Top Things to Do in Corfu

Exploring the Old Town

Corfu Town is a captivating architectural mosaic that feels distinct from the rest of Greece. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town is defined by its strong Venetian influence, characterized by narrow, winding alleys known as kantounia and tall, ochre-colored buildings with green shutters. The Liston, an elegant arcade inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, serves as the social heart of the city. It is the perfect place to sit at a café, enjoy a coffee, and observe the rhythmic flow of local life beneath the vaulted arches.

Dominating the skyline are the two massive Venetian fortresses. The Old Fortress, separated from the town by a man-made moat, offers panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the terracotta rooftops of the city. A short walk away, the New Fortress provides a different perspective of the harbor and the intricate maze of the town's defensive walls. These structures are essential stops for understanding the island’s turbulent history as a strategic maritime outpost.

The Beauty of Paleokastritsa

For many travelers, the name Paleokastritsa is synonymous with the quintessential Corfu landscape. Located on the west coast, this area is famous for its series of turquoise bays framed by dramatic, pine-covered cliffs. The water here is notably cool and exceptionally clear, making it a favorite for swimming and boat excursions. A visit to the 13th-century Monastery of Paleokastritsa, perched on a headland overlooking the sea, provides a peaceful retreat and stunning vantage points. The monastery gardens are beautifully maintained, offering a quiet space to reflect while taking in the coastal scenery.

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Imperial History at the Achilleion

A short distance from the capital lies the Achilleion Palace, a neoclassical mansion commissioned by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sisi. The palace was built as a tribute to Greek mythology and the hero Achilles. The gardens are particularly impressive, featuring grand terraces, manicured paths, and several statues, including the famous Dying Achilles. The interior of the palace reflects the Empress's fascination with classical beauty and offers a glimpse into the aristocratic life of the late 19th century.

The North-East Coast

The coastline stretching north from the capital toward Kassiopi is defined by small, pebbled coves and olive groves that reach down to the water’s edge. Villages like Agios Stefanos offer a more relaxed atmosphere, where fishing boats bob in the harbor and seaside tavernas serve fresh catches. This part of the island is ideal for those who prefer quiet swimming spots and scenic coastal walks. Kassiopi itself, a former fishing village, has evolved into a vibrant hub with a lively harbor and the ruins of a Byzantine castle overlooking the sea.

Culinary Traditions

Corfiot cuisine is a reflection of the island's diverse history, blending Greek ingredients with Italian techniques. A standout dish is pastitsada, a hearty meal consisting of rooster or beef cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce, typically served over thick pasta. Another local staple is sofrito, thinly sliced veal cooked in a white wine, garlic, and parsley sauce. For dessert or a digestif, look for anything featuring kumquat. This small, bitter-sweet citrus fruit is a symbol of the island and is transformed into everything from spoon sweets to the famous bright orange kumquat liqueur.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Getting Around: Corfu is well-connected by a network of buses. Blue buses serve the town and immediate suburbs, while the green KTEL buses connect the capital to outlying villages and beaches. Check locally for current routes and schedules.
• Arrival: The island is easily accessible via Corfu Airport, which is located just a few minutes from the main town. If arriving by sea, ferries from Igoumenitsa on the mainland take approximately 90 minutes.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak months of July and August.
• Exploring: Renting a vehicle provides the most flexibility for reaching remote beaches and mountain villages, though parking in the Old Town can be challenging.
• Local Etiquette: When visiting churches or the monastery, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect.