskirts of Corfu Town, next to the ancient ruins of Paleopolis. It houses an archaeological museum an is often included in tour itineraries along with the Achilleion – a palace in Gastouri built by the Empress of Austria.
• The Byzantine Museum  showcases religious artwork is tucked away in a tiny church in Corfu Town.
• The Serbian Museum memorialises 150, 000 Serbian troops and refugees who died here during the First World War – many from starvation or disease. Entrance is free. The tiny island of Vido opposite Corfu Town served as a hospital, quarantine and cemetery. You can catch a local ferry over to this peaceful island, known as the ‘Blue Tomb’, which now houses a mausoleum and a taverna (open summer only).
• The Corfu Museum of Asian Art is located in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George (near the Liston), one of the main British buildings in the town
• The Museum of Banknotes is a few blocks back from the Liston and provides a fascinating overview of Greek currency.
• Corfu Walking Tours offer themed walking tours around Corfu Town, including options for foodies.
• Don’t miss the little monastery of Vlacherna  and the tiny island Pontikonisi  (also known as ‘Mouse Island) nearby (pictured above). This romantic spot is a 45-minute walk from Corfu Town and is close to Corfu Airport. In fact, so close there are a couple of bars perfectly set up to watch the planes land and the sun go down.
• If you have kids in tow, there’s a waterpark called  Aqualand  in the middle of the island.

Best things to do outside Corfu Town:

• Angelokastro . is a hilltop Byzantine castle near Paleokastritsa with excellent views over the north-east coast.
• Nearby is the Monastery of Paleokastritsa, which has views over the village and houses the remains of a giant whale. It does get busy with tour buses in summer.
• Kassiopi Castle .
• Hire a speedboat  for exploring the north east coast; many of the area’s best tavernas and beaches have jetties. The fish tavernas at Agni Bay are well known.
• Scuba Diving . There are numerous dive centres in the north of the island. Colovri and the Hole of Ha are the standout site.
• Hike Mount Pantokrator .
• Boat trips . Arguably the best way to see the stunning scenery is from a boat. Mainland honeypot Parga is just X away. Also close by are Corfu’s nearest Ionian neighbours Paxi and Antipaxi. And day trips to Albania can take in the gorgeous beaches at Ksamil, it’s worth paying extra to include UNESCO World Heritage site Butrint in your itinerary if you’re into historic sites.

DURRELL-MANIA

• Exteriors for The Durrells’ villa were filmed at Villa Annemoyani north of Gouvia
• Lawrence and Nancy lived in Kalami, and today you can stay in their former residence The White House
• Many street scenes were filmed in Danilia, a curious remodelled village up in the hills behind Gouvia. It was also used as a set in For Your Eyes Only . It’s owned by Grecotel Hotels who run The Corfu Imperial Hotel in Kommeno Bay (which is also where the cast stay during filming). You can book a special package which includes accommodation at the Imperial, and tours of Danilia and The White House.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Done the above and looking to discover a side of Corfu unspoilt by the masses? If you’re looking for quieter, off-beat attractions for culture vultures, authentic Corfiot villages with traditional life, or nature without the crowds, here are a few pointers to get you started

• Hike the Corfu Trail . Spanning nearly the length of the island at 220km, the Corfu Trail will take you deep into the island. It’s not the easiest – some parts are poorly waymarked and there’s a lack of accommodation. The sections near Paleokastritsa or Koulouri are ideal for a short hike. Check out the Trail website for more info.
• Korission Lagoon . You can sail, horse ride (from nearby Issos) and birdwatch at this nature lover’s paradise.
• Traditional Villages . If you’re driving around the south of the island, stop by the inland town of Lefkimmi for a slice of traditional Greek life (and lunch). Argyrades, Lakones, Chlomas, Vatos, Pelekas village (up in the hills above the beach) and Afionas village are also charming.
• Venetian Shipyard . Located near Gouvia, these 18th-century remains are worth a visit if you’re in the area, with cute little Ipapanti Church across the water.
• Corfu’s Secret Islands . Paxi and Antipaxi aren’t the only islands you can visit from Corfu. Less well known are the tiny idylls of  Diapondia  off the north coast – consisting of Erikoussa, Othoni and Mathraki islands (plus several uninhabited islets). In the summer you can find boats from Corfu Town as well as Sidari and Agios Stefanos.
• Corfu Donkey Sanctuary . You can visit the Sanctuary  which is open year-round. To donate go to Friends of Corfu Donkey Rescue .

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

Corfu International Airport (or  Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport ) is served by both domestic and international airlines. The airport is 3km south of Corfu Town. The view as you come in to land is quite spectacular so book a window seat. There are a few overpriced cafes and not much else, so don’t plan on spending too much time there if you can help it.

Line 15 connects the airport to the city’s bus terminal and the main city stop at San Rocco Square. From these stops, you can catch city buses around Corfu Town. For destinations around the island,  Green Buses spread outwards from Corfu Town as a hub.

Car hire is ideal for exploring the island although roads can be steep and winding, with occasional potholes and plenty of giant tour buses coming the opposite way.

During the summer there are occasional routes linking beach resorts. CorfuPlus is well regarded for scooter and quad hire; get in touch with Sandy to discuss your needs.

FERRY CONNECTIONS 

Corfu has a large ferry/cruise ship port.

International crossings are available to: Bari, Brindisi (Italy) and Sarande in Albania. Occasionally there are also routes to Ancona and Venice in Italy, Durres in Albania.

The main domestic connections are to Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland, and the islands Paxos and Antipaxos. From Lefkimmi there are also boats to Igoumenitsa. The most frequent ferries to the Diapondia islands are from Agios Stefanos (NW).

Infrequent/nonexistent direct ferry connections to the rest of the Ionian islands (with the exception of Paxos and Antipaxos) make it tricky to include Corfu in an island hopping itinerary. Instead, you must go via the mainland.

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Image credits: Paleokastritsa © CCat82 / Adobe Stock, Vido Island © The Mediterranean Traveller, Old Fort © The Mediterranean Traveller, Barbati © whitewizzard / Adobe Stock, Sweet Treats ©  The Mediterranean Traveller, Sidari © Netfalls / Adobe Stock, Liapades   © Lucian Bolca / Adobe Stock, Vlacherna Monastery © The Mediterranean Traveller, Pink Walls © The Mediterranean Traveller, Cape Drastis by etherial via Pixabay. 

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THE 10 BEST Corfu Sights & Historical Landmarks

Corfu landmarks.

• Churches & Cathedrals
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Monuments & Statues
• Historic Sites
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Corfu Old Town

2. Old Fortress Corfu

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (229)

3. Church of Saint Spiridon

4. Achilleion Museum

5. Paleokastritsa Monastery

6. Corfu Donkey Rescue

7. The Liston

8. Vlacherna Monastery

9. Angelokastro

10. Corfu Museum of Asian Art

11. Spianada Square

12. Old Perithia

13. Cape Drastis

14. Mon Repos Palace

15. New Fortress of Corfu

16. British Cemetry

17. Melissokomikí Kérkyras Vasilákis

18. Monastery Of Pantokrator

19. Holocaust Memorial of Corfu

20. Danilia Village

21. Jewish Synagogue

22. Church Ipapantis

23. Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary

24. Agia Theodora Mitropolis Orthodox Cathedral

25. Kassiopi Castle

26. Little Agios Stefanos Chuch

27. Agios Iasonas Kai Sosipatros

28. Antivouniotissa Museum

29. Agia Paraskevi Monastery

30. Corfu Powerboating

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Corfu: The Amazing Greek Island

Corfu Island in Greece

Last updated on April 3rd, 2024 at 03:41 pm

The Ultimate Corfu Island Greece Travel Guide

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Corfu or Kerkyra stands out as one of the most important and beautiful Greek islands. Renowned for its lush greenery, it is often considered the greenest island, boasting dense vegetation, wild colorful flowers, bushes, and over 2 million olive trees.

