Corfu (or Kerkyra) is the most northerly of the large islands of the Ionian Sea, and is second only to Kefalonia. The cosmopolitan air of Corfu Town is attributable to the large number of tourists who visit every year.
Hotels, shops and other establishments can be found all over Corfu Town, together with quaint tavernas and deluxe restaurants, old-style coffee-houses and modern outdoor cafes, and clubs and bars which are open until late into the night.
The Corfiots have been known since ancient times for their love of song, dance and enjoyment. Today they hold numerous cultural events each year.
The Spianada
The center of these events, and of Corfu social life in general, has for centuries been the Spianada. Here you will definitely feel the cosmopolitan air of Corfu Town. The Spianada is surrounded by some of the most distinguished monuments on the island and has a wonderful view of The Municipal Gardens, The Contrafossa and the Old Fortress.
Cafes and restaurants operate below the arches of the Liston where the visitor can enjoy a cup of Greek coffee or try one of the specialties of the Ionian cuisine washed done with ginger beer; one of the relics of the British rule.
The Mourayia District
Arseniou St runs above the sea-front along the Venetian sea-walls and through the Mourayia District. There is a magnificent view of the coast from there. This sea-front road leads down to the harbor of Corfu.
For those seeking the ultimate Greek vacation photo, another splendid view from the Mourayia District is of the New Fortress which towers, on the hill, above the harbor and not far out at sea, the Islet of Vido.
The Campiello District
The most unforgettable experience awaiting the visitor is undoubtedly a stroll through the center of Corfu Town and, in particular, through the old-world Campiello District. The narrow alleys lined with tall white washed buildings, often with arches, the churches, the attractive little squares and the mansions with skillfully-wrought balconies with colorful flowers and hanging lanterns help to create a medieval atmosphere.
The Achilleion
Achilleion is a palace built in the picturesque village of Gastouri by Empress of Austria Elisabeth of Bavaria, also known as Sissy. It was designed with the mythical hero Achilles as its central theme. The Palace garden is full of artistically sculpted statues of Greek Gods and Goddesses that make for a truly mythical setting. The casino scene of the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only (1981) was filmed at this majestic palace.
Pontikonisi Island
Pontikonisi Island, ‘Mouse Island’ in Greek, is located south of Corfu town near the resort of Kanoni. It is called ‘Mouse Island’ in Greek because its shape resembles a mouse. This is a small island which houses the Byzantine church of Pantokrator, built in the 11th or 12th century. According to legend, this rocky island is the ship of Ulysses that was stoned by god Poseidon during a storm.
Join our Corfu Island the Greek Venice tour and enjoy a trip back in time. Take in the cosmopolitan air of Corfu Town and admire its colorful buildings, monuments and palaces, houses with enigmatic roof tiles and lofts, as well as its aristocratic squares and districts.
