Attractions & Sightseeing: Corfu

Iconic Landmarks

Corfu Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, demonstrating an unique blend of Venetian, French, and British architectural influences. Its labyrinthine "kantounia" (narrow alleyways) are filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.

Liston Promenade, Spianada Square, Old Fortress, New Fortress, Achilleion Palace, Pontikonisi (Mouse Island), Vlacherna Monastery, Paleokastritsa Monastery are all iconic sites.

Visitor Information

Hours: Vary by season. Typically 8 am-8 pm in summer, 9 am-3 pm in winter for major fortresses/palaces.
Fees: Old Fortress around €10, New Fortress around €6, Achilleion Palace around €12. Vlacherna & Paleokastritsa Monasteries are free.
Guided Options: Private and group guided tours are available for Corfu Old Town and major sites like Achilleion Palace, presenting historical insights.
Dress Code: Paleokastritsa Monastery mandates shoulders and knees to be covered.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Major Museums

Archaeological Museum of Corfu: Houses artifacts from ancient Corfu, including important finds from the Temple of Artemis Gorgon.
Museum of Asian Art: Unique in Greece, located in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, featuring Chinese, Japanese, and Indian art.
Byzantine Museum of Antivouniotissa: Located in the former Church of the Virgin Antivouniotissa, it houses a collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons.
Casa Parlante: A "living history" museum depicting 19th-century aristocratic life with animatronic figures.
Banknote Museum: Showcases the history of Greek currency.
Solomos Museum: Dedicated to Dionysios Solomos, Greece's national poet.

Art & Performance Spaces

Art Galleries: Various smaller galleries in Corfu Town display local artists and contemporary works.
Corfu Reading Society: One of Greece's oldest intellectual institutions, hosts cultural events and possesses a significant library.
Municipal Theatre of Corfu: Hosts theatrical performances, concerts, and operas, especially during the winter season.
Special Exhibits: Check local listings for temporary exhibitions or cultural events during your visit. Corfu frequently hosts musical performances, art shows, and historical reenactments.

A note for visitors: GetYourGuide offers tickets for attractions and guided tours, often with flexible cancellation.

Historical Sites

Archaeological Sites: Temple of Artemis Gorgon (ruins of an ancient Greek temple, one of the earliest examples of Doric architecture). Roman Baths (remains near Temple of Artemis). Ancient Roman Villa (remains near Mon Repos).
Historical Districts & Architecture: Corfu Old Town: A living historical district with a blend of Venetian, French, and British architectural styles. It includes the Campiello, Jewish Quarter, and Catholic Cathedral.
Religious & Spiritual Sites: Saint Spyridon Church: Houses his relics and functions as a major pilgrimage site. Vlacherna Monastery & Pontikonisi: An iconic religious site. Paleokastritsa Monastery: A significant, active monastery with a rich history and beautiful setting.
Memorial Sites: Various statues and monuments in Spianada Square and throughout Corfu Town commemorate historical figures and events.

Natural Attractions

Parks & Gardens:
Public Garden (Boschetto) and Mon Repos Estate create pleasant areas for walks amidst natural beauty.
Scenic Viewpoints:
Kanoni, Kaiser's Throne (Pelekas), Mount Pantokrator (highest peak with 360-degree views), Cape Drastis (dramatic cliffs), and Canal d'Amour (unique sandstone formations).
Wildlife & Geology:
Korission Lagoon: A significant wetland and protected Natura 2000 site, home to various bird species. Canal d'Amour and Cliffs of Peroulades feature unique geological formations.
Beaches & Waterways:
Diverse sandy beaches (Glyfada, Agios Gordios, Sidari) and pebbly beaches (Paleokastritsa, Barbati). Korission Lagoon is a brackish lagoon; small rivers and streams traverse the island.

Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the popular spots to discover Corfu's quieter, equally captivating treasures.

Coastal Seclusion & Inland Charm

Arkoudilas Beach
A long, secluded sandy beach in the very south of the island, accessible via a dirt road. It is often less crowded than other popular beaches, offering tranquility.
Porto Timoni Beach
A stunning double-sided beach near Afionas village on the northwest coast. Accessible by a scenic hike or boat, it rewards visitors with crystal-clear waters and an unique setting.
Loggas Beach (Sunset Beach)
Located northwest of Sidari, known for its dramatic clay cliffs and spectacular sunsets. Visitors sometimes rub the clay on their skin for its purported benefits.

Old Perithia
A fascinating abandoned Venetian village nestled in the foothills of Mount Pantokrator. It features old stone houses and several restored tavernas, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
Local Favorite Trails
Many small inland villages offer a glimpse into authentic Corfiot life, away from the bustling tourist resorts. Explore these villages for a more genuine cultural experience.
Emerging Destinations
The interior of the island is gaining interest for agritourism and authentic village experiences. These areas present a connection to local life and traditional practices.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture views from the top of Angelokastro castle. Photograph sunset views from Kaiser's Throne or Loggas Beach. Document the unique geological formations at Cape Drastis. Capture the serene beauty of Porto Timoni.

Natural Wonders

Cape Drastis (Sidari): Dramatic limestone cliffs and formations. Canal d'Amour (Sidari): Unique sandstone rock formations and coves, with a legend that couples who swim through it will marry soon.

Diverse Coastline

Sandy Beaches: Glyfada, Agios Gordios, Sidari, Issos, and Marathias feature soft sands. Pebbly Beaches: Paleokastritsa bays, Barbati, Kerasia, Agni, and Kassiopi present clear waters. Lakes & Waterways: Korission Lagoon is a significant wetland.

Wildlife Viewing

Korission Lagoon (South Corfu): A significant wetland and protected Natura 2000 site. It serves as home to various bird species, including flamingos, egrets, and cormorants, especially during migration seasons.

Birdwatching Essentials: Bring Binoculars for a closer look.
Dolphin Watching: Possible on boat trips, though sightings are not guaranteed.
Natura 2000 Site: Korission Lagoon is protected, making it a area for diverse bird species.

Plan Your Visits

Visit major attractions early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds, especially when cruise ships are in port.

Explore the smaller, less-trafficked alleyways (kantounia) of Old Town for hidden gems and quieter moments. For scenic views, explore areas around the New Fortress or drive up to Mount Pantokrator for expansive island vistas.

Attractions & Sightseeing