One of the most spectacular islands in Greece, Corfu boasts a choice of outstanding beaches, picture postcard villages, a beautiful old town and a welcoming population. The rugged coastline offers expansive bays and secluded coves, while the wooded interior of the island is perfect for hiking, biking and escaping the crowds. Corfu’s old town is fantastic for museums and historic attractions, while most of the island’s resorts offer a choice of family-friendly activities.
Areas & Neighbourhoods on Corfu Island
Corfu Town – A UNESCO World Heritage site, Corfu’s old town can trace its roots back to the 8th century BC. Visitors can explore the town’s picturesque streets, enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the area’s many charming cafes or visit some of Corfu Town’s impressive historic sites.
Benitses – Corfu’s original tourist hotspot, the traditional village of Benitses is sandwiched between green wooded hills and the blue waters of the Ionian Sea. Top up your tan on its pretty beach, enjoy a drink in one of the bars along the new harbour or explore Benitses’ charming streets.
Kanos – Once a sleepy seaside village, Kavos has been transformed into a popular destination for young holidaymakers from northern Europe. Home to Corfu’s liveliest nightlife, Kavos is the place to go if you want to party the night away.
Old Perithia – Nestled below the peak of Mount Pantokrator, high above sea level, Old Perithia is the most ancient village on Corfu. The buildings of Old Perithia are a fantastic example of how Venetian settlers influenced the island’s architecture. Largely deserted, the village is a great destination for holidaymakers interested in Corfu’s past.
Things to See on Corfu Island
One of the most famous sights on Corfu is The Achilleion, an elaborate palace built by Elisabeth of Bavaria, Empress of Austria in 1890. Surrounded by Neoclassical sculptures and landscaped gardens, the palace is the perfect place to escape the afternoon heat. In Corfu Town, the two most prominent sights are the Old Fortress and the New Fortress. The Old Fortress, a Venetian structure built on an artificial islet, is beautifully illuminated at night making it a landmark of the town’s waterfront. The much larger New Fortress dominates the north east part of the city, its complex of fortifications forming a veritable maze of masonry.
Things to Do on Corfu Island
The beaches that ring the island offer plenty of opportunities for watersports, with sailing, canoeing, water skiing and banana boat rides among the most popular. The island’s calm waters make it perfect for families, with a choice of child-friendly activities on offer at Corfu’s resorts. For shopping, culture and al fresco dining, holidaymakers should head to Corfu Town, while Kavos is the centre of nightlife on the island. Visitors looking to get close to nature will find a good choice of walking routes crisscrossing the centre of the island, with the 136-mile long Corfu Trail among the most popular.
You can also book top Corfu hotels and great Corfu package deals right here on Expedia.co.uk.