The island’s natural beauty is unparalleled, featuring numerous sightseeing opportunities, picturesque beaches along a coastline spanning more than 215 km, and a wide array of exciting activities to explore.

There is also a well-developed road network that makes Corfu Greece accessible and facilitates travel throughout the island.

Corfu, often referred to as the undisputed Queen of the Ionian Islands, is surrounded by the renowned Ionian turquoise sea, earning it the title of the Emerald Island of Greece. The island’s captivating beauty and unique charm contribute to its royal designation.

In terms of tourism development, Corfu stands as one of Greece’s cornerstones in the tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the world. Its undeniable allure, both natural and cultural, makes it a standout destination within the Ionian archipelago.

The title “Undisputed Queen” highlights Corfu’s preeminence among the Ionian Islands, emphasizing its significance and prominence in every aspect – a well-deserved recognition.

Corfu is situated in the northern Ionian Sea, marking the northwestern extremity of Greece. Positioned opposite the coast of the Greek mainland and southern Albania.

The island is approximately 600 km northwest of Athens and lies closer to Italy, its unique offerings make it a destination well worth visiting.

To the northwest of the island, there are three smaller islands collectively known as the Diapontian Islands , Othoni, Mathraki, and Erikoussa. To the south lie the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos .

Collectively, these islands form the Prefecture of Corfu, showcasing the diverse beauty and charm of the region.

During the Middle Ages, the Latins bestowed upon the island and its town the name Corypho, derived from the ancient Greek word “Koryphai” or “Korphes,” which translates to Tops or Peaks.

The term “Koryphai” in ancient Greek became Corypho in Latin, and eventually, it transformed into Corfu, the internationally recognized name for the island today. Therefore, Corfu signifies the “Island of Tops.”

The name Corypho may have originated from the presence of two peaks in the peninsula of the old fortress or perhaps from the twin summits of its highest mountain, Pantokrator.

In ancient times, Homer referred to the island as Scheria, but it also bore the name Drepanon, meaning sickle, due to its sickle-like shape.

This linguistic evolution highlights the historical interplay between different cultures and languages, shaping the island’s name into the familiar Corfu we know today.

The Greek name Kerkyra is rooted in Greek mythology and is derived from the nymph Corcyra, who was the daughter of the river god Asopos.

According to Greek mythology , Corcyra was abducted by Poseidon, the god of the sea (known as Neptune in Roman mythology), who brought her to the island. The union of Corcyra and Poseidon resulted in the birth of Phaiax, the founder of the Phaeacians – the first known resident of the island.

Even the island’s earliest residents, the Phaeacians, were said to have a mythological origin, although it remains uncertain whether they truly existed.

The name Corcyra evolved over time and later transformed into Kerkyra in the Doric dialect, which is the modern Greek name for the island. The island’s rich mythological history adds a layer of intrigue to its cultural identity.

Corfu, being a distinct island in the Ionian Sea, is very popular among tourists and is known for several unique elements and facts that set it apart:

• The Esplanade and Liston Promenade : The Esplanade (Spianada) Square in Corfu Town is one of the largest squares in Greece and is flanked by Liston, a series of arched terraces featuring cafes and restaurants. The Esplanade is a unique and spacious area that reflects the island’s history and is often a center for various events.
• Kumquat Fruit : Corfu is famous for its kumquat fruit, and the island is one of the few places in Europe where kumquats are grown. The small, tangy citrus fruits originated from China, and are used to make various products, including liqueurs and preserves.
• Corfu’s Easter Traditions : While Easter celebrations are common across Greece, this island has its unique traditions. The throwing of clay pots from windows during the Resurrection ceremony on Holy Saturday is a distinctive and festive event.
• Pontikonisi (Mouse Island) : The small island of Pontikonisi, often referred to as Mouse Island  is near Kanoni and is crowned by the Vlacherna Monastery. The combination of the monastery and the small size of the island contributes to its unique charm.
• Corfiot Bands and Music : The musical tradition , especially the use of wind and brass instruments, is unique. Corfiot bands are known for their performances during religious processions and festivals, adding a distinctive musical element to the island’s culture.
• Corfiot Dialect : The local Corfiot dialect has unique characteristics that differentiate it from other Greek dialects. It reflects the island’s historical influences and linguistic diversity.
• Corfu’s Historical Crossroads : Due to its strategic location in the Ionian Sea, Kerkyra has a history shaped by various civilizations, including the Venetians, French, and British. This historical tapestry is unique to Kerkyra and is reflected in its architecture, traditions, and cultural influences.
• Venetian Architecture : This island has a strong Venetian influence due to centuries of Venetian rule. The architecture reflects this influence, with narrow streets, arched doorways, and pastel-colored buildings.
• Old and New Fortresses : The Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio) and the New Fortress (Neo Frourio) are prominent landmarks. The Old Fortress dates back to the Byzantine era, while the New Fortress was built during the Venetian rule. Both offer panoramic views of the island and the sea.
• Achilleion Palace : Built by Empress of Austria Elisabeth of Bavaria, also known as Sisi, the Achilleion Palace is a neoclassical palace with stunning gardens. The palace is dedicated to Achilles and features statues and artwork inspired by Greek mythology .
• Corfiot Cuisine : It is a distinct culinary tradition influenced by various cultures. You’ll find dishes with Venetian, French, British, and Greek influences. Some specialties include Pastitsada (a spicy beef or rooster stew), Sofrito (beef cooked in a garlic white wine sauce), and Bourdeto (fish stew).
• Corfu is the densest populated Hellenic(Greek) Island.
• The city of Kerkyra is the only city in Greece surrounded by the walls of its castles, therefore it also holds the name Kastropolis (City within castles).
• The island is home to the first Hellenic University in 1823 which still operates from the 19th century until today. Is the Ionian Academy.
• Also, the first commercial bank on Greek territory was here. The Ionian Bank.
• The first electricity factory on Greek territory was operating here before 1860.
• The first theater in modern Greece was in this land. It was the San Giacomo theater .
• Corfu has the only Georgian-style Palace outside the UK, the Palace of Saints Michael and George .
• This island was the birthplace of many Royals of Europe, e.g. Philip Prince of Edinburg .
• The Durrells family were residents of Corfu from 1936 to 1940.
• Corfu is home to the only cricket team in Greece.
• And finally, it is a fact that this island never felt Ottoman oppression.

These elements and facts contribute to the unique identity of Corfu which is obvious on this Travel guide, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the distinct features of this Greek island.

Corfu is the second-largest of the Ionian Islands and the seventh-largest in Greece, therefore is a medium-sized island covering an area of 593 km² (146,500 acres).

In a straight line, from north to south, the length of the island is approximately 61 km (40 miles), while the greatest width is 27 km (17 miles).

The picturesque coastline, adorned with beautiful beaches, stretches for a total length of 217 km (135 miles).

The main part of the national road, extending from Paleokastritsa to the town and down to Lefkimi, is well-maintained and spans about 100 km.

Traveling from the north to the south can take just under 2 hours, accounting for potential traffic congestion, especially during the summer months.

While some narrow roads within villages and former agricultural roads may not be in optimal condition, the road network on the island is extensive and well-connected, contributing to its accessibility.

In recent years, Corfu has become a preferred destination for Greek tourists, gaining popularity, especially during the Easter holiday with its unique traditions. August sees a mix of Greek and Italian visitors, along with tourists from farther north.

The construction of the Egnatia highway has significantly improved accessibility for residents of northern Greece. The island is easily reachable from the port of Igoumenitsa on the mainland, offering a modern and frequent ferry service, with some crossings taking just over an hour. Ferries from Igoumenitsa also arrive in the southern harbor of Lefkimi .

