If you happen to’re on the lookout for issues to do in Corfu City, look no additional! Our Corfu journey information will present you all the perfect points of interest within the metropolis. Whether or not you’re popping into Corfu City throughout a day journey on a cruise or spending three days in Corfu, these are the must-see points of interest that you simply can’t miss.
We spent three days in Corfu exploring the Outdated City, seashores, and historic websites and located that it was simply sufficient time to benefit from the wealthy cultural heritage of this historical metropolis. It is a nice itinerary which you could observe to create your personal reminiscences.
Corfu City, a UNESCO World Heritage Web site
The complete previous city of Corfu is a delegated UNESCO World Heritage Web site. All through the ages, Corfu has been a strategic level for commerce and navy routes, with empires vying for management, from the Ottoman Empire to the Germans throughout the Second World Warfare. With its historical and powerful historic and cultural heritage, it’s no marvel Corfu City stands out. Though a lot of the Outdated City was destroyed throughout the Second World Warfare, sufficient survived and was rebuilt to be awarded UNESCO World Heritage Standing.
UNESCO said that “the city and port ensemble of Corfu, dominated by its two fortresses of Venetian origin, constitutes an architectural instance of excellent common worth in each its authenticity and its integrity.”
The city is house to quite a few architectural marvels, such because the Outdated Fortress, the New Fortress, and the Palace of St. George and St. Michael. Museums just like the Museum of Asian Artwork and the Archaeological Museum present deep insights into the island’s historical past and artwork.
Prime Issues to Do in The Outdated City of Corfu
Corfu is the northernmost of the Ionian Islands, situated proper on the Albanian border. It’s within the Adriatic Sea, off the northwest coast of the Greek mainland. This city is legendary for its historic and cultural heritage and is a must-visit when planning a visit to Greece. Corfu was below Venetian Rule for 4 centuries and can remind you extra of Venice than the whitewashed islands of Santorini or Mykonos.
A part of the attraction of visiting Corfu City is getting misplaced within the slim streets of Outdated City Corfu, having fun with the cool waters of the Mediterranean, and studying about its Venetian and British historical past.
1. Mon Repos Palace Resort
We based mostly ourselves at Mon Repos Palace, which is situated on Garitsa Bay, only one km from the previous city of Corfu. It’s inside strolling distance of the Outdated City, following a straightforward stroll alongside the promenade. However, it’s also far sufficient away from the hustle and bustle of Corfu Metropolis to flee and loosen up. It’s situated instantly throughout from the Adriatic Sea, with a seaside, swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and even nightly leisure.
On this space, there are additionally loads of eating places on the waterfront to select from, so that you don’t have to go to Corfu City each night time. We discovered this adults-only resort to be the proper lodge for our three days in Corfu.
Mon Repos Palace Resort can be near a number of the high Corfu points of interest, together with the Mon Repos Baths, Mon Repos Palace, and lighthouse. However extra on that later. Let’s start with the highest points of interest in Corfu for these of you who’ve solely been to Corfu for in the future. We are going to then transfer on to extra Corfu.
2. Hop-on Hop-Off Bus
Corfu Island is a big island that may be very unfold out. Even while you go to Corfu City, you’ll discover that points of interest are unfold from the Outdated Port to Garitsa Bay and past. Top-of-the-line methods to see a whole lot of Cofru in a short while is to get on the Hop on Hop off Bus. You’ll be able to catch it on the Corfu Port, which is able to take you to lots of the high points of interest.
It’s good for twenty-four hours, and there are limitless stops.
3. Outdated Fortress
The highest vacationer attraction in Corfu is undoubtedly the Outdated Fort. The Outdated Fortress of Corfu, or Palaio Frourio is a Venetian Fortress has a storied historical past courting again to the Byzantine period. Nonetheless, its present construction was considerably developed throughout Venetian rule from the 14th to sixteenth century. The Venetians cleverly acknowledged Corfu’s strategic significance in order that they fortified the island to guard it from Ottoman invasions.
This ought to be the primary place you go within the morning earlier than the tour buses and crowds arrive. We walked from Mon Repos Palace and recommended getting there very first thing within the morning to not solely keep away from crowds but in addition take pleasure in cooler climate.
