If you’re on the lookout for issues to do in Corfu Town, look no additional! Our Corfu journey information will present you all the very best sights in the town. Whether you’re popping into Corfu Town throughout a day journey on a cruise or spending three days in Corfu, these are the must-see sights that you simply can not miss.
We spent three days in Corfu exploring the Old Town, seashores, and historic websites and located that it was simply sufficient time to benefit from the wealthy cultural heritage of this historical metropolis. This is a superb itinerary you can comply with to create your individual recollections.
Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The complete outdated city of Corfu is a delegated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout the ages, Corfu has been a strategic level for commerce and navy routes, with empires vying for management, from the Ottoman Empire to the Germans through the Second World War. With its historical and powerful historic and cultural heritage, it’s no surprise Corfu Town stands out. Although a lot of the Old Town was destroyed through the Second World War, sufficient survived and was rebuilt to be awarded UNESCO World Heritage Status.
UNESCO said that “the urban and port ensemble of Corfu, dominated by its two fortresses of Venetian origin, constitutes an architectural example of outstanding universal value in both its authenticity and its integrity.”
The city is residence to quite a few architectural marvels, such because the Old Fortress, the New Fortress, and the Palace of St. George and St. Michael. Museums just like the Museum of Asian Art and the Archaeological Museum present deep insights into the island’s historical past and artwork.
Top Things to Do in The Old Town of Corfu
Corfu is the northernmost of the Ionian Islands, positioned proper on the Albanian border. It is in the Adriatic Sea, off the northwest coast of the Greek mainland. This city is known for its historic and cultural heritage and is a must-visit when planning a visit to Greece. Corfu was beneath Venetian Rule for 4 centuries and can remind you extra of Venice than the whitewashed islands of Santorini or Mykonos.
Part of the attraction of visiting Corfu Town is getting misplaced in the slim streets of Old Town Corfu, having fun with the cool waters of the Mediterranean, and studying about its Venetian and British historical past. During World War II, Corfu was
1. Mon Repos Palace Hotel
We primarily based ourselves at Mon Repos Palace, which is positioned on Garitsa Bay, only one km from the outdated city of Corfu. It is inside strolling distance of the Old Town, following a straightforward stroll alongside the promenade. But, it’s also far sufficient away from the hustle and bustle of Corfu City to escape and calm down. It is positioned straight throughout from the Adriatic Sea, with a seaside, swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and even nightly leisure.
In this space, there are additionally loads of eating places on the waterfront to select from, so that you don’t want to go to Corfu Town each night time. We discovered this adults-only resort to be the right resort for our three days in Corfu.
Mon Repos Palace Hotel can be shut to a few of the prime Corfu sights, together with the Mon Repos Baths, Mon Repos Palace, and lighthouse. But extra on that later. Let’s start with the highest sights in Corfu for these of you who’ve solely been to Corfu for sooner or later. We will then transfer on to extra Corfu.
2. Hop-on Hop-Off Bus
Corfu Island is a big island that may be very unfold out. Even while you go to Corfu Town, you’ll discover that sights are unfold from the Old Port to Garitsa Bay and past. One of the very best methods to see numerous Cofru in a short while is to get on the Hop on Hop off Bus. You can catch it on the Corfu Port, which can take you to lots of the prime sights.
It is nice for 24 hours, and there are limitless stops.
3. Old Fortress
The prime vacationer attraction in Corfu is undoubtedly the Old Fort. The Old Fortress of Corfu, or Palaio Frourio is a Venetian Fortress has a storied historical past courting again to the Byzantine period. However, its present construction was considerably developed throughout Venetian rule from the 14th to sixteenth century. The Venetians cleverly acknowledged Corfu’s strategic significance in order that they fortified the island to defend it from Ottoman invasions.
This needs to be the primary place you go in the morning earlier than the tour buses and crowds arrive. We walked from Mon Repos Palace and prompt getting there very first thing in the morning to not solely keep away from crowds but in addition get pleasure from cooler climate.
4. St. George’s Church
This fortress actually has seen its share of historical past. Corfu Island was additionally beneath British Rule through the early nineteenth century, and the Old Fortress homes St. George’s Church, which was constructed by the British.
