Discover Corfu

Helpful guides, tips and the best locations to see.

Corfu, also known as Kerkyra in Greek, is a picturesque island located in the Ionian Sea, off the northwest coast of Greece.

A panoramic view of a coastal bay with a sandy beach, surrounded by green hills and islands in the distance under a clear blue sky.

Geography

Corfu is the second-largest of the Ionian Islands, covering an area of approximately 592 square kilometers. Its diverse landscape includes lush green hills, golden beaches, and charming olive groves.

View of a European town with colorful buildings, church steeples, surrounded by green trees, with mountains in the background.

Capital

The capital city of Corfu is also called Corfu (or Kerkyra). The Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its Venetian architecture, narrow streets, and historic charm.

Old stone staircase and archway in a historic, weathered stone building with sunlight creating shadows.

History

Corfu has a rich and varied history, influenced by the Venetians, French, British, and Greeks. This cultural amalgamation is evident in the island's architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

A classical marble statue of a reclining male figure with a beard and classical helmet, holding a rod, situated in a garden in front of a yellow building with white columns. Several people are walking up the stairs and around the garden.

Culture

The cultural identity of Corfu reflects a blend of Western and Eastern influences. The island has a vibrant arts scene, and its festivals often feature traditional music, dance, and local celebrations.

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Tourism

Corfu is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant atmosphere. The summer season sees an influx of tourists seeking sun, sea, and cultural experiences.

A coastal landscape with winding dirt paths through green hills leading to a bay with calm blue water and boats, surrounded by hills and islands under a clear sky.

Nature

The island's landscape is characterized by olive groves, cypress trees, and a variety of Mediterranean flora. Mount Pantokrator, the highest peak on the island, offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

An aerial view of a small island with green trees, surrounded by turquoise water, with a larger landmass nearby.

Beaches

Corfu boasts numerous stunning beaches, both on the mainland and smaller satellite islands. Some well-known beaches include Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, and Canal d'Amour.

Outdoor dining area with a long table set for a meal, overlooking a sunset view of the ocean and distant mountains, with lounge chairs and umbrellas nearby.

Cuisine

Corfiot cuisine is a delicious blend of Greek, Italian, and Venetian influences. Local specialties include pastitsada (a pasta dish), bourdeto (spicy fish stew), and sofrito (beef cooked in a white wine sauce).

An airplane flying low over a body of water near a land bridge, with green hills and houses in the background.

Transportation

The island is accessible by air through Corfu International Airport, as well as by ferry from the Greek mainland and other Ionian Islands.

Corfu's unique history, natural beauty, and cultural richness make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration.

Aerial view of a densely packed Mediterranean city with closely built buildings featuring various colored facades and terracotta rooftops.

What it’s like to discover Corfu in Summer?

Corfu, in the Summer, transforms into a vibrant and enchanting Mediterranean paradise. The island, located in the Ionian Sea, is renowned for its beaches with crystal-clear waters and secluded coves where visitors can lose themselves in the surrounding natural beauty. The narrow streets of Corfu's old town, with their colorful facades and quaint shops, reveal a historical charm. Open-air cafes beckon for leisurely moments, sipping on a refreshing frappé while observing the lively local life. Evenings are illuminated by spectacular sunsets, creating a magical atmosphere on the island. Tavernas offer an unforgettable culinary experience, showcasing authentic Greek cuisine with delicate Mediterranean flavors. Summer festivals, infused with traditional music and folk dances, add a festive touch to the island, creating an enchanting ambiance at every turn. In the summer, Corfu becomes an island gem where history, nature, and hospitality come together to provide an unforgettable summer experience.

In essence, Corfu beckons explorers with its blend of cultural richness, historical significance, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, making it a destination that satisfies a variety of interests and preferences.

View of a coastal town with colorful buildings, a stone wall, and the sea with mountains in the background, seen through a stone window.

Cultural Richness

The island's history is marked by the influences of the Venetians, French, British, and Greeks. This cultural amalgamation is evident in Corfu's architecture, traditions, and cuisine, providing visitors with a unique and diverse cultural experience.

Historic Old Town

Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with Venetian buildings, fortresses, and vibrant squares. The Old and New Fortresses, Liston Promenade, and Spianada Square are just a few of the historic and architectural treasures awaiting exploration.

Beautiful Beaches

Corfu boasts a coastline adorned with stunning beaches ranging from golden sandy shores to pebbly coves. Glyfada, Paleokastritsa, and Canal d'Amour are just a few examples of the island's picturesque beach destinations.