Additional ferry routes are available from the city of Patras, with travel times ranging from 6 to 7 hours. Ferries from Italian ports are also popular among visitors.

For many tourists, the primary gateway to the island is the international airport Ioannis Kapodistrias , which is well-connected to major European airports, facilitating convenient travel to Corfu.

The flight from Athens takes 45 minutes while from most European airports takes between two to three and a half hours.

The cost of living and travel expenses in Corfu, Greece can vary depending on factors such as the season, accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities.

Generally, compared to other popular European destinations, Corfu can offer relatively affordable options for accommodations, food, and activities, particularly if you avoid peak tourist seasons.

However, it’s essential to budget accordingly and plan to ensure your expenses align with your financial preferences and expectations.

Corfu offers a diverse range of beautiful resorts catering to a wide audience, from families to the young and adventurous.

Family-Friendly Resorts:

• Saint George of the South : Located on the southwest coast, ideal for families with organized beaches and numerous facilities.
• Glyfada : The most cosmopolitan beach on the middle west coast, suitable for families.
• Agios Gordios : A family-friendly destination on the west coast.
• Pelekas : Another family-friendly option on the middle west coast.
• Ipsos and Dasia : Positioned on the East, offering family-oriented amenities.
• Nissaki and Sinies : Located on the northeast side of the island, known for their family-friendly atmosphere.
• Benitses : Ideal for families with restaurants and very close to Corfu town.
• Moraitika and Messonghi : Featuring a vast and calm sandy beach, perfect for families.
• Paleokastritsa : Picturesque with hidden beaches , offering a serene setting.

Lively and Young Resorts:

• Sidari : Offers a more lively nightlife, appealing to the younger crowd.
• Kavos : Situated in the Southend, known for its vibrant nightlife, especially popular among young and energetic British visitors.

Corfu Town:

• The town itself is a versatile destination suitable for families with children and vibrant for the young at heart. It offers a variety of choices, including monuments, sights, and nightclubs.

Whether you are looking for a family retreat or a lively nightlife experience, Corfu provides a range of options to suit different preferences. If you’re considering staying in a hotel, there is a curated selection of The Best Corfu Hotels  around the island for you to explore.

Corfu, despite its size, is the third most populous place in Greece after Athens and Thessaloniki.

According to the 2011 census, the population was 111,113 inhabitants. When accounting for temporary and semi-permanent residents, the total number approaches 150,000 people.

However, the 2021 census reported a population drop to 99,000, potentially due to pandemic-related factors and underreporting. Despite the numbers, Corfu’s strength lies in its stories, landscapes, and resilient spirit.

The old part of Corfu town alone has 30,000 inhabitants, and when combined with the suburbs of Kanoni, Potamos, Kanalia, Kontokali, and Alepou, the total reaches almost 50,000 residents.

Notably, Corfu has a substantial British community, making up almost 10% of the population. Many British residents have chosen this land as their permanent home, particularly in the northern part of the island. Additionally, there are residents from various other nationalities, and their numbers continue to increase.

This demographic diversity highlights that Corfu is more than just a popular holiday destination; it offers a high quality of living, attracting individuals who choose to make the island their permanent residence.

Corfu’s rich and turbulent history spans over 3000 years, shaping its cultural significance and contributing to a multifaceted historical heritage that persists to this day.

• The island’s habitation dates back to the Paleolithic era and is mentioned in the Odyssey as being inhabited by the Phaeacians.
• Corcyra, a nymph and daughter of the river god Asopos, was kidnapped by Poseidon, the god of the sea, and brought to the island. The couple gave birth to the Phaeacians, the island’s first known population. The name Corcyra later became Kerkyra in the Doric dialect.
• Throughout its history, the island has experienced numerous conquerors, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Russians, French, and British Empires, each leaving a lasting mark on the island.
• The first Greek settlers from Corinth arrived in 750 BC, establishing the first indigenous population and creating the city of Kerkyra, which lasted until 500 CE when it was destroyed by the Goths.
• During the Middle Ages, Corfu was part of the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire), but it faced occasional conquests by rulers from Naples, Sicily, and the Despotate of Epirus.
• In 1386, the Venetians settled on the island , marking the beginning of 411 years of Venetian rule.
• The Venetian era was followed by French dependencies, including democratic French and the imperial rule of Napoleon, followed by the Russians.
• The English protectorate period followed until 1864 when Corfu, along with the rest of the Ionian Islands, unified with Greece.

This intricate historical journey has shaped Corfu’s cultural identity, resulting in a unique blend of influences from various civilizations and empires.

The Island of the Phaeacians

The Phaeacians are a mythical seafaring people in Greek mythology, mentioned in Homer’s epic poems, the “ Iliad ” and the “ Odyssey “. They are known for their advanced seafaring skills and are associated with the island of Scheria.

The most detailed account of the Phaeacians is found in the “Odyssey”.

In the “Odyssey”, Odysseus, the hero of the epic, reaches the land of the Phaeacians after facing numerous challenges on his journey home from the Trojan War. The Phaeacians are known for their hospitality, and their king, Alkinoos, offers Odysseus a warm welcome. The Phaeacians live in a prosperous and peaceful society, and their ships are said to move magically and swiftly.

During his stay with the Phaeacians, Odysseus recounts his adventures and the challenges he has faced. The Phaeacians are impressed by his stories, and King Alkinoos decides to help him by providing a ship to finally return him to his homeland, Ithaca .

The Phaeacians play a crucial role in the narrative of the “Odyssey” as they facilitate Odysseus’ journey home. Their story adds an element of fantasy to the epic, with their advanced ships and seemingly magical abilities, although they are not prominent figures in other Greek myths , and their existence is mostly confined to the world of the “Odyssey”

Corfu’s cultural identity is distinct from the rest of Greece due to its significant historical connection with the maritime state of Venice during a period when much of Greece was under Ottoman rule.

The 411 years of Venetian rule had a profound impact on the island’s culture, leaving a lasting imprint on various aspects such as architecture, cuisine, music, and the overall identity of the Corfiot people.

This influence is evident in the architectural features of the island, the local culinary traditions, and the unique musical heritage.

The Venetian era played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural character of Corfu and its residents. Due to the authoritarian rule of the feudal nobility during this time, there was continual opposition and popular movements among the island’s poor population.

The development of arts and culture set Corfu apart, creating a landscape in stark contrast to the rest of Greece. While the rest of the country was influenced by the East, Corfu looked to the West.

As a result, Corfu boasts a rich tapestry of influences, with buildings and monuments spanning from ancient Greek and Roman times onwards. The old town, in particular, stands as a beautiful miniature reminiscent of Venice, albeit without the canals. This blend of influences has contributed to the unique cultural mosaic.

Geography, Is Corfu Hilly?

Corfu’s topography offers a diverse landscape with mountainous, hilly, and flat regions, as you see in the Corfu map .

Northern Part:

The northern part of the island is mostly mountainous and is prominently marked by Mount Pantokrator in the northeast.

Mount Pantokrator, the ancient Istone mountain, boasts the highest peak in this region at 914 meters, with Stravoskiadi peak a bit to the west standing at 849 meters.

The mountain extends westward, dominating the northwest, where Troumpeta is the highest peak at 600 meters.

Southern Part:

The southern part is predominantly flat, with a few hills near the villages of Chlomos and Saint Mattheos.

Rest of the Island:

The remaining areas of the island comprise a fertile plain with small hills, contributing to the overall picturesque and varied terrain of Corfu.

This diverse topography not only enhances the scenic beauty but also influences the local ecosystems and the way communities have settled across the island.

Corfu’s volcanic history is a narrative of ancient dormancy.

Mount Agioi Deka, situated in the central part of the island, and its summit, Pantokrator, at an altitude of 600 meters, may have been the stars of the volcanic show thousands of years ago, but they are long extinct.

