The island of Corfu (Greek name - Kerkyra) belongs to the group of Greek islands located in the Ionian Sea. Its area is 610.9 square meters. km, length is about 64 kilometers, the widest part is 32 kilometers, the total coastline is 217 kilometers. The island, which stretches along the mainland, is home to more than 102,071 inhabitants. The western part of the island of Corfu is washed by the waters of the Adriatic Sea, and its eastern part by the waters of the Ionian Sea. Being in the north of the island, you can see the coast of Albania, located 1.5 kilometers from Kerkyra.
Ancient Greek myths say that this wonderful island was founded by the god of the seas, Poseidon. Having fallen in love with one of the daughters of the rivers, he kidnapped the beauty and settled her on an island in the Ionian Sea, as beautiful as she was. In honor of his beloved, Poseidon named the island of Kerkyra, and since then this place has been glorified more than once in legends, and Homer sang about it in his poems. Medea and Jason found their salvation in Corfu, having obtained the Golden Fleece, and on the way to Ithaca Odysseus stopped here.
The island is famous for its magnificent landscapes: beautiful green hills, numerous forests and olive groves, attractive beaches with golden sand and clear azure sea. In addition to natural beauty, here you will find many ancient monasteries and castles, historical and artistic monuments.
The island of Corfu is the greenest and most picturesque among the islands of the Ionian Sea. Thanks to its amazing nature and favorable geographical location, it has always attracted conquerors, as well as poets, artists and thinkers. Owning the island meant control over shipping, and therefore everyone tried to count Corfu among their possessions. Sparta and Athens started the Peloponnesian War for possession of the island; in the Middle Ages, Corfu was under the control of Sicily, which soon transferred power to Venice for many four hundred years. The island was able to withstand the siege of the Ottomans, but could not withstand the onslaught of Napoleon's troops. The island was also under English rule, and in 1864 Corfu officially became a possession of independent Greece.
Flight time:
(charter flights)
from Moscow - 4 hours 20 minutes.
from St. Petersburg - 4 hours
(regular flights)
from Kazan - (1-3 transfers)
from Ekaterinburg - (2-3 transfers)
from Novosibirsk - (2-3 transfers)
Current time in Kerkyra:
(UTC +3)
However, most tourists holidaying in Corfu prefer package tours with charter transportation. Charter flights to Corfu fly from Moscow and St. Petersburg, and occasionally from other large cities.
Usually, planes from Transaero (3 times a week), Aegean Airlines (3 times a week) and Aeroflot (2 times a week) fly from Moscow; from St. Petersburg this is GTK Russia with a weekly flight from spring to autumn.
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Climate and weather in Corfu
The favorable climatic conditions of the island are conducive to holidays there. Corfu has a typical Mediterranean subtropical climate, in which you can feel comfortable and enjoy your holiday. In the evening the temperature drops and becomes much cooler. During the dry summer period there is very little rainfall, the total number of sunny days is more than 250.
The average air temperature in the resorts of Corfu in summer ranges from + 24 C to +33 C, depending on the area. The average water temperature off the coast of Corfu is +21C in June, +24C in July, and +25 in August and September. Despite the heat, there is no feeling of heaviness or stuffiness - the fresh breeze blowing from the sea pleasantly cools the body.
Starting from October, the average water temperature gradually decreases from + 21 C to +19 C. Winter is very mild, air temperature, on average, from +15 C to +18 C, and water temperature + 15 C - +16 C. In winter, precipitation basic amount of annual precipitation.
The most favorable time to travel to the island of Corfu to relax, sunbathe and swim is from the beginning of May to mid-September. To travel to Corfu to get acquainted with its nature and history, you can choose the spring time, from the beginning of March to May. These days, flowers are blooming on the island, everything is starting to smell fragrant and it is not yet so hot.
Weather in Corfu in summer, autumn, winter and spring, climate by month, current weather forecast for 10 and 14 days - on the website.
Weather forecast
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Saturday |
Sunday |
Monday |
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Weather in Corfu by months
| Temperature daytime, °C |
Temperature at night, °C |
Temperature water, °C |
Quantity precipitation, mm |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 7 | 15 | 136.6 | |
| 14 | 9 | 14 | 124.6 | |
| — | — | 15 | 98.1 | |
| — | — | 16 | 66.7 | |
| — | — | 17 | 37 | |
| — | — | 21 | 14.1 | |
| — | — | 24 | 9.2 | |
| 31 | 25 | 25 | 19 | |
| 28 | 22 | 25 | 81.3 | |
| 23 | 18 | 21 | 137.7 | |
| 18 | 14 | 19 | 187.4 | |
| 14 | 9 | 16 | 185.6 |
Reviews by month
| April 1 May 9 June 9 | July 4 August 13 September 4 | October 1 |
Photos of Corfu
Transport
You can move around the island during your vacation using different types of transport: taxis, rented vehicles, and municipal transport.
Taxi
Arriving in Kerkyra and leaving the small airport building, you will immediately find numerous taxis offering their services. Here, as in all of Greece, it is worth checking the cost of the trip and its route, otherwise you risk significantly overpaying.
Car rent
Of course, renting a car is much more convenient and cheaper if you plan to move around the island a lot. There are a lot of rental shops here offering a variety of cars, mostly manual ones. If you need a car with an automatic transmission, it is best to reserve it in advance on the Internet (for example, in the companies Corfu-town, Corfusunrise, Kosmos Rent A Car).
A car with automatic control will cost much more than a manual one; for example, a four-day rental of a machine costs an average of 160 euros. It often happens that you have to wait a day or two until a suitable car is found, especially during the height of the tourist season. The cost of gasoline in Corfu fluctuates around 1-1.10 euros. For one week of stay you can use about 50 euros worth of gasoline. You can refuel anywhere, as there are enough gas stations throughout the island, even in the most remote corners of Corfu. The only drawback is the lack of gas station markings on the map, and their working hours are not always convenient. Early in the morning you are unlikely to be able to fill the tank, nor at noon, when everyone is closed for a siesta.
When accepting a rented car, be sure to inspect the car for dents, scratches and the condition of the tires in order to avoid possible misunderstandings in the future. But, usually, tenants do not pay much attention to minor damage.
Our regular license cards are also valid in Corfu, but if you have an international license, be sure to take them. Please note that in Greece, and in Corfu in particular, there are strict fines: parking in an undesignated place - up to 250 euros (within the city), driving through a red light - 750 euros, not wearing a seat belt - 350 euros.
ATVs
Another type of popular rental vehicle is ATVs. Traveling around the island on an ATV will give you unique riding pleasure. It's nice to ride in the heat, feeling all the smells of the island and the salty, refreshing wind hitting your face. The only downsides are a little shaking and low speed, but you get a different kind of pleasure and are unlikely to want to change the ATV to a car. Drivers on the roads are very polite and friendly towards other road users driving small vehicles, they never cut you off and patiently let you pass. The cost of renting an ATV ranges from 15 to 25 euros/day, depending on the model and power. However, you must have your license with you, as this is required by the rules for riding ATVs and scooters.
Municipal transport
The island of Corfu has a well-established bus service between major settlements. The bus station is located in Kerkyra near the New Fortress. Tickets are sold from the bus driver or can be purchased from a machine at the bus stop. When using the machine, you need to know at least a little Greek, so it is better to ask local residents for help, and also have a lot of small change with you, since the machine does not give out change. The low cost of public transport allows you to explore the entire island in the most economical way. At kiosks located at bus stations, you can purchase maps with routes, as well as find out exactly where the bus you need stops. Often buses stop in places that do not correspond to the signs.
In addition to bus stations, you can always take a bus along the road, anywhere, you just need to make a corresponding sign to the driver. All municipal buses are comfortable and air-conditioned.
What to see
On the island of Corfu, in addition to a first-class holiday, you can take exciting excursions and visit a number of interesting places.
Sights of Corfu town (Kerkyra)
- Palace of Saints George and Michael
- Esplanade (Spianada Square)
Sights of Corfu outside the capital
- Pontikonisi Island (Mouse Island)
- Paxos
Where to go in Corfu
Attractions
Museums and galleries
Entertainment
Parks and Recreation
Transport
Private guides in Corfu
Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Corfu in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.
