Discover the enchantment of Corfu with a stroll through its stunning vistas and historical sites on self-guided audio tours.
What is it?
A grand and historic square paired with an elegant promenade offering leisure and culture.
Why you should go?
Spianada Square is the heart of Corfu's social life and one of the largest plazas in Greece, reminiscent of European cityscapes. Flanked by the Liston Promenade with its arches inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, the area offers a blend of cultural events, historical monuments, and chic cafes. While there, visitors can watch cricket matches, a legacy of British rule, or attend concerts and festivals that animate the square. This vibrant space connects the old with the new, making it a must-experience hub of Corfiot life.
Corfu: Angelokastro
What is it?
A striking Byzantine castle stationed on an acropolis with an awe-inspiring view.
Why you should go?
Perched high above the island on the island’s northwest coast, Angelokastro or 'Castle of Angels' stands as a sentinel with centuries-old tales to tell. This fortress, among the most significant byzantine ruins in Corfu, provides a tangible connection to the island’s medieval past. Travelers can explore ancient walls and chapels with frescoes, all the while enveloped in the mythology and strategic importance of this clifftop bastion. Its unrivaled location offers some of the most breathtaking panoramas in Corfu, overlooking the vast Ionian Sea.
Corfu: Mouse Island (Pontikonisi)
What is it?
A tiny, iconic islet with lush greenery and a historic Byzantine chapel.
Why you should go?
Mouse Island, or Pontikonisi, is perhaps Corfu's most photographed landmark, capturing the imagination with its picturesque charm and storied past. This emerald gem is accessible by a short boat trip, offering a tranquil escape and the opportunity to visit the 11th-century chapel of Pantokrator. Tradition holds this spot as the petrified ship of Ulysses, adding a layer of myth to its allure. A visit to Mouse Island is a foray into a storybook setting, perfect for those seeking a mix of serenity, spirituality, and natural splendor.
Corfu: The Corfu Archaeological Museum
What is it?
A treasure trove of artefacts tracing Corfu's ancient history and cultural evolution.
Why you should go?
Home to discoveries from the Temple of Artemis and other significant sites, the Corfu Archaeological Museum is a journey through time. Highlights include the impressive Gorgon pediment from the 6th century BC, captivating visitors with its scale and detail. The museum's collections span centuries, offering insights into the lives of Corfiots from antiquity to the Middle Ages. A visit here is essential for understanding the layers of history that have shaped the island and the wider region.
Corfu: Vlacherna Monastery
What is it?
A serene, whitewashed monastery located on a picturesque islet connected by a causeway.
Why you should go?
With its emblematic silhouette against the clear blue sky, the Vlacherna Monastery offers a peaceful retreat just off the southern tip of the Kanoni peninsula. The quaint islet, accessible by a stone walkway, allows visitors to explore at their leisure, taking in the quiet sanctity of the chapel and stunning views of the surrounding sea. The monastery is also a fantastic vocation point for plane watching, as aircraft make their descent to the nearby airport. It's an amazing combination of spiritual calmness and dynamic energy.
TOP-5 tours in Corfu for first time visitors
- Explore the Old Town: Immerse in the history of Corfu as you wander through narrow alleys, pastel-hued homes, and Venetian fortresses, all while learning about the island's rich cultural tapestry.
- Achilleion Palace Escape: Step into the world of Empress Sisi and relive the grandeur of the 19th century amidst lush gardens and classical sculptures, discovering royal secrets and breathtaking views.
- Corfu's Coastal Splendor: Experience the azure Ionian Sea with a coastal adventure, visiting the famous Paleokastritsa Monastery and soaking in the panoramic clifftop vistas that will leave you speechless.
- Mountain Villages Tour: Ascend through Corfu's scenic hills to traditional villages like Lakones and Bella Vista, indulging in local gastronomy and learning about the island's timeless rural lifestyle.
- Mon Repos Palatial Walks: Delve into the birthplace of Prince Philip at the Mon Repos Palace, where botanical gardens and relics of ancient Greek and Roman times mingle with stories of British royalty.