4. St. George’s Church
This fortress actually has seen its share of historical past. Corfu Island was additionally below British Rule throughout the early nineteenth century, and the Outdated Fortress homes St. George’s Church, which was constructed by the British.
The doorway to the fortress is marked by a drawbridge resulting in the imposing predominant gate. This gate units the tone for the grandeur and historic significance of the positioning.
The Outdated Barracks provide perception into navy life throughout Venetian and British rule. They now home numerous exhibitions and cultural occasions.
Be sure to stroll to the best level of the fortress to the Lighthouse. This offers stunning panoramic views of Corfu City and the Ionian Sea. We discovered this to be the perfect views of the capital metropolis.
5. The Byzantine Museum
Housed inside the fortress, the Byzantine museum showcases a set of Byzantine icons, frescoes, and different non secular artifacts, offering a deeper understanding of Corfu’s cultural and non secular heritage. Earlier than you allow the previous fortress, it’s price popping in to not solely see the gathering however cool off from the warmth.
6. Spianada Sq. – Esplanade Public Sq.
The Higher Esplanade Public Sq., also referred to as the Spianada Sq., is the most important sq. in Greece and one of many largest in Europe. It’s situated simply throughout from the Outdated Fortress is the Esplanade Public Sq. and is a superb place to seize a Greek espresso or pastry earlier than shifting on to Corfu Outdated City.
When you’ve loved your espresso, take a stroll alongside the Liston Promenade that was constructed by the French within the early nineteenth century, it’s lined with eating places and outlets alongside elegant arcades and lanterns.
7. Maitland Monument
Being one of many largest squares in Europe, Spianada Sq. has a number of issues to discover. Maintain a watch out for the Maitland Monument, a neoclassical rotunda devoted to Sir Thomas Maitland, a British Lord Excessive Commissioner. We had no concept what it was after we had been there, however it really does stand out. There are stunning gardens, a cricket floor, playgrounds, and pedestrian-friendly paths.
8. St. Michael and St. George Palace
The Palace of St. Michael and St. George, situated on the northern finish of the Esplanade, is a powerful neoclassical constructing that now homes the Museum of Asian Artwork. The palace itself is a murals, with stunning gardens and a grand inside.
From right here, you may see the Outdated Fort intimately. There may be additionally a sculpture backyard and an exquisite stroll below the shaded bushes to flee the warmth. The porticoes are well-liked for images, and there are views of the seaside.
9. Museum of Asian Artwork
Situated inside the Palace of St. Michael and St. George is without doubt one of the hottest museums in Corfu City. Established in 1928, it’s the solely museum in Greece devoted completely to the artwork and antiquities of Asia. The museums function artwork from China and different nations of Asia, together with Japan, India, and Central Asia.
Guests can count on to see beautiful porcelain, ceramics, jade carvings, and bronze artifacts from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Japanese artwork is well-represented, with a set that features samurai armor, swords, ceramics, and woodblock prints. And Indian and Southeast Asian Artwork options sculptures, textiles, and non secular artifacts.
The museum is housed within the beautiful Palace of St. Michael and St. George, constructed throughout the British Protectorate. The palace’s neoclassical design, with its grand halls and chic rooms, provides to the general expertise of visiting the museum.
10. Archaeological Museum of Corfu
As you proceed strolling, you’ll come throughout the Archaeological Museum of Corfu, situated simply off the Higher Esplanade. The Museum homes essential artifacts from Corfu’s historical historical past, together with the spectacular Gorgon pediment from the Temple of Artemis. with its wealthy and historical historical past, you may see artifacts courting again to the Paleolithic Period.
11. New Fortress
Additionally of Venetian origin, the New Fortress (Neo Frourio) isn’t all that new. The truth is, it was constructed just some years after the Outdated Fortress between between 1576 and 1588.
We loved the New Fortress greater than the Outdated Fortress as fewer individuals visited this architectural Mavel. We walked alongside its huge partitions, bastions, and underground passages showcasing superior engineering strategies of the time. The design contains a number of ranges and interconnected tunnels, making a formidable protection system. It additionally has stunning views of Corfu City, the place you may actually see its Venetian affect.
12. Dimarchiou – Outdated Metropolis Corridor
Dimarchiou Sq., situated within the coronary heart of Corfu City, is a bustling hub of exercise and a big cultural landmark. Named after the City Corridor (Dimarchiou) that overlooks the sq., this vibrant space is surrounded by elegant Venetian buildings, charming cafes, and boutique outlets.