Things to do
Beaches of Corfu island
The island of Corfu is an ideal holiday destination. Here you will find beautiful, well-maintained beaches, crystal clear seas, the opportunity to sunbathe, engage in water sports and beach volleyball. The weather on the island is almost always favorable for relaxation.
Many of Corfu's beaches are ideal for families with children of all ages, even the youngest, as the sea becomes deep gradually and this allows children to splash around on the shore completely safely. And on the clean, velvety sand, kids can play around for a long time, building castles and fortresses.
Beaches and bays of northern and northwestern Corfu
The beaches of this part of the island are mostly sandy, and the sea is quite shallow; you need to walk a long way to deeper waters. Northern and northwestern winds prevail here.
Western part of Corfu
Northeast of Corfu island
Purchases
From a trip to the island of Corfu, you can bring home wonderful Greek products and goods, as well as various souvenirs that will remind you of your trip. In all the villages of the island there are small shops and souvenir shops, but most of them are located in the capital of Corfu - Kerkyra. On the main street of the city there are department stores, smaller shops, brand boutiques and retail shops. Note to tourists: all Greek shopping establishments must close for a break during the hottest time of the day - from 12 to 16 hours. On the island of Corfu there is a huge variety of original souvenirs made by the hands of Greek craftsmen.
Among the abundance of goods you will find wonderful things made of wood: olive, cypress and beech, as well as natural stone, glass and leather, for example, jewelry, various belts, shoes in the traditional Greek style, and clothing items. Here you can buy interesting jewelry of the finest handcraft. There are many fur stores with a wide assortment: fur coats, hats, vests, boas. A wonderful gift would be a set of bed linen decorated with hand embroidery, fine lace and traditional clothes made of fine cotton, CDs with traditional and modern Greek music.
It is worth purchasing excellent Greek cosmetics made from olive oil. In Corfu you have the opportunity to buy the famous Patounis soap for yourself or just as a gift. In his soap factory, which is also a museum, natural soap is still brewed according to an ancient recipe without the addition of artificial substances. The Patunis soap factory produces only three types of soap: olive, date and green (based on olive seed oil).
The island produces some of the finest olive oils, as the olives are allowed to fully ripen, resulting in a rich, delicious Corfu oil. The cost is different everywhere, for example, in a Kerkyra supermarket a liter of olive oil will cost 6-8 euros, bottling in the market will be more expensive - about 5 euros for 0.3 liters, in duty free oil in cans costs from 7 to 10 euros per liter. Along with olive oil, buy pickled olives, candied kumquats, which grow in abundance here, and liqueur made from them. You can add traditional feta cheese and other Greek cheeses and Greek sweets to your purchases. Among alcoholic products, we can recommend the Greek aniseed vodka ouzo, Metaxa, various liqueurs and tinctures of herbs and fruits. Alcoholic drinks are sold on every corner, as well as in duty free. Prices are approximately the same everywhere.
Food and drink
Greek cuisine is famous for its huge variety of products and dishes, prepared in the most unusual way, without the use of heavy fats.
While relaxing on the island of Corfu, you will not only enjoy the gentle sea and the Mediterranean sun, but you will also have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Greek cooking. Huge olive plantations were planted on the fertile island; they say that in the Byzantine period, for one olive tree planted, a peasant was rewarded in gold.
Olives here are harvested late, after waiting for them to fully ripen, which is why Corfu oil is considered the best. In addition to olives, lemons, kumquats, once imported from China, oranges, grapes and other fruits grow in Corfu. For tourists who prefer tasty and healthy food, the island of Corfu will be a godsend. Among the great variety of traditional Greek taverns, bars, cafes and restaurants, everyone can choose an establishment to suit their taste and budget. If you want to taste the real cuisine of the Greeks, what they themselves eat, then choose places where the locals have dinner or lunch. The variety of products and dishes prepared from them is unusually large, but the main directions can be briefly outlined.
Vegetable dishes
The most popular vegetable among Greeks is eggplant, which is prepared in all sorts of ways. But all other vegetables are also very popular: tomatoes, cucumbers, artichokes, peppers, beans and many others. There are countless names of salads prepared from a variety of vegetables. Grape leaves and tomatoes stuffed with meat or rice filling are very tasty.
Fish dishes
You can try classic Greek fish dishes in special establishments - psarotaverns, which, as a rule, are located near the seashore. Here you will find a large selection of different fish and seafood dishes. In psarotaverns there is always the freshest fish, caught in the morning of the current day and prepared in various ways: fried, stewed, baked, stuffed, smoked, hot, cold, salted and dried. Seafood dishes are very tasty: mussels in sauce, oysters, octopus, cuttlefish. Lunch, consisting of salad and seafood dishes, will cost, on average, 45 euros for two. Fish dishes are much cheaper, and note that the portions in all establishments are very large.
Meat dishes
The taverns offer a variety of meat dishes that will not leave you indifferent. A special place is occupied by beef and rabbit stewed in pots with wine, seasoned with a whole bouquet of spices. A very popular Greek dish is souvlaki, made from pork and lamb. It is also worth trying meat cooked according to an old recipe on a spit over smoldering coals. All meat dishes use a large number of herbs and spices, making the dishes unique and very tasty. Some taverns serve hot rasto soup made from beef, which is very hearty and thick. There are also lighter soups, such as kotosupa me avgolemono - a chicken soup with rice, beaten egg and lemon. However, in general, first courses are not very common on the island due to the hot climate.
Dairy
Large herds of sheep, goats and cows graze on the green and fertile island, from which they receive a lot of valuable milk. Greek dairy products are slightly different in taste from Russian ones, they are more nutritious and tasty.
The most popular are yoghurts and a variety of cheeses, the most famous of which is feta cheese. This cheese is used in many Greek dishes and salads. Many taverns serve a very tasty and unusual dish made from sheep's yogurt with various herbs.
Sweets and desserts
Any Greek lunch or dinner usually ends with dessert. It can be anything: various fruits and berries (oranges, peaches, apricots, grapes, plums, watermelons and melons), products made from sweet thin dough with filling - filo baklava (rolls with nuts, honey, etc.).
Coffee and other drinks
The most common drink on the island, as in the rest of Greek territory, is coffee. It is prepared and served in various ways: vari glyco is strong coffee with added sugar, matrio is slightly less strong and moderately sweet, sketo is medium-strength coffee without sugar. It is customary to drink coffee in small sips, while washing it down with cold water. Another favorite way to serve coffee on the island is cold coffee frappe (instant coffee is poured with cold water, sugar and fine crushed ice are added). Other traditional drinks consumed by the Greeks and offered in cafes and restaurants include all kinds of juices and fresh drinks, and mineral water. Tea on the island is mainly used as an aid for colds or intestinal diseases.
Alcoholic drinks
Taverns, cafes and restaurants offer a variety of Greek wines and stronger drinks. Greek wine is worthy of tasting and will leave a pleasant impression. The wines served are red and white from grapes grown in different regions of Greece. Stronger drinks - raki, ouzo, as well as various liqueurs and liqueurs. Raki is a grape vodka characterized by a tart taste and increased strength. Ouzo is aniseed vodka that is diluted with water and becomes a cloudy white color.
Connection
Internet
In the largest cities and towns you can find many Internet cafes. Internet access services will cost you approximately 5 euros per hour. In Kerkyra, similar establishments offer their prices somewhat cheaper. Almost all cafes located in major resorts have free access to wi-fi. Many hotel rooms also offer this service, which is usually free of charge. Some more economical hotels have internet rooms where you can use the Internet for free. In some very remote areas, coverage is either weak or completely absent.
Telephone
All kiosks sell special telephone cards of various denominations, which can be used to make calls directly from a pay phone. There are many such pay phones throughout the island, although only in large and busy towns and resorts. The cost of such a card starts from 5 euros, with it you can call both island numbers and abroad. You can also use tourist SIM cards for calls abroad, which are sold in kiosks, information centers and large stores. Local SIM cards are sold only to the holder of a Greek passport.
Safety
The island of Corfu is the safest place in Greece, at least this is what the local residents themselves say, who, by the way, do not consider themselves pure Greeks. This is explained by the fact that for a long period of time the island was under the influence of Byzantium, France and England. All the unrest and riots that have been observed recently on the Greek mainland have nothing to do with Corfu: it is always peaceful and calm here. Corfuans never interfere in Greek political squabbles, so everything always works here, even when the rest of Greece is on strike.