The entrance to the fortress is marked by a drawbridge main to the imposing principal gate. This gate units the tone for the grandeur and historic significance of the positioning.
The Old Barracks provide perception into navy life throughout Venetian and British rule. They now home numerous exhibitions and cultural occasions.
Make positive to stroll to the best level of the fortress to the Lighthouse. This gives stunning panoramic views of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea. We discovered this to be the very best views of the capital metropolis.
5. The Byzantine Museum
Housed throughout the fortress, the Byzantine museum showcases a group of Byzantine icons, frescoes, and different spiritual artifacts, offering a deeper understanding of Corfu’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Before you permit the outdated fortress, it’s value popping in to not solely see the gathering however cool off from the warmth.
6. Spianada Square – Esplanade Public Square
The Upper Esplanade Public Square, often known as the Spianada Square, is the most important sq. in Greece and one of many largest in Europe. It is positioned simply throughout from the Old Fortress is the Esplanade Public Square and is a superb place to seize a Greek espresso or pastry earlier than transferring on to Corfu Old Town.
Once you’ve loved your espresso, take a stroll alongside the Liston Promenade that was constructed by the French in the early nineteenth century, it’s lined with eating places and retailers alongside elegant arcades and lanterns.
7. Maitland Monument
Being one of many largest squares in Europe, Spianada Square has a number of issues to discover. Keep a watch out for the Maitland Monument, a neoclassical rotunda devoted to Sir Thomas Maitland, a British Lord High Commissioner. We had no thought what it was after we had been there, however it actually does stand out. There are stunning gardens, a cricket floor, playgrounds, and pedestrian-friendly paths.
8. St. Michael and St. George Palace
The Palace of St. Michael and St. George, positioned on the northern finish of the Esplanade, is a powerful neoclassical constructing that now homes the Museum of Asian Art. The palace itself is a murals, with stunning gardens and a grand inside.
From right here, you possibly can see the Old Fort in element. There can be a sculpture backyard and a stupendous stroll beneath the shaded bushes to escape the warmth. The porticoes are fashionable for pictures, and there are views of the seaside.
9. Museum of Asian Art
Located throughout the Palace of St. Michael and St. George is among the hottest museums in Corfu Town. Established in 1928, it’s the solely museum in Greece devoted completely to the artwork and antiquities of Asia. The museums characteristic artwork from China and different nations of Asia, together with Japan, India, and Central Asia.
Visitors can count on to see beautiful porcelain, ceramics, jade carvings, and bronze artifacts from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Japanese artwork is well-represented, with a group that features samurai armor, swords, ceramics, and woodblock prints. And Indian and Southeast Asian Art options sculptures, textiles, and spiritual artifacts.
The museum is housed in the beautiful Palace of St. Michael and St. George, constructed through the British Protectorate. The palace’s neoclassical design, with its grand halls and stylish rooms, provides to the general expertise of visiting the museum.
10. Archaeological Museum of Corfu
As you proceed strolling, you’ll come throughout the Archaeological Museum of Corfu, positioned simply off the Upper Esplanade. The Museum homes essential artifacts from Corfu’s historical historical past, together with the spectacular Gorgon pediment from the Temple of Artemis. with its wealthy and historical historical past, you possibly can see artifacts courting again to the Paleolithic Era.
11. New Fortress
Also of Venetian origin, the New Fortress (Neo Frourio) isn’t all that new. In reality it was constructed just some years after the Old Fortress between between 1576 and 1588.
We loved the New Fortress greater than the Old Fortress as much less individuals visited this architectural Mavel. We walked alongside its large partitions, bastions, and underground passages showcasing superior engineering strategies of the time. The design contains a number of ranges and interconnected tunnels, making a formidable protection system. It additionally has stunning views of Corfu Town the place you possibly can actually see its Venetian affect
12. Dimarchiou – Old City Hall
Dimarchiou Square, positioned in the center of Corfu Town, is a bustling hub of exercise and a major cultural landmark. Named after the Town Hall (Dimarchiou) that overlooks the sq., this vibrant space is surrounded by elegant Venetian buildings, charming cafes, and boutique retailers.