It serves as a well-liked gathering spot for each locals and vacationers, providing a picturesque setting with its superbly maintained gardens and historic structure. The sq. is usually the positioning of native occasions and festivals, making it a energetic and important a part of Corfu’s city panorama.
13. Church of St. Spyridon
One factor that you’ll discover from throughout the previous city is the Chruch of St. Spyridon dominating the skyline of the Outdated City. The Church of St. Spyridon is devoted to the patron saint of Corfu. Its bell tower is the tallest within the Ionian Islands. Inside, you’ll discover stunning frescoes and the silver sarcophagus of St. Spyridon, believed to guard the island. No photographs are allowed inside, and monks guard the tomb of St. Spyridon, however it’s positively price going inside to see.
Different church buildings to see in Corfu are the Byzantine church of St. Jason and the oldest church in Corfu, St. Sosipater and the Church of Panagia Spiliotissa, or Spiliotiss Church, is one other architectural gem.
Corfu Outdated City’s slim streets are lined with outlets providing every thing from native crafts to designer items. Don’t miss the possibility to purchase conventional kumquat liqueur, olive wooden merchandise, and handmade jewellery. Seize an ice cream and get misplaced within the slim streets weaving by means of previous down.
15. Sundown Cruise
When visiting the Ionian Islands of Greece, you will need to get on the water. We took a non-public yacht to the neighboring smaller islands, however there are many day excursions and cruises that may take you to see views of Corru.
Day Journey to Paxos and Antipaxos
Paxos and Antipaxos are two islands situated only a quick ferry trip from Corfu. These small islands are a visit in their very own proper, and we spent a number of days exploring them.
16. Faliraki Seaside
Faliraki Seaside is situated only a quick stroll from Corfu Outdated City, making it preferrred for a fast seaside getaway with out having to journey far. After exploring the city’s historic and cultural sights, guests can simply loosen up and unwind by the ocean.
The seaside gives breathtaking views of the Outdated Fortress and the azure waters of the Ionian Sea. The scenic backdrop is ideal for taking memorable photographs and having fun with the serene fantastic thing about Corfu’s shoreline. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling. The light waves make it a secure and satisfying spot for swimmers of all ages, together with households with youngsters. There’s a seaside bar serving Greek delicacies and refreshing drinks.
17. Windmill Lighthouse
Certainly one of our favourite locations to look at sundown in Corfu is the Windmill Lighthouse. The lighthouse is situated near Mon Repos Palace Resort, and we walked out to take pleasure in some of the beautiful sunsets we’ve ever seen. That is additionally a well-liked spot for locals to swim.
18. Mon Repos Palace and Park
Mon Repos Palace is a neoclassical villa set in stunning gardens. It was the birthplace of Prince Philip and now homes the Museum of Palaiopolis, which showcases archaeological finds from the world. Mon Repos Palace was the summer time residence of the British Excessive Commissioner and was an exquisite mansion. It’s straightforward to entry by way of the Hop on Hop off Bus, and the palace is situated inside a stunning park with strolling paths and sculptures.
19. Mo Repos Baths
The Mon Repos Baths are situated close to Mon Repos Palace, and guests can benefit from the seaside, lounge chairs and umbrellas, and food and drinks service. These historic baths are a part of the Mon Repos Property and are perfect for a soothing swim within the clear waters. The baths are only a quick stroll from Mon Repos Palace Resort, The Lighthouse, and Mon Repos Palace.
20. Vlacherna Monastery
Vlacherna Monastery is linked to the mainland by a pedestrian walkway and is without doubt one of the most photographed locations in Corfu. Relationship again to the seventeenth century, it served as a nunnery till the Eighties. Individuals make their manner out to the monastery to look at the airplanes land because the airport is situated within the direct path of the island. It’s also some of the well-liked locations in Corfu for sundown.
21. Mouse Island
From Vlacherna Monastery, it’s only a quick boat trip to Mouse Island or Pontikonisi. Mouse Island is one in all Corfu’s iconic landmarks. This small island is only a quick boat journey from the mainland, it’s a tranquil spot with a small chapel and luxurious greenery. It’s significantly stunning when considered from above.