The local population is unusually hospitable and happily provides a warm welcome to the guests of the island. The crime rate is zero, since the island is small and everyone knows each other. Car thefts are impossible for the same reason, and there is nowhere to take them out. Albanians who once stole cars for parts were deported from the island by local authorities.
In Corfu you are unlikely to see even an ordinary fight, as this leads to a trial and a huge fine. So you can be completely confident in your safety, as well as the safety of your loved ones.
Some problems can only arise in high season, when hot Italians arrive. It is also not recommended to relax in those places where young Englishmen are accommodated, turning everything into an endless disco with all the ensuing consequences. Swimming in the sea is extremely safe: the local waters are considered almost sterile.
Where to stay in Corfu
Booking.com offers more than 3,030 Corfu hotels for booking. You can select a hotel using a variety of filters: hotel star rating, hotel type (hotel, apartment, villa, hostel, etc.), cost, hotel location, ratings of people who visited the hotel, Wi-Fi availability and much more. .
Latest booked hotels in Corfu
In addition to the traditional hotels presented above, you can, this may be convenient for some categories of tourists - families with several children, who prefer to cook for themselves, and so on.
Basic moments
Once in Corfu, you will feel the breath of Italy everywhere. Narrow streets with clotheslines stretched across them and wrought-iron balconies entwined with greenery are reminiscent of the southern cities of this country. In restaurants, spaghetti and pizza are always on the menu, and in small towns, arias from Italian operas are often heard from open windows, performed by musically gifted locals.
The love for poetry and music is even evident in the local dialect - a melodic language, a cross between Greek and Italian, the conversation in which is necessarily accompanied by theatrical gestures. It is worth saying that residents of other parts of Greece consider the inhabitants of Corfu to be somewhat eccentric.
The Greeks themselves, paying tribute to the mythological tradition, call the island Kerkyra. This was the name of the daughter of the Greek deity Asopa and the river nymph Metope. The god of the sea, Poseidon, in love with Kerkyra, stole her and moved her to a hitherto unknown island of wondrous beauty, which has since been named after the beauty.
According to Homer, the first inhabitants of the island were the Phaeacians, a glorious people of seafarers. According to legend, they owe their name to the son of Poseidon and Kerkyra - Phaeak.
Other legends are also associated with the island of Corfu: the Argonauts, returning from a campaign for the Golden Fleece, celebrated the wedding of Jason and Medea here; The waves washed Odysseus onto the shore of Kerkyra after a shipwreck, where he was found by Nausicaä, the beautiful daughter of King Alcinous.
Blessed Island
Corfu captivates with its beauty at first sight. Looking at the island from an airliner window, you will be amazed by its extraordinary emerald color. He is the personification of the island's generous nature. Luxurious orange orchards, shady centuries-old olive groves founded by the Venetians, grape plantations, a picturesque coastline indented with coves and bays awaken the imagination and set the mood for a romantic mood.
Two high mountain ranges divide Corfu into three parts, the northern of which is mountainous, the central is hilly, and the southern is lowland. This landscape gives the island additional charm and provides variety for beach lovers: you can sunbathe on one of the crowded long sandy beaches or retire to some rocky cozy bay.
The climate here is Mediterranean: mild, subtropical. In summer in Corfu it is about +30 °C, in winter +10 °C. It is rainy from September to March.
History of Corfu Island
The geographical location of the island has long determined its military-strategic and commercial importance, which turned Kerkyra into an arena of turbulent historical events and military clashes.
In the 8th century BC. e. Corfu became a Corinthian colony and became an important center of trade. But the inhabitants of the island rebelled against the conquerors and united with Athens, concluding a military alliance with the great city. During the Peloponnesian War, Corfu served the Athenians as a naval base. Throughout the Hellenistic period, the island was regularly attacked, and in 229 BC. e. it came under the rule of the Romans, who also used Corfu as a military base.
After the collapse of the Roman Empire in 395 AD. e. the island remained part of the Eastern Roman Empire, which later became the Byzantine Empire. It was during the Byzantine period that the island began to be called “Corifos” (in Greek, “city of mountains”), and at the same time the Latin name of the island, “Corfu,” arose. While under Byzantine rule, the island experienced invasions by the Vandals, Huns and Goths. Fearing another invasion of conquerors, the inhabitants were forced to move their capital to the rock where the old fort is currently located.
In 1386, Corfu came under the rule of the Venetians, whose rule here lasted more than four hundred years. During this period, the Ottoman Turks repeatedly tried to conquer it. During one of the sieges, in 1537, Turkish troops managed to capture part of the island, as a result of which a huge part of the population of Corfu was captured and taken to the Ottoman Empire.
During Venetian rule, the inhabitants of the island were divided into three classes: aristocracy, bourgeoisie and people. The aristocracy was recorded in the Golden Book. The title was inherited. Rich people spoke two languages, Greek and Italian, and often received education in Venice and Padua. This era still defines the appearance of Corfu, in which the influence of classical Greek culture is intertwined with Italian romanticism.
In 1797, ordinary residents of Corfu, dissatisfied with the privileges for the aristocracy and bourgeoisie, joyfully greeted the French soldiers sent by Napoleon to conquer the island. In the central square of their capital, the city of Corfu, they, together with the French, burned the “Golden Book” and planted a tall tree of freedom. However, on the island you can still meet outright snobs, who are descendants of families that were once listed in the Golden Book.
During the Napoleonic Wars, which spanned the period 1798-1800, Corfu was stormed by a joint Russian-Turkish squadron led by Admiral Fyodor Ushakov.
In 1815, by decision of the Congress of Vienna, along with the other Ionian islands, Corfu came under British rule, but the empire left the indigenous population a certain independence. Lord Giford, Commissioner of the British Army, founded a university here, where the famous Greek poet and patriot Andreas Kalvos and the author of the Greek national anthem, the founder of modern Greek poetry, Dionysis Solomos, later studied.
In 1864, after the formation of the Greek state, Corfu was donated by Great Britain to the Greek King George I.
For a long time, holidays on this romantic island were the privilege of the aristocracy and bohemians, but today its sandy beaches, turquoise bays, olive groves and ancient palaces have become part of the infrastructure of mass tourism. However, in Corfu you can always find a secluded spot. To do this, just rent a car and go on a trip along one of the wonderfully equipped roads.
Corfu town
The main city of the island - Corfu (or Kerkyra) - is located on its eastern coast in the foothills. It is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. Here you can feel the breath of different historical eras everywhere, and its magnificent architecture harmoniously combines the architectural traditions of different nations. Byzantine churches coexist with medieval fortresses and luxurious Venetian staircases, and houses with a Neapolitan flavor coexist with colonnades and arcades in the French style.
The British left the inhabitants of Corfu with a legacy of beautiful architectural structures and their national tradition - the game of cricket. International competitions in this sport are held directly in the town square of Spianada. It is also worth noting that local residents speak English at a fairly good level.
City attractions
The historical center of Corfu is protected by the state and is a pedestrian area. In 2007 it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This is a very picturesque and original part of the city. Here you can wander for hours, as if through a labyrinth, which is decorated with charming tall buildings, cute restaurants and cafes, and souvenir shops.
Walking is especially good in the early morning, when the ancient streets are not yet filled with noisy crowds of tourists. Walk along the ancient narrow street of Teotoki, turn onto Filelion Street to admire its old resident - house number 18, built in 1497. If you get lost and start arguing loudly among yourself about where to go next, the shutters on the ground floor of one of the houses will probably open and the owners will kindly show you the way.
Stop by one of the churches, where you will be hospitably greeted by a priest, and be sure to visit the Church of St. Spyridon the Wonderworker, the patron saint of the city. It is located in the thick of the streets of the Old Town, and its high bell tower with a red finial can be seen from everywhere.
The church was erected in 1590. Bishop Spyridon himself lived in the 4th century, and there is no reliable evidence of his connection with the island of Corfu. However, his remains, kept in Constantinople, were transported to Corfu after the Turks captured the Byzantine capital in 1453. According to legend, they were given by unknown persons to a wealthy family with the condition that in each generation one of the family members would be a priest.
The relics were kept in the family church until the townspeople raised funds and erected a cathedral worthy of the miracle worker. The temple has become one of the richest in this region: here you can see a luxurious marble iconostasis, a vault of medallion icons enclosed in gilded frames, noble wooden carved chairs along the walls. The relics of the saint are in a silver shrine, decorated with enamel icons.