At the summit of Pantokrator, an aviation radar station now stands. It’s important not to confuse this peak with the other Pantokrator mountain in the north of the island.

Today, the island stands completely devoid of volcanic activity. What you’ll discover are rolling hills, majestic mountains, and lush greenery that collectively form a fairytale landscape.

Unlike some other Aegean islands such as Santorini, Nisyros, and Milos, which boast active or dormant volcanoes, Corfu does not partake in the volcanic spectacle.

Its geology revolves around limestone, shale, and sandstone, which have shaped the stunning landscape over millions of years.

While Corfu has experienced earthquakes, they are not linked to volcanic activity. Thus, you can do your explorations with peace of mind, knowing that no volcanic surprises await you.

Kerkyra features two lakes and several rivers that contribute to its diverse and ecologically rich landscape.

Lake Antinioti:

Located on the north coast, Lake Antinioti communicates with the sea and is situated between Kassiopi and Roda. It is known for its abundant fauna.

Southwest Salty Lake (Lagoon) of Korission:

Positioned just behind the renowned Halikouna beach on the southwest coast, this salty lake also functions as a lagoon and serves as a stopover for migratory birds traveling between Africa and northern Europe.

Sidari River:

Originating from the mountain mass of Troumpeta, this river flows through Sidari.

Central Corfu Rivers:

The first river flows north of the city in the Potamos area.

The second river is in Benitses.

The third is the large river of Messonghi.

South Corfu Rivers:

One river flows along the beach of Gardenos in the south.

Another river crosses through Lefkimi and flows south of the Alykes area.

These lakes and rivers contribute to the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Corfu, offering habitats for various fauna and serving as points of interest for nature enthusiasts.

Administrative division

In 2011, an administrative reform known as “Kallikrates” was implemented, resulting in the consolidation of the Prefecture of Corfu into a single municipality.

The new municipality of Corfu was formed by merging the 12 former municipalities of Corfiots, Achilleion, Thinalion, Lefkimi, Korrision, Paleokastriton, Melitieon, Saint George, Esperion, Feakon, Kassopaion, and Parelion. Additionally, the communities in the satellite islands of Diapontia and Paxos were also included in the restructuring.

This reform aimed to streamline and improve administrative efficiency by consolidating local governance structures.

Since 2018, another administrative reform named “Kleisthenes” has been in effect, resulting in the reorganization of the Prefecture of Corfu into four distinct municipalities:

• The Metropolitan Municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontian Islands (Population 68,500): This municipality encompasses the original municipal units of Corfiots, Achilleion, Paleokastriton, Feakon, and Parelion, along with the three communities in the Diapontian Islands in the North.
• The Municipality of the North (Population 17,200): This municipality includes the former municipal units of Thinalion, Saint George, Esperion, and Kassopaion.
• The Municipality of the South (Population 15,700): Encompassing the original municipal units of Lefkimi, Melitieon, and Korrision.
• The Municipality in Paxos (Population 2,440): This municipality is centered in the capital, Gaios, and is dedicated to Paxos.

Corfu boasts a lush and vibrant landscape, making it the greenest Greek island, primarily attributed to the abundant winter rains and the overall wet climate. There are periods when rain persists for 40 or 50 consecutive days.

Despite the wet winters, the climate is generally mild, characterized by hot and dry summers and very mild winters.

Snowfall is a rare occurrence, typically limited to the top of Mount Pantokrator. Most Corfiots may only witness snow 2 or 3 times in their lifetime, primarily in the higher elevations.

January marks the coldest month, with average lows around 4-5°C (41°F) and highs at 15°C (58°F). Occasionally, temperatures can drop below zero.

In contrast, July is the hottest month, with low averages of 20°C (70°F) and highs around 35°C (95°F). Some days may experience absolute highs exceeding 40°C (110°F), presenting challenging conditions.

Throughout the months in between, temperatures fluctuate accordingly.

Find more details on the page about the weather in Corfu .

The old citadel is a historical treasure trove and a Unesco world heritage site. As you wander its streets, you’ll step back in time, encountering remnants from ancient Greek and Roman periods.

With its Venetian-influenced architecture and monuments that narrate the island’s rich past, every corner tells a captivating story.

Explore this living time capsule, where history comes to life, shaping Corfu into the enchanting destination it is today.

The city of Kerkyra stands as the sole town on the island, blending the Venetian architecture of the old part with the modernity of the new part characterized by spacious roads and contemporary buildings.

Upon approaching from the sea, the first glimpse of the island is the medieval old town, known as Kerkyra in Greek.

The city is also referred to as Kastropolis, signifying a city within castles. In the past, it was one of the few cities globally surrounded by the walls of both the old and new fortresses.

Corfu Old Town maintains its Venetian charm with narrow streets (alleys) and tall buildings, presenting a cityscape more reminiscent of Italy than Greece. This unique character has endured despite considerable development over the years.

The city offers numerous attractions and monuments that need days to explore and admire.

See more about Corfu Old Town .

The city offers a plethora of activities and cultural attractions, with many museums such as the museum of Asian art housed inside the palace of Saints Michael and George, monuments, sights , and cultural centers to explore.

You can visit both the old and new fortresses, and witness the grandeur of Esplanade Square, touted as perhaps the biggest in Europe.

The Liston, once a gathering place for nobility, is now a social hub for all Corfiots. The Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George, known as the Old Palace, hosts various museums and exhibitions and is located around Esplanade Square.

The historic Ionian Academy, established in 1824 and the first university in Greece, is a significant landmark.

Nearby, you’ll find the Ionian Parliament building, as well as the town hall, originally built in 1663 as the Hall of Nobles (Loggia dei Nobili) and later transformed into the Theatre of San Giacomo.

Just outside the modern town, you can explore the ancient remains of Paleopolis , the ancient city of Corfu, situated on the peninsula of Kanoni near the summer palace of Mon Repos .

It’s noteworthy that the first modern Greek university was founded here, and by 1850, Corfu boasted an electrical power plant, which later moved to Piraeus after the union with Greece.

Corfu is rich in cultural attractions beyond the town itself, featuring numerous museums , monuments, and historical sites.

Some notable locations include the Byzantine fortress Aggelokastro north of Paleokastritsa, the castle ruins in Kassiopi, the Byzantine castle in Gardiki to the southwest, and the remains of the Venetian shipyard, also known as the Venetian Arsenal , in Gouvia.

These spots are all stunning and worth a visit!

The magnificent Achilleion Palace, located in the village of Gastouri, 3 km north of Benitses, was commissioned by Empress Elizabeth of Austro-Hungary, also known as Sisi.

The palace, named after the mythical hero Achilles, reflects Sisi’s deep appreciation for classical Greece. The Kaiser’s bridge, constructed by German Kaiser Wilhelm II after Elizabeth’s death, is a brilliant addition to the Achilleion Palace.

Other cultural attractions include the sea museum in Benitses, the olive museum in the village of Kynopiastes, and a variety of old neoclassical houses, mansions, small museums, fascinating collections, and ancient ruins scattered throughout many villages and other Corfu resorts.

Corfu’s medieval style has been well-preserved, as the town has been fortunate enough to avoid powerful earthquakes, that affected nearby islands like Kefalonia and Zakynthos. Despite being located in the seismic geology of the Ionian arc, Corfu sits in a more stable part of the earth’s crust, preventing earthquakes that could destroy the unique architecture of the city.

Corfu’s culinary landscape has been significantly shaped by Venetian influences. The recipes of Corfiot cuisine originally came from Venice but were adapted to suit the local products and climate of the island.

Various ingredients, previously unknown in Corfu until the Venetian era, were introduced by the Venetians.

These include tomatoes, beans, peppers, corn, coffee, chocolate, sugar, and some expensive spices. Alongside olive oil, these elements played a crucial role in defining the distinctive Corfiot cuisine, featuring renowned dishes like Pastitsada , Sofrito , Bourdeto , and others.

