Corfu is the Greek island closest to the Italian coast. Its name, it is said, was that of the nymph Corfu loved by Zeus. According to mythology it was the native island of the Phaeacians, told in Homer’s Odyssey as a population of very different culture than the Greek people. Located in the Ionian Sea, it is less than two hours by boat from Puglia and territorially it is very different from the other Greek islands for its urbanization and for the way the sea merges with nature and its historical and cultural heritage.
Corfu town, enchanting for its ancient historical center, thanks also to the Venetian domination from the fourteenth to the eighteenth century, exhibits elegant buildings with beautiful arcades and small paved streets. Cloud-white religious buildings and Byzantine fortresses built overlooking the sea. In addition to all this there is nature, of unique beauty, with expanses of olive trees and beaches of all kinds, of sand or rock, each different from the other but all bathed by a crystalline sea that sweeps across the colors from emerald green to intense blue. Corfu is an island that will make you fall in love.
What to see & what to do
Beaches
Kanoni
At about 4 km south of Corfu Town is the Kanoni peninsula, named after the French domination. A strip of land that alternates beautiful beaches in the ruins of ancient temples and towers. Here you can choose whether to miss walking in nature or simply relax on the beach.
Liapdes
Just 20 km from the capital of Corfu, in the western part of the island is a small traditional village called Liapdes. Mainly known for its beautiful blue beaches. The main one is called Gefyra. With some time available you can enjoy the wonderful transparent water and also some sea caves.
Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa, is one of the charms of the island of Corfu, where unspoiled nature and crystal clear sea merge. Located on the west coast and overlooking the Ionian Sea, Paleokastritsa is a jagged and rocky cove, a unique scenic backdrop in the world making it the most famous resort of Corfu and the most loved by tourists because it offers five bays and six sandy coves or rock. It is a place for everyone, both for families with children in search of sandy beaches, comfortable and equipped, both the young and adventurous, who head to the rugged coastline, where you can also go snorkelling and diving. The most interesting aspect of Paleokastritsa is that, during the day at the beach, you can easily move from one beach, discovering so even the most pristine and wild places. Traveling aboard the taxi-boat departing from the port of Paleokastritsa and lead to the discovery of the most hidden places of the bay, passing under the caves and coves within striking granite, first to make a stop on the most beautiful beaches.
Sidari
At about an hour's ride from the Old Town, in the far north of the island is a place between pià visited, Sidari, now known as the "love" channel. The shape is particular because it consists in a series of rocks that stretch into the sea, creating different bays accessible through stairs and paths. From these bays will have a wonderful view and you can take advantage of the sea to snorkel and discover fish, marine flora and fauna.
Park & Landmarks
Achilleion Palace
The Achillion Palace is also known as the "Palace of Sissi" as was done renovation Pompeian style by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria. It was used mostly when the Empress had bisongo to withdraw from stressful life and demanding of Vienna. The input refinement and the white and cream colors evoke tradition and myth, highlighted by a huge bronze statue dying dell'Achille overlooking the gardens. The best is enclosed within which are housed statues, frescoes, antique furniture and personal belongings of the Empress, who lived in the building until 1898. Outside you can walk in a landscaped park of over 80 hectares including statues, fountains, columns and a botanical garden, which is an explosion of flowers and exotic plants.
Angelokastro
Angelokastro is a building of 1200. For centuries it has provided protection to the inhabitants of Corfu, whenever the aggressors lapped the island's shores. Angelokastro is located in the northwestern part of Corfu, on a rock. Approximately one hour drive from Corfu town. Being about 300 above sea level reveals an incredible vantage point and although reaching the structure is not like taking a walk in the plains it's really worth. It is in any case one of the most important Byzantine castles of Greece. Just two kilometers away is the village of Makrades renowned and known for its aromatic herbs, but also for honey and local wine.
Kanakades
About half an hour's drive from Corfu is the ancient farming village of Kanakades. A very pretty settlement with old houses in bright colors. On top of the hill overlooking it there is a fortified palace, the home of the Baron during the Venetian domination. Here you can walk along small alleys and admire the very folkloristic stone houses.
Kanoni
At about 4 km south of Corfu Town is the Kanoni peninsula, named after the French domination. A strip of land that alternates beautiful beaches in the ruins of ancient temples and towers. Here you can choose whether to miss walking in nature or simply relax on the beach.