For centuries, not only Orthodox Christians, but also Catholics donated to the cathedral. Numerous donations were made by the Russian Imperial House of Romanov: particularly large contributions were made by Catherine II and Paul I.
There is often an endless line to see the relics of Saint Spyridon, because believers believe that they really have miraculous powers, since they saved the island four times: once from hunger, twice from the plague, and once again from the Turks. Here it is even customary to swear by the name of the saint, thereby expressing your respect to him.
Residents of Corfu and tourists love to spend time in Spianada, the largest square in the city. In its northern part is the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, built in 1819 for the highest ranks of the British army. Today it houses the Asian Art Museum, one of the best museums of Asian art in Europe. Here you can admire a wonderful exhibition of ancient Chinese art, including a collection of Chinese lacquer miniatures, get acquainted with Japanese and Indian art, and view exhibits from Central Asia. All art objects are located in a well thought out and truly refined interior. The palace park offers a magnificent panorama of the sea. The price of tickets to the museum is quite affordable - 3 €.
On the southern side of the square there is a stage where concerts and musical performances take place in the evenings. It's a pleasant place to spend time at one of the many open-air tables.
Opposite the square is a fortress, one of the most beautiful in Greece. The stronghold was built by the Venetians in the 14th century and strengthened in 1546. It is located on a high rocky cape, separated from the city by a moat through which a bridge is laid. On the territory of the fortress you can visit the beautiful Church of St. George, built by the British, explore the barracks and military weapons, and also admire the panorama that opens from here. Not far from the old fortress in 1576-1588. a new fort was built to protect the city from a possible Turkish attack. A visit to each of these attractions will cost you 7 €.
You can get acquainted with the history of the island at the Archaeological Museum of Corfu. The exhibition presented here covers the period from prehistoric times to the Roman era. Pay attention to the sculptural image of a lion (7th century BC), the pediment of the Temple of Artemis with the image of the terrible Gorgon Medusa and the archaic pediment representing the feast of Dionysus. Before visiting the museum, check its opening hours, as it is not always open lately.
During Venetian rule, the main political, administrative and cultural center of the city of Corfu was the Town Hall Square. In 1663, a Loggia (gallery) was built here, where the city's elite, including Venetian officers, gathered. In 1720, the building housed an opera house - the Nobile Teatro di San Giacomo, and since 1903 the City Hall has been located here.
Also on the square are the Cathedral of St. James and St. Christopher, next to it is the building of the former residence of the Archbishop of Corfu, which now houses a branch of the Bank of Greece.
Southern part of Corfu island
Heading south of the island from Corfu town, you will find yourself on the Kanoni Peninsula. It is located 5 km from the central part of the city. The coastline of the peninsula is magnificent and the beaches are simply amazing.
From here you have a beautiful view of the islets of Vlaherna and Pondikonisi. On the first of them is the miniature monastery of Panagia Vlahernon, built in the 17th century. The island is connected to land by a long, narrow pier.
Pondikonisi (Mouse Island) is located 800 meters from the coast of the island. According to legend, Pondikonisi is the petrified ship of Odysseus, turned into a rocky island by the ruler of the seas, Poseidon. If you find yourself in this place, visit the small Byzantine church of the 11th-12th centuries, hidden in the shade of cypress trees. The island can be reached by boat.
Kanoni is charming at any time of the day, but is especially beautiful at sunset, when the sun plunges into the dark blue sea waters and its orange-purple rays are reflected in the sky.
Drive 10 km south from Corfu town and you will find yourself in the picturesque village of Gastouri. Here, on the top of the hill, is a magnificent palace building - the Achilleion. This romantic location was chosen by Elisabeth of Austria (better known as Princess Sisi), wife of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary, for her residence.
Elizabeth, fascinated by the island and considering it the most beautiful place in the world, was passionate about Greek history and culture, so when building and decorating the palace, a style based on ancient Greek mythology was used. The residence itself was named after Elizabeth's favorite character, Achilles. The palace was built in 1892 according to the design of the talented Italian architect Raphael Caritto, and the design was done by the German sculptor Ernst Getter.
Achilleion was later purchased by the German Emperor Wilhelm II. Today the palace is open to the public and is considered one of the most striking attractions of Corfu. Its interior impresses with its luxury: you can admire exquisite wall paintings, original carved furniture, a fireplace made of black Italian marble, and walk along a wide marble staircase, at the foot of which there are statues of Zeus and Hera. Visit the small Catholic chapel and private office of William II.
No less impressive is the landscaped palace garden, which overlooks the island of Pondikonisi. In the shade of palms and lemon trees, there are beautiful sculptures, including “The Dying Achilles” by Ernst Goether. One of the episodes of the James Bond film epic took place in this garden.
Currently, the palace is state property. For a long time there was a casino here, but today it was moved to the Hilton Hotel. To explore Achilleon comfortably, it is better to arrive here early, at 8-9 am. Ticket price for adults is 6 €, for a child – 3 €.
12 km from the main city of the island is the old fishing village of Benitses. For a long time, it had the dubious reputation of a hot spot thanks to the noisy companies of the British who “occupied” its beach and bars, of which there is no shortage. But today Benitses has almost gotten rid of this image. Now it is quite quiet and peaceful here. Not long ago, the beach of the village received the Blue Flag from the European Union for its crystal clear sea water.
The village of Benitses on the island of CorfuThe coastal village of Moraitika is located 2 km from the village of Benitses. Its beach is considered by many to be the best of all, located between Corfu and the southernmost point of the island - Kavos. It is crowded here, and the coast itself is very densely built up with bars, restaurants and shops. But literally a 10-minute walk from the beach deep into the island, a different atmosphere reigns. The quiet streets and steep alleys of Moraitika are almost deserted and very picturesque.
Moraitiki beach after sunset
Very close by is another village - Messonghi. This delightful village is surrounded by olive trees and its beach is much calmer than its neighboring one, although there is also no shortage of hotels and taverns.
One of the most beautiful places on the coast is Agios Georgios beach. It has also been awarded the Blue Flag and is considered one of the cleanest in Europe. The sandy shore of the beach is bordered by massive rocks and boulders, among which you can find many secluded coves and beaches “for two”. The southern part of the coast with its shallow waters is perfect for families with children, while active recreation enthusiasts prefer the northern coast with deep sea and waves.
On organized beach areas, vacationers have access to sun loungers, sun umbrellas, showers, taverns and small bars. And remote areas of the beach are great for badminton, volleyball and even football. Here you can rent a boat and go on a mini-cruise along the coast, discovering picturesque tiny deserted bays and uninhabited islands.
The capital of the lowland south is the city of Lefkimi, the second largest settlement on the island after Corfu. It is located in a fertile green valley surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. This is a classic Greek town, whose appearance is formed by pretty stone houses, ancient churches and monasteries, beautiful squares and narrow streets.
6 km from Lefkimi, on the southernmost tip of the island, is the resort town of Kavos, which is the true center of active recreation and nightlife in Corfu.
Beyond, a coastal path takes you through the unspoiled countryside around the village of Spartera, from which you can reach the scenic cliffs of Cape Asprokavos and the nearby monastery of Arkoudillas within half an hour. It’s nice to spend a day here on a deserted beach or walk to the wild coast of Agia Gordis Paleochoriou.
The southernmost tip of Corfu is very popular among yachtsmen and windsurfers. They love this corner for its constant winds and picturesque views of the coast.
Northern part of Corfu island
North Corfu is famous for its unique landscape, which is given a special flavor by picturesque forested mountains and rocky coastline. Some places are not suitable for all beach lovers, but there are enough resort villages, charming pebble bays, and the sea is striking in its cleanliness.
Many couples with children prefer to relax in Dassia. This fairly quiet resort is located near the ancient village of the same name. Its name translates as “forest” and speaks for itself: olive and cypress groves and pine forests approach the Dassia beach itself. Here you can find both sandy and pebble beaches. All of them are perfectly equipped and well maintained.
A little further north is the resort of Ipsos. It is one of the most visited parts of the island of Corfu by tourists. This is not the best place for families with children, but those who like to spend time in bars and have fun at night will not be bored in Ipsos. The beach here is pebbly and quite long.
