What to see in Corfù?
The island of Corfu is very beautiful and was even praised by Homer in the past, who chose it as the last stop for Odysseus before his return to Ithaca. Even Shakespeare chose it as the setting for the comedy "The Tempest". Its nature is lush, its sea very beautiful, and the succession of various civilizations has also enriched it architecturally. Below is a list of the main things to see.
Corfu (Kerkira)
It is the capital of the island and a true city that develops around the Spianada, a wide and beautiful square. The city is characterized by narrow cobblestone alleys, small squares, and many nice cafes and typical restaurants. In the oldest part of Corfu, the ancient quarter includes a sixteenth-century Venetian fortress that dominates the city. The charm of the city is mainly due to its architectural styles: Venetian, French, and Byzantine churches. For shopping, remember that local craftsmanship is known for producing very beautiful gold jewelry as well as sweets and honey. Along the sea, you can take a nice walk towards Garitsa Bay.
Royal Palace
Built by the British at the beginning of the 19th century, it now houses a beautiful museum of Asian Art.
The Old Fortress
Built on the sea cliff by the Venetians to defend the port.
Church of Agios Spiridon
It is the most interesting church in the city, dedicated to the patron saint Spiridon. At Easter, a suggestive procession takes place with the saint's relics.
Palaeopolis
An archaeological site where the market was held in ancient times.
Princess Sissi's Villa
Located a little south of the city, this Italian-style villa of Princess Sissi (Empress Elisabeth of Austria) offers a beautiful panorama of Corfu.
Kanoni
Considered one of the most beautiful places on the island, a few kilometers south of the city, it offers the view of an islet, connected to the mainland, on which stands a white monastery. Nearby you can visit the temple of Artemis with its beautiful pediment.
Sidari
Picturesque and beautiful village among the hills in the north-western part of the island of Corfu, about 40 km from the city. Here you can admire an area of yellow rock formations, canals, bays, and rich vegetation, as well as the famous "Canal d'Amour" which, if swum through by young couples, will soon lead them to marriage.
Paleokastritsa
Located northwest of Corfu, it is perhaps the most famous locality on the island and is very popular for its beautiful blue sea. Paleokastritsa overlooks a beautiful bay surrounded by greenery and has many beautiful beaches for all tastes. In the area, there is also the panoramic Angelokastro castle, reachable on foot with a 10-minute climb.
Lakones
Beautiful village immersed in greenery with a splendid panorama of Paleokastritsa. I recommend going there at sunset.
Achilleion Palace
Located in the village of Gastouri, it is one of the most visited places in Corfu. It was built at the behest of Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sissi) and in its beautiful garden is the statue of the dying Achilles, commissioned by the Empress herself.
The Kaiser's Throne
This is the place where Wilhelm II loved to go to meditate. From here there is an extraordinary panorama because the spot, near the village of Pelekas, is 270 meters high. It is an excellent place for sunsets and for those who love both tranquility and the mountains.
