Corfu, the jewel of the Ionian Islands and their proud capital, is a place where natural beauty meets the richness of history. Even if you arrive by plane, it is well worth arranging to rent a car -this is an island meant to be explored, its expanse dotted with wonders and stories waiting to be discovered.
Beyond its emerald landscapes and storied landmarks, Corfu boasts a vibrant gastronomic heritage. The local cuisine is steeped in tradition and flavor, and tasting its most iconic dishes is an experience not to be missed.
Corfu: The island’s most captivating landmarks
The Old Fortress and the New Fortress rise proudly above the town of Corfu, sentinels of stone that tell tales of centuries past. The Old Fortress, a majestic Venetian stronghold anchored in the heart of the old town, offers sweeping views over the sea and the city below, a panorama that stirs both awe and reverence. Not far off, the New Fortress matches its counterpart in grandeur, its ramparts embracing a neighborhood rich in history and culture.
Between these two fortresses unfolds Corfu’s authentic architecture and the charming labyrinth of kantounia, the narrow alleyways that weave through the town like living veins. Here lies the heart of the island: the Liston, the Spianada, and the lively backstreets that frame everyday life.
At the Liston, under the elegant arches inspired by Parisian arcades, visitors can sip coffee or enjoy a meal while watching the island’s daily rhythms unfold like a local painting in motion. Just beside it, the Spianada -Greece’s largest square- hosts the city’s famed philharmonic bands and invites you to linger, to breathe in the true spirit of Corfu. And in the kantounia, where time seems to slow, you'll find quaint shops, cozy cafés, and traditional tavernas tucked away like secrets waiting to be discovered. These winding streets, worn smooth by footsteps and memory, offer a glimpse into the island’s soul.
Leaving the heart of Corfu Town behind, just a short drive away, lies a place where time seems to pause: Kanoni. It is a spot that beckons you to linger, perhaps at sunset, sipping a coffee while gazing out at the iconic Pontikonisi, quietly floating in the Ionian Sea.
Across from Pontikonisi rests the charming whitewashed chapel of the Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna, its presence timeless against the blues of sea and sky. Once a women’s monastery, active until the 1980s, it now stands as a beloved symbol of Corfu’s spiritual and architectural heritage. From this peaceful point, small boats depart regularly, ready to ferry you across the shimmering waters to Pontikonisi, the emblem of Corfu itself.
This tiny, verdant islet is home to a single, humble church dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Savior, nestled amidst vast greenery. If fortune smiles upon you, your stroll there may be graced by the quiet elegance of peacocks, wandering freely and adding a touch of unexpected magic to this already enchanting scene.
Not far from Kanoni lies Mon Repos, the former summer residence of the British aristocracy. Today, visitors can wander through its lush gardens, explore the neoclassical estate, and take in the captivating views over the Bay of Garitsa. Now functioning as a museum, Mon Repos invites those with time and curiosity to step inside and trace the echoes of a bygone era within its stately rooms.
Among Corfu’s most celebrated landmarks is the Achilleion Palace, a place steeped in legend and longing. Built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, the beloved and enigmatic «Sisi», this palace is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, perched in a setting of exquisite beauty, with vistas that stretch from sea to distant mountain. Its halls are adorned with classical sculptures, mythological motifs, and symbols of Elisabeth’s fascination with the tragic hero Achilles, after whom the palace is named.
The region of Paleokastritsa, nestled in the northwestern part of the island, is not merely a summer escape, it is a destination that transcends seasons. A stroll through the Monastery of the Virgin Mary (Panagia Theotokos), perched atop the cliffs, offers not only spiritual calm but also breathtaking views. From this lofty vantage point, you may find yourself gazing upon what is perhaps one of the most stunning landscapes in all of Corfu.
If the weather is kind, a dip in the crystalline waters below is an experience to cherish -though be prepared, for here the sea remains cool and refreshing, even in the height of summer, when the rest of the island basks in the heat. It’s a place where nature holds sway, where the wild beauty of Corfu reveals itself in full majesty -rugged, serene, and deeply moving.
Yet perhaps the most breathtaking view on the island can be found at Kaiser’s Observatory, in the village of Pelekas. It was here that Kaiser Wilhelm II, the German emperor, chose to stand and take in the island’s sweeping panoramas and unforgettable sunsets. The spot that once captivated a monarch now welcomes all who seek beauty in its purest form.
Discovering the Flavors of Local Tradition
Corfiot cuisine is a feast of flavors, woven with spices, garlic, and wine. Among its most iconic dishes is pastitsada, a slow-cooked, spiced beef (or chicken) stew, bathed in a deep red sauce. What makes it unforgettable is the unique blend of spices known as spetseriko, a secret aromatic symphony that lingers on the tongue and in memory. You’ll often find this spice mix sold in local shops, even in tourist boutiques, so you can recreate the magic of pastitsada in your own kitchen. Traditionally, it’s served with long, thick pasta -usually No. 2 or No. 3 macaroni, the same used in pastitsio.
Another local favorite where beef takes center stage is sofrito. Imagine a rustic, lemony stew, but enriched with generous garlic, spices, and the unmistakable depth of a white wine reduction.
From the sea, two signature dishes stand out: bourdeto and bianco. Bourdeto is a fiery red fish stew, bold with pepper and tomato, while bianco, as its Italian-rooted name suggests, is more delicate -a white sauce preparation, fragrant with garlic and lemon, letting the fresh fish shine through.
Before bidding farewell to Corfu, be sure to taste the island’s signature sweet treat: kumquat spoon sweet and its fragrant counterpart, kumquat liqueur, both made from the small, vibrant citrus fruit that thrives only here. Intensely sweet and aromatic, this local specialty pairs beautifully with desserts that call for a splash of liqueur -or can be savored on its own as a final note of indulgence.