The Nissaki resort, located at the foot of Mount Pantokrator, also boasts wonderful pebble beaches and the purest azure sea. The road leading from here to Kassiopi climbs uphill, and here a wonderful panorama opens up in front of you: on the left side is Mount Panthrokrator, the highest point on the island (914 m), and on the right are the mountainous shores of Albania. From the top of the mountain, where the small cafe is located, there is a stunning view not only of the entire island: on clear days you can see the Italian coast, despite the fact that it is 130 km from Corfu.
The village of Kassiopi is located on the site of a former Roman settlement where Cicero and Ptolemy visited. Nero himself came to these parts to play the lyre in front of the temple of Zeus, and the inhabitants crowned him with a laurel wreath. Today in Kassiopi you can visit the ruins of a medieval fort and the church of Panagia Kasopitra, built in 1580 on the site where the first church of Corfu stood.
Paleokastritsa, CorfuAt the northernmost tip of the island are the resorts of Roda, with one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the island, and Sidari, whose sandy coastline lies at the foot of cliffs dotted with grottoes. Here you can take a boat and take it to the Love Canal or get to the miniature fishing island of Erikus, where, by the way, there is a small hotel.
Western part of Corfu island
One of the most popular beaches on the west coast of the island is Glyfada. It is located at the foot of the hill, where one of the most beautiful settlements of Corfu is located - Pelekas. Glyfada is a long, very wide strip of golden sand, bordered by mountain slopes that are surrounded by the greenery of centuries-old trees. The beach is loved by young people who come here from all over Europe for the now popular beach parties. But this is a completely suitable place for families with children: the sand on the beach is soft and silky, and the sea near the shore is shallow.
Very close are the delightful beaches of Myrtiotis and Kontos Gialos, a favorite place for nudists.
In the afternoon, head up to Pelekas (3 km up the hill) to admire the stunning sunset scenery.
North of Pelekas is the resort of Ermones. Its sandy beach, located under a rocky cliff, is surrounded by forest. There is a golf club here - Corfu Golf, which attracts fans of the status game from all over Europe.
The pearl of the island of Corfu is Paleokastritsa. One of the most beautiful places in all of Greece. First, you should admire it from a place called “bella vista” - it is located above the village of Lacones, then go down to the bay with crystal azure water, where a 13th-century fort rises. In Paleokastritsa you can enjoy your holiday in picturesque bays formed by rocky headlands, or on excellent sandy and pebble beaches washed by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Boat excursions are popular, during which you can enjoy magnificent views of the coast, bordered by high mountains (cost: 10 € - 40 minutes).
Not far from Paleokastritsa is the fortress of Angelokastro (“Angel’s Castle”), which is one of the most significant architectural monuments of the Byzantine era in all of Greece. It is located on the top of a cliff and is an impregnable fortress that served as one of the most important strategic fortifications of Byzantine Corfu. The castle building, which is still undergoing archaeological and reconstruction work, is open to tourists from May to October. The cost of entrance tickets is 3 €. On Mondays the fortress is closed to visitors.
At the foot of the cliff is the Monastery of Our Lady, founded in 1228. It has recently been restored. Opposite the monastery you will see the “petrokaravo” (ship of stone) - a corsair ship, according to legend, turned into stone by the monks of the monastery. Many archaeologists believe that it was here that the city of Alcinous was located, the place where Nausicaä found Odysseus washed up on the shore. To really enjoy visiting this wonderful corner of Corfu, it is better to come here early in the morning, before the invasion of tourists.
Cooking
For travelers who respect tasty and healthy food, Corfu will be a godsend. Among the incredible number of Greek taverns, bars, and restaurants, everyone has the opportunity to choose an establishment according to their taste and wallet. If you want to get acquainted with real Greek cuisine, give preference to those places where the Greeks themselves eat.
Among vegetable dishes, the Greeks are especially fond of those containing eggplants, which are prepared here in all sorts of ways. Also popular are tomatoes, cucumbers, artichokes, peppers and beans. It is impossible to count the names of vegetable salads. Grape leaves and tomatoes stuffed with meat or rice are incredibly good.
It is better to enjoy traditional Greek fish dishes in specialized psarotaverns, which are located on the sea coast. There is a large selection of the freshest fish prepared in various ways. Choose between fried, stewed, baked, stuffed, smoked, hot, cold, salted, dried. Mussels in sauce, oysters, octopus, cuttlefish are incredibly good - such a treat, accompanied by a vegetable salad, will cost approximately 45 € for two. Fish dishes are significantly cheaper. Portions in all establishments are very large.
Meat dishes are worth tasting in taverns. Beef and rabbit stewed in pots with wine, flavored with a whole bunch of spices, are very popular. Gourmets are also pleased with the meat cooked according to an old recipe on a spit rotating over a smoldering coal. All dishes are served with the freshest bread and, of course, olives, which are the number 1 treat here.
The meal here ends with dessert. These can be fruits, berries, puff pastry delicacies - filo baklava (rolls stuffed with nuts and honey).
The most common drink on the island is coffee. It is prepared in different ways - strong and not very strong (cost - 2-4 €). Greeks also love iced coffee frappe. Other drinks include juices, fresh juices, and mineral water.
In Corfu you can enjoy excellent red and white wine made from grapes grown in different parts of Greece. Those who like stronger drinks prefer raki, ouzo, delicious liqueurs and liqueurs.
Transport
You can move around Corfu by different means of transport: taxi, rented car, municipal buses.
When using taxi services, check the price and route in advance and clearly specify everything, otherwise you will have to overpay with interest. The cost of a taxi from Corfu to one of the resort towns, located half an hour away, will cost approximately 25 €.
You can make the same trip on a municipal bus (they are blue here) for 2.5 €.
To make your vacation truly successful and you can see everything interesting on the island, it is better to rent a car. You can rent a car with an automatic transmission for 45-60 € per day. Renting for four days will cost approximately 160 €. The cost of 1 liter of gasoline on the island is 1-1.10 €.
Today, ATV rental is very popular in Corfu. You will get incredible pleasure from this ride if you love speed and the smell of the salty, refreshing wind. This pleasure will cost you 15-25 € per day, depending on the power of the ATV.
You should drive any vehicle in Corfu very carefully - the Greeks themselves are not very careful on the road, although fines for violating the rules here are incredibly high: for driving through a red light you can be charged 750 €, for not wearing a seat belt - 350 €, for parking in city in the wrong place – 250 €.
View from the Kerkyra promenade
Where to stay
Corfu is a world-famous resort, so all the famous chain hotels are represented here. In addition, in Corfu you can stay in small cozy hotels, apartments, and campsites. The price traditionally depends on proximity to the sea.
The cost of living in a five-star hotel on the first coastline starts from 80-125 € per day, in 3-4 star hotels in Corfu - from 35-50 €. The most economical accommodation on the island is hotels on the third coastline, located within a half-hour walk to the beaches, as well as hotels in remote corners of southern Corfu. The average price of accommodation in them is from 25-30 € per day.
Many families with children, as well as young people, prefer to stay in apartments, where they have the opportunity to organize their own meals, depending on their financial capabilities. Accommodation in an apartment 30-50 meters from the sea will cost on average 35-50 €. The price includes the use of Wi-Fi, satellite dish, and washing machine. Having a pool may increase the cost of your stay.
As with any other resort, prices in Corfu soar during the high season, which begins here in June and ends in the first half of September.
How to get there
Tourists from Russia, as a rule, travel to Corfu by charter flights. They depart from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and there are also flights from some other major cities during the season.
The cost of an air ticket for a charter flight on the Moscow – Corfu route starts from 7 thousand rubles. Prices vary from airline to airline. It depends on the aircraft class and travel time (from 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours). The airport on the island of Corfu is located 3 km from its capital.
You can also opt for a regular Aegean Airlines flight from Moscow with a connection in Athens.
If you decide to get to Corfu from Athens, it is best to opt for the ferry (from 37 €). You will have an unforgettable experience of a sea voyage: in good weather, you will be able to admire the smooth line of the Greek coastline, picturesque brown cliffs immersed in bright greenery, and the blue sea with many islands.
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Corfu is magnificent. So much so that many peoples, commanders and tyrants from ancient times until the 20th century almost stood in line for the right to conquer this island (at least temporarily). It must be admitted that many conquerors brought into the culture and life of the island a whole heap of subtleties and nuances that are interesting to modern travelers - from a mixture of languages and culinary experiments to monumental and sophisticated architecture.