For a detailed exploration of these traditional recipes and to delve into the delicious world of Corfu food, you can visit the page dedicated to Corfu cuisine . To savor the local flavors, consider dining at the best restaurants in Corfu .

Corfu truly comes alive when the sun sets, making it a hotspot for vibrant nightlife , especially in the lively summer months teeming with tourists. The island boasts many party hubs, the most known being: Corfu Town (Kerkyra), Kavos, and Sidari.

The Town of Kerkyra presents a diverse array of bars and clubs tailored to various tastes, from chic cocktail lounges to energetic dance venues. The Liston area stands out for its trendy bars and cafés, drawing in those seeking a stylish night out.

On the southern coast, Kavos steals the spotlight with its renowned party scene. This area is dotted with numerous bars and clubs that keep the festivities going well into the early morning hours.

For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to Sidari, another sought-after nightlife destination. Here, you’ll find bars and clubs offering a relaxed vibe compared to the lively energy of Kavos.

In essence, this island provides a plethora of choices for anyone eager to delve into its nightlife, whether you’re in the mood for dancing until dawn or simply seeking a chill evening out.

Corfu Musical tradition

Corfu boasts a rich and enduring musical tradition, evident in the presence of three main philharmonic societies in the city today: the Old Philharmonic, the Philharmonic of Mantzaros, and the Philharmonic of Kapodistrias. These societies frequently host outstanding concerts.

Throughout the island’s villages, there are additional bands that, on specific occasions, converge in Corfu Town to perform, eliciting enthusiastic cheers from their supporters.

The musical tradition in Corfu was strongly influenced by Italy, with many artists establishing music schools that incorporated classical influences.

The Ionian School of Music is typically divided into two periods: the first extending until 1870 and the second continuing until the early 20th century. In Greece, the Ionian School eventually gave way to the so-called National School, championed by “Germanists” Georgios Nazos and Manolis Kalomiris.

Greek-born Ionian musicians such as George Lambellet from Corfu and Dionysios Lavragas from Cephalonia were notable members of both the Ionian School and the “National School.”

These musicians often found themselves in disputes with “Germanist” Kalomiris, who claimed that Ionian music had connections to Italian music.

The founder of the Ionian School of Music was Corfiot Nikolaos Chalikiopoulos Mantzaros (1795-1872). The Ionian School encompasses a significant number of important musicians and composers from both the first and second periods.

Corfiot and Ionian Islands Musicians

It is worth mentioning some musicians.

Domenikos Padovas (1817-1892), Spyros Xindas (1814-1896), and Spyros Samaras (1861-1917). Eduardo, Louis, George, and Napoleon Lambellet are members of the large Lambellet family.

Other composers were Joseph Liveralis (1820-1899), Leonidas Alvanas (1823-1881), Joseph Caesaris (1845-1923), Spyridon Caesaris (1859-1946), Dimitrios Andronis (1866-1918), Sotirios Kritikos (1888-1945), and Alexandros Grek (1876-1959).

From Zante (Zakynthos)

Pavlos Karrer (1829-1896), Frangiskos Domeniginis (1809-1874), and Dionysios Viscardis (1910-1999). Suzana Nerantzi from Zakynthos was a great woman pianist and student of Mantzaros in Corfu.

From Kefalonia

Dionysios Lavragas (1864-1941), Antiochos Evangelatos (1903-1981), and Spyridon Spathis (1876-1959) from Sami island.

From Ithaka

Dionysios Rodotheatos (1849-1892).

Antonios Kapnisis (1813-1885), George Lambiris (1833-1889), Lavrentios Kamilieris (1878-1956), Georgios Axiotis (1875-1924), and Georgios Sklavos (1886-1976).

The Ionian Islands have also made significant contributions to literature, forming their own Ionian School. Renowned writers and poets, such as Dionysios Solomos from Zakynthos (1798-1857) – who lived for three decades in Corfu, have emerged from this literary tradition.

Other notable figures include Aristotelis Valaoritis from Lefkada, Andreas Laskaratos, and Ioulios Typaldos from Lixouri, Gerasimos Markoras from Kefalonia, Iakovos Polylas from Corfu, Georgios Terchetis, and Andreas Kalvos from Zakynthos.

The term “Eptanissian School” was coined by the esteemed Greek poet Kostis Palamas, who introduced literary consciousness and the debate between Dimotiki and Katharevousa, representing two forms of the modern Greek language.

A distinctive feature of the Ionian School was the use of Dimotiki in poetry.

The significant contributions of Corfiot intellectuals to the establishment of the modern Greek state are widely recognized. The island has been a breeding ground for globally acclaimed individuals across various fields.

Corfu continues to be a cultural and economic powerhouse in Greece, particularly evident in its substantial tourist growth. However, the island may not have received the full recognition it deserves for its contributions.

Among the noteworthy personalities born or residing in Corfu, without even considering the younger generations, are:

Ioannis Kapodistrias , a member of a noble family, served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia for several years and played a role in European political affairs, including the constitutional reform of Switzerland. He later became the first governor of modern Greece.

Nikolaos Mantzaros, a noble, musician, and composer, is known for creating the Greek national anthem and was a prominent figure in the Ionian School of Music.

Dionysios Solomos , the national poet, was born in Zakynthos (Zante) and spent the last 30 years of his life in Corfu.

Spyros Samaras, another musician, composed the Olympic anthem.

Antonio Vivaldi, the famous Italian composer, lived much of his life on the island.

Poets Gerasimos Markoras, Lorenzos Mavilis, Andreas Kalvos, and Iakovos Polylas, poets, were also part of the Ionian School of Literature.

Corfiot George Theotokis, a former Greek prime minister, and his relative Nikolaos Theotokis, the archbishop of Russia, were notable figures.

Ecumenical Patriarch Athenagoras and St. Filomena were born in Corfu.

Actor Nikos Kourkoulos, as well as Albert Cohen and singers Vicky Leandros and Nana Mouskouri, hail from Corfu.

Many others, including Giacomo Casanova, who spent much of his life in Corfu, have contributed to the island’s rich history and culture. Casanova was forced to leave after a scandal with his affair with the young wife of the Venetian proveditore.

Corfu is like a mini-continent in terms of its environment. It offers a diverse landscape, featuring lush forests, green mountains, and even deserted sandy beaches that might remind you of the Sahara. Each of these areas hosts unique ecosystems teeming with diverse plant and animal life.

The captivating scenery of Corfu has served as inspiration for numerous writers, artists, and cultural figures from across the globe.

Photos by Pascal Debrunner , HP Koch , Erik Karits , and Ijon Tichy on Unsplash

Corfu is home to hundreds of rare bird species, wildlife, insects, and diverse plants and trees, not only native to the Mediterranean but from even farther regions. The extensive exploration and documentation of these species were carried out by Gerald Durrell during his stay in Corfu from 1936 to 1940 with all his family.

The predominant tree is the olive, closely followed by citrus fruit trees. The cypress spires stand as a reminder of Corfu’s Italian influence.

Corfu experiences the highest rainfall and boasts the richest soil in Greece. It has the potential to be self-sufficient in various areas of production. However, due to the growth of tourism and other factors, the local population has shifted towards alternative means of livelihood.

Surely it is! Corfu, the queen of the Ionian Islands , is situated where the north Ionian meets the Adriatic Sea.

Known as one of Greece’s most tourist-friendly spots, Corfu boasts large and beautiful beaches, a diverse and stunning landscape, a rich multicultural history, mild weather, and the unique Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO heritage site.

In addition to the countless attractions, the island’s exceptional cuisine ensures that all your needs are met during your stay.

Corfu is a must-visit island, but exploring and truly understanding it requires more than just two or three weeks.