Korission Lake
About an hour's drive from the Old Town you can find Lake Korission, a very important ecosystem that is home to over 120 species of birds, including herons, flamingos and thousands of butterflies. This lagoon close to the sea offers truly exciting sunsets.
Liapdes
Just 20 km from the capital of Corfu, in the western part of the island is a small traditional village called Liapdes. Mainly known for its beautiful blue beaches. The main one is called Gefyra. With some time available you can enjoy the wonderful transparent water and also some sea caves.
Vlacherna Monastery and Pontikonissi
In the vicinity of Kanoni there are two other very suggestive places that cannot be missed. The first is a small Orthodox monastery built on an islet called Vlacherna, connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge. From there it is possible by boat to reach Pontikonissi, another very green islet covered with cypresses and pines where there is a small Byzantine chapel dating back to 1100.
Snorkelling
Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa, is one of the charms of the island of Corfu, where unspoiled nature and crystal clear sea merge. Located on the west coast and overlooking the Ionian Sea, Paleokastritsa is a jagged and rocky cove, a unique scenic backdrop in the world making it the most famous resort of Corfu and the most loved by tourists because it offers five bays and six sandy coves or rock. It is a place for everyone, both for families with children in search of sandy beaches, comfortable and equipped, both the young and adventurous, who head to the rugged coastline, where you can also go snorkelling and diving. The most interesting aspect of Paleokastritsa is that, during the day at the beach, you can easily move from one beach, discovering so even the most pristine and wild places. Traveling aboard the taxi-boat departing from the port of Paleokastritsa and lead to the discovery of the most hidden places of the bay, passing under the caves and coves within striking granite, first to make a stop on the most beautiful beaches.
Sidari
At about an hour's ride from the Old Town, in the far north of the island is a place between pià visited, Sidari, now known as the "love" channel. The shape is particular because it consists in a series of rocks that stretch into the sea, creating different bays accessible through stairs and paths. From these bays will have a wonderful view and you can take advantage of the sea to snorkel and discover fish, marine flora and fauna.
Animal Encounter
Korission Lake
About an hour's drive from the Old Town you can find Lake Korission, a very important ecosystem that is home to over 120 species of birds, including herons, flamingos and thousands of butterflies. This lagoon close to the sea offers truly exciting sunsets.
Family
Aqualand
In the city of Agios Ioannis, not far from the port of Corfu, about 15 km away, is waiting Aqualand, the largest water park in all of Greece. With its many attractions, is an ideal destination for the whole family: climb on the giant chutes, slides or the twisted suicide bombers for a lot of fun! The park also offers special areas for children, such as shallow pools and slides lower. You will have plenty of time to enjoy the sights and the park's amenities, including bars, restaurants, cabins, sun beds and umbrellas.
History & Culture
Corfù Town
Corfu Town, also called Old Town, is the island's capital and its meraviglios old town was declared a World Heritage Site. Small streets where successive noble porticoed buildings, the busy harbor with its Greek tavernas, make the center a place of artistic and cultural interest of the entire Corfu. Unlike the other Greek islands, here the predominant colors of the structures are pink and yellow, colors that are more reminiscent of an Italian atmosphere. In its neighborhood, the Campiello, you can explore the narrow cobbled streets paved in marble, up and down the stairs that lead to charming terrace overlooking the sea, and admire the elegant buildings, squares and plazas in a perfect Venetian style, English and French. The heart of the Old Town of Corfu is Liston, a magnificent porticoed building, always animated by cafes and restaurants, overlooking the Esplanade, a large open characterized by beautiful gardens, fountains and paths lead to the waterfront. Do not miss a visit to the new fortress, built by the Venetians in the sixteenth century and which has on its front door of the Lion of St. Mark. Even the Old Fortress has its charm, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea.
Paleopolis Archaeological Site
The archaeological site of Paleopolis is a must for a visit to Corfu. It is located in the Kanoni peninsula, about 2 km south from the historic area. The archaeological excavations have brought to light the agora of the ancient city, the ruins of the military port of Alcinous, the remains of the baths of the Roman period, the ancient Byzantine basilica, the sanctuary of Artemis-Gorgon and the ancient walls tower. Not far away is the Museum of the History of Paleopolis, nine rooms in which in addition to find the history of the excavations describes the greenery of a beautiful park surrounding the residence.
