Corfu is one of the most popular islands belonging to the Ionian archipelago located in the northern Ionian Sea and is best described by its numerous beaches, sprawling greenery, impressive architecture and exotic cuisine.
You might be surprised to note that the island seems predominantly ‘European’ than typical ‘Greek’. This is because, over the years, several European nations had occupied Corfu – Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, French, British, Italians and even the Germans during World War II. Due to this multicultural presence, Corfu possesses a unique charm and beauty that captivates the thousands of visitors who arrive here.
Corfu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays a strong influence of Venetian architecture. Old Town is a shade of yellow and orange with its trademark Venetian arches, narrow cobblestone alleys or ‘kantounia’, elegant mansions and old and new fortresses. Among the many churches, the popular ones are the Church of St. George, which resembles a Doric temple, Saint Spyridon Church, dedicated to the patron of the island and the Church of Our Lady of Antivouniotissa, a 15th-century Byzantine structure.
Spianada Square is Greece’s largest town square and is located between the Old Fortress and Old Town. It is lined with classy Venetian and French architecture and also includes a cricket pitch, courtesy of the British. On the western part of Spianada, you can find the Liston, a multi-storeyed French-styled arcade which was a popular gathering place for aristocrats and today houses stores, restaurants and cafes.
The Achillion Palace which was constructed as a summer residence for the Empress of Austria in 1890 is an impressive work of neoclassical architecture themed around the tragic Greek hero, Achilles. A part of the palace serves as a museum and the magnificent gardens here are noteworthy.
The Duke of Edinburgh and husband of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom – Prince Philip, was born in Mon Repos, which was the summer Palace of the former Greek Royal Family. The Palaiopolis Museum is located here and the palace gardens house several rare varieties of plants.
Pontikonisi, which translates to Mouse island, is one of the most photographed locations in Corfu. Kanoni is a hilly region and you will be led down by some steps to the Vlacherna Monastery which is located on the southernmost tip of the Kanoni peninsula. From here, there are frequent boat trips to the nearby Mouse island which houses the famous Pantokrator monastery. There are a few cafes located on Kanoni’s hilltop, from where you can enjoy views of the monastery, Mouse Island and also planes taking off from or landing at the nearby airstrip.
Angelokastro translates to ‘castle of the angels’ and was built in the 13th century. The location of this castle is simply breathtaking – high atop a cliff overlooking the sea. You will require a challenging hike to reach the castle, but it is completely worth the panoramic views from the top.
If you are a beach lover, then you are in luck – Corfu is a paradise with numerous scenic beaches with crystal clear waters and sandy shores. Among the many resorts, Paleokastritsa, bound by green cliffs, is the most famous. Corfu has a long list of beaches to pick from and Konotokali, Bataria Kassiopi, Glyfada, Pelekas, Agios Gordios and Myrtiotissa are some of the top choices. Sidari, Barbati, Kassiopi and Kavos are the major resorts on the island and if you are someone who loves crazy all-night parties, then Kavos is the place to be.
Corfu has multiple museums dedicated to its various cultural influences, long history and traditions. The Museum of Asian Art stands out as it houses Japanese and Chinese artefacts and is located in the Palace of St. Michael and St. Georges. The Byzantine Museum, Archaeological Museum, Sea Shell Museum, Museum of Music and Acharavi Folklore Museum are other major museums. Casa Parlante is a unique living-history museum that displays the life of a 19th-century noble family.
Corfu’s natural beauty with a dash of European elements creates the perfect romantic getaway and its scenic beaches and historical structures, make sure there is something fascinating for every visitor.
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