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Did you know that Empress Sisi loved Greece and especially Corfu so much that she had her own palace, the Achilleion, built here? If the Empress resided here, then the island must be something special - you should see for yourself. Here you'll find valuable tips for your trip to Corfu, as well as some top deals in case you're still looking for a good offer.
Corfu is considered one of the greenest islands you can explore in Greece. You will see and smell olive trees, acacias, and citrus fruits everywhere. The kumquat tree is particularly characteristic of Corfu. If you like orange marmalade, you must try the kumquat marmalade here. What makes your holiday in Corfu even more special are the many beautiful sights the island has to offer. We will tell you which must-sees belong on your sightseeing list.
Corfu Town, also known as Kérkyra, is the tourist center of the island and has even been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find everything one could wish for from a charming little vacation town: narrow alleys, cobblestones, a marketplace with cafes, and small boutiques. When you stroll through the streets, be sure to take a detour to the old town hall. This building was constructed in 1663 when Corfu was still under Venetian rule, serving as an assembly hall for the Venetian nobility. It was later converted into a theater and has been the official town hall of Corfu since 1903 - and it is beautiful, to boot.
Old & New Venetian Fortress
In Corfu Town, history greets you at every turn - particularly impressively at the two Venetian fortresses. The old fortress (Palaio Frourio) lies on a small peninsula and was built by the Venetians in the 15th century over a Byzantine site. Today, it invites exploration with its winding corridors, ancient bastions, and a magnificent view over the sea and the old town.
The new fortress (Neo Frourio) was built a little later in the 16th century above the old harbor. Its massive walls and intricate corridors are testament to sophisticated military architecture. This site is also worth a visit - especially at sunset.
Both fortresses make Corfu Town a great destination for culture and history lovers.
Mon Repos Palace is particularly well-known to British tourists, as Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and consort of Queen Elizabeth II, was born here in 1921. The palace now houses a museum dedicated to the history of Corfu. The palace park also offers a shady spot for a little break from sightseeing.
From her very first visit to Corfu, the Austrian Empress Sisi fell in love with the Greek island. When she saw Villa Braila, she liked it so much that Sisi had it converted into a palace. Thus, the Achilleion was born, named after Achilles, and it is now one of the most popular sights in Corfu.
On Mount Pantokrator, the highest peak in Corfu in the north of the island, the abandoned village of Paleá Períthia transports you back in time. This small village was built during the Byzantine era, with most houses dating back to the 16th century. The residents moved to the coast, where they founded Néa Períthia (New Períthia). However, because so many tourists visit this small place, Paleá Períthia is coming back to life.
Also known as Angel Castle, this old fortress was built during the Byzantine era in the 13th century and is one of the most important sights in Corfu. The fortress is located at the northwest tip of the island and is home to a church and a chapel that attracts tourists from around the world.
Corfu is also well-known for its numerous churches and monasteries. The Monastery of Panagía Theotokou tis Paleokastrítsas and the Vlacherna Monastery with the Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) are particularly worth seeing. Just keep an eye out for signs along the roadside, and you'll discover even more noteworthy buildings. Where Kaiser's Throne is today, German Kaiser Wilhelm II (hence the name) used to watch the sunset over the Ionian Sea from horseback. For us, it is the best spot on the entire island to watch the sunset.
Mount Pantokrator, at 906 meters the highest peak in Corfu, is a real highlight for nature lovers. On clear days, the view extends all the way to Albania and even to the Italian mainland - a panorama you won't forget anytime soon.
The summit is easily accessible by car but is also popular with hikers. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy a small monastery complex from the 17th century as well as a café for a well-deserved break with a view. If you want to experience Corfu from its tranquil, unspoiled side, be sure not to miss Mount Pantokrator.
Just a few kilometers south of Corfu Town lies Kanoni, one of the most famous viewpoints on the island. From here, you get a unique view of the small Vlacherna Monastery, which beautifully juts out into the sea on a peninsula, as well as the green Mouse Island (Pontikonisi), which legend says is the petrified ship of Odysseus.
Another highlight: The planes that land directly overhead at the viewpoint.
In the southwest of the island lies Lake Korission, a unique nature reserve and a true insider tip for those seeking peace. This saltwater lagoon, separated from the sea only by a narrow sand dune, is home to over 100 species of birds - including flamingos, herons, and rare migratory birds.
Along the shore, cedars, orchids, and dune plants grow - a landscape that is distinctly different from the rest of Corfu. Right behind the dune begins the kilometers-long beach of Halikounas - perfect for long walks and undisturbed bathing.
At the far northwest of Corfu lies Cape Drastis, one of the island's most impressive natural sites. Steep white limestone cliffs rise into the turquoise sea, bizarrely shaped by wind and water. Among them are small coves and hidden beaches, often only accessible by boat.
The view from the viewpoint above is breathtaking - especially in the evening when the light from the setting sun makes the cliffs glow golden.
If you're looking for an idea for a day trip, we highly recommend visiting Paxi and Antipaxi. Paxi is a small island south of Corfu. Here you can experience a little paradise within a paradise: clear water, clean beaches, and hardly any tourists. It's best to take a ferry from Corfu to the small town of Gaios. From there, you can rent a bike to explore the island and its beautiful bays. However, the best way to get to know the island is undoubtedly by your own motorboat, as some places are only reachable by water. You don't need your own license - so off you go!
As you can see, Corfu has beautiful corners that are definitely worth a visit. We recommend booking an affordable rental car upon your arrival so you can be flexible and move around the entire island. Given the size of the island, you can easily book your hotel in one location and still take day trips all over the island. Don't miss out on this opportunity, as it's the best way to discover the full beauty of Corfu!
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