St Spyridon Church
The imposing bell tower of St Spyridon, with its distinctive red dome, is the fixed background to visit the old town of Corfu. The church's patron saint is by far the most famous religious monument of the island. The curiosity is that St. Spyridon is not even born on Corfu but in Cyprus where he lived all his life. At his death the body, after the fall of Constantinople, was moved to Corfu and it was decided to build a church in his name and where his remains would rest. The relics are carried in procession through the streets of Corfu 4 times a year: on Palm Sunday, Easter, on August 11 and the first Sunday of November.
Walking
Angelokastro
Angelokastro is a building of 1200. For centuries it has provided protection to the inhabitants of Corfu, whenever the aggressors lapped the island's shores. Angelokastro is located in the northwestern part of Corfu, on a rock. Approximately one hour drive from Corfu town. Being about 300 above sea level reveals an incredible vantage point and although reaching the structure is not like taking a walk in the plains it's really worth. It is in any case one of the most important Byzantine castles of Greece. Just two kilometers away is the village of Makrades renowned and known for its aromatic herbs, but also for honey and local wine.
Corfù Town
Corfu Town, also called Old Town, is the island's capital and its meraviglios old town was declared a World Heritage Site. Small streets where successive noble porticoed buildings, the busy harbor with its Greek tavernas, make the center a place of artistic and cultural interest of the entire Corfu. Unlike the other Greek islands, here the predominant colors of the structures are pink and yellow, colors that are more reminiscent of an Italian atmosphere. In its neighborhood, the Campiello, you can explore the narrow cobbled streets paved in marble, up and down the stairs that lead to charming terrace overlooking the sea, and admire the elegant buildings, squares and plazas in a perfect Venetian style, English and French. The heart of the Old Town of Corfu is Liston, a magnificent porticoed building, always animated by cafes and restaurants, overlooking the Esplanade, a large open characterized by beautiful gardens, fountains and paths lead to the waterfront. Do not miss a visit to the new fortress, built by the Venetians in the sixteenth century and which has on its front door of the Lion of St. Mark. Even the Old Fortress has its charm, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea.
Shopping
Corfù Town
Corfu Town, also called Old Town, is the island's capital and its meraviglios old town was declared a World Heritage Site. Small streets where successive noble porticoed buildings, the busy harbor with its Greek tavernas, make the center a place of artistic and cultural interest of the entire Corfu. Unlike the other Greek islands, here the predominant colors of the structures are pink and yellow, colors that are more reminiscent of an Italian atmosphere. In its neighborhood, the Campiello, you can explore the narrow cobbled streets paved in marble, up and down the stairs that lead to charming terrace overlooking the sea, and admire the elegant buildings, squares and plazas in a perfect Venetian style, English and French. The heart of the Old Town of Corfu is Liston, a magnificent porticoed building, always animated by cafes and restaurants, overlooking the Esplanade, a large open characterized by beautiful gardens, fountains and paths lead to the waterfront. Do not miss a visit to the new fortress, built by the Venetians in the sixteenth century and which has on its front door of the Lion of St. Mark. Even the Old Fortress has its charm, perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea.
Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa, is one of the charms of the island of Corfu, where unspoiled nature and crystal clear sea merge. Located on the west coast and overlooking the Ionian Sea, Paleokastritsa is a jagged and rocky cove, a unique scenic backdrop in the world making it the most famous resort of Corfu and the most loved by tourists because it offers five bays and six sandy coves or rock. It is a place for everyone, both for families with children in search of sandy beaches, comfortable and equipped, both the young and adventurous, who head to the rugged coastline, where you can also go snorkelling and diving. The most interesting aspect of Paleokastritsa is that, during the day at the beach, you can easily move from one beach, discovering so even the most pristine and wild places. Traveling aboard the taxi-boat departing from the port of Paleokastritsa and lead to the discovery of the most hidden places of the bay, passing under the caves and coves within striking granite, first to make a stop on the most beautiful beaches.
Can't wait to see ? Find out the most popular Cruises
Carnival Cruise Line
Departing from: Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, New Orleans, Mobile, Galveston, Charleston, Baltimore.
Royal Caribbean
Departing from: Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa, Cape Liberty, Boston, San Juan.
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