Mediterranean

Corfu: An Island to Love

Long sandy beaches and quaint mountain villages make Corfu an island to love. It’s the second-largest Ionian island and includes the small satellite islands of Ereikoussa, Mathraki, and Othonoi. The central city on the island goes by the name Corfu-Town as well.

It’s a key place to start your sailing adventure in the Ionian Islands. From here, you can easily explore not only Corfu but also other beautiful islands. These include Lefkada, Kefalonia, Kythera, Zakynthos, Ithaki, and Paxos.

Climate

The town of Corfu experiences a Mediterranean climate, with mild, rainy winters and hot, sunny summers. For instance, the average daily temperature ranges from 9.5 °C in January to 25 °C in August.

Places to see

• In the charming village of Gastouri, the Achillion Palace tells a captivating tale. It narrates the rich history and remarkable architecture of Corfu. The palace is in a green area and looks out over the Ionian Sea. It allows you to look into the island’s history and discover more about Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi.
• The Old Fortress is one of the most impressive fortification works in Europe. In addition, it is the first thing visitors see as the ferry approaches Corfu.
• The Church of Saint Spyridon: In the 1580s, Ioninans constructed the Church of Saint Spyridon. It houses Saint Spyridon’s relics, and its bell tower is the highest in the Ionian Islands.
• The Sea Shell Museum is in a modern building about 2 kilometers from Benitses village. This is a popular tourist resort on the island.
• Paleokastritsa is arguably the most famous picturesque village on the island. In addition, olive tree forests surround Paleokastritsa’s beaches, creating a dramatic yet beautiful scene.
• Visit the Paleokastritsa Monastery for amazing views of the sea. You’ll find it on a remote cliff peninsula in the village of Paleokastritsa.
• Agios Stefanos is a long sandy beach in Avliotes, 40 kilometers northwest of the main town.
• Mount Pantokrator. At 906 meters, it is the highest mountain on the island. You can see Corfu and Albania at the summit, a short distance from the island.

Exploring Charming Coastal Villages

• Distinct Village Feels: Each village has its unique atmosphere, which, in essence, gives you a taste of the island’s rich culture.
• Charming Streets: Take a stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, where pretty white houses with colorful flowers make a lovely scene.
• Shop. Things unique to the island include marble carvings, olive oil soap, leather sandals, honey, and dried herbs.
• Hike. Notably, the Corfu Trail offers excellent views.
• Windsurf: Surf Center Corfu offers rentals and lessons for windsurfing and kiteboarding.

Things to do on the island of Corfu

• Scuba dive. The biodiverse marine life surrounding the island makes for superb scuba diving. You’ll find a colorful array of marine life, including animals such as octopus, shrimp, crayfish, and painted comber.
• Go to the beach. Relax on the soft sand after a refreshing water dip and enjoy the view. Voutoumi Beach and Bataria Beach are two good choices.
• Local Connections: Meet friendly locals at cozy cafes and seaside tavernas. Enjoy not just tasty local food but also the warm welcome.
• Vibes: In Corfu’s seaside villages, each place has its special feeling. Whether you like Paleokastritsa’s old charm or Kassiopi’s relaxed vibe, every village is unique. And if you pick Messonghi, prepare for extra fun on your island adventure.

Gastronomy

Corfu’s gastronomy invites you on a flavorful journey, blending traditional dishes with a touch of Venetian and Greek influences. Immerse yourself in the following culinary delights:

