Greek island in the Ionian Sea with Venetian-influenced architecture. Known for olive groves, sandy beaches, and the grand Palace of St. Michael and St. George.
Corfu, the second largest of Greece's Ionian Islands, is known for its lush green landscapes and rich cultural heritage. In Corfu Town, you'll find streets lined with buildings influenced by Venetian, French, and British architecture. The island offers a variety of beaches, from Sidari with its unique rock formations to Paleokastritsa's multiple bays. You can explore the Old Fortress, relax by the sea, or savor local dishes like sofrito and pastitsada. With its mild climate, Corfu welcomes visitors throughout the year.
Exploring Corfu Town
As you walk through Corfu Town's Old Town, you'll notice the mix of Venetian, French, and British styles in the buildings. Stop at the Liston, a long arcade with cafes, to watch local life while sipping coffee. Next to it, Spianada Square - the largest in the Balkans - hosts cricket matches, a reminder of the British influence on the island.
Beaches for Every Preference
Corfu's coastline caters to various tastes. On the north coast, Sidari Beach attracts visitors with its sandy shore and clear waters. Nearby, you can swim through the narrow channel of Canal d'Amour, where local legend says you'll find true love. On the west coast, Paleokastritsa consists of six bays surrounded by olive groves and cypress trees.
Exploring Historical Sites
Visit the Old Fortress, situated on a rocky peninsula east of Corfu Town, which dates back to the Byzantine era. You can climb up to the lighthouse for panoramic views of the town and sea. In the village of Gastouri, tour Achilleion Palace to see its 19th-century architecture. Empress Elisabeth of Austria commissioned its construction and filled it with statues of Greek mythological figures.
Tasting Local Cuisine
Corfu's culinary traditions reflect its history of various cultural influences. Try sofrito, veal cooked in wine sauce, or pastitsada, pasta with spicy beef. For dessert, sample mandolato, a nougat made with honey and almonds. Many tavernas in Corfu Town and along the coast serve these local specialties alongside fresh seafood and popular Greek dishes.
Getting to Corfu
You can reach Corfu through its International Airport, located about 3 km south of Corfu Town, which receives flights from major European cities and Athens. If you prefer traveling by sea, take a ferry from several ports in Greece and Italy. The main port in Corfu Town allows you to start exploring the island immediately upon arrival.
Best Time to Visit
Corfu is accessible year-round, but the ideal time to visit depends on your preferences. May to June and September to October offer warm weather and fewer crowds. July and August are hot and busy, which is ideal for beach activities. Winter brings mild temperatures and occasional rain, but many sites remain open.