And the local residents, descended from the Phaeac people, who were especially close to the ancient Greek gods, gradually absorbed the most useful things from all the visitors, but remained faithful to the traditions of their ancestors. They are just as calm and happy with life, they live without much strife and quarrels, they love holidays, eat delicious food and drink aromatic homemade wine, honor their elders and welcome guests. Jason and Odysseus visited here, the first tourists from Ancient Rome and the flower of the aristocracy of Europe came with pleasure on vacation. Sounds like a great recommendation for your next vacation!
In the high season, renting a budget car will cost 40-50 EUR per day; in the off-season, prices drop 2-3 times. It makes sense for young travelers to consider renting a scooter - a day's rental starts from 15 EUR, the advantages are freshness, savings on gasoline, fewer problems with parking and excellent maneuverability.
Communications and Wi-Fi
There is no point in buying a SIM card for the sake of mobile Internet - in Corfu everything is fine with Wi-Fi. Most hotels promise wireless communication as a free option; only a small number of hotels offer it as an additional service or do not have it. But there are gradually fewer and fewer of them. It will also not be difficult to find open Wi-Fi in one of the island’s cafes and restaurants.
If calls via Viber, Skype and WhatsApp are not mastered, and the international tourist SIM card is forgotten again, it makes sense to pay attention to local mobile operators. The coverage on the island is not satisfactory; Vodafone and Wind, as well as the largest Greek operator Cosmote, provide their services. SIM cards for visitors can be bought directly at the airport; you will need a passport, and a salesperson who is savvy in this matter will advise on the tariff.
Corfu Island
Beaches of Corfu
The beaches of Corfu are its pride. Most are marked with status Blue Flags, almost all are gentle and suitable for families with children, and those that do not have a full-fledged infrastructure offer incredible views. It is unrealistic to determine the best one for a short vacation, because on an island approximately equal in area to the popular Phuket, there are about a hundred of them - many times more than at the disposal of the Thai “colleague”.
The beaches of the east are often pebble, less often mixed with sand. The Ionian Sea in the strait between Corfu and the mainland is shallower and warmer. The beaches of the north - from the Adriatic side - are also warm, you cannot call them completely sandy, rather sand with the addition of pebbles and seasoning from shells.
If you take a swim in the east or south in the morning and then move to the north, you can safely tell at home that you visited two seas in a day.
It is believed that the most beauty can be found in Paleokastritsa, in the west of the northern half of the island, where the beaches are nestled in bays between picturesque rocks. Unfortunately, the water here is colder than in other Corfu resorts due to currents. On the other side of the scale is excellent infrastructure and wide strips of sand without pebbles. Although in some places it is present.
The beaches of the south and southwest of the island can also boast pleasant sand; there are also much fewer resorts and villages, and therefore fewer people.
Diving in Corfu
A dozen diving centers are scattered throughout the northern part of the island. The schools offer both training for beginners and advanced training for certified divers. Dives cost from 35 EUR.
Diving in the Corfu area is designed for different levels of training, but according to professionals, it’s “get your gills wet.” The main attractions are rocks, caverns, reefs, about 30 dive sites in total.
They especially recommend “the most beautiful site of Corfu” - the island of Kolovri, or rather, its underwater part with vertical grottoes and caves.
The water near the resort is clean and clear, the wildlife will not amaze the imagination of experienced ones, but is present in quantities sufficient to satisfy the curiosity of the first dives. Promises to introduce you to friendly octopuses and unique fish of the Mediterranean are captivating.
In addition to natural beauties, there are also man-made sites; wrecks with ships, ancient and not so old, are of particular interest. For pro connoisseurs, dive centers organize night excursions. Beach snorkeling is in store for complete beginners and those who are undecided.
Diving in Corfu
Corfu Hotels
A higher price tag means a better chance of finding a good option. Already for 40-60 EUR, the string of offers stretches across several pages of hotel aggregators. For that kind of money, it’s fair to expect breakfast and a good view. Then the cost of a night increases to 80-120 EUR - this is the amount local hotels with 4 and 5 “stars” on their signboard rate their services at. But this is far from the limit, the deluxe category comes into play - bungalows with half board on the shore for 130-250 EUR, private beaches and total privacy for 270-600 EUR - whatever your heart desires.
Shopping
The whole island is strewn with shops of all kinds, Kerkyra is especially dense. Those for whom Greece is not Greece without fur coats, furs and leather will find salons with products from local factories, as well as from the famous Kastoria manufactories - Artpel, Lapel, Ricco Furs. The shops of the family company with half a century of history, Katerina’s Greek Sandals, will be useful on site. They sell Greek sandals, as the name suggests. A pair of comfortable leather summer slippers is a great souvenir and gift. Including yourself. The second goal is jewelry, this is an expensive business, but you can bargain. A guarantee of quality is the jewelry association sign at the entrance.
The third interesting direction is natural Greek cosmetics. The base is, of course, olive oil. It is worth paying attention to tubes and jars with the brands Exelia, Mythos, Pharmaid, they are sold in pharmacies and supermarkets. The local company The Land of Corfu has its own secret - they mix olive oil with kumquat; there are three of their signature stores in Kerkyra.
Olive oil is leading the edible shopping trend. You need to buy local, which is produced directly in Corfu; it is advisable to buy it not in Kerkyra, but in the villages where it is prepared. They say it is almost the best in Europe. Local alcohol is no less popular: rakia, a sweet liqueur made from kumquat or metax. Then there are desserts - “baklavas” (the essence is baklava) or Turkish delight.
You shouldn’t go to Kerkyra for souvenirs; prices for small things in small resorts are often lower than in the shops of the island capital.
The next item is souvenirs. Various nice ceramics and figurines are brought from Corfu; the popular style is “antique”. More expensive, but very stylish - textiles made of linen, wool and cotton with traditional Greek patterns. Completely local and exclusive - kitchen utensils carved by craftsmen from the same olive wood.
Cuisine and restaurants of Corfu
The beauty of Corfu taverns is their tradition. Many establishments are family businesses, where family does not mean the husband and wife who opened the business a year ago, but at least two or three generations: “But my great-great-grandfather decided to add this veranda when things started to take off.” The sadness and sadness of the gourmet tourist is that there are hundreds of these establishments on the island (according to some sources, about a thousand). In this case, being guided by reviews and ratings means depriving yourself of the pleasure of unexpected discoveries. The best establishments are those where the islanders themselves dine. It’s an absolute sin to eat at international fast foods, to stick to your “native” cafe with Russian cuisine or overseas cuisine, but not in the seas surrounding the area.
Lunch or dinner in an inexpensive tavern will cost 30-40 EUR for two, but you can find a place for less. Another 4-5 EUR will brighten up the table with a bottle of local wine. The accepted tip size (and they are welcome) is 10% of the check. Portions in taverns are in most cases pleasantly large.
Having lunch or shopping for goodies in one place, a tourist often becomes “one of us” for the second time and receives a discount or a gift from the owner.
Try everything Greek in taverns. If it’s difficult to decide, then for the first days here is a set of wonderful words, each of which hides a riot of gastronomic emotions: “moussaka”, “kleftiko”, “mburdeto”, “magirevta”, “sofrito”, “saganaki” and “pastitsada”. Be careful with tsipouro and ouzo. In “uzeri” they will feed the especially hungry, but the profile of such establishments is different, these are local wine bars.
Outside of catering, local goat cheese, aromatic pine and citrus honey, sycomaida pie made from dried figs, kumquats, and olives are a must-try. Beer lovers are recommended to try the local ginger variety of drink - tsitsibira.
Guides to Corfu
Entertainment and attractions
The first attraction of Corfu is the magnificent Kerkyra. They say that the capital of the island is like a little Italy, but in fact, in the ancient city, the cultures and traditions of a whole series of peoples who owned the island or influenced its development are woven together - this piece of land in the Ionian Sea turned out to be too good. The Venetians left behind the Old Fortress - stern, silent, mostly destroyed, but no less majestic. It is noteworthy that the “roots” of the bastions go back centuries, during the Byzantine era of Corfu. The bastions of Neo Frurio - the New Fortress - began to be built by the same Venetians, then the British and French had a hand in its completion. Corfu owes the latter to one of the largest squares in Europe - the green Spinada is good for walking, the local orchestra gives concerts here, and sometimes they play cricket - hello to Britain.