Fun things to do in Corfu with kids
Embarking on a family adventure in Corfu, parents will find many activities that capture the imaginations of children and create lasting memories. First on the list is Aqualand Water Park, one of Europe's most impressive water havens, featuring slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that offer cool respite and thrills for all ages. Additionally, the Corfu Aquarium in Paleokastritsa provides an educational journey into marine life, where kids can marvel at local and exotic sea-dwellers and even partake in interactive experiences. For a day surrounded by fauna, the Corfu Donkey Rescue offers the chance to meet and learn about these gentle creatures in a caring and natural environment. This non-profit sanctuary focuses on the welfare and rehabilitation of donkeys, allowing children an opportunity to connect with animals while understanding the importance of empathy and kindness. Whether through splashing, learning, or caring, these places to visit in Corfu ensure that families with children have engaging and fun-filled experiences.
Things to do in Corfu with family
Planning a family getaway to Corfu ensures a memorable journey filled with engaging experiences that cater to all ages. One of the island’s family-friendly jewels is the Corfu Aquarium, located in the scenic area of Paleokastritsa. This marine attraction-slash-educational facility brings visitors closer to the underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea and sparks children’s curiosity about marine biology. For a splash of excitement, Aqualand Water Park offers an expansive array of water slides, a wave pool, and lazy rivers that promise a fun-packed day for both the young and the young-at-heart. Families can also explore the lush Corfu countryside on horseback with Trailriders Horse Trekking, perfect for creating unique bonding moments while enjoying the island's natural beauty on a gentle ride suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. These Corfu activities blend adventure, discovery, and relaxation to complete any family holiday itinerary.
Free things to do in Corfu
Corfu, resplendent with natural and historical beauty, offers a bounty of activities that require no more than a sense of adventure. Top among the free things to do is meandering through the Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where every cobblestone, Venetian building, and historical square tells a story. Here, families can indulge in the captivating charm of Corfu’s history and vibrant culture. Nature lovers rejoice at the Corfu Trail, a walking path that covers the entire island, showcasing its diverse landscapes, from olive groves to serene beaches. For an idyllic day, visiting the Mon Repos Estate provides spectacular botanical gardens and ancient ruins all free of charge. Located just south of Corfu Town, these sprawling, lush grounds offer a quiet retreat and a chance to immerse oneself in the greenery and history of the island without spending a single euro.
Cheap things to do in Corfu
Travelers to Corfu can enjoy a plethora of budget-friendly attractions that promise rich experiences without a hefty price tag. Corfu’s markets, like those in the bustling alleyways of Kérkyra, offer a sensory and cultural feast for simply the cost of a gyro or a chilled Greek coffee. Bask in the local color, sample affordable street food, and hunt for souvenirs at modest prices. Beach enthusiasts can spend a sun-soaked day at Agios Gordios or Glyfada Beach, where natural beauty is on full display and relaxation costs nothing. For a minimal entrance fee, the Casa Parlante Museum presents a living history experience inside a restored 19th-century mansion, offering a glimpse into the life of a bygone aristocratic Corfiot family. These activities illustrate that in Corfu, adventure and cultural immersion are accessible to travelers mindful of their expenses.
Things to do in Corfu for couples
Corfu sets the scene for romance with its idyllic landscapes and enchanting attractions, perfect for couples in search of memorable experiences together. One can begin with a leisurely walk through the Corfu Old Town, wandering hand in hand amidst historical architecture and discovering cozy cafés tucked away in its narrow alleys. For an intimate retreat, a visit to the secluded shores of Myrtiotissa Beach offers a serene setting ideal for watching the sunset and listening to the gentle lap of the waves. Alternatively, couples might indulge in a private wine tasting tour at Theotoky Estate, nestled in the Ropa Valley. Here they can savor a bouquet of local flavors surrounded by the tranquil vineyards—an oenophile's delight that blends culinary indulgence with the lush Corfiot countryside. These places to visit in Corfu weave together the threads of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence to create a tapestry of endless romantic possibilities.
Things to do in Corfu at night
As night descends on Corfu, the island reveals a vibrant tapestry of nocturnal activities. Embark on an evening stroll along the Liston Promenade in Corfu Town, where the nightly ritual of the volta—leisurely walk—comes to life amid the illuminated arches reminiscent of Parisian street scenes. The promenade thrums with the chatter of locals and visitors alike, enjoying the alfresco dining scene and savoring Corfiot culinary delights. For a dash of excitement, couples and groups can venture to the casino located in the opulent Corfu Palace Hotel, trying their luck and soaking in the glamour of a bygone era. Meanwhile, music lovers will delight in the live traditional Greek music that fills the air in local tavernas, offering an authentic soundtrack to a night of dancing and merriment. Each of these night-time pursuits provides a unique way to experience Corfu's after-dark charm and create unforgettable vacation memories.