Corfu Town Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Corfu Town? Our guide has everything you need to know, from must-visit attractions to the best places to eat and stay.


Introduction to Corfu Town

Corfu Town, also known as Kerkyra, is the capital and largest town of the Greek island of Corfu. Located on the east coast of the island, Corfu Town boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.

The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been ruled by the Venetians, French, British, and Greeks throughout its history, which is reflected in its eclectic architecture and cultural heritage.

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, food, or just soaking up the sun, Corfu Town has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Corfu Town

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Old Fortress: A 16th-century fortress built by the Venetians to protect the town from invasion. The fortress is well-preserved and offers stunning views of the town and the sea.
  • Museum of Asian Art: The only museum in Greece dedicated to Asian art, with collections spanning over 4,000 years of history and including pieces from China, Japan, India, and more.
  • Achilleion Palace: A stunning palace built by the Empress of Austria in the 19th century, featuring breathtaking gardens and a collection of Greek mythology-inspired artwork.

Natural Attractions of Corfu Town: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Pantokrator: The highest mountain on the island, Pantokrator provides amazing views of the town and the sea from its summit. Visitors can hike up the mountain or drive up to the top.
  • Cape Drastis: A stunning cliff formation on the northwestern coast of Corfu, offering panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
  • Paleokastritsa Beach: Located on the western coast of the island, Paleokastritsa is a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning cliffs rising up from the water.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Corfu Town

  • Corfu Trail: A 220 km long-distance hiking trail that runs the length of the island from south to north, passing through Corfu Town and providing stunning views of the landscape and coast.
  • Mountain Biking in Pantokrator: For those looking for a more active adventure, the mountain offers several biking trails that wind through the forests and provide beautiful views of the town and the sea.
  • Walking Tour of Old Corfu Town: For a more leisurely stroll, take a walking tour of the historic old town to explore its narrow streets and hidden courtyards.

Best Things to Do in Corfu Town: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tour of the Ionian Sea: Take a boat tour of the stunning Ionian Sea, which includes stops at hidden beaches and coves, as well as the chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles.
  • Olive Oil Tasting Tour: Corfu is known for its olives and olive oil, and visitors can take a tour of local olive groves and mills to learn about the production process and taste some delicious olive oil.
  • Local Food Tour: Explore the town’s culinary scene with a local food tour, which includes stops at traditional tavernas and markets to sample Corfu’s unique cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Corfu Town

Day Activity
1 Explore Old Corfu Town
2 Visit the Old Fortress and the Liston Promenade
3 Hike Mount Pantokrator or Cape Drastis
4 Take a boat tour of the Ionian Sea
5 Visit Achilleion Palace and the Mon Repos Estate
6 Taste Corfu’s local cuisine on a food tour
7 Relax on Paleokastritsa Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Corfu Town

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sofrito: Thinly sliced beef cooked in a white wine sauce with garlic and parsley.
  • Pastitsada: Spiced beef stew with pasta.
  • Kumquat Liqueur: A sweet citrus liqueur made from the local kumquat fruits.

Local Beverages

  • Corfu Beer: A locally brewed beer with a refreshing taste that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
  • Santorini Wine: Greece is known for its wine, and Corfu offers a variety of wines from other regions of Greece such as Santorini.

Where to Stay in Corfu Town: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Cavalieri Hotel: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Corfu Town, featuring elegant rooms and a rooftop restaurant with stunning views.
  • Corfu Secret Hotel: A budget-friendly option located just outside Corfu Town, featuring clean and comfortable rooms and a relaxing pool area.
  • Bretagne Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse located in the historic old town, featuring cozy rooms and a rooftop terrace with beautiful views.

What to Buy in Corfu Town: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive Oil: Corfu produces some of the best olive oil in Greece, so it’s a must-buy souvenir for any food lover.
  • Kumquat Products: Kumquat is a local citrus fruit that’s used to make a variety of products, from jam to liqueur to soap.
  • Local Handicrafts: Corfu has a rich tradition of handicrafts, including pottery, embroidery, and silver jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Corfu Town

Corfu Town has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from the Venetians, French, British, and Greeks. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly when visiting historic sites, and avoiding excessive noise in residential areas.

Best Time to Visit Corfu Town

The best time to visit Corfu Town is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, visitors can also enjoy the town in the summertime, when the weather is hot and sunny and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Corfu Town

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and products.
  • Take a boat tour of the Ionian Sea.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect historic sites or monuments.
  • Make excessive noise in residential areas.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Corfu Town

Corfu Town is generally a safe destination, but visitors should still take normal precautions such as not leaving belongings unattended and avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas at night.

Health in Corfu Town

Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance and check with their doctor for any recommended vaccinations. The town has several pharmacies and medical facilities in case of emergency.

Getting to Corfu Town: Transportation Options and Logistics

Corfu Town is accessible by air and sea, with several airlines offering direct flights to the island’s airport from major European cities. There are also several ferry services that connect Corfu with other Greek islands and the mainland.

Airports Near Corfu Town

  • Corfu International Airport: Located just a few kilometers south of the town, the airport offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Corfu Town

  • Corfu Green Buses: The main bus company that offers transportation within Corfu and to other destinations on the island.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Corfu Town and are a convenient way to get around the town and the island.
  • Car Rentals: Several car rental companies offer services in Corfu Town, providing visitors with the flexibility to explore the island at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Corfu Town

Visitors can explore Corfu Town on foot, as most attractions and sites are within walking distance of each other. However, taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk.

Where to Go Next from Corfu Town: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Paxos Island: A beautiful island located just south of Corfu, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches.
  • Meteora Monasteries: A UNESCO World Heritage site located on the mainland, featuring stunning cliffside monasteries that are over 600 years old.

Conclusion

Corfu Town is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities. With its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful natural attractions, the town offers something for everyone. Plan your trip to this beautiful island now and discover the many wonders of Corfu Town.

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