The island of Corfu, also known as Corcyra, is one of the Mediterranean's most coveted destinations. Located in the Ionian Sea, west of mainland Greece and less than 3 km from the Albanian coast, it offers visitors an enchanting environment of idyllic beaches, fascinating historical sites and mountain landscapes. This Greek island, covering 585.3 km², is a prime destination for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Corfu promises unforgettable memories set against a charming Mediterranean backdrop.

History

Corfu possesses an ancient and complex history, having served as a crossroads for numerous civilizations. It has been inhabited since the Paleolithic period. From antiquity onwards, the Phoenicians made Corfu a thriving commercial hub, followed by the Macedonians in 338 BC, the Spartans in 300 BC, and then the Illyrians. Each civilization left its own imprint on the island. Conquered by the Romans in 229 BC, Corfu subsequently became a possession of the Eastern Roman Empire following the fall of the Western Empire.

During the Middle Ages, the island suffered numerous incursions from pirates, Goths and Saracens before becoming a fortress under the Normans and later the Venetians. Over time, the island came under the rule of Charles of Anjou, French King of Sicily, before falling back into Venetian hands in 1386. It was the Venetians who left the most enduring mark, occupying Corfu for more than four centuries. They constructed magnificent monuments, which remain symbols of Venetian architecture in Greece today.

Corfu was subsequently conquered in 1815 by the British. They modernized certain infrastructures until 1864, when the island was finally united with Greece.

Moreover, this succession of occupations shaped a unique and diverse culture, visible in the island's architecture, gastronomy and local traditions. Corfu also survived numerous upheavals, including the destruction of the world wars.

Corfu's Old Town

Corfu's old town is arguably the island's most celebrated point of interest. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a striking blend of Venetian buildings with colorful façades and neoclassical residences. The narrow alleyways, called "kandounia," invite visitors to lose themselves in this town's unique charm.

Among the must-see sites are the two emblematic fortresses: the New Fort to the west and the Old Fort to the east. The latter, dating from the 5th century, houses the Church of Saint George and a library, while offering spectacular views over the Strait of Corfu and the mainland.

Beyond the fortifications, the old town holds other treasures such as the Archaeological Museum and the Casa Parlante, a 19th-century mansion that tells the story of the era's nobility. The Spianada, one of Greece's largest squares, is a popular meeting place surrounded by cafés and monuments. Visitors can regularly attend cultural events here, such as classical music concerts or traditional dance performances.

Sites and Monuments

Achilleion

Built in 1888, Achilleion is a palace, or more precisely a summer residence for the Austrian Empress, Elisabeth of Bavaria. It is a unique example of neoclassical architecture inspired by Greek mythology. Decorated with sculptures and artworks honoring the hero Achilles, this building is surrounded by lush gardens that provide a peaceful setting for visitors.

Church of Saint Spyridon

Dating from 1580, the Church of Saint Spyridon is a notable religious site, home to the relics of the island's patron saint. Locals attribute several miracles to him, notably the preservation of Corfu against Ottoman invasions. Every year, religious processions are organized to honor Saint Spyridon, attracting thousands of faithful and tourists.

Paleokastritsa Monastery

The Paleokastritsa Monastery, dating from the 13th century, is one of the oldest and most beautiful on the island. Perched on a hillside with spectacular views over the sea, it also houses a small museum displaying religious relics and historical artifacts.

Traditional Villages

Corfu is dotted with charming villages that have preserved their authenticity. Lefkimmi, in the island's south, is one of these. You'll find charming stone houses, ancient churches and family-run tavernas offering a glimpse into traditional Corfiot life.

Pelekas is another interesting village, notably for its exceptional views from the Kaisers Throne viewpoint. From here, you can admire stunning panoramic views of the island, especially at sunset. The village is also known for its artisans and local markets.

Kassiopi is a former fishing village. Today it's one of Corfu's finest coastal resorts. Here you'll find a castle of the same name that is absolutely worth visiting.

Beaches

Corfu also attracts visitors with its sumptuous beaches and crystal-clear waters. Paleokastritsa beach, surrounded by cliffs, is particularly prized for its turquoise waters and rich, diverse marine life.

Canal d'Amour is another mythical beach on the island, famous for its natural limestone rock formations. According to legend, couples who swim through the channel will stay together for life.

Issos beach captivates visitors with its sand dunes and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. Agios and Glyfada beaches are perfect for those seeking golden sand beaches with modern facilities. They are highly popular for swimming and sunbathing.

Getting There

By Air

Corfu has an international airport, Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport, located approximately 3 km from the main town. Many airlines, including budget carriers, offer direct flights to the island from several European cities. For those already in Greece, domestic flights are available from Athens Airport (ATH).

By Ferry

The Port of Igoumenitsa, located across from Corfu on the mainland, offers regular ferry crossings. The journey takes approximately 1 to 2 hours. It is also possible to reach the island by boat from Saranda, a coastal town in Albanie. This crossing takes between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the boat type (fast or regular).

By Bus

Blue buses serve Corfu's main town and its surroundings. They run frequently and are ideal for short trips, particularly around the capital. Additionally, green buses are the best option for exploring the rest of the island. They serve the main villages, squares and beach resorts.

By Rental Car

A rental car is an ideal option for visitors wishing to discover Corfu at their own pace. This allows exploration of more remote areas and isolated beaches not served by public transport. Many rental agencies are located at the airport, in the main town, and in tourist areas.

By Taxi

Taxis are available in major towns, beach resorts and at Corfu Airport. They are more expensive than buses. However, they can be convenient for short trips or reaching places not served by public transport.

By Scooter or Quad

Renting a scooter or quad is a popular option among travelers wishing to move about easily. These modes of transport are particularly used on small coastal roads and in villages.

By Organized Excursion

Many local agencies offer bus or boat excursions to Corfu's popular sites, such as Achilleion and the Paleokastritsa Monastery. They also offer cruises to neighboring islands. These excursions can be an interesting option for visitors who prefer an organized itinerary.

Activities

Hiking

Corfu is a favorite destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. The island features numerous hiking trails that wind through verdant hills and coastal landscapes.

The Corfu Trail is one of the most famous, spanning 220 kilometers and crossing the entire island from north to south. Additionally, hikers can also climb Mount Pantokrator, which reaches 906 meters. From its summit, it is possible to admire panoramic views of the other Ionian islands, Albanie, mainland Greece and Apulia.

Water Sports

On Corfu, it is possible to practice various water sports such as:

• Scuba diving
• Snorkeling
• Kayaking
• Sailing
• Kitesurfing
• Windsurfing
• Paddleboarding

For thrill-seekers, parasailing is also available.

Moreover, several local agencies also offer boat excursions to explore neighboring islands and discover coves inaccessible on foot.