Things to Do in Corfu

The iconic Old Fortress stands on a rocky peninsula connected to Corfu Town by a bridge over an artificial moat. Built by the Venetians in the 15th century on the site of a Byzantine fortress, it protected the town from Ottoman invasions for centuries. Today the fortress houses the Public Library of Corfu, a Byzantine museum, the Church of St. George (modeled on an ancient Doric temple), and hosts cultural events and concerts. Climb to the lighthouse at the highest point for panoramic views of the town, sea, and Albanian mountains. Beautifully illuminated at night.

Set atop a steep coastal hill 12km south of Corfu Town, this neoclassical palace was built in the 1890s as a summer retreat for Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi), who was obsessed with Greek mythology and the hero Achilles. The palace features an ornate central staircase, stunning sculpture gardens including the famous "Achilles Dying" statue, and terraces with breathtaking views over the Ionian Sea. The casino scene from James Bond's "For Your Eyes Only" was filmed here. Note: Palace interior closed for restoration as of 2023, gardens remain accessible.

Spianada is one of the largest squares in Europe and the green heart of Corfu Town, stretching between the Old Fortress and the Old Town. Originally cleared by Venetians for defensive purposes, it now features cricket grounds (a British legacy), palm trees, monuments, and the elegant Liston arcade. The Liston, built during French rule and inspired by Paris's Rue de Rivoli, features a row of arched colonnades lined with upscale cafes - the perfect spot for people-watching over a Greek coffee. The square hosts concerts, markets, and the famous Easter celebrations.

Often called the most beautiful spot on Corfu, Paleokastritsa features a series of small bays with turquoise waters surrounded by lush green cliffs. The main beach is well-organized with sunbeds, tavernas, and water sports, while boat trips explore hidden caves and secluded coves. Above the bays, the 13th-century Theotokos Monastery (Monastery of the Virgin) perches on a clifftop with Byzantine icons, a small museum, and incredible panoramic views. Legend says Odysseus met the Phaeacian princess Nausicaa on these shores.

The most important religious site in Corfu, this Greek Orthodox church houses the mummified remains of Saint Spyridon, the island's patron saint. Built in the 16th century, the church features an impressive red-domed bell tower (the tallest on the island), ornate chandeliers, painted ceiling, and silver reliquary containing the saint's body. Four times a year, the relics are paraded through town in colorful processions. Located just behind the Liston in the heart of the Old Town, it's a peaceful oasis with deep spiritual significance for locals.

Perched dramatically atop a 330-meter rocky hilltop on Corfu's northwest coast, Angelokastro is one of the most impressive Byzantine fortresses in Greece. Built in the 13th century, it was the island's last line of defense and never fell to attackers - even the Ottomans abandoned their siege attempts. The steep climb rewards visitors with spectacular 360-degree views of the Ionian Sea, surrounding villages, and on clear days, the mountains of mainland Greece. Features include cave churches, cisterns, and intricately carved sarcophagi. One of Corfu's most atmospheric sites.

A neoclassical villa built by the British in 1831 as the summer residence of the High Commissioner, Mon Repos later became the birthplace of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Set within a beautiful wooded estate on the Kanoni Peninsula, the grounds contain ruins of ancient Palaeopolis including the Temple of Artemis (featuring the famous Gorgon pediment now in the Archaeological Museum). The villa houses the Museum of Palaeopolis with archaeological finds. The shaded walking paths through the estate offer a peaceful escape from the summer heat.

Housed in the magnificent Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George on Spianada Square, this is the only museum in Greece dedicated exclusively to Asian art. The collection spans 10,500 objects from China, Japan, India, Tibet, Nepal, Korea, and Southeast Asia, including ceramics, bronzes, textiles, woodblock prints, and samurai armor. The palace itself, built by the British between 1819-1824 in neoclassical style, is an architectural gem with grand colonnades and elegant halls. The rooftop cafe offers stunning views over the Old Fortress.