It serves as a well-liked gathering spot for each locals and vacationers, providing a picturesque setting with its fantastically maintained gardens and historic structure. The sq. is commonly the positioning of native occasions and festivals, making it a full of life and important a part of Corfu’s city panorama.
13. Church of St. Spyridon
One factor that you’ll discover from throughout the outdated city is the Chruch of St. Spyridon dominating the skyline of the Old Town. The Church of St. Spyridon is devoted to the patron saint of Corfu. Its bell tower is the tallest in the Ionian Islands. Inside, you’ll discover stunning frescoes and the silver sarcophagus of St. Spyridon, believed to defend the island. No pictures are allowed inside and monks guard the tomb of St. Spyridon, however it’s undoubtedly value going inside to see.
Other church buildings to see in Corfu are the Byzantine church of St. Jason and the oldest church in Corfu, St. Sosipater and the Church of Panagia Spiliotissa, or Spiliotiss Church, is one other architectural gem.
Corfu Old Town’s slim streets are lined with retailers providing every part from native crafts to designer items. Don’t miss the possibility to purchase conventional kumquat liqueur, olive wooden merchandise, and handmade jewellery. Grab an ice cream and get misplaced in the slim streets weaving by outdated down.
15. Sunset Cruise
When visiting the Ionian Islands of Greece, you have to get on the water. We took a non-public yacht to the neighboring smaller islands, however there are many day excursions and cruises that may take you to see views of Corru.
Day Trip to Paxos and Antipaxos
Paxos and Antipaxos are two islands positioned only a brief ferry experience from Corfu. These small islands are with a visit in their very own proper and we spent a number of days exploring them But in the event you solely have ea brief time, you possibly can go to
16. Faliraki Beach
Faliraki Beach is positioned only a brief stroll from Corfu Old Town, making it excellent for a fast seaside getaway with out having to journey far. After exploring the city’s historic and cultural sights, guests can simply calm down and unwind by the ocean.
The seaside gives breathtaking views of the Old Fortress and the azure waters of the Ionian Sea. The scenic backdrop is ideal for taking memorable pictures and having fun with the serene great thing about Corfu’s shoreline. It can be a great spot for snorkeling. The light waves make it a secure and satisfying spot for swimmers of all ages, together with households with kids. There is a seaside bar serving Greek delicacies and refreshing drinks.
17. Windmill Lighthouse
One of our favourite locations to watch sundown in Corfu is the Windmill Lighthouse. The lighthouse is positioned shut to Mon Repos Palace Hotel, and we walked out to get pleasure from one of the crucial beautiful sunsets we have now ever seen. This can be a well-liked spot for locals to swim.
18. Mon Repos Palace and Park
Mon Repos Palace is a neoclassical villa set in stunning gardens. It was the birthplace of Prince Philip and now homes the Museum of Palaiopolis, which showcases archaeological finds from the realm. Mon Repos Palace was the summer time residence of the British excessive Commissioner and was a stupendous mansion. It is simple to entry by way of the Hop on Hop off Bus and the palace is positioned inside a beautiful park with strolling paths, and sculptures.
19. Mo Repos Baths
The Mon Repos Baths are positioned close to Mon Repos Palace, and guests can benefit from the seaside, lounge chairs and umbrellas, and foods and drinks service. These historic baths are a part of the Mon Repos Estate and are perfect for a calming swim in the clear waters. The baths are only a brief stroll from Mon Repos Palace Hotel, The Lighthouse and Mon Repos Palace.
20. Vlacherna Monastery
Vlacherna Monastery is related to the mainland by a pedestrian walkway and is among the most photographed locations in Corfu. Dating again to the seventeenth century, it served as a nunnery till the Eighties. People make their manner out to the monastery to watch the airplanes land because the airport is positioned in the direct path of the island. It can be one of the crucial fashionable place in Corfu for sundown.
21. Mouse Island
From Vlacherna Monastery, it’s only a brief boat experience to Mouse Island, or Pontikonisi. Mouse Island is one in all Corfu’s iconic landmarks. This small island is only a brief boat journey from the mainland, it’s a tranquil spot with a small chapel and luxurious greenery. It’s significantly stunning when seen from above.
