Corfu is packed with great things to do!
Sightseeing:
The Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO listed site so even walking around town is a beautiful experience. Its Italian character will leave you spellbound.
The Old Fortress – this 15th Century Venetian Fortress is a signature landmark of Corfu. It provides stunning views especially from the lighthouse at the top, whilst housing a Byzantine museum. At the back, during term time, you can hear young musician students practicing for their exams and studying. At the seafront, there is the Corfu Boating club with a beautiful restaurant right by the water.
The Palace of St Michael and St George, previously the residence of former British high commissioners is now a world-class museum of Asian Art and also exhibits work of local painters.
Church of St Spyridon – the Patron saint of Corfu’s relic is held here in a silver casket in this beautifully decorated and painted 16th Century Orthodox Church, very different to the usual Byzantine painted churches. People come here from all over the world to worship and to admire the church itself. If you are lucky your stay may coincide with the litany of the Saint, a musical street experience not to be missed.
Achillion Palace – Austria’s Empress Elizabeth chose the best spot on the island to build her summer palace in the 1890s. The stunning views compete with the somewhat over-the-top decadent décor and furniture of the Palace. Come early to beat the crowds and enjoy the beautifully landscaped garden with its elaborate statues.
There are dozens more places to visit and explore in town, such as museums, galleries, churches, beautifully set restaurants and cafes.
Outside town:
Kaminaki, Kerasia, Agios Stefanos, Kassiopi –little seaside villages close by, with great restaurants beaches and views.
Paleokastritsa- Stunning views and beaches…another area to explore with a monastery at the top
Mount Pantokrator – the tallest mountain in Corfu boasts the best views and is so peaceful that makes it worth a visit. The road leading to the top used to be a rocky donkey path and made the pilgrimage quite rough. The monks’ cells at the top used to welcome you with tea and coffee and the views at the top always rewarded your efforts. Nowadays the road is easily travelled by car or bike, the monastery is modernised but the views remain unrivalled.
Old Perithia – Abandoned village with beautiful frescoes on church ruins. Great taverna “Ognistra” is close by with authentic Corfiot food.
