This Greek island blends Venetian palaces with British neoclassical buildings. Its old town's narrow streets lead to the Liston, a historic esplanade. Nearby beaches offer Mediterranean relaxation.
Corfu, an island in the Ionian Sea, has dense forests, beaches, and architecture from various historical periods. In the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll see Venetian houses, French arcades, and British palaces. You can sunbathe at Paleokastritsa's coves, explore the 15th-century Old Fortress, hike Mount Pantokrator, watch birds at Korission Lagoon, or try local dishes like sofrito and pastitsada.
Wandering Through Corfu's Old Town
The Old Town of Corfu, recognized by UNESCO for its historical significance, has winding alleys and grand structures that reflect the island's past. As you walk, you'll see Venetian-style houses with colorful shutters and ornate balconies. The Liston, an arcade built during the French occupation, now has many cafes and restaurants. The Church of Saint Spyridon, with its tall red-domed bell tower, contains the remains of Corfu's patron saint and many people visit it.
Discovering Corfu's Varied Coastline
Corfu's shores suit different tastes. Paleokastritsa, on the northwest coast, has clear waters and small coves surrounded by olive groves and cypress trees. Glyfada Beach on the west coast is busier with its long stretch of sand and water sports options. In Sidari, you can find the Canal d'Amour, a unique rock formation where local stories say swimming through the narrow channel might bring romantic luck.
Exploring Corfu's Fortresses and Palaces
Corfu's location led to the construction of several fortifications. The Old Fortress, built by Venetians in the 15th century, sits on a rocky peninsula east of the Old Town. From its highest point, you can look across the town and the sea. The New Fortress, also Venetian, overlooks the old port. For a look at royal life, visit the Achilleion Palace in Gastouri, built as a retreat for Empress Elisabeth of Austria. The palace gardens have statues of Greek mythological figures and views of the surrounding area.
Experiencing Corfu's Natural Landscapes
Mount Pantokrator, at 906 meters high, has hiking trails and views that reach the Albanian coast on clear days. Several traditional villages are on the mountain where you can see local customs. In the south, Korission Lagoon is a protected wetland where various bird species live, surrounded by sand dunes, showing a different side of the island's environment.
Tasting Corfiot Culinary Traditions
Corfu's food combines Greek and Italian elements, reflecting its history and location. Local dishes include sofrito (veal cooked in wine sauce), pastitsada (pasta with spiced beef), and bourdeto (fish stew). The island makes its own olive oil and wine. For authentic flavors, you might eat at tavernas in villages like Doukades or Agni, where you can talk with local residents and learn about their cooking traditions.
Navigating Corfu and Choosing When to Visit
To explore Corfu on your own, you can rent a car or scooter. The island also has buses connecting major towns and beaches. From May to October, the weather is usually warm and sunny, good for outdoor activities. July and August are the busiest months, so if you want a calmer visit, plan your trip for the months before or after. Spring has lots of plants and wildflowers, while September and October have comfortable sea temperatures and fewer tourists.