In the south of the city there is an archaeological postcard from the ancient Greeks - the ruins of the no less ancient city of Paleopolis, as well as the museum of the same name nearby.
Exhibition lovers in Kerkyra will also find the Museum of Asian Art in a gloomy palace (website in English), the Byzantine Museum in the former Church of Our Lady of Antivouniotissa (website in English), the Corfu Gallery (website in English) and the Banknote Museum, which neighbors the island's most famous church is the Cathedral of St. Spyridon. Unusual and remarkable is the Church of St. George, built by the British for their military on the territory of the Old Fortress, reconsecrated as Orthodox, but at the same time extremely reminiscent of the classical ancient Greek temple from the history textbook.
10 things to do in Corfu
- Learn from the locals the correct accents in the words “Corfu” and “Kerkyra”.
- Ask Saint Spyridon for the fulfillment of your most cherished desire.
- Catch planes while sitting on a narrow dam near the Vlaherna monastery.
- Feel like an aristocrat while walking along Liston Street.
- If you get to Corfu on Easter, don't get hit by a jug flying from the sky.
- Look out over the sea from the bastions of the Old (or New) Fortress - are the sails of enemy ships visible in the haze?
- Salute the main military hero of Corfu - Admiral Ushakov.
- Get to the secret Paradise Beach.
- Meditate at sunset while climbing onto the Emperor's Throne.
- At least for a couple of days, purposefully and methodically indulge in laziness and gluttony.
Corfu for children
The center of attraction for children of all ages is the Aqualand water park, considered the best family place on the island. There are areas for kids, a lazy river for tired adults, some pretty extreme rides, a large wave pool - everything is as it should be in a decent water park. The park is not new, but in good condition, with abundant greenery and all the necessary infrastructure for a whole day of entertainment. It makes sense to think about purchasing a subscription for 2 days or a week; the savings will be impressive. In the northern part of the island, the Hydropolis water park opened not long ago (website), but in terms of intensity and size it is inferior to Aqualand.
Rarely will a child be interested in a museum when warm blue waves are splashing nearby, but in Corfu there is an institution that is both about the sea and will be interesting for children of any nationality. We are talking about the Shell Museum, opened in the fishing village of Benitses by the passionate diver, collector and traveler Napoleon Segais. Giant shells, ancient fossils, beautiful stones and corals, stuffed dangerous sharks and rare fish - you won’t be able to look through all the exhibits at once. Plan an exciting excursion for at least a couple of hours.
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Weather
The high season in Corfu is calendar summer and early autumn. It’s pleasantly hot, the sea water is warm, the southern sun doesn’t bother you - the best period for water treatments and getting an enviable bronze tan. The expected disadvantage is a lot of tourists and high prices.
In September you can still swim, but a light windbreaker will not hurt for evening and night walks. But the olives ripen and the grapes ripen. In October, rains and winds arrive, the sea cools down, and navigation practically stops. In November-December it gets even colder, prices in many hotels are halved, and some restaurants and museums are closed until spring. In March-April, Corfu naturally blooms and smells. Of course, it’s too early to swim, but walking and admiring the views is the best time. And the trip will be noticeably cheaper than in the summer. May opens a new season, prices begin to rise, the sea warms up, and the first daredevils climb into the water.
The Greek island of Corfu stands out among other Ionian islands with its natural beauty and pure emerald colors. Not only ordinary travelers, but also cultural figures, creative people and famous people come here to relax. This wonderful holiday destination has not lost its popularity and attractiveness for a long time. What is Fr. Corfu?
Description of the island
The island of Corfu (Greek name - Kerkyra) is the second largest after the island. Kefalonia. It is located to the north and is rightfully considered the most beautiful. The island's territory is covered with lush vegetation, among which citrus and olive trees are most often found, as well as cypress trees towering above the island. Corfu. A description of this place would be incomplete without mentioning its population.
The inhabitants of the island are very hospitable and friendly, most people speak English, and authentic Greek settlements have been preserved in the mountainous areas, attracting guests to Kerkyra with clean air, a quiet and calm atmosphere. The infrastructure of Corfu is well developed. And this is not surprising, because it became one of the first islands of this region that travelers began to visit.
Weather on the island
Mouse Island (Corfu)
800 meters from the shore of Kanoni there is another pearl of this region - Mouse Island (Pontikonisi). There is an ancient legend that this island was once the ship of Odysseus, which Poseidon, angry at the return of the hero, turned into stone. On the island there is the Pantokrator monastery, built in the 12th and 13th centuries. You can get into it via a long white staircase, which looks like a mouse’s tail (hence the name). Mouse Island, like other Ionian islands, is covered with lush vegetation.
Entertainment on the island
Holidays on the island of Corfu are suitable for both those who like to soak up the sun and fans of active sports. Beautiful beaches with snow-white sand, surrounded by the greenery of orange groves, stretch almost along the entire coast. For those who want to spend an active holiday, there are many opportunities here: the island has one of the oldest Greek golf courses, a large number of tennis courts, three equestrian schools, cricket tournaments are held, and, of course, there is a great opportunity to engage in water sports - diving, windsurfing or go sailing. Recently, more and more often, entire groups of travelers are purchasing tours to the island of Corfu to dive to the bottom, since the underwater world here is unusually beautiful and mysterious.
Island resorts
Most of the island's resorts are located in its eastern part. This is due to the fact that the waters off this coast are 2-3 degrees warmer compared to the western part. The South Coast is mainly aimed at young people from the UK.
The resorts of the north-eastern part of Corfu are most suitable for a beach holiday. The hotels here are mostly isolated and have everything you need for a full, comfortable pastime, but there is no active life outside the hotel areas. The most famous resorts in this region are Agios Spyridon and Nissaki.
The north of the island is a rather remote place, but this is not an obstacle for travelers who are attracted here by the magnificent bays and beauty of the scenery. The Lovers' Canal is also located here, one of the famous local attractions. The northern towns of Corfu are Sidari, Roda, Kassiopi and Acharavi.
Resorts in the eastern and central parts are the most popular among tourists. Here are the most sought-after hotels on the island of Corfu. In addition to beautiful nature and excellent beach holidays, the resorts of this coast can offer their guests a rich selection of nightlife - bars and taverns, cafes and restaurants with Greek cuisine will not leave anyone indifferent.
In this part of the city, the following cities open their doors to travelers: Kerkyra (the capital of the island), Gouvia, Kommeno, Dassia, Pyrgi and Ipsos.
To the south of the capital are the villages of Perama, Kanoni and Benitses, which are ideal for lovers of a relaxing holiday. In the southernmost part of Corfu are the youth resorts of Glyfada and Ermones.
The west coast boasts Ermones and Glyfada, the island's best beaches with fine white sand, cypress trees, orange and olive groves.
25 kilometers from Kerkyra is the highlight of the island - Paleokastritsa. The gentle, clear sea of various shades and steep cliffs buried in greenery have created the most beautiful bays and beaches. This is a real paradise for lovers of diving, spearfishing and swimming.
Useful information for tourists about the island of Corfu in Greece - geographical location, tourist infrastructure, map, architectural features and attractions.
Corfu is the Italian version of the name of this island. The Greek version is Kerkyra. It is the second largest island in the Ionian Islands group. Compared to other Ionian islands, it is located the most northerly. Corfu borders Albania in the northeast, from which it is separated by the Kerkyra Strait. The northern part of the island is covered with chalk mountains less than a thousand meters high, it is more fertile and picturesque in contrast to the south of the island, which is covered with hills. The main city of the island also has a double name: officially – Corfu, popularly – Kerkyra.
In the Greek epic, the island was glorified as the meeting place of Odysseus and Queen Nausicaa - this happened in the Gulf of Paleokastritsa. The Argonauts, who had already stolen the Golden Fleece, were hiding in Kerkyra from the pursuit of the Colchians. One of the three closest islands of Othoni served as the place of imprisonment for Odysseus for seven whole years with the nymph Calypso. Corfu under the name Scheria was glorified in the works of Homer.
