Corfu Town is the capital of the popular island of Corfu and one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. Here’s a quick guide to what to see and do when in Corfu Town.
Why go?
Corfu Town is home to one of the best-preserved medieval quarters in Europe.
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is flanked by 3 forts which date back as far as the 8th century BC. However the tall neoclassical buildings painted in pretty shades of pink, rust, and ochre were built during Venetian occupation.
It’s one of the most atmospheric cities in Greece, particularly in the evening when the streets come alive with music and chatter.
Whilst Corfu Town is popular with tourists – both cruise ships and those visiting the island for a summer vacation – the Old Town is still residential and there is plenty of local life to be found.
Read more: A Comprehensive Guide to Corfu Town.
How to get there?
Corfu Town is right in the middle of the east coast of Corfu. Most arrivals are by air – Corfu Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU) is just outside the city.
Taxis from the airport are expensive given the short distance. There is a regular bus (number 15) into the city, or you can walk in 25 minutes.
Ferries arrive at the New Port which is on the north side of the city and also linked by regular buses.
When to go/avoid?
Corfu can be surprisingly wet, windy, and damp in the winter months. July and August are hot, humid, and very busy.
May, June, September, and October are all lovely – though watch out for occasional storms in the autumn.
What to know before you go?
Museums and archaeological sites tend to close one day a week (often Monday or a Tuesday) so check before visiting. Some businesses will close for siesta in the afternoon.
What’s the best way to get around?
The Old Town is walkable and mostly pedestrianised but there are several bus routes around the outskirts of the Old Town – see How to Get Around Corfu By Bus.
What to see if you’ve just got 1 day?
The main tourist attraction is the Old Fortress which is just opposite the grassy Spianada Square with its cricket lawn. Wander through the public gardens at the Museum of Asian Art (great for photo ops).
Grab a coffee at one of the arcaded cafes on the Liston, then get lost in the backstreets of the Old Town.
Finish the afternoon with a dip at Faliraki then a sunset cocktail at the Imabari Lounge Bar.
What else to see if you’ve got 2-3 days in town?
Corfu Town has a number of small museums:
- Archaeological Museum
- Museum of Asian Art
- Banknote Museum of the Ionian Bank
- Museum of the Philharmonic Society of Corfu
- Corfu Living History Museum (Casa Parlante)
- Byzantine Museum
- Serbian Museum
- Museum of Dionysios Solomos
You can take boat trips across to the tiny Vido Island.
Alternatively, head south around Garitsa Bay to the Kanoni Peninsula (by foot or by bus) where you’ll find the picturesque Vlacherna Monastery and Mouse Island, and can watch the airplanes land from a number of panoramic cafes.
Best beach nearby?
The closest beaches (though there’s not much left) are Faliraki, next to Imabari, and a small rocky platform at the Yacht Club.
But much more pleasant is the beach with a cafe on the Mon Repos estate south of Garitsa Bay.
Best day trips?
With such a high number of visitors, Corfu Town is not short on day trip options. The most popular excursions on the island are:
- Day trip to Albania (this is also possible to DIY)
- Paxos and Antipaxos (including the Blue Cave)
- Parga and Syvota (including the Blue Lagoon)
In high season numerous small boat trips (including fishing) run out of the Old Port but there are more options if you’re willing to travel out of the city.
Bus tours to popular spots around the island (notably the Achilleion Palace) are also on offer, as well as plenty of activities – diving, snorkelling, kayaking, food, tours, and jeep safaris.
Off the beaten track?
Corfu’s coastline is busy in the summer so one way to beat the crowds is to head inland – there are plenty of pretty villages and hiking trails. Mount Pantokrator is the highest mountain on the island.
Nearer to Corfu Town, head south to the Mon Repos Estate where you’ll find ruins (Paleopoli), natural springs, and beautiful beach with a small snack bar. Mon Repos was the birthplace of Prince Philip.
The British Cemetery is also a peaceful place to visit.
Is there a city pass/bus tour/skip the line tour?
There is a special pass which is includes entrance to the Old Fortress and several museums for €15, valid for 3 days.
There is a Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus.
Best view?
There are a restaurants and bars with rooftop terraces – try the Cavalieri Hotel.
Buzzy areas to check out?
Corfu Town is not a large city and the Old Town is the main port of call in the evenings. Stop in a Salto for a glass of wine or two.
Where the best view?
Corfu Town has a few rooftop bars and restaurants – try the Cavalieri Hotel.
Top hotel?
Accommodation in the old part of Corfu Town is quite scarce and can be noisy at night but it’s the best place to stay for atmosphere.
Check out Siorra Vittoria (Old Town) or Acanthus Blue (Garitsa Bay) for stylish rooms.
If you need a pool the 5-star Corfu Palace and Casino is just outside the Old Town.
Book a table at . . .
Don’t leave without trying . . .
Local specialities like ginger beer, pastitsada with rooster, and all manner of items made from kumquat.
Read more:
10 Most Beautiful Beaches on Corfu
Where to Stay on Corfu: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide
How to Get Around Corfu By Bus
Corfu Town – A Comprehensive Guide
Corfu’s Beautiful North-East Coast
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