Best Things To Do in Corfu

Corfu is a fusion of Greek, Venetian and British traditions, offering an unrivalled cultural heritage. The island is famous for its hidden coves, ruins that bear witness to its medieval past and dreamy landscapes. Greek mythology dominates and there are adventures to be had here, such as ghost hunting and pirate piracy.

Every street is lined with unrivalled gastronomic delights such as pastitsio tis nonnas, a curious version of lasagna. Consider that it's a pretty hot city, where you'll want to live by the sea, ride a quad bike or fly in a tricycle paraglider. All in all, there are plenty of things to do and I'd like to tell you what you can't miss.

Corfu is an impressive city, but it is undeniable that it has a rather strong climate. That's why many tourists prefer to book a guided bus tour. This way, you can ensure an air-conditioned trip and visit the island, the old town and the nearby beaches or coastal villages.

Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea and the caves hidden between the beaches. Also, take advantage of the fact that some bus tours offer free stops or stops guided by an expert. Here are some of the places you could visit.

Old Royal Palace

An unmissable stop is the palace where the Greek royal family spent a lot of time, as it was their summer residence. This is the Old Royal Palace or Mon Repos, where an impressive building surrounded by gardens and extensive natural scenery awaits you.

The monarchy was dissolved in 1973, so nowadays the palace is open to visitors and you can visit the Palaeopolis Museum. You can see archaeological sites and travel back in time through three themed areas that explore the history of Corfu and the palace.

Palace of Saints Michael and George

As you pass through Spianada Square, don't hesitate to stop and visit the Palace of Saints Michael and George. This historic building was witness to the city's British period, hence its striking neoclassical architecture. Inside you can visit the Throne Room and the state dining room.

The Corfu Museum of Asian Art is currently housed here and has around 11,000 pieces that have been donated and encompass many different cultures. From ceramics from China to sculptures from Tibet, its collection is a visual spectacle.

New Fort and Old Fort

The New Fort and Old Fort are known as Corfu's Venetian fortresses, and both surround the old town. The older fortress sits on the banks of the Ionian and takes you back to the Ottoman era, although there are also Byzantine features and even places where Jews were imprisoned before being deported from the island.

As you move towards the New Fortress you'll see that it's surrounded by cobbled houses, which are a little more modern. In addition, among its alleys you can find staircases that allow you to go up and down through its labyrinths and hidden squares.

Chapel of Our Lady of Mankadrinas

A place that goes almost unnoticed is the Chapel of Our Lady of Mankadrinas. It is always painted in cheerful colours and has a modest façade, but quite close to the beach.

Corfu is an ideal destination for a day at the beach and a spectacular summer tan. Here you can find wild and remote beaches, as well as hidden coves and cliffs ideal for relaxing and exploring the marine life. There are also the tourist beaches equipped with amenities where a vibrant atmosphere awaits, and the wide range of extreme sports on offer.

You'll have the Ionian Sea at your feet and you can sink your toes into the golden sand. If you're looking for authentic and charming beaches, I have a feeling you'll like Paleokastritsa, a calm bay with crystal-clear waters, ideal for sports such as diving and kayaking. However, consider that its magnificent caves are only accessible by boat or ship.

Another option is to visit Glyfada, a family-friendly bay with shallow waters that delights with the constant sound of gentle waves. I would take the opportunity to go water skiing, paddle surfing and parasailing. I'd also spend some time on the sun loungers to recharge my batteries and, later, savour seafood dishes at the beach bars.

If you would like to merge both experiences and optimise your itinerary, you could book a trip to Paleokastritsa and Glyfada beaches. This way, you won't have to worry about logistics and transfers.

If you are visiting Corfu you must make time for the Vlacherna Monastery. It is a free monument that combines history and spirituality. Although it's small, it's impossible to ignore because it's overlooking the bay and has a stone path that connects to the Ionian Sea.

It also houses a church that was the prayer space for Greek Orthodox monks and is evidence of traditional Greek architecture. If I were you, I'd book a guided tour of Corfu to get a better understanding of its history and other nearby sites.

From this monastery you can appreciate the scenery and see the Island of the Mice. According to Greek mythology, Poseidon turned Odysseus' most beloved ship into this island as revenge for blinding his son Polyphemus. Of course, some say the explanation is simpler and that it's just in the shape of a mouse.

If you're an adventurer I can assure you that you're going to get your place in Corfu. Extreme activities such as riding a paramotor tricycle through the air are very popular here. You'll feel the crackling adrenaline and salty sea breeze as you enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline and nearby islands.

You may even come across Greek villages, vineyards and olive groves. Take-off is usually on the outskirts, where there is suitable terrain for the engine to start unhindered. Moreover, the ascent is gentle and progressive, guaranteeing a heady mix of adrenaline and freedom. All you have to do is let yourself be carried away by the thrill, as a professional will be in charge of the exciting but controlled turns, as well as a perfect landing.

This is why it is important when booking a paramotor trike flight in Corfu to do so with professionals, so that you can guarantee a safe and unforgettable experience.

You can also conquer the city from above by booking a tandem paragliding flight in Corfu. It's a slightly more traditional and peaceful activity, with a similar itinerary and ideal for adrenaline seekers.

The variety of cycling routes in Corfu make it an ideal destination for cycling. You'll be far from the traffic and hustle and bustle of the big cities, surrounded by nature and crystal-clear coves. Take the opportunity to glide through the cobbled streets and stop at the natural viewpoints

If you have enough time you can afford to cycle to charming villages such as Kassiopi, where you can cycle along the medieval harbour and see a 13th century Venetian castle. You could also make your way to Pelekas at sunset, or explore the seaside pubs that characterise Benitses.

