Corfu: The queen of the Ionian

Venetian charm, imposing fortresses and palaces, alleyways with laundry strung overhead, distinctive cuisine, azure waters and landscapes of unparalleled beauty – A guide to discovering the best Corfu has to offer

Arriving in Corfu you’re flooded with a sweet sensation. It’s not just the beauty of the Old Town with its splendid buildings, but also the aura of the island that sweeps you away and makes you think you’d love to stay here forever. It’s no coincidence that Corfu has devoted admirers from every corner of the world.

The island of the Phaeacians, at the crossroads of Western and Eastern cultures, has always stirred the senses. Venetians, French and British dominated the island, leaving their own legacy in architecture, sights and gastronomy. With lively life all year round, lush nature, traditional villages, gorgeous beaches, good food and one of the most beautiful old towns in Greece, Corfu is a paradise for summer and beyond. It’s an island that knows how to make anyone have a great time: those seeking a cosmopolitan atmosphere, those who want to live the adventure, and those who wish to enjoy peaceful family holidays.

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Exploring the Old Town

travelgo.gr — Corfu Old Town (source: Shutterstock)

To understand Corfu and the Corfiots better you must walk its Old Town. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the atmospheric Corfu Old Town is the place where nostalgic ambience meets the island’s energy. A stroll reveals buildings of rare beauty and architectural value, with Venetian, British and French influences, picturesque squares, churches with elaborate bell towers and several fascinating museums.

Wander around the Spianada, the largest square in the Balkans, enjoy your coffee or a tsitsibira at the famous Liston that strongly recalls Paris’s Rue de Rivoli, visit the- only one in Greece- Museum of Asian Art in the Palace of Saints Michael and George, pause at the Church of Saint Spyridon with its towering bell tower and unwind with coffee and drinks by the sea in the Faliraki area.

The Campiello, the oldest and most captivating quarter of the Old Town, sets the perfect scene for romantic strolls through narrow kantounia with laundry strung from windows and little squares with Venetian wells. Finally, a walk across the two well-preserved fortresses, the Old and the New, will reward you with a lovely panoramic view of the city.

Dont miss

Mon Repos: Take a stroll in Mon Repos, the 258-acre estate located 3 km from Corfu Town. The palace within the estate was built in 1831 by the British Lord High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands Frederic Adam and, after the union of the Ionian Islands with Greece, was granted to King George I. The Mon Repos palace houses the Museum of Paleopolis, while its beautiful garden hosts more than 2,000 species of plants, flowers and centuries-old trees.

Pontikonisi: In the Kanoni area, a few kilometers from Corfu Town, the Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna, which "floats" on the sea, joined to the shore by a narrow path, together with Pontikonisi dominating in the background, form one of the most famous and most-photographed sights of Corfu. From the monastery, excursion boats will take you across to Pontikonisi, where you’ll find the Byzantine church of the Pantokrator.

Achilleion: Just outside Corfu Town, in the village of Gastouri, stands the Achilleion, the famed palace of Empress Elisabeth of Austria (known as Sisi) that today operates as a museum. It has glorious gardens with statues inspired by ancient Greek mythology and breathtaking views. The most famous statue is the Dying Achilles.

Beaches: From the dramatic shores with ever-cool waters on the northwest side to the lush pebble coves of the northeast and the vast dune-lined beaches in the south, Corfu’s beaches are endless and cater to all tastes. Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, Myrtiotissa (also suitable for nudism), Ermones, Dassia, Issos, Halikounas, Agios Georgios Pagon, Agios Gordios, Sidari- Canal d’ Amour, Drastis, Porto Timoni, Barbati, Kalami and Kerasia are some of the best and most popular options for swims.

Routes in Northern Corfu

Starting with a visit to Paleokastritsa the best thing you can do is surely a dip in the turquoise and refreshingly cool waters of its coves. Then a visit is a must to the Monastery of Paleokastritsa perched on the hill (among the most popular sights outside town) with its wonderful sea view, as well as a visit to the picturesque village of Lakones, above Paleokastritsa. Near Lakones, you can also see the famous Angelokastro, the ruined Byzantine fortress on the sheer summit of a hill.