22. Kanoni
Leaving Old Town, Kanoni is taken into account the brand new a part of Corfu Town. The space of Kanoni is a well-liked place to watch the sundown and airplanes land while you go to Corfu Town. Take the hop-on, hop-off bus out to Kanoni, the place you possibly can see the planes touchdown proper beside the Ariti Grand Hotel and Kanoni cafe. The Corfu signal can be positioned right here, so you may get your Instagram value photographs as effectively.
There are loads of inns out in this space and locations to eat Greek meals or to get pleasure from an Aperol Spritz.
23. Ancient City Of Paleopolis
The Ancient City of Paleopolis is among the most traditionally vital websites on the island. It dates again to the eighth century BC and was as soon as the thriving capital metropolis of Corfu. Located close to the Mon Repos property, Paleopolis is residence to historical ruins and artifacts from numerous intervals, together with the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras. It can simply be reached from Old Town by way of the Hop on Hop off Bus.
The Temple of Artemis dates again to round 580 BC and as soon as housed the well-known Gorgon Medusa pediment, now displayed in the Archaeological Museum.
Other issues you will notice are the ruins of Roman baths which spotlight the affect of Roman structure and tradition in Paleopolis. The website contains well-preserved mosaic flooring and the stays of the hypocaust system, which was used to warmth the baths.
The Agora was the center of the traditional metropolis, the place commerce and social gatherings came about. And an early Christian basilica dates again to the fifth century AD. The ruins embrace components of the mosaic ground and the define of the church’s construction, offering perception into the early Christian presence on the island.
How to Get to Corfu
Corfu Town is definitely accessible, with the Corfu International Airport only a brief drive from outdated city and frequent ferry connections to the Greek mainland and different Ionian Islands. Once in city, exploring on foot is simple, or you possibly can take Uber, Taxis, or the Hop on Hop off Bus.
Located off mainland Greece. The commonest manner to attain it’s by air, with Corfu International Airport (Ioannis Kapodistrias) receiving direct flights from main European cities, significantly through the vacationer season.
For these touring from inside Greece, there are common home flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, and different main cities. There are ferry companies that join Corfu to a number of ports on the mainland, together with Igoumenitsa and Patras, in addition to worldwide locations like Italy and Albania.
Ferries additionally run between Corfu and different Ionian Islands, making island hopping a handy possibility. Once on the island, Corfu Town is definitely accessible by taxi, bus, or rental automobile, guaranteeing a easy begin to your exploration of this enchanting vacation spot.
Is Corfu Town Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, Corfu Town is certainly value visiting. Corfu Town, often known as Kerkyra, boasts a wealthy historical past that spans a number of centuries and civilizations. The structure displays the varied previous of this historical metropolis, with influences from the Venetians, French, and British. Walking by its slim, cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter fantastically preserved buildings, historic church buildings, and grand palaces.
The Liston Promenade, lined with cafes and eating places, is the right place to calm down and people-watch. The city’s squares, akin to Spianada and Dimarchiou Square, are bustling with exercise and sometimes host native occasions and festivals.
Corfu Town is a haven for meals lovers. From conventional Greek tavernas to upscale eating places, the city gives a variety of eating choices. Don’t miss making an attempt native specialties akin to sofrito, pastitsada, and recent seafood.
Where to Stay in Corfu
We stayed at Mon Repos Palace simply exterior of Old Town Corfu however there are many great place to keep in Corfu Town.
Hotel Bella Venezia is a boutique resort
Ariti Grand Hotel
The Island of Corfu
When you go to Corfu, don’t restrict your self to simply Corfu Town; the remainder of the island is gorgeous. We booked a automobile rental from Corfu Town and loved one other week exploring the northern aspect of the island and its stunning seashores. Check out our different article concerning the Best Things to do on the Island of Corfu.
And there you have got a whole checklist of the very best issues to do in Corfu Town from the outdated city to its seashores and scenic views. If you’re planning a visit to Greece, make sure that to put Corfu in your checklist of locations to go to. It is actually a superb yr spherical vacation spot that’s excellent to add to your go to to the northern a part of Greece. Have you been to Corfu? What did we miss, tell us in the feedback under.