22. Kanoni
Leaving Outdated City, Kanoni is taken into account the brand new a part of Corfu City. The realm of Kanoni is a well-liked place to look at the sundown and airplanes land while you go to Corfu City. Take the hop-on, hop-off bus out to Kanoni, the place you may see the planes touchdown proper beside the Ariti Grand Resort and Kanoni cafe. The Corfu signal can be situated right here, so you will get your Instagram price photographs as nicely.
There are many motels out on this space and locations to eat Greek meals or to take pleasure in an Aperol Spritz.
23. Historic Metropolis Of Paleopolis
The Historic Metropolis of Paleopolis is without doubt one of the most traditionally vital websites on the island. It dates again to the eighth century BC and was as soon as the thriving capital metropolis of Corfu. Situated close to the Mon Repos property, Paleopolis is house to historical ruins and artifacts from numerous durations, together with the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras. It will probably simply be reached from Outdated City by way of the Hop on Hop off Bus.
The Temple of Artemis dates again to round 580 BC and as soon as housed the well-known Gorgon Medusa pediment, now displayed within the Archaeological Museum.
Different issues you will notice are the ruins of Roman baths, which spotlight the affect of Roman structure and tradition in Paleopolis. The location contains well-preserved mosaic flooring and the stays of the hypocaust system, which was used to warmth the baths.
The Agora was the center of the traditional metropolis, the place commerce and social gatherings came about. An early Christian basilica dates again to the fifth century AD. The ruins embody components of the mosaic ground and the define of the church’s construction, offering perception into the early Christian presence on the island.
The way to Get to Corfu
Corfu City is well accessible, with the Corfu Worldwide Airport only a quick drive from the previous city and frequent ferry connections to the Greek mainland and different Ionian Islands. As soon as on the town, exploring on foot is straightforward, or you may take Uber, Taxis, or Hop off the Bus.
Situated off mainland Greece. The commonest approach to attain it’s by air (you may verify flight schedules right here), with Corfu Worldwide Airport (Ioannis Kapodistrias) receiving direct flights from main European cities, significantly throughout the vacationer season.
For these touring from inside Greece, there are common home flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, and different main cities. There are ferry companies that join Corfu to a number of ports on the mainland, together with Igoumenitsa and Patras, in addition to worldwide locations like Italy and Albania.
Ferries additionally run between Corfu and different Ionian Islands, making island hopping a handy possibility. As soon as on the island, Corfu City is well accessible by taxi, bus, or rental automobile, making certain a easy begin to your exploration of this enchanting vacation spot.
Is Corfu City Value Visiting?
Completely, Corfu City is unquestionably price visiting. Corfu City, also referred to as Kerkyra, boasts a wealthy historical past that spans a number of centuries and civilizations. The structure displays the varied previous of this historical metropolis, with influences from the Venetians, French, and British. Strolling by means of its slim, cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter superbly preserved buildings, historic church buildings, and grand palaces.
The Liston Promenade, lined with cafes and eating places, is the proper place to loosen up and people-watch. The city’s squares, reminiscent of Spianada and Dimarchiou Sq., are bustling with exercise and sometimes host native occasions and festivals.
Corfu City is a haven for meals lovers. From conventional Greek tavernas to upscale eating places, the city gives a variety of eating choices. Don’t miss attempting native specialties reminiscent of sofrito, pastitsada, and recent seafood.
The place to Keep in Corfu
We stayed at Mon Repos Palace simply outdoors of Outdated City Corfu, however there are many fantastic locations to remain in Corfu City. We propose trying out each Resort Bella Venezia within the Outdated City and the Ariti Grand Resort in Kanoni.
The Island of Corfu
Once you go to Corfu, don’t restrict your self to only Corfu City; the remainder of the island is gorgeous. We booked a automobile rental from Corfu City and loved one other week exploring the northern facet of the island and its stunning seashores.
And there you’ve a whole checklist of the perfect issues to do in Corfu City from the previous city to its seashores and scenic views. If you’re planning a visit to Greece, be certain to place Corfu in your checklist of locations to go to. It’s really a superb yr spherical vacation spot that’s good so as to add to your go to to the northern a part of Greece. Have you ever been to Corfu? What did we miss, tell us within the feedback under.