It’s like a magnificent piece of art that reveals more the longer you look at it.

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Effective Greece Travel

Travel to Greece with the best possible information

Ultimate Travel Guide to the Island of Corfu

Your Guide To Greece

February 17, 2020

The Corfu island is often termed as the best island in the entire Greece for a reason. While it offers a lot in terms of attractions and tourist destinations, a lot of it is still in a purely natural state, which makes it all the more beautiful.

It’s also known as Kerkyra, and located in the Ionian Sea along with the other Ionian islands. We can’t wait to tell you everything there is to know about this nature’s paradise, so let us jump right in.

A Detailed Introduction

The beauty of this island is hard to find anywhere else. From the changing colors of the seas to the dense inland evergreens, everything is so unique about the Corfu. The buildings look like they are changing colors too and look even more beautiful as the sunset approaches.

The beauty of this island is spread across all its parts, so you will always find something that will amaze you no matter where you go. There are also resorts in every part of the island.

However, things become a little different as you go up north, as that part of the island presents you with hills and crags, and a lot of tiny bays that add their own charm to the surroundings. The stretch between Nissaki and Kassiopi is not only pretty long but also very popular, thanks to the discrete, luxurious villas they feature that are owned by wealthy Russians and Brits.

The sandy beaches make for a perfect spot for families on a holiday to the island, well complemented by cheap but cheerful resorts that are available in plenty across the entire coast from the Corfu town.

There’s a lot to see in the island, but its key strategic position that’s conveniently located to the Adriatic Sea stands out with its rich and colorful history. You can find the signs of struggle everywhere of the Ottoman–Venetian wars the island witnessed centuries ago, that are still well alive today in Byzantine fortresses there.

We can go on and on with just the introduction, and we know we have to stop somewhere, so let us move on to the other things you need to know when visiting Corfu.

The Corfu Town is home to the streets that have become a UNESCO World Heritage, while also being one of the most unique parts of Greece. This town was once known as Kastropolis, which means the city of castles. And this is precisely what this historic city still is, reminding you more of the fortified towns on the Italian and Croatian coasts than anything about the islands of Greece.

The vibe of the town is not very Greece-ish either. In fact, it makes tourists feel like they are in a small cosmopolitan city, than being in the ancient part of a culturally-rich Greece. Some of the popular places here include the Venetian Old Fortress, the Palace of Saint George and Saint Michael, as well as the Spiniada and the French-inspired Liston right next to it.

Staying in the Island

If you think your search doesn’t have to go beyond the Corfu Town when it comes to a place to stay in, you will end up disappointed. It’s not easy to find a good, affordable place to stay in the town, and the big resorts on the outskirts of the town are usually outrageously expensive. The fact that the town is an easy day trip from most resorts in the island makes it a very popular destination for tourists – and coupled with the limited resort options – the prices and availability are often a concern.

However, if you still do have to choose something in the town, Siora Vittoria and Bella Venezia make for some of the better options. But to your surprise, you also have a pretty decent option in Airbnb if these don’t work out for you.

If you’re a fan of beach hotels, some of your options include MarBella, Mayor La Grotta Verde Grande (Agios Gordios), Corfu Imperial Grecotel (Kontokali), and Ikos Dassia.

As you head north of the island though, the scenes will change as the tiny upmarket villages approach, and you will see sights of speedboats as well as the luxurious villas up the hills.

As far as the west is concerned, the Paleokastritsa doesn’t fail to live up to its hype. Some of the popular attractions there include the exceptional coastal beauty, small and uniquely designed resorts, and the Sun Rock in Pelekas that you will find on the way as you climb up the coast. The Lovely Liapades that’s located nearby is not a bad option either for spending some quality time, especially if you’re visiting with your family.

The west is also home to some attractive resort towns of Agios Gordios, Kassiopi and the Paleokastritsa too; they are few of the places that have managed to retain their natural beauty over time and didn’t gave up to the country’s developmental endeavors.

The more affordable yet family-friendly options there include Sidari, Acharavi, Ipsos and Barbati. The latter two are your best bet if you’re looking to stay close to the Corfu Town.

A Look at the Best Beaches of Corfu

If you’re a beach lover, Corfu is where you would want to be than any other place in Greece. There seem to be almost an endless variety of beaches on the island, ranging from the white sandy ones to the ones featuring some of the most bizarre rock formations as well as idyllic coves.

But to get a little specific, here are few of the most popular choices.

Paleokastritsa

As we mentioned above, the Paleokastritsa is one of the most attractive resort towns of Corfu. However, it also has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with the Agios Spyridon turning out to be the sandiest and the rocky La Grotta being your most unique option.

Liapades and Rovinia

These two pebbly beaches are not far from Paleokastritsa, but visiting them is an amazing experience. There are many more beaches and bays on the area of Paleokastritsa’s coast, but they are kind of hidden and not easy to get to.

Agios Gordios

While the sandiest beach in the island, there’s a lot more than sand here. With a long 2km area that features amazing blue waters and lots and lots of soft sand, the unusually attractive cliffs and breathtaking sunsets make for a complete beach experience.

There’s no shortage of water sports either. However, it can sometimes get too crowded in the peak season, but you do have decent alternatives in Pelekas and Glyfada in that case.

Paradise Beach

The other name for this beach is Chomi. The only way to visit this beach at the south of Liapades is via water taxis, but if you have some time on your hands you would probably thank yourself for getting there.

You would also have the option of visiting the small pebble beach at the Paradise Beach by climbing down the steep white cliffs. You can also head south if you want to visit another similar beach known as Stelari.

If you would like to experience some “raw”, natural beauty, then Halikounas would be right up your alley. It’s a large beach but unorganized and wildly natural.

This beach is similar to Halikounas, except that reaching it is a bit of an adventure in itself thanks to the steep steps you have to climb when getting there.

Cape Drastis

The Cape Drastis – also known as Drasti – is located at the northmost point of Corfu. It’s mainly nothing but unique white rocks. You can either take a boat ride from Sidari or even just hike there.

There’s also a small beach there that’s a picturesque relaxing point and a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Porto Timoni

Known by many Greeks as Afionas, the Porto Timoni is one of the more unique beach options you have in Corfu. It’s basically a narrow strip of land, but the two beaches surrounding it offer some great views while also being hikeable from the Agios Georgios bay.

This isn’t your typical beach, but it’s a beach resort that features some amazing rock formations of the Canal d’Amour. Tourists love taking pictures and selfies here.

Bataria and Pipitou

If you’re going to visit Kassiopi, these two are going to be your top beach choices.

Things to Do in Corfu

First things first, make a note of the fact that if you’re visiting Corfu on a Monday, you may not be able to visit the religious sites, museums and galleries, as they usually remain shut on Mondays.

With that said, here are some of the most popular things tourists like to do in Corfu Town.

Old Fortress

The Old Fortress is one of the biggest attractions of the town, and it makes you feel like you have entered a completely different, ancient world, while the surrounding waters and the mountains you can see from the fortress offer some of the most breathtaking views you will see on your visit to Greece.

This is another place with a lot of history to it, particularly that it’s the birthplace of Prince Philip. It’s located on the Corfu Town’s outskirts, and you can also quickly visit the ancient site of Paleopolis once you’re there.

What’s more, there’s an archaeological museum that perfectly complements the overall feel and appeal of this place.

Byzantine Museum

Museums are some of the most popular attractions in the Corfu Town, and the Byzantine Museum ranks among the best ones. It features some of the most ancient religious artwork, but is based in a small church in the town.

Serbian Museum

This museum is dedicated to the 150,000 Serbian troops and refugees that lost their lives during the First World War. There’s also a tiny island called Vido right opposite the Corfu Town, which used to be a hospital and a cemetery in those times.

It’s now a remote island featuring a mausoleum and a taverna and can be reached via a local ferry.

