Corfu

Corfu, a beautiful Greek island known for its lush greenery, Venetian architecture, stunning beaches, and rich history.

🏝️ Corfu Tourist Guide

📍 Overview

  • Location: Ionian Sea, northwest of mainland Greece
  • Best Time to Visit: May–October (peak season: July–August; shoulder season: May–June, September–October for fewer crowds and great weather)
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Languages: Greek (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

🏛️ Top Attractions

1. Corfu Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

  • Venetian-style architecture
  • Highlights: Spianada Square, Liston Promenade, Old & New Fortresses, St. Spyridon Church
  • Great for strolling, shopping, and dining

2. Achilleion Palace

  • Built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria (“Sisi”)
  • Stunning views, Greek mythological statues, and gardens

3. Paleokastritsa

  • A village with dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and the famous monastery
  • Monastery of Theotokos: 13th-century, beautiful views

4. Kanoni and Mouse Island (Pontikonisi)

  • Iconic view of Corfu
  • Vlacherna Monastery on a tiny islet, accessible by footpath

5. Angelokastro

  • Byzantine castle on a cliff with panoramic views
  • Historical ruins, steep hike but worth it

🏖️ Best Beaches

  • Glyfada Beach – Sandy, organized, popular with families
  • Paleokastritsa Beach – Crystal-clear water, snorkeling
  • Sidari & Canal d’Amour – Unique sandstone formations and love legend
  • Issos Beach – Sand dunes, quieter, ideal for windsurfing
  • Barbati Beach – Pebbled, great for swimming and watersports

🍽️ Local Cuisine You Must Try

  • Pastitsada – Beef or chicken in tomato sauce with pasta
  • Sofrito – Veal in white wine and garlic
  • Bourdeto – Spicy fish stew
  • Kumquat Liqueur – Corfu specialty
  • Bianco Fish – White sauce fish with lemon and garlic

🧀 Pair meals with Corfiot wines or local beers.

🚗 Getting Around

  • Car rental – Best for exploring the island (roads are narrow, but manageable)
  • Public buses (Green Buses) – Reliable for major towns/villages
  • Taxis & transfers – Readily available but more expensive
  • Boats/ferries – For coastal excursions

🏨 Where to Stay

  • Corfu Town – Best for history, shopping, nightlife
  • Paleokastritsa – Scenic and laid-back, ideal for couples
  • Kavos – Party hotspot for young travelers
  • Gouvia or Dassia – Family-friendly resorts
  • Agios Gordios or Pelekas – Beautiful sunsets, quieter stays

🌿 Day Trips & Activities

  • Boat trips to Paxos & Antipaxos islands
  • Hiking in Corfu’s olive groves and hills (Mount Pantokrator)
  • Visit local wineries & olive oil farms
  • Scuba diving or kayaking adventures
  • Explore traditional villages like Liapades, Doukades, or Lakones

📝 Tips for Travelers

  • Tap water is generally safe to drink.
  • Pack beachwear, walking shoes, and sun protection.
  • Respect local customs—especially in monasteries and churches (dress modestly).
  • Tipping in restaurants is appreciated (5–10%).