In general, bike rides are ideal for cycling around the old town. Many people recommend the quiet streets of Ano Korakiana village, a mix of steep alleys, shortcuts, ancient trees and old houses. It is popular for the friendliness of the locals and the possibility to go on a treasure hunt for its famous 16th century Orthodox church.

Booking a bike tour in Corfu allows you to enjoy a defined itinerary as well as the company of a professional. If selected, it is possible to choose several routes of varying levels of difficulty.

One thing I definitely wouldn't miss is Greek gastronomy, where the fresh and diverse flavours of the Mediterranean diet await you. You'll have the pleasure of eating well and in quantity during your holiday, taking advantage of its health benefits.

A good idea is to book a gastronomic tour of Corfu and walk around the island and try different dishes. There are street food options waiting for you, ideal for recharging your batteries, as well as seafront restaurants and typical eateries in the old town.

Typical dishes of the region

This culinary journey allows you to indulge in olive oil, feta cheese and fresh fish. But above all with its variety of combinations and desserts that melt in your mouth. If I have to talk about Greek food, it automatically comes to mind:

• Pastitsio tis nonnas: given the Italian influence in this city, it is to be expected that they have their own version of lasagna. Greeks usually eat it during Sunday lunch and it's almost a tradition to take a nap afterwards to wash it down.
• Pastitsada: This meat and spice stew is often served with pasta.
• Bougatsa: a phyllo dough filled with pastry cream, sweet cream cheese and meat. The last ingredient is unexpected, but if I were you I'd give it a try, it might surprise you.
• Greek yoghurt: your trip to Greece is the perfect excuse to try authentic yoghurt made from goat's or cow's milk. It is different because it eliminates the whey and can be used for sweet or savoury dishes.
• Diples: These are pastries that are fried and decorated with honey syrup, walnuts and cinnamon.
• Greek ice cream: although the capital of ice cream is in Italy, the truth is that Greece is not far behind. In Corfu you can take advantage of the hot weather to eat all the ice cream you want. From cold scoops of Greek yoghurt to strange flavours such as grated filo dough ice cream or olive oil ice cream. There is also the famous Masticha Ice Cream which is made with masticha resin, a tree that only grows in the Mediterranean.

Pirate stories are part of the Mediterranean culture. Due to its strategic location, Corfu is said to have been one of the stops for Illyrian pirates and Ottoman corsairs, such as the famous Jeireddin Barbarossa.

For a few hours you could step into the shoes of Captain Barbarossa and become a fierce pirate by booking a pirate boat tour. You will board a boat with the necessary decorations to immerse yourself in history. You'll get a better understanding of maritime adventures and explore the Venetian-inhabited enclaves.

If you're looking for something a little quieter, I suggest exploring the nearby coves and bays by booking a private yacht charter around Corfu. It's an experience you can share with friends, family or a partner.

Unusual wonders await you aboard a private yacht, such as Lazareto Island, which was a quarantine centre during the plague and cholera. On these experiences you may be offered the chance to snorkel, which takes the trip to a whole new level.

If you're a fan of adventure rides and want to challenge Corfu's dirt tracks, you have several options to choose from. You can book a quad bike ride to reach remote areas that are difficult to reach on foot or by car.

Not only will you feel adrenaline coursing through your veins, but you'll also be left speechless when you reach places like the Paramonas beaches, where the sun is shining and the sea is pounding frantically. You might also get a close-up look at the Pink Palace, a hotel complex between Corfu and Agios Gordios. The island will be all yours, because this off-road motorbike also provides easy access to such wonders as the Agii Dek Monastery.

Another option is to book a jeep adventure tour of Corfu and get your adrenaline pumping. In a 4WD it's easier to turn around on the trails surrounded by greenery and explore the vineyards, Greek villages and mountains.

Corfu is famous for its legends and heritage of Greek mythology. In fact, the town's name is believed to hold a lot of secrets. All indications are that Poseidon kidnapped the nymph Coryx, daughter of Asopos, and so named the island after her. However, for some strange reason it became popularised under the Latin word Corfu which means 'city of peaks'.

If you book a Corfu ghost tour you'll be able to go fishing for the mysteries of the night. You'll discover that some never wanted to leave the city, such as the Empress Sissi, who apparently wanders around the Achilleion Palace at night.

If you are lucky you may see the ghost of a soldier or hear strange noises in the haunted properties. Also, hidden within the walls is the mummy of Corfu's patron saint, St. Spyridion, which is exhibited three times a year.

Of course, you can also take the opportunity to visit other places near Corfu. This will save you time and money, as you won't have to travel to other cities to enjoy the beauty of the Ionian coast. Let me tell you a little bit about the must-see places.

Excursion to Paxos, Blue Caves and Gáios by boat

You could book an excursion to Paxos, Blue Caves and Gáios by boat from Corfu. Imagine a paradise where you can see turquoise waters and vegetation everywhere. You will discover caves and beaches whose coordinates can only be accessed by those who know the area very well. In addition, you will be delighted by fishing villages and hamlets.

Arguably the star of this tour is the Blue Caves, famous for the play of colours and shadows inside them.

Paxos, Blue Caves and Lakka boat trip

Alternatively, I suggest you consider booking an excursion to Paxos, Blue Caves and Lakka by boat from Corfu. The white cliffs of Erimitis Bay and the famous Lakka Island, dominated by yellow-roofed houses and cobblestones, await you.

Excursion to Saranda and Butrinto by boat

If you want to continue enjoying island life, there's nothing better than booking a boat trip to Saranda and Butrinto from Corfu. This time you'll leave the borders of Greece to reach the Albanian Riviera and see the coastline of Saranda, whose water is breathtaking.

You'll also see the ruins of Butrinto, where Greek, Venetian and Roman influences can be seen.