Corfu Museum of Asian Art

It’s one of the most popular and ancient British buildings you will find in the Corfu Town, located in the Palace of Saint George and Saint Michael.

Museum of Banknotes

If you’re into currency stuff, you will love visiting this museum with a lot of interesting things to know and learn about the Greek currency and its history. It’s located near to Liston.

The tiny monastery of Vlacherna and the small island of Pontikonisi complementing it would pave the way for another super unique experience you will have while in the country. It’s surrounded by beautiful blue waters and you will love spending some time there.

Couples visiting it fancy walking all the way from the Corfu Town to this monastery, which actually only takes about 45 minutes or so. It’s also very close to the Corfu Airport and you can literally see the planes going up and landing down as the sun sets.

Corfu Walking Tours

If you’re looking for a more unique experience, these themed walking tours would give you exactly that, while allowing you to explore the Corfu Town on foot.

If you’re visiting with your family and kids, the Aqualand waterpark right in the middle of the town would be a fascinating experience as well.

Things to Do Outside the Corfu Town

While there’s a lot to do in the Corfu Town like we saw above, there’s a fair few things you can do outside the town as well. Let’s go through them below.

Angelokastro

The Corfu island has no shortage of breathtaking views, and the hilltop Byzantine castle near Paleokastritsa offers some of the best ones.

Monastery of Paleokastritsa

If you’re visiting Angelokastro, there’s no reason to not visit the Monastery of Paleokastritsa. You get to see some amazing views of the village from the top as well as the remains of a large whale.

However, if you’re visiting it in the summer it can get unusually busy especially as there are a lot of tour buses visiting it too.

Kassiopi Castle

This small rocky castle offers some amazing views of the beautiful village it overseas, as well as the abundance of greenery on the other side.

Speedboat Ride

The thrill of exploring the north east coast of the island on a speedboat is hard to beat. You will find jetties at many beaches and even tavernas located in the area.

Scuba Diving

We just talked about the thrill of speedboat rides being hard to beat, but we will probably have to take our words back if you’re into scuba diving. It’s because if you are, then you will have an exciting experience at one of the many dive centers located at the north of the Corfu island.

The Colovri and the Hole of Ha are the most popular options among experience scuba divers.

It’s hard to beat the scenery you get to see from a boat, making boat trips one of the best ways to experience what the island has to offer. While the mainland honeypot Parga isn’t too far at all, the Ionian islands of Paxi and Antipaxi are pretty near as well.

A day trip to Albania would allow you to get the best of the gorgeous beaches of Ksamil as well, and if you’re willing to spend a bit more, you would also be able to visit Butrint as part of your itinerary, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Road Less Traveled of the Corfu Island

While we covered all the popular attractions above of both the Corfu Town and outside the town of the Corfu island, there’s quite a bit to Corfu that it doesn’t divulge easily.

But if you’re willing to take the road less traveled and experience pure nature less any kind of crowds, there are beautiful Corfiot villages with a lot of life, and quiet, offbeat cultural attractions waiting for you. Read on as we let you in on some secrets about this beautiful island.

The Corfu Trail Hike

Hiking the Corfu Trail is far from easy, especially given that it stretches over almost the entire length of the island itself, which is about 220km. The waymarking isn’t always easy to spot, and the accommodation options are sparse and far between.

That said, it allows you to explore the depth of the island, and get to areas usually not within the reach of most tourists. However, if that’s too much for you, the sections near Koulouri and Paleokastritsa allow for a much shorter hike too.

Corfu’s Secret Islands

While Paxi and Antipaxi are two of the more popular islands you can visit from Corfu, there are some other less popular islands that offer a lot of quiet and unexploited beauty. This is why we call them “secret” islands.

The Diapondia islands definitely stand out from the popular, crowded islands of Greece, and include the Othoni, Erikoussa and Mathraki islands. In fact, if you’re in an adventurous mood, you can also consider visiting some of the many uninhabited islets.

While these islands aren’t very easy to reach all round the year, in summer there are some boats that can take you to these islands from the Corfu Town and even some other popular places like Agios Stefanos and Sidari.

Korission Lagoon

If you love pure nature, you’re going to love the Korission Lagoon. Sailing, horse riding, and birdwatching are some of the things you can do here.

Traditional Villages

If you want to get a feel of the traditional villages and life of Greeks, a visit to the southern inland town of Lefkimmi is a no-brainer for you. The villages located on the hills above the beach – including Lakones, Vatos, Argyrades, Chlomas and Peleas – are going to offer some beautiful sights to those that love to experience traditions and history. The Afionas village has a special charm of its own too.

Venetian Shipyard

Again, if history and ancient sites interest you, visiting the 18 th century remains of this shipyard is going to be a mesmerizing experience for you. It’s not too far from the village of Gouvia.

Corfu Donkey Sanctuary

This donkey sanctuary is open throughout the year, and adopts and cares for old, injured and abandoned donkeys that need treatment or a place to live with dignity. The surroundings are beautiful, and spending some time with these donkeys that found a new life is refreshing.

You can also make a donation here .

Traveling To and Around

The Corfu Town is well connected with a fair few transportation options. Let us walk you through them below.

The Corfu International Airport – as the name suggests – is connected to both domestic and international airports. It’s just 3km from the Corfu Town.

The views that you get when you’re about to land here are hard to describe in words. It’s recommended to book a window seat if you can. However, the airport and the area around it doesn’t have much to offer except overpriced cafes, so you would want to get away from there quick.

For traveling to and around the Corfu Town, you can take a Line 15 bus. It takes you from the airport to both the bus terminal in the city as well as the main stop at San Rocco Square. Once you’re there, you can catch any of the many city buses to move around in the Corfu Town.

As far as visiting the destinations around the island is concerned, Green Buses are your best bet.

Hiring a car allows you to explore the island better, but you need to note the fact that the roads can be steep with some potholes. There are also many large tour buses coming from the opposite side, so the driving can be a bit difficult.

There’s a large ferry ship port in Corfu that connects you to both domestic and international destinations. You can take a ferry to Bari, Brindisi in Italy, as well as reach Sarande in Albania. Sometimes you also have ferries going from Corfu to Ancona and Venice in Italy, and even Durres in Albania.

Coming to the domestic connections, the most popular destinations include the Patras and Igoumenitsa on the Greek mainland. The unique islands of Paxos and Antipaxos are easily reachable as well.

Igoumenitsa is a popular destination and you will also have boats taking you there from Lefkimmi as well. If you want to visit the Diapondia islands, the ferries departing from the Agios Stefanos (NW) are the most popular option.

When it comes to the Ionian islands except the Paxos and Antipaxos, the ferry connections are too infrequent or even nonexistent, and only leave you with the option of visiting them via the mainland.

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Greek Ferry Travel

Island Hopping In Greece Made Easy

Corfu Travel Guide

Prepare for your holiday in Corfu with our Corfu Travel Guide. Whether you are going to Corfu by ferry or flight, here’s everything about Corfu you need to know.

Visit Corfu Island

Yiasas, travelers! Welcome to your indispensable guide to Corfu, an island so rich in history and beauty that it’ll take your breath away. Nestling in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a verdant oasis wrapped in the bluest of waters, where Venetian architecture meets Greek hospitality.

Whether you’re a history buff, a beach connoisseur, or simply longing for a slice of Mediterranean tranquility, Corfu is the place to be. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your first (and surely not your last) trip to Corfu as enchanting as a Greek mythology tale.

Getting to Corfu

As one of the Ionian islands of Greece , a medley of ferries darting to and from the Greek mainland and Italy. The main ferry route to Corfu is from Igoumenitsa to the main ferry port in Corfu Town .

Don’t miss the romance of approaching Corfu from the deck of a ferry – it’s a sight for the gods!

