10 Things to Do in Corfu

Corfu is a melting pot of Greek, Venetian and British traditions, offering an unrivalled cultural heritage. The island is famous for its hidden coves, ruins that bear witness to its medieval past and dreamlike landscapes. Greek mythology reigns supreme here and there are plenty of adventures to be had, such as ghost hunting or becoming a pirate.

Every street offers an encounter with its unrivalled cuisine, which delights with typical dishes such as pastitsio tis nonnas, a curious version of lasagne. Bear in mind that it is a fairly hot city, where you will want to live in the sea, ride a quad bike or fly in a paragliding tricycle. In general, there are endless things to do and I would like to tell you about everything you cannot miss.

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

Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea and the caves hidden among its beaches. What's more, take advantage of the fact that some bus tours offer a hop-on hop-off system or stops guided by an expert. Here are some places you could visit.

Old Royal Palace

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

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

Palace of Saints Michael and George

When passing through Spianada Square, be sure to stop and visit the Palace of Saints Michael and George. This historic building witnessed the British period of the city, hence its striking neoclassical architecture. Inside, you can visit the Throne Room and the state dining room.

This building currently houses the Corfu Museum of Asian Art, which has around 11,000 donated pieces from different cultures. From Chinese ceramics to Tibetan sculptures, its collection is a visual spectacle.

New Fort and Old Fort

The New Fortress and Old Fortress are known as the Venetian fortresses of Corfu, and both surround the old town. The older fortress is located on the shores of the Ionian Sea and allows you to travel back to the Ottoman era, although there are also features from the Byzantines and even places where Jews were imprisoned before being deported from the island.

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

Chapel of Our Lady of Mankadrinas

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

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

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

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

If you would like to combine both experiences and optimise your itinerary, you could book a tour of Paleokastritsa and Glyfada beaches. That way, you won't have to worry about logistics or transfers.

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

It also houses a church that was the place of worship for Greek Orthodox monks and is an example of traditional Greek architecture. If I were you, I would take the opportunity to book a guided tour of Corfu, which will allow you to better understand its history and take advantage of other nearby sites.

From this monastery, you can appreciate the landscape and see Mouse Island. According to Greek mythology, Poseidon turned Ulysses' beloved ship into this island in revenge for blinding his son Polyphemus. Of course, there are those who say that the explanation is simpler and that it just happens to be shaped like a mouse.

If you're an adventurer, I can assure you that you'll find your place in Corfu. Extreme activities are very popular here, such as flying a paramotor trike. You'll feel the adrenaline rush and the salty sea breeze as you enjoy panoramic views of the coast and nearby islands.

You may even come across Greek villages, vineyards and olive groves. Take-off is usually on the outskirts, where there is suitable terrain for the engine to start without obstacles. In addition, the ascent is smooth and gradual, guaranteeing an intoxicating mix of adrenaline and freedom. All you have to do is let yourself be carried away by the excitement, as a professional will be in charge of the thrilling but controlled turns, as well as a perfect landing.

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

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

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

If you have enough time, you can visit charming villages such as Kassiopi, where you can cycle around the medieval harbour and see a 13th-century Venetian castle. You could also reach Pelekas at sunset, or explore the coastal pubs that characterise Benitses.

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

Booking a bike tour in Corfu allows you to enjoy a set itinerary and the company of a professional guide. If you choose this option, you can select from several routes of varying levels of difficulty.

Something I definitely wouldn't miss is Greek cuisine, where the fresh and diverse flavours of the Mediterranean diet await you. You'll have the pleasure of eating well and in abundance during your holiday, reaping the health benefits.

A good idea is to book a food tour of Corfu and walk around the island sampling different snacks. You can look forward to street food, ideal for recharging your batteries, as well as seafront restaurants and typical eateries in the old town.

Typical regional dishes

This culinary journey allows you to indulge in olive oil, feta cheese and fresh fish. But above all, you'll enjoy the variety of combinations and desserts that melt in your mouth. When I think of Greek food, the following automatically comes to mind:

• Pastitsio tis nonnas: given the Italian influence in this city, it is to be expected that they have their own version of lasagne. Greeks usually eat it for Sunday lunch and it is almost a tradition to take a nap afterwards to digest the meal.
• Pastitsada: this meat and spice stew is usually served with pasta.
• Bougatsa: filo pastry filled with custard, sweet cream cheese and meat. The last ingredient is unexpected, but I would give it a try, you might be surprised.
• Greek yoghurt: your trip to Greece is the perfect excuse to try authentic yoghurt made from goat's or cow's milk. It differs because the whey is removed and it can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes.
• Diples: these are small fried pastries decorated with honey syrup, walnuts and cinnamon.
• Greek ice cream: although the ice cream capital is in Italy, the truth is that Greece is not far behind. In Corfu, you can use the heat as an excuse to eat all the ice cream you want. From cold scoops of Greek yoghurt to unusual flavours such as shredded filo pastry or olive oil ice cream. There is also the famous Masticha Ice Cream, made with resin from the masticha tree, which only grows in the Mediterranean.

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

For a few hours, you can step into the shoes of Captain Barbarossa and become a fierce pirate by booking a pirate boat trip. You will board a boat decorated in a style that will immerse you in history. You will gain a better understanding of maritime adventures and explore the enclaves inhabited by Venetians.

If you are looking for something more peaceful, I suggest exploring the nearby coves and bays by booking a private yacht trip around Corfu. It is an experience you can share with friends, family or your partner.

Aboard a private yacht, extraordinary wonders await you, such as Lazareto Island, which was a quarantine centre during the plague and cholera. These experiences may offer you the chance to go snorkelling, which takes the trip to another level.

If you are a fan of adventure tours and want to challenge the dirt trails of Corfu, you have several options to choose from. You can book a quad bike tour to reach remote areas that are difficult to access on foot or by car.

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

Another option is to book an adventure jeep tour of Corfu and get all the adrenaline out of your system. In a 4x4, it's easier to turn between the trails surrounded by vegetation and explore the vineyards, Greek villages and mountains.

Corfu is famous for its legends and Greek mythology heritage. In fact, it is believed that the name of the city holds many secrets. Everything indicates that Poseidon kidnapped the nymph Corcyra, daughter of Asopus, and named the island in her honour. However, for some strange reason, it became popular under the Latin name Corfu, which means "city of peaks".

If you decide to book a ghost tour of Corfu, you can go out and fish for the mysteries of the night. You will discover that some never wanted to leave the city, such as Empress Sissi, who apparently wanders around the Achilleion Palace at night.

With luck, you may see the ghost of a soldier or hear strange noises in the haunted properties. In addition, hidden within the walls is the mummy of the patron saint of Corfu, Saint Spyridon, which is displayed three times a year.

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

Boat trip to Paxos, Blue Caves and Gáios

You can book an excursion to Paxos, Blue Caves and Gáios by boat from Corfu. Imagine a paradise where you can see turquoise waters and vegetation everywhere. You'll discover caves and beaches that only those who know the area very well can access. You'll also be delighted by the fishing villages and hamlets.

The star of this excursion is undoubtedly the Blue Caves, famous for the play of colours and shadows inside them.

Excursion to Paxos, Blue Caves and Lakka by boat

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

Boat trip to Saranda and Butrint

If you want to continue enjoying island life, there is nothing better than booking an excursion to Saranda and Butrint by boat from Corfu. This time you will leave Greece to reach the Albanian Riviera and see the coast of Saranda, whose water is impressive.

In addition, you will see the ruins of Butrint, where you can appreciate the Greek, Venetian and Roman influence.