Corfu
Country: Greece · Region: Greek Isles · Currency: Euro
Corfu is the northernmost Ionian Island in Greece, a popular cruise destination where most cruise ships dock in Corfu Town. The island offers diverse attractions including UNESCO-listed Old Town, beaches, mountain villages, and a blend of Greek, Venetian, and British cultural influences.
Top sights
Old Corfu Town (UNESCO World Heritage), Achilleion Palace, Old Perithia (heritage village), Paleokastritsa Bay, Mount Pantokrator, Kanali tou Erota (Sidari)
Things to do
- Achilleion
- A palace in Corfu Town featuring gardens with a statue of Achilles.
- Old Perithia
- The last remaining Heritage Protected Village, dating back to c. 1350, nestled in a Designated Area of Natural Beauty and ideal for walkers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Aqualand
- One of the biggest water parks in the world in Central Corfu, equipped with 51 slides and pools.
- Corfu Trail
- A 222-km long distance footpath covering the full length of the island with well-signed routes and accompanying guidebooks.
Beaches
- Paleokastritsa
- A famous bay on the west side of the island known for sandy beaches.
- Kassiopi
- One of the more relaxed resorts with a pretty bay, mostly stony beach, and crystal clear calm waters on the northeast coast.
Where to eat
- Liston
- A restaurant where you can order local gingerbeer (Tsitsibeera), a British-style drink adopted with local enthusiasm.
Bars and nightlife
- Corfu Microbrewery
- Located in Arillas in north Corfu, producing four unpasteurized types of beer that were selected to produce Koroibos Beer exclusively for the London Olympics.
Getting around
From Corfu Town cruise pier, use Blue buses for town and environs or Green buses for villages; car rental, boats, and taxis are available alternatives.
What to eat
Try local Corfiot specialties like pastitsada (Venetian-influenced spiced meat stew) and sofrito (veal in garlic white wine sauce) at traditional tavernas, though tourist-oriented restaurants serving burgers are common.
Tips
Book a hire car in advance online for better rates, and choose a small car due to narrow roads and poor surfacing in some areas.
Best for
Beaches, walking, history, culture