Check the latest ferry timetables and book tickets online at: Ferryscanner

Corfu International Airport (Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport) welcomes flights from across Europe. During the summer months there are countless connections with UK cities as well as cities all over Europe.

Upon leaving the ferry port or airport, taxis and buses stand ready to whisk you to your accommodation. If you’re a planner, schedule a pick-up in advance for a smooth start to your Greek adventure.

Arriving in Corfu Greece

Stepping onto Corfu soil, you’ll be greeted by a warm sea breeze and an even warmer welcome. Greek is the local language, but in this tourist haven, English is widely spoken. A smile and a ‘kalimera’ (good morning) will go a long way, though!

Euros are the currency in Corfu , and credit cards sail through most transactions. Make sure to carry some cash for those quaint tavernas off the beaten track.

Where to Stay in Corfu

Like all Greek islands, there are accommodation options to suit all styles and budgets. From five-star seafront hotels to charming Airbnb apartments tucked in old palazzos, Corfu’s got it all.

Corfu Old Town, the island’s heartbeat, is the perfect location for island hoppers, culture vultures and night owls. Prefer to be rocked to sleep by the waves? Then resorts like Dassia and Agios Gordios await.

Getting Around Corfu

Corfu may not be the largest Greek island, but its landscapes are epically diverse. Public local buses serve popular routes, but to really embrace freedom, rent a car or a scooter. Just remember – island driving is an art!

Corfu old Town is a maze of history and culture. Two imposing fortresses guard the picturesque old town streets, while the Liston promenade invites for elegant strolls. Don’t miss the Saint Spyridon Church or a twirl around the Archaeological Museum for a touch of the past.

Your walk will uncover hidden gems of eateries, too. From bustling cafes town streets to secluded gardens, culinary delights are matched by enchanting settings.

Eating and Drinking in Corfu

Ah, the food! Greek cuisine is a love letter to the senses. Sample Corfu’s unique ‘sofrito’ or the delectable ‘pastitsada’. Hit the local taverna to taste the ‘real deal’ – just be ready for a feast, as Corfu’s hospitality here shines in generous portions.

As with other islands and coastal town in Greece, Corfu has more than its fair share of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and a rich wine tradition. Try a wine tasting tour if you can! Koum Kouat, the local spirit, is a must-try. And of course, no classic Greek adventure is complete with a Greek salad or two.

Exploring Beyond Corfu Town

Once you’ve soaked in the history and charm of Corfu Town (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site), it’s time to wander where the Wi-Fi is weak.

Rent a boat, join a tour, or take a drive over to Paleokastritsa, where mythic crystal waters meet emerald coves. Don’t skip a visit to the imposing Angelokastro castle, an old fortress standing tall with stories of Byzantine grandeur.

Then, find your way to the Achilleion palace, where the tragic Empress Sisi sought solace amidst the statues of ancient gods.

A must-do is a pilgrimage to the romantic Canal D’Amour in Sidari, where legend whispers that couples who swim its channel will marry soon after. Whether you believe the myth or not, the sculpted sandstone formations will leave you spellbound.

Best Beaches In Corfu

Corfu is packed full of picturesque sandy beaches where you can soak up the sun:

• Paleokastritsa Beach : Known for its crystal clear water and is considered one of the best beaches in Corfu. It’s surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs. There are six bays to choose from, and it’s also a great spot for snorkeling.
• Glyfada Beach : This is one of the most popular beaches on the island, with soft sand and blue waters. It’s well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, and there are water sports available.
• Myrtiotissa Beach : Described as the most beautiful beach by Lawrence Durrell, Myrtiotissa is nudist-friendly and less organized than other beaches. It offers a mix of sand and pebbles and is surrounded by steep cliffs and forest.
• Agios Gordios Beach : This beach is known for its impressive rock formation, the Ortholithi. It has a mix of sand and pebbles and offers stunning sunset views.
• Sidari Beach : Famous for the Canal d’Amour, Sidari Beach has unique sandstone formations. The beach is family-friendly with shallow waters.
• Issos Beach : With golden sand dunes, clear waters, and a view of the Lake Korission, Issos Beach is perfect for those looking for a less crowded spot. It’s also a good place for windsurfing.
• Barbati Beach : Offering a pebbly shore and clear waters, Barbati Beach is at the foot of the highest mountain in Corfu, Pantokrator. It’s well-organized with plenty of facilities.
• Agios Georgios Beach : This is a long sandy beach with calm waters, making it ideal for families. There are plenty of tavernas and cafes nearby.
• Kontogialos Beach : A less crowded beach with golden sand and green surroundings. It’s a good spot for relaxation.
• Dassia Beach : This beach is easily accessible and offers a variety of water sports. It has clear waters and is lined with olive groves.
• Kerasia Beach : A quiet and secluded spot perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. It has clear water and is surrounded by cypress and olive trees.
• Roda Beach : A family-friendly beach with lots of amenities, including restaurants and water sports.
• Agios Stefanos Beach : A long sandy beach with clear waters, located in a beautiful bay.
• Ermones Beach : A small and secluded beach surrounded by green hills and cliffs.
• Agios Ioannis Beach : Known for its kite and windsurfing conditions due to the favorable winds.

Tips and Tricks for an Effortless Corfu Holiday

When’s the best time to go island hopping to Corfu? Late spring and early autumn are the shoulder seasons, and great for avoiding big crowds and harsh weather. Since the Mediterranean sun can be quite relentless, don’t forget to pack some sunblock and hats. The peak summer season months of July and Augusut can make the island feel quite crowded.

Safety is generally not a pressing concern, but travel insurance is always a wise bet. The island is a trove of robust Health Centers, and in case of any ‘Opa!’ moments, care is at hand.

Wrapping up Your Corfu Getaway

As your Corfu tale comes to a close, take with you not just souvenirs and photographs, but a piece of the island’s soul. Dance with the locals at a village festa, learn a few Greek phrases, and relish the slow pace of island time.

Corfu’s magic is in its unhurried rhythm and spirited spontaneity. Revel in it, and like many before you, you’ll be planning your next trip before the first has even ended.

Additional Resources and Next Steps

Still thirsty for more Corfiot knowledge? Dive into local blogs, tourist attractions and information websites, and don’t shy away from connecting with fellow travelers online.

Before you set sail for this island paradise, prepare. Book your tours, pin your must-visit sites, and get ready for a journey to the westernmost edge of Greece — to Corfu, an island where legends are just another part of the landscape.

And there you have it, an in-depth travel article fit for any first-timer keen to discover the gem that is Corfu. From the winding streets of its historic town to the idyllic shores of its many beaches, Corfu promises an affair to remember. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and leave a little room in your heart — because Corfu will surely fill it. Safe travels, or as we say in Greek, ‘kalo taxidi’!

Day Trips from Corfu

For those looking to explore beyond the charming confines of Corfu, there are several day trips that promise exciting adventures.

• Paxos and Antipaxos Islands: A boat trip to the breathtakingly beautiful islands of Paxos and Antipaxos is highly recommended. These islands are renowned for their sparkling turquoise waters and secluded beaches, providing a perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity.
• Albania: For the more adventurous, a day trip to Albania can provide an exciting cultural contrast. Visit the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a rich tapestry of archaeological history and stunningly well-preserved ruins.
• Metéora: This is a longer trip, but well worth the effort. Metéora, with its monasteries perched stunningly atop sandstone pillars, offers a surreal landscape and a journey back in time to a place where spirituality meets natural beauty.
• Mainland Greece: Take a ferry to the mainland and explore the historic city of Igoumenitsa , or venture further to visit the mystical Oracle of Delphi or the dramatic vistas of Vikos Gorge.

Remember, each of these trips comes with its own unique requirements and considerations, so be sure to plan accordingly. These day trips will undoubtedly enrich your Corfu adventure, introducing you to a wider slice of what this beautiful region has to offer.