A POPULAR DESTINATION
Corfu (Kerkyra) is one of the Ionian Islands of Greece, located in the Ionian Sea, near the European mainland.
Since the 1960’s tourists have been flocking to Corfu. In fact more than 1 million visitors still come to the island each year, and it’s no wonder. They seek the beautiful scenery and pretty sites Corfu is famous for. It’s considered one of the most popular Greek islands for its natural beauty and seaside lifestyle and is Greece’s greenest island, full of lush forests and olive groves.
The island’s capital city is also called Corfu and is the main destination and beating heart, packed with history, scenic spots and warm hospitality.
I visited Corfu in April during Spring, via cruise ship, which docked at Mandraki Marina, Corfu’s main Port. I then joined a tour with a local expert for a few hours, followed by some time to explore the glorious city and surrounds a little more.
Here I’ll outline the best places to visit around the city of Corfu, in one day, if you’re planning a trip. I thoroughly loved the city and and can appreciate why it’s one of the most famous Greek Islands.
CORFU - A FUSION OF CULTURES
Corfu city is a charming Mediterranean fusion of Venetian, French, British and Greek architecture and culture which you will appreciate as you explore the city.
The maritime Republic of Venice ruled the island for nearly 400 years and has prominently influenced the city as we see it today with a multitude of buildings and landmarks of Venetian style, Italian foods and Italian language still spoken by some locals.
Also important to recognise are the French and British influences of the city, such as the elegant French style buildings and arcades of Spianada Square, the British Palace of St Michael and St George, education, town planning and more.
Throughout history, Corfu has managed to maintain its Greek identity through language, arts, religion and history, until officially returning to Greek rule in 1864.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CORFU CITY
Spianada Square
This is a great place to start your visit of Corfu. The largest square in Greece, located just outside the Old Town, Spianada Square, also known as the Esplanade, is a vast 42,000 square metres.
Next to the square is Platia Leonida Vlachou Park, with lovely greenery, which has a music pavilion, and together they are the most beautiful places to hang out and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Liston Promenade
The Liston is a lovely, wide, pedestrian concourse on the edge of Spianada Square, with French-style buildings, arcades, cafes and restaurants. The area is a popular part of the city for locals and tourists, always busy with people strolling and admiring the gorgeous buildings with pretty balconies and soaking up the atmosphere.
I enjoyed a lovely seafood meal here at one of the many establishments, called Cofineta Restaurant.
Old Town
Corfu Old Town is an ancient city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is absolutely beautiful, romantic, and bursting with character.
Much of the architecture of the Old Town is Venetian-style, given the city was ruled by the Republic of Venice from 1300’s and lasted almost 400 years. Hence, the city has the characteristic narrow cobblestoned streets, tall villas and squares similar to Venice.
The Old Town is car-free. Walking the ancient city is the only way to explore this delightful town and can be done in half a day.
Sites to see in Corfu Old Town include:
- Church of Spyridon of Corfu, named after the Patron Saint of the city. With a vibrant red dome on top of the bell tower it is easy to spot.
- Ionian Parliament building, from 1800’s, now holds events and exhibitions.
- Town Hall, built 1600’s from marble and stone.
- Small museums and galleries, such as Archaeological Museum of Corfu.
- Many shops selling clothing, souvenirs and local products such as kumquat sweets, Corfiot wines, and leather goods.
- Plenty of lovely cafes, restaurants and taverns.
Museum of Asian Art
The Museum of Asian Art is quite a unique attraction, as it is the only museum in Greece dedicated to Asian art. The vast collection of more than 10,000 artefacts were donated by a Greek diplomat.
The museum is housed inside the stunning Palace of St Michael and St George, which originally served as the residence of the British Lord High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands. Built 1819, the interior is luxuriously adorned.
The Palace is an important and stunning landmark of Corfu, located near the Spianada.
Old Fortress and New Fortress
The forts of Corfu are historic landmarks, which protected the city and the residents from invasions on several occasions in the past.
Visitors can explore both forts.
- The Old Fortress near Spianada Square is accessed by a bridge over the moat and overlooks the sea. Built by the Venetians in 1500’s, it has a lighthouse, a museum and a church, and offers great views.
- The New Fortress was also built in 1500’s, so clearly it’s not new, but it is huge. Positioned on the hill of St Mark, it’s known as the Fortress of Saint Mark of Venice. The Venetian lion symbol features on the entrance. Exhibits, events and concerts are held here.
City Coastline
The city of Corfu is a bustling seaside destination, offering plenty of attractions and activities on and near the water.
Ships, ferries and boats dock at the Port, a short walk from the Old Town. Ferries are available to other islands, as well as to Greece’s mainland, Albania and Italy. Water taxis are popular for short trips around the island.
Corfu beaches near the main city are Faliraki Beach, Old Fortress Beach, and Noak Beach.
Along the coast there are walking paths, gardens, statues, museums, a cricket pitch, a pavilion, fortifications, various beaches and plenty of eateries. So this is where people spend a lot of time.
Kanoni Village
Arguably the prettiest view of Corfu is from the hilltop of Kanoni, where the old French canon sits, overlooking Kanoni Harbour. You can see the Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna and Mouse Island, known as Pontikonisi, in the middle of the bay.
People come up to this vantage point, on the terrace, to admire the stunning view, snap photos and relax. I spent quite a bit of time up here, taking it all in.
From this location you can also watch the planes taking off and landing at Corfu Airport, which is located very close by, on the right-hand side of the hill.
Kanoni is a popular resort area, just a few kilometres from the city centre, reachable by bus or car.
There are pebble beaches here, a pedestrian bridge to the Monastery, and boat tours available.
Kanoni is a must-see part of Corfu you don’t want to miss.
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10 Comments
Corfu looks like a charming city! Visiting Greece is on my bucket list and I hope to visit this town too.
I still have not visited Greece and it’s on my list for next year! I love visiting different Old Towns in countries, they are always full of so much character.
I would love to see Corfu one day. I would make absolutely sure that I had more than one day, though. It’s so beautiful and full of history.
Corfu looks like an amazing place. I love the ancient feel of it. Just gorgeous.
Oh my what beautiful places to see in Greece. My boss loved traveling there.
I do love Greece and had an amazing holiday there when I was 21 so a few years ago now. I would love to go back there one day. It is a beautiful island
These pictures of Greece are stunning! Great post, thanks for sharing!
As a travel agent i have a customer traveling to Greece in the fall and visiting many spots along with Corfu, I will be passing this info and your other blogs onto her. It will help her out . Thanks for the info.
Corfu looks quite charming. I’d love to have a bit more time to explore town and also the surrounding island.
Kanoni looks magical. The mix of views, history, and planes landing so close makes it feel surreal. Definitely adding it to my Corfu list.