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.
Walk through the UNESCO-listed streets of Corfu and you'll find yourself in a world of 15th-century Venetian houses, Orthodox church bells, and Mediterranean squares. Stop at the Church of Saint Spyridon to see its red dome and silver icons, explore the Asian art collections in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, or climb the Old Fortress for views across the Ionian Sea. In the Campiello district, locals chat at café tables under stone archways while laundry lines stretch between ochre-colored buildings with green shutters.
Exploring the Old Quarter
The medieval Campiello district sits at the heart of Corfu. As you walk through the narrow lanes, you'll pass Venetian houses up to six stories high. The district's winding streets create cool spots during summer, and you can take breaks in small squares where cafes serve local dishes. Look up to see wooden shutters and wrought-iron balconies, or stop to examine the old stone wells that still dot the corners.
The Fortresses of Corfu
Two fortresses stand guard over the town. On the eastern peninsula, the 15th-century Old Fortress contains the church of St. George, built in Doric style. Climb to the lighthouse for panoramic views across the Ionian Sea. The New Fortress, built in 1578, rises above the old port area. You can walk along its massive walls and bastions. Both fortresses open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset, with entrance fees of €6 for each fortress.
The Liston and Spianada
The Liston arcade stretches along the western edge of Spianada square. Built during French rule in the early 19th century, its vaulted passages now house cafes and restaurants. The Spianada itself is Greece's largest square at 84,000 square meters. You can watch cricket matches here - a tradition from British colonial times - or walk along the tree-lined paths between the old town and the Old Fortress.
Religious Architecture
You'll find over 40 churches in the old town. The Church of Saint Spyridon's red dome and bell tower rise above the surrounding houses, and inside you can see the relics of Corfu's patron saint. Visit the Orthodox Cathedral (built 1577) for its collection of icons and frescoes. The Byzantine Church of St. Jason and St. Sosipater, dating from the 11th century, represents some of the oldest architecture on the island.
Museums and Culture
The Palace of St. Michael and St. George houses the Museum of Asian Art, where you can examine collections from China, Japan, and India. At the Archaeological Museum, you'll find ancient artifacts including the Gorgon pediment from the 6th century BC. The Byzantine Museum displays religious art from the 15th to 19th centuries inside the Church of Antivouniotissa. All museums open Tuesday through Sunday, 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
Getting Around
You can walk between most sights in the old town within 15-20 minutes. Local buses connect to other parts of the island from San Rocco Square. In summer, water taxis run from the old port to nearby beaches and Vidos island. The airport is 3 kilometers from the town center, with regular bus services every 30 minutes and taxis available at the terminal.