1. Sofrito: Treat yourself to the delicious sofrito! It’s veal cooked carefully in a wine sauce. This dish captures the island’s rich history and shows its connection to Venetian flavors.
2. Grilled Lamb: Regardless of your food preference, you must try the tasty grilled lamb—it’s a local favorite. This dish is a testament to Corfu’s commitment to preserving its culinary heritage.
3. Pastitsada: Take a delicious journey with pastitsada. A chicken dish cooked with fresh tomatoes, cinnamon, wine, onions, and a mix of spices. It’s a wonderful blend of Corfiot flavors.
4. Meatballs: Try something creative in Corfu’s food—tiny meatballs made from potatoes, zucchini, fish, and tasty spices. It’s a delicious example of the island’s diverse cooking.
5. Stuffed Octopus and Dolmadakia: Dive into the sea-inspired delights of stuffed octopus and dolmadakia (stuffed grape leaves). This highlights Corfu’s coastal identity and its strong connection to the Ionian Sea.
6. Fish Specialties – Fresh Catches from the Ionian Sea: Given its island setting, Corfu naturally excels in fish specialties. Explore dishes that bring the freshest catches to your table, connecting you with the bounty of the Ionian Sea.

Cultural Marvels and Historic Wonders

1. Start your adventure in Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city shows the influence of Venetian rule in its buildings and layout. Stroll through the charming streets where history unfolds at every turn.
2. Museum of Asian Art: Immerse yourself in cultural richness at the Museum of Asian Art. It showcases a unique collection that adds a global dimension to Corfu’s cultural tapestry.
3. St. Spyridon: Explore the well-known St. Spyridon church in the heart of Corfu city. A serene spot for moments of reflection. Its architecture bears witness to the island’s Greek and Venetian heritage.

Coastal Beauty and Tranquil Retreats

1. Mouse Islands: Explore the Mouse Islands off the coast of Corfu, adding a touch of natural splendor to the island’s seascape. These islets are a visual feast and a haven for nature enthusiasts.
2. Mon Repos – A Tranquil Retreat: Experience serenity at Mon Repos, a peaceful estate that once served as a royal retreat. Wander through its lush grounds and connect with the tranquility that embraces this historic site.

Strong Influences: The Resilient Spirit of Corfu

1. Historical Narrative: The island draws its strength from centuries of Venetian rule. You can see this in the stories from Corfu’s past. Furthermore, the architectural marvels and cultural traditions tell a story of strength and endurance.
2. Embracing Cultural Heritage: Corfu, strongly influenced by its past, embraces its cultural heritage with pride. Visit places that show how tough and lasting Corfu is because each one tells a piece of Corfu’s story, revealing its strength.

Tapestry of Culture on Corfu

1. Enchanting Streets: Walking through the maze-like streets of Corfu’s Old Town is a magical experience that people who have been here fell in love with. The cobblestone streets, for example, hold embedded stories. Visitors can feel the passage of time and fall in love with the town’s timeless charm.
2. Vibrant Squares: Spianada is the biggest square in Greece. It’s a lively place that shows off Corfu’s energetic spirit. These squares and neighborhoods make Corfu’s Old Town extra charming. They create beautiful and memorable scenes for visitors to enjoy.
3. Charming Neighborhoods: Lovely neighborhoods like Campiello add a genuine atmosphere. Laundry hangs from fancy balconies, and colorful bougainvillea spills over stone walls.
4. Historic Fortresses: The Old and New Fortresses serve as silent witnesses to centuries of history on Corfu. Reflecting the strategic importance of the island in the Mediterranean, these fortresses add a layer of historical significance to the town.
5. Historic Fortresses: The Old and New Fortresses serve as silent witnesses to centuries of history on Corfu. Reflecting the strategic importance of the island in the Mediterranean, these fortresses add a layer of historical significance to the town.

A Love Affair with Corfu

While exploring the city of Corfu, its coast, and cultural landmarks, you might find yourself falling in love with the harmonious blend of Greek and Venetian influences. Corfu, a Greek island strongly connected to the Ionian Sea, is ready to welcome you. Prepare for a journey filled with history, culture, and the flavors of a captivating culinary heritage.

Ionian Islands Sample Itineraries

• Athens to Ionians Roundtrip
• Corfu to Athens
• Corfu to Corfu
• Galaxidi to Corfu