Economic independence, achieved due to the advantageous location of the island at the intersection of trade routes, allowed its inhabitants to have their own pride and resist Corinth, which treated Corfu as a metropolis to a colony. This led to naval battles in the 7th-6th centuries BC. Corinth managed to subjugate the islanders, but the uprisings continued. In the 4th century BC. the rebellious Kerkyra was able to attract Athens as an ally, which led to the Peloponnesian War, during which the allies suffered a number of crushing defeats. In subsequent centuries, the island was attacked by Sparta and Macedonia, was captured by the Romans and, after the collapse of the Great Roman Empire, went to Byzantium.
In the Middle Ages, the city was often attacked by the Genoese, Venetians, and Neapolitans. Venice ruled the island for the longest time (about four centuries), periodically repelling the onslaught of the Ottoman fleet. Powerful fortifications built by the Venetians, and earlier Byzantine ones, helped the island not to be captured by the Turks. At the end of the 18th century, the island was taken over by the French, who were expelled from Corfu in 1799 by the naval forces commanded by Admiral Fyodor Ushakov. The island became the capital of the Republic of the Seven Islands, which lasted less than ten years at the beginning of the 19th century. Then Kerkyra came under British protectorate and became part of Greece only in 1864.
The location of the island in the northern part of the Ionian Sea makes summers not so hot: in August the average temperature is +26 degrees, the maximum is +30. Winter here lasts from October to May, with rain and temperatures dropping to +10. The sea temperature on the northern coast of the island, even at the height of the season, will be lower than the water temperature off the western and eastern coasts of Corfu.
Transport
On the island, a few kilometers from its capital, the international airport “Ioannis Kapodistrias” is located - already upon landing you can see beautiful views of Corfu itself and the nearest island of Pontikonisi. Domestic flights are also carried out here using seaplanes. Ferries and high-speed hydrofoils depart from Corfu to mainland Greece, the neighboring Ionian Islands and the shores of Italy.
There are two national highways running through the island, both starting in Kerkyra and leading to Lefkimi and Paleokastritsa. Bus routes within the island are divided into "blue" and "green". The first ones run around the suburbs of Kerkyra, the second ones - to remote cities of the island and other cities of Greece. Bus stations for “blue” and “green” buses are located in different places in the capital: respectively on Sarokko Square and on 9 Parodos Theotoki Street.
Island resorts
The island of Corfu stretches from north to south. Its narrowest part is the southern part, the northern part is slightly wider, the longest sides are the west and east. From the north the island is washed by the waters of the Adriatic, from the other sides by the Ionian Sea.
Resorts and tourist infrastructure can be found anywhere on the island. Climate features influence the prestige of the resort: the most fashionable and popular are in the east (Gouvia, Kommeno). In the east and southeast there are also the best places for families with children - Benitses, Kavos. However, on the west coast, closer to the north, there is one of the best resorts for active recreation - Paleokastritsa. Both on the western and eastern coasts you can find beaches with different surfaces - pebble, sand.
Sights and excursions
In 2007, the old part of the island capital received the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Middle Ages, the island was the object of close attention of immigrants from Venice, Genoa and Naples, which is why the architectural influences of the Italian style are so obvious in the appearance of the Old Town of Corfu.
The historical part of the city was formed inside the walls of the fortress. An older defensive structure is Paleo Frourio, built by the Byzantines on an artificial island. Currently, the fortress serves as a venue for light and sound shows. A later building is Neo Frurio, a smaller fortress from the Venetian period. It was built on two levels to protect the port and the city. Both fortresses were completed over several centuries, the last work being carried out during the British protectorate. At the foot of Neo Frurio in the 2000s, a monument to Admiral Ushakov was erected.
One of the most picturesque squares of Kerkyra is Spianada, divided into two parts Ano Platia and Kato Platia with buildings of the British period in the colonial style and a music pavilion. In the city you can see palaces of the 19th century - Achille, Saints Michael and George.
In the Corfu lagoon there is a tiny island of Pontikonisi - its area is about one hectare. On the island there is the Blacherna Monastery with the miraculous icon of Our Lady of Blachernae. The island is also called Mouse Island - because the staircase leading to the monastery, white against the background of greenery, from the opposite shore resembles the tail of a mouse.
Another famous monastery in Corfu is the Pantokrator monastery, located on the slopes of the mountain of the same name - the highest on the island. Paleokastritsa is also known as the place where the monastery of the Virgin Mary with a museum of Byzantine icon painting is located.
Among the natural attractions, we note the “love channel” on Sidari beach - a narrow passage between the rocks leading to the open sea.
Beach holiday
Pebbles or sand? Sand or pebbles? In Corfu, this choice should not be difficult, since the beaches here alternate, are located quite close, and there is a choice in different parts of the island.
In the unofficial ranking of pebble beaches in Corfu, Paleokastritsa on the cape of the same name on the west coast is in the lead. From the capital of the island to it is about half an hour by one of the “green” buses. Many organized excursions include this beach in their itineraries. The underwater world in coastal waters is conducive to snorkeling. Also on the west coast is Agios Gordios, where sand alternates with pebbles, and next to the developed beach you can also find a wild coast.
In the north-eastern part of the island there is Barbati Beach with views of the highest peak of Corfu - Mount Pantokrator. Barbati beach has a reputation as a social, party place.
In the south is Porto Timoni, which has earned the place of the best beach on the island. True, getting to it is not so easy: buses don’t go there, you need to take a taxi or rent a car, and from the road it’s still about a quarter of an hour downhill, and beach shoes are not suitable for the descent. Alternatively, get to Porto Timoni by sea by boat.
You should go to the large-pebbled Bataria beach with coral slippers: when entering the water, the pebbles are also sharp. Perhaps it is for this reason that Bataria is one of the least crowded beaches.
Among the sandy beaches, Agios Georgios, in whose coastal waters you can see dolphins, and Gardenos, loved by locals and tourists from nearby resorts, boast a secluded atmosphere. Nudists like to gather on Myrtiotissa beach. Not without adventure, vacationers get to Paradise Beach: first by boat, and then almost by swimming in the shallow water.
Corfu's more family-friendly beaches include Benitses (Blue Flag, southeast), Sidari in the northwest, Dassia in the northeast and Agios Stefanos.
As a rule, “children’s” beaches are covered with sand, with a gentle entrance to the sea, located about a dozen kilometers from the capital of the island, you can get there by public transport and spend the day in a relaxed atmosphere, without worrying about looking for food and drinks, as cafes, There are other beach services in these places.
Active recreation and entertainment
Yachtsmen often choose the east coast, which is the most sheltered from the winds. Yacht routes for travelers from European countries pass through Corfu; the island’s marinas serve as anchorages for them, where you can see ships flying different flags.
Windsurfing in Corfu is not the most popular activity, and not every month of the high season is suitable for this sport. In September, only pros get on the board under sail, the winds are so strong at that time. The main beach for surfers is Hakounos, but they can also be found in Issos, Arachavi and Awlaki.
The East Coast is a diver's paradise. Warm sea, almost complete absence of wind, clear water and underwater attractions - caves, reefs, sunken ships. Diving schools scattered throughout the island make scuba diving an almost mainstream sport. In addition to the beaches of the eastern coast, you can dive in Kassiopi (north) and Paleokastritsa (west).
You can experience the beauty of the island of Corfu while hiking and cycling. You can ride a rented bicycle along a route you’ve created yourself or join a group of cyclists. Hiking tourists usually go to conquer the peak of Ayia Deka and the rocks near Paleokastritsa.
The center of club life is the capital of the island, Kerkyra, and its central street, Liston. Resorts can also have night discos, but they are not so large-scale, exciting and varied. If we talk about the preferences of young people, they choose the resort villages of Kavos, Sidari, Gouvia with inexpensive hotels. Among the best places are Ipsos, Arachavi, Dassia and other resorts of the island. Separately, it is worth noting the casino located near Kerkyra.
Kitchen and souvenirs
Perhaps the most unusual product in Corfu is kumquat. Only here, besides China, does this type of orange grow naturally. It is specially grown to later make liqueurs and jams from it. In Corfu, olives, red and white grape varieties are also grown and Muscat, Rapsani, Retsina and Robola wines are produced from them, sheep are raised and cheese and butter are made from their milk.
As a souvenir from the island, you can take herbs and aromatic oils, natural cosmetics and soap, a bottle of metaxa or ouzo, jewelry, leather or wool products.
