Corfu online travel guide
Highlights of historic Corfu
16-06-2023 © Doris Leone
Online Travel Guide
Undoubtedly, you have heard of the stunning island of Corfu, but for those who have no idea, this is an island located in the Ionian Sea. To begin with why this island is so stunning, all the many Italian influences, Corfu feels like a great mix of Greek and Italian atmospheres. The island has a nice contrast between lush green and mountain hills. Additionally, you will greatly enjoy a refreshing breeze caused by the sea. Under those circumstances, Corfu is a lovely island, but what else makes it worth visiting?
Together with my mother and brother, we visited this lush green island, where you have more than just wonderful beaches. Have a look at my Corfu online travel guide!
Italian influences?
Basically, the Venetians ruled Corfu for 4 centuries. After that, the Turks tried to conquer the island twice, the Venetians managed to keep it from falling into the hands of the Turks. In 1864 Corfu became independent of the Venetians, but during the World Wars it was again occupied by the Italians. Nowadays, Corfu is simply part of Greece again.
Climate and weather on Corfu?
As I have noted, the climate on the island is wonderfully balmy, not barren and dry like many other Greek islands, but rather slightly humid with pleasant temperatures. Because the amount of rain that falls, the island is magnificent green. Especially during spring, it is very beautiful with a variety of colours. The rain falls fortunately the most in the winter months, in summer you will have lovely and sunny days.
Sights & activities in this Corfu online travel guide
Corfu Town, a historic town with an old and a new fortress
Chiefly, where Corfu town is mainly known for, are its two beautiful forts. To begin with, the old one, which was built in the 15th century by the Venetians and the Byzantines. This one has a wonderful Greek church of St. George at the fortress. Following with the new fortress which was built up to 1645. Stroll through the nice and historical shopping streets and relax at the Spianada Square.
Hike from South to North Corfu
The island has a length of 61 kilometres and a footpath runs from one side to the other. However, the footpath is a lot longer than the island, around 200 kilometres. This footpath follows several charming and authentic villages, where you will not meet many other tourists. In general, tourist spots are avoided during this walk, you will mainly see stunning protected nature areas, monasteries, churches, lovely beaches and fantastic viewpoints. Directions of the route are clearly indicated with signs, so you always know how to follow the route.
A visit to the highest point of Corfu
Pandokrator is the most known mountain of Corfu, and with 906 metres, it is the highest mountain on the island. How about heading to the top? It is possible, and what is cool, Albania is well visible from the summit. Perhaps with good weather you could even see Italy! The road to the top is an adventure in itself, with its many hairpin bends, but doable with a car.
Visit the Palace of Sisi
Despite what you might think, the palace is called Sisi, it is not. Originally, the name is Achilleon, which was coined by the Empress Elizabeth, also known as Sisi. The palace was built from 1889 and Sisi came to live here around 1892 to escape from her ex-mother-in-law. From time to time she was travelling and in Corfu she stayed during the summers, the island had a lot to offer, but she was never happy there. Eventually, she died in 1898 and the palace stood empty for about 9 years. Kaiser Wilhelm 2 lived here for a few more years and had the palace restored, until the World Wars came, when it fell into the hands of the Greek state. Markedly, it was used as a military hospital during the Second World War.
Costs and visit time
Costs for a visit are around €8,- p.p. and it takes (if you take the time) about 2.5 hours. Visit the museum, see how the rooms looked like, have a look at all the beautiful statues and especially enjoy the charming views in the garden.
Spot the low flying aircraft near the Mouse Island
Mouse Island’s name is given because of the shape of the cypress trees on the island, in my mind, not the first thought that comes to mind. Notwithstanding the extraordinary name, you can see the island beautifully from the surrounding villages. Besides that you can also spot low-flying aircraft, that cross above you, it is a wonderful view! Both of the places, Kanoni and Pontikonisi Beach, offer great views. From Kanoni you can sail to the island for a few euros per person and see the old Byzantine church close up.
Beaches of Corfu
In this Corfu online travel guide, you will get to know that most beaches are mostly pebbles and gravel, but there are some sandy beaches. In this case, water shoes are highly recommended. Also take your snorkel set with you, because you can do fantastic snorkelling between the rocks in the water.
Sandy beaches
Besides the many rocky beaches, you also will find some sandy beaches like: Agios Georgios Beach, Kontogialos Beach and Issos Beach. Lastly, you can take a swim at Yaliskari Beach, whereby in the surf you will find some pebbles, but a descending sandy bottom.
To be honest, I think the bay of Paralia Paleokastritsa stands out the most. The water here is so sparkling blue and clear, it feels like a true paradise. Basically, it is a sandy beach, but at the edge of the coast there are pebbles. Despite, you have beautiful caves at this place where you can snorkel.
Pebble & rocky beaches
- Barbati Beach, where you lie among the olive trees and relax at lovely beach bars.
- La Grotta, a fantastic place, which is not a beach, but definitely worth a visit. Relax with a cocktail at the bar. After that, it is possible to jump into the water and snorkel among the rocks.
- Canal D’Amour Beach feels like being in a film, walk on the cool rocks, crawl through a cave or jump off the cliff, it is pretty crowded, so try to get there as early as possible.
- Porto Timoni Beach is a cool beach which is split in two, from the top you have a wonderful view. It does take some effort to get there, so good walking shoes are recommended.
Kumquat: local speciality
Taste one of the local specialities, the Kumquat. This tree is most commonly found in the north of Corfu, they are quite tall and give delicious fruits that look like oranges. Should you walk through the shopping streets of town centre, you will see these drinks everywhere.
Best restaurants
- Toula’s Seaside in Kassopei for a culinary dish, which of course makes it a bit more expensive, and enjoy the beach with a bed afterwards if you have had a consumption here.
- Avli Restaurant in Corfu town, this place has delicious dishes and a stunning view of the fort.
- Cariatides Ristorante in Barbati with good Greek dishes, great sea views and simpatico owners.
- Akos Farm Restaurant nearby Dassia and Ypsos, good balance between price and quality with amazing owners.
Where to stay?
Most important, where do you stay? If I may be honest, the north-eastern side is the nicest side to stay. Generally, at this side, you will have the most to do. To give you an impression of the best accommodations, here are some nice ones:
- Alkinoi apartment, near Corfu town: lovely accommodation with a bus connection at 80 metres from the accommodation.
- Pelekas Beach Apartments, Pelekas: a relaxed stay at 1-minute walk from the beach.
- Anasa Corfu, Benitses: with a lovely pool between the olive and citrus trees.
- Barbati Boutique Studio, Barbati: overlooking the sea and 2 minutes’ walk from Barbati beach.
- Poseidon Hotel, Kassiopi: cute accommodation which is a few minutes’ walk from the beach.