Agios Georgios Pagon is a large beach in the northwest, on the bay of the same name, with crystal-clear cool waters. The afternoon maistros makes it particularly beloved among windsurfing enthusiasts. Continuing to Arillas you’ll encounter one of the calmest beaches of the northwest coast, with sand but also sections with pebbles. It is preferred by families and watersports lovers. In Agios Stefanos Avlioton you’ll enjoy your swim on an organized sandy beach, while if you’re in the mood for another excursion you can visit the Diapontia Islands (Othonoi, Ereikousa and Mathraki) by boats departing from its little harbor. For the most magical sunset in the area, it’s worth a visit to Loggas, in the traditional village of Peroulades, a beach different from the others, sheltered by tall and steep limestone cliffs.

In Sidari you’ll find the famous Canal d`Amour, a tunnel, a passage through the rock, for which it is said that if you enter, your ideal match will be waiting for you at the other end. Among the most popular destinations in northern Corfu are Roda and Acharavi with long continuous sandy beaches, shallow sea and plenty of tavernas and beach bars.

Next stop Kassiopi, the largest village of northeastern Corfu. Formerly a traditional fishing village, now with intense tourist activity but also with a rich history and significant archaeological monuments. On a hill above the settlement’s harbor stand the ruins of one of the strongest castles of the Corfiot countryside. It’s also worth visiting Kouloura, a small harbor with fishing boats and yachts, hidden among tall cypresses and pines, that gives a sense of exclusivity.

On the island’s northeastern coast lie some of Corfu’s most beautiful and popular beaches. Kerasia with the white pebbles, Kalami (where the villa of the renowned British author Lawrence Durrell is built), organized Nisaki with large pebbles and deep waters and the locals’ favorite beach, Barbati with sunbeds, umbrellas and plenty of restaurants and beach bars.

The best excursion into the mountains of northern Corfu is a walk in Old Perithia, a Venetian ghost village dating from the 13th century, built on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator at an altitude of 400 m. The ruined mansions framed by nature and narrow cobbled kalderimia create a special atmosphere. After your stroll around the village, try pastitsada and other traditional dishes at the little tavernas.

The South of contrasts

Leaving Corfu Town and following the eastern coastal road that leads south, you’ll reach Benitses - formerly a fishing village and now a busy resort. On the way there you’ll see the half-ruined Kaiser’s Bridge, which connected the beach with the Achilleion for Kaiser Wilhelm II’s easy access to the sea. Along the village there is more than one beach with sand and pebbles.

If you like strolls in traditional villages, visit Chlomos and Agios Matthaios. History buffs can see Gardiki Castle, a ruined Byzantine fortress that is the only surviving fortification in the southern part of the island.

The best nature outing in the south is the Korission Lagoon. With an area exceeding 6,000 stremmata, this important wetland (Natura area) hosts more than 120 different species of birds, while impressive cormorants and flamingos are regular visitors. Here too lies the exotic - and a favorite of kite surfers - beach of Halikounas, with sand dunes that begin at the lake. For your swims in the southern part of Corfu also note hermits’ favorite Mega Choros and the vast beach of Marathias near the village of the same name.

Lefkimmi, the largest town of southern Corfu, is built in a fertile area famed for its vineyards and wine. The traditional settlement of Riglades, the small and well-kept Monastery of Kyra or Kokkinada and the settlement of Potami with the small canal are among the most important sights.

Kavos is the area from which tourism began across Lefkimmi, a famous destination for young tourists from all over the world, with partying in the countless bars starting early in the day. Kavos has a large, organized beach with shallow waters. From here little boats depart to take you to Paxos, Antipaxos and Sivota.

If you find yourself in the area and like walks in nature, it’s worth driving to the hill of Arkoudilas. A dense forest of cypresses, pines, mastic and strawberry trees that ends in a steep cliff above the sea is the reward the island’s southernmost tip offers explorers. Here stands the Monastery of Panagia from 1700, while directly below lies a secluded beach with crystalline waters.

Easter in Corfu

The melodies of the philharmonic bands, the smashing of the botides, the finesse and the atmosphere of the Old Town make Easter in Corfu a unique experience you should live at least once in your life. On Holy Thursday evening, it’s worth standing on the streets of the Old Town, on Nikiforou Theotoki and Philharmonikis streets, to hear the dress rehearsal of the philharmonics. On Good Friday, from early afternoon the procession of the Epitaphios begins through the picturesque lanes. Grab a spot early to watch the imposing Epitaphios of the Metropolis that starts around 22.00 (the best points are from the Mouragia to the Liston). The streets are lit in purple, while the Old Philharmonic (Red) plays Albinoni’s Adagio, Mantzaros (Blue) Marcia Funebre by Verdi and Kapodistrias Elegia Funebre, Mariani’s Sventura and Chopin’s funeral march.

