Corfu, also known as Kerkyra in Greek, is one of the Ionian Islands, situated off the northwest coast of mainland Greece. This verdant island is celebrated for its captivating blend of cultural richness, historical significance, and natural beauty.
The heart of Corfu, its Old Town, is a UNESCO-listed treasure. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with pastel-coloured buildings, discovering architectural gems, inviting cafes, and charming boutiques. The Old and New Fortresses stand as testaments to the island's strategic importance throughout history.
Corfu's cultural tapestry is woven with influences from the Venetians, French, and British, reflected in its architecture, museums, and traditions. Nature lovers can explore the rugged landscapes of Corfu. The Corfu Trail offers hikers a chance to traverse the island's diverse terrain, from mountainous regions to pristine beaches. Boat trips to the nearby Paxos and Antipaxos islands are popular, providing a serene escape into crystal-clear waters.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN CORFU
Stroll Around Corfu Old Town
The best thing to do while being on the island is to wander its picturesque capital. The Old Town of Corfu has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is one of the most beautiful towns in Greece. It has been inhabited since ancient times and is full of medieval buildings, castle ruins and neighbourhoods with old houses constructed according to Venetian architecture. Strolling around the Town may feel like you are getting lost in a labyrinth full of narrow alleys known and charming neighbourhoods with a warm atmosphere.
Visit the Old and New Fortresses
You enter the Old Fort (Palio Frourio), built in the 13th century, via a bridge over a seawater moat. It includes the Porta Sopranza, the British barracks, two winged lions of St Mark, the Madonna del Carmine, the Savorgnan Bastion, the Tower of Sea and the Tower of the Land (Castel del Mar, Castel della Terra) and the British-built church of St George resembling a Doric temple. Visit of an evening to really soak in the history with a glass of wine.
Admire Achilleion Palace
Located in the picturesque village of Gastouri, the Achillion Palace is one of the most impressive attractions on the island of Corfu. In addition to its luxurious interior, full of antique furniture and paintings, the Palace is surrounded by lush green gardens and decorated with statues and other impressive sculptures. The classical architecture of the palace makes it look like an ancient Greek temple, and the aesthetically pleasing environment is certainly awe-inspiring! You may have already caught a glimpse of it in the James Bond movie For Your Eyes Only.
Swim at Amazing Beaches
Corfu has become famous for its beautiful sea and attracts visitors from all over the world every year. Similar to the other Ionian Islands, it has distinctive turquoise waters and long beaches covered with silky sand; therefore, visiting the beautiful beaches could not be missing from the list of things to do in Corfu! The beaches are often surrounded by a uniquely beautiful and wild landscape that consists of hills and mountains full of dense vegetation.
Take a Boat Trip to Paxos and Antipaxos
A boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos from Corfu is not only an opportunity to explore pristine beaches and hidden coves but also a chance to experience the relaxed pace of life on these enchanting islands. Whether you prefer sunbathing on the beaches, exploring charming villages, or snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters, the boat trip adds a memorable aquatic dimension to your Corfu itinerary.
TOP LUXURY HOTELS IN CORFU
Speak to a Greece Expert to Start Planning your Tailor Made Holiday
Interested in booking a tailor-made holiday to Greece or have any other questions? Give us a call on 01442 617777 or fill out our contact form below.
WHY BOOK WITH TAILORED JOURNEYS?
AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES
Every holiday is tailor made to the finest detail to match your preferences
We offer unique experiences to help create truly rewarding memories
Your interests are our priority and we handpick activies accordingly - whether its cycling through rice fields in Vietnam or a special dinner under the stars for your honeymoon
HANDPICKED HOTELS
All hotels are handpicked based on individual specifications
The hotels we choose are ones where we have either personally stayed or visited
We make sure that you will have some of the most incredible views from your hotel that will surely stay in your memory forever
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
All of us here are from, have lived and/or worked in your chosen destination
Our local, qualified guides are courteous, knowledgeable and always willing to go the extra mile for every Tailored Journeys client
We have built special relationships with incredible people who help us bring an authentic element to our holidays
SUPPORT & TECHNOLOGY
You will have the same specialist look after your trip from start to finish
You will have the support of a local office in each destination and access a 24 hour mobile number here in the UK
You will also have access to an interactive app so you can view your itinerary offline