Charming Villages

Beyond the bustling capital, Corfu is dotted with charming villages. Each village has its own character, offering a glimpse into local life, traditional architecture, and the warmth of the community.

Aerial view of a beach with white cliffs, sandy shoreline, and turquoise water under a clear blue sky.

Natural Landscapes

The island's landscape is a combination of lush greenery, olive groves, and hills. Mount Pantokrator, the highest peak, offers panoramic views. Korission Lake and the surrounding sand dunes showcase Corfu's diverse and rich natural environment.

Philoxenia (Hospitality)

The Greek concept of philoxenia, or genuine hospitality, is deeply ingrained in Corfu's culture. Visitors often experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making their stay more memorable.

A long, covered stone corridor with classical-style columns on the left and a wall with vintage lanterns on the right. Sunlight creates shadows on the marble floor.

Historical Landscapes

From ancient ruins to medieval fortresses, Corfu is rich in historical landmarks. The Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Sisi of Austria, and the Angelokastro fortress are just a couple of examples that showcase the island's historical depth.

Activities & Festivals

Corfu offers a range of activities, from water sports to hiking trails. Additionally, the island hosts various festivals throughout the year, featuring traditional music, dance, and local celebrations that provide an authentic cultural experience.

Scenic Views & Sunsets

The island's elevated points, such as Kaiser's Throne and various fortresses, offer breathtaking panoramic views. Corfu is also known for its stunning sunsets, creating a romantic and captivating atmosphere.

Sunset over a calm sea with silhouetted rocks and distant islands, pink and orange sky reflected in the water.

Unmissable Places to See

Corfu is filled with picturesque and captivating destinations.

A densely packed cityscape with multi-story buildings featuring varied colored facades, many with traditional tiled roofs and some with balconies, indicating an old European city.

Corfu Town

The capital of the island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Venetian architecture, charming narrow streets, and historical landmarks. The Liston Promenade, Spianada Square, and the Old and New Fortresses are must-visit attractions.

Aerial view of coastal cliffs, lush greenery, and a white building with a yellow roof by the blue sea on a sunny day.

Paleokastritsa Monastery

Perched on a hilltop with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, the Paleokastritsa Monastery is an iconic landmark. The surrounding area is adorned with lush greenery and crystal-clear waters.

A large rocky hill with medieval stone castle walls on top, overlooking the sea, covered in green shrubs and trees.

Angelokastro

This ancient Byzantine fortress offers panoramic views of the island and the sea. It's not only a historical site but also a great spot for hiking and photography.

A small white church with a bell tower on an island, surrounded by blue water, with boats docked at the pier and trees in the background.

Mouse Island & Pontikonisi

The view from Kanoni of Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery is one of the most photographed scenes in Corfu. The serene setting is perfect for enjoying a quiet moment by the sea.

Historical white mansion with columns and statues, surrounded by tall trees and lush green plants, under a clear blue sky.

Achilleion Palace

Built by Empress of Austria Elisabeth of Bavaria, also known as Sisi, this palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Aerial view of a beach with turquoise water and golden sand, bordered by residential houses and lush green mountains.

Glyfada Beach

Known for its golden sand and clear turquoise waters, Glyfada is one of the most popular beaches on the island. The scenic beauty is complemented by the surrounding cliffs and green hills.

A scenic view from a hilltop lookout with stone stairs and a stone structure, overlooking a green valley and a distant large body of water under a bright blue sky.

Kaiser’s Throne

This viewpoint on Pelekas Hill provides a panoramic view of the island and is particularly famous for its stunning sunset vistas.

A scenic view of a coastal bay with turquoise water, boats anchored, and green hills in the background under a clear blue sky.

Paleokastritsa Beaches

Paleokastritsa is not just about the monastery; it also boasts several beautiful beaches. Crystal-clear waters and surrounding hills make this area a haven for nature lovers.

Aerial view of a narrow, tree-covered island with sandy cliffs, surrounded by two bodies of water, one greenish and one bluish, with a small waterfall on the upper side.

Sidari & Canal D’Amour

Sidari is known for its unique rock formations, and the Canal d'Amour is a charming sandy cove with a legend that couples who swim through the canal will get married soon.

Aerial view of a beach with a narrow strip of sand between an ocean and a river, with hills in the background and a clear blue sky.

Lake Korrison

This coastal lagoon is surrounded by sand dunes and is a haven for birdwatchers. The peaceful environment and diverse flora and fauna make it a unique natural attraction.