The mourning of the Epitaphios gives way to the joy of the first Resurrection held at 11.00 with the spectacular and thunderous custom of the "botides". Around the Liston you’ll see dozens of clay pitchers of every size thrown from decorated balconies and shattering with a crash on the ground. It is the most famous image of Corfiot Easter. On Resurrection night, after the Resurrection service that takes place in the Upper Square park, the sky lights up with spectacular fireworks. On Easter Sunday from 7 in the morning each church carries out a procession of the icon of the Resurrection through the city’s main streets, with philharmonics, schools, scouts and choirs.

CORFU GUIDE

ACCOMMODATION

On vacedo.com you’ll find the ideal residence for your holidays if you’re looking for something more than a simple hotel room. With a wealth of options, small houses, central lofts, apartments, and villas by the sea or in the mountains, every traveler can find the ideal accommodation according to personal needs and available budget.

CORFU TOWN

The Carpe Diem Luxury Apartments is a complex of three luxurious apartments in the heart of the Old Town, very close to all the most important sights.
The Melinas Urban Retreat is a fully renovated 80 sq.m. detached house with an especially warm atmosphere, located in Garitsa, one of Corfu’s most traditional neighborhoods.
Built in one of the most beautiful areas of Corfu, on the lush hill in Kanoni, just 3 km from the city center, the 4-star Divani Corfu Palace offers amenities and services that will satisfy even the most demanding.

In Kanoni, we also recommend the comfortable Anna Apartments.

Alepou

Just 5 minutes by car from Corfu’s Old Town, Rarakos Houses Corfu offers luxurious accommodation in fully equipped houses and apartments.
A good option in the area is also Corfu Villa Potamaki, built amid the greenery of nature, in a quiet area just outside Corfu Town.

CENTRAL CORFU

Agios Ioannis

Villa Theodora is located in the village of Agios Ioannis, just 15 minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from the golden beaches of the island’s west coast.

Gouvia

Just a few steps from the beach and the marina of Gouvia, a stay at the Gouvia Hotel will give you the chance to combine moments of relaxation with the area’s vibrant nightlife.
The Villa Johhnie, a newly built 170 sq.m. villa in a verdant area in Poulades, is an excellent choice for accommodation near Corfu Town.

Danilia

Just 2 km from the beach and the center of Gouvia lies the well-known traditional Corfiot village of Danilia, where you’ll find the rental room complex «Σπίτι Νίκος» for holidays in a quiet traditional environment.

Vatos

The Alexandros House is a large and fully equipped home located in the center of Vatos, a picturesque village in western Corfu at an altitude of 110 m.
Villa Kapella offers renovated accommodations with kitchen in a quiet spot on the edge of Vatos, just 1 km from the Corfu Golf Club and a few meters from the famous Corfu Trail.

Pelekas

The rental rooms Jimmy’s are an ideal and economical solution for staying very close to the beaches of Glyfada and Kontogialos. Below the rooms is Jimmy’s restaurant, one of the oldest places in the area.

Perama

The Eleals Boutique Hotel is a brand-new luxury hotel in the Perama area, 10 km from Corfu Town, next to a wonderful private beach and surrounded by countless olive trees.

Gastouri

The Niki Sunrise Apartments complex is surrounded by the forest of the Achilleion palace and a large green area, full of trees and flowers, with wonderful views towards the Ionian Sea.

NORTHERN CORFU

Lakones

The Golden Fox complex is set in a beautiful location above Paleokastritsa, offering stunning panoramic sea views.

Paleokastritsa

Theholiday home Nausika Cottage Corfu in Paleokastritsa is an ideal accommodation choice to make your acquaintance with Corfu unforgettable.

Agios Georgios Pagon

The San Georgio Boutique Hotel offers an unforgettable accommodation experience in an excellent location in northern Corfu, just a few meters from an emerald beach awarded with a Blue Flag.

Arillas

The Makris Apartments,just 500 m from the beautiful beach of Arillas, have been run by the Makris family since 1983 in a friendly, family environment that keeps guests returning again and again.
Just 15 minutes on foot from Arillas beach, the family-run Tria Adelphia offers spacious studio-apartments and maisonettes, a pool and a restaurant.

Agios Stefanos Avlioton

The apartments and suites of Paralia Luxury Suites are in a unique location for fully relaxing holidays, 30 meters from the wonderful beach of Agios Stefanos Avlioton.

Sidari

In a quiet elevated location in Melitsa, Sidari, the Corfu Melitsa Hotel offers comfortable apartments with kitchenette, fridge and a balcony overlooking the hotel’s lovely pool.

Roda

The Elysian Apartments & Studios is an excellent choice for relaxing holidays in an idyllic setting.
The Georgia Apartments in Roda offers a quiet and tasteful environment to relax and enjoy your holidays.

Acharavi

The SunRose Beach Aparthotel is a welcoming and modern apartment hotel located on the sandy beach of Acharavi.
The Eleni Luxury Villa in the quiet area of Almyros can host large groups of friends and families who wish to enjoy their holidays in a beautiful environment.
The Dimitris Studios, built on Corfu’s north coast in Acharavi, are suitable for relaxation and tranquility.

Kassiopi

Built in a wonderful location in the northeastern corner of Corfu, with panoramic views over the seaside village of Kassiopi, Villa Mylos is an excellent choice for family holidays.
Villa Stafida is a recently renovated home decorated in a minimal style that offers guests complete relaxation in a serene atmosphere.
Built in Venetian style, surrounded by olives and orange trees, Apraos Bay Hotel awaits you for unforgettable holidays in Kassiopi.
A very good choice is also the modern apartments of Artheo Hotel, which have everything you need to enjoy your holidays to the fullest.

Agios Markos

Very close to Pyrgi beach, the village of Ipsos and Barbati beach, Kastraki Epavlis is a beautiful 5-bedroom villa that offers stunning views over the entire island.

Kato Korakiana

Villa Yannis is a small family-run business that offers great comforts in its modern apartments, in a green environment, just a 10-minute walk from Dassia and its beach.

SOUTHERN CORFU

Moraitika

At Kalimera Studios & Apartments Greek hospitality blends with a friendly atmosphere and high-quality services to offer you an ideal holiday setting.

Messonghi

The Courti Estate in Messonghi is one of the most luxurious villas available for rent on the island. It is a luxurious rustic mansion with 9 bedrooms within 10 stremmata of olive groves.

Agios Matthaios

Liostasi is an impressive complex of three stone-built villas on a large lush private plot of 3 stremmata located close to the traditional settlement of Agios Matthaios and the Korission Lagoon (Halikounas).

Lefkimmi

The Sun ‘n Chill complex is on a sandy beach, between Lefkimmi and Kavos, on a quiet estate with olive trees, and consists of brand-new boutique apartments, studios and a wonderful villa.

Kavos

Set in a particularly beautiful landscape, among olive and pine trees, with views of the Ionian Sea, the Mediterranean Blue hotel awaits you to enjoy unique holidays at the southernmost tip of Corfu.
Amelias Garden in Agios Petros, Kavos, a 5-minute walk from the beach, is an ideal choice for carefree holidays.

FOOD

The historic restaurant Rex, behind the Liston, is a constant favorite. It serves authentic Corfiot cuisine as well as more creative dishes.
It’s also worth sampling the creative cuisine of chef Aristotelis Megoulas at Pomo d Oro, in Skaramaga Square.
Unwind with coffee and drinks right by the sea in the Faliraki area, below the palace. Imabari is an excellent place to enjoy a cocktail with views of the Old Fortress.
The atmospheric Venetian Well on the picturesque Kremasti Square is just the thing for a romantic dinner.
For authentic Italian cuisine, book a table at La Famiglia.
For good, traditional fare eat at Kokoria taverna, at Ταβερνάκι της Μαρίνας, at Rouvas and at Chrysomallis - must-orders include pastitsada and sofrito.
For fresh fish and seafood we recommend Roula fish taverna in Kontokali and Dora in the Emporiko area.
The multi-awarded restaurant Etrusco of Ettore Botrini in the Kato Korakiana area is a top gastronomic destination on the island.
Out of town, it’s also worth visiting the taverna Κληματαριά in Benitses for fresh seafood and local cuisine.

SHOPPING

Make a stop at the historic patisserie Παπαγιώργη in the Old Town to try its excellent handmade ice cream - if you’re in Corfu for Easter, be sure to buy fogatses (Venetian-origin tsoureki brioches) and colombines (Easter breads shaped like a dove).
Kumquat, the golden orange that began to be cultivated on the island of the Phaeacians in 1924, is one of the island’s most famous products. You’ll find it in various forms such as liqueur and spoon sweet.
Finally, it’s worth tasting and taking with you nouboulo (the Corfiot prosciutto) and sykomaides (a sweet made from must and dried figs, scented with anise, pepper and ouzo).