The beautiful Greek Island of Corfu is a popular and long-established holiday destination. Boasting good beaches, a vibrant and historic capital city, countless monasteries and other historic sights, it’s not hard to see why. The island has an intriguing history, with periods spent under Venetian, French, and British rule before finally being reunited with Greece in 1864. Each period has left an indelible impression on the country, particularly the capital city, Corfu Town. It’s this mixture of influences, along with the island’s natural beauty and climate, that makes it such a compelling destination for adults and kids alike. Throughout this guide, we’ll be looking at the best things to do in Corfu for families, from beaches to castles and much, much more.
Corfu is the second largest of the Ionian Islands and lies a few miles off the west coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea. The island straddles the border between Greece and Albania, while Italy lies several hundred kilometers to the west. It’s possible to reach Corfu from the Greek and Albanian mainland within 90 minutes by a daily ferry service, while a bi-weekly ferry from Bari in Italy takes 8-10 hours to reach the island.
Corfu Town, known locally as Kerkyra, is a unique, bustling destination. The city’s architecture and landscape have been heavily influenced by four centuries of Venetian rule. As you explore the city’s cobbled streets, you’ll discover plenty of churches, countless Venetian townhouses, and plenty of grandiose buildings. This is all in addition to the imposing Palaio Frourio or Old Fortress and the slightly newer New Frourio or New Fortress. The French left their imprint on the city by constructing the Liston, a café lined promenade opposite the grassy Spianada Square.
As well as the fine architecture, there are plenty of museums to keep you busy. Some of the best include the Archaeological Museum, Antivouniotissa Museum, and the Museum of Asian Art. You’ll also find a host of fine cafés and restaurants in the city serving an excellent mix of Greek, Italian, and seafood cuisine.
Palaio Frourio, or the Old Fortress, is the standout attraction in Corfu Town and one worthy of its own listing. This imposing fortress was constructed on the remains of a Byzantine-era fort by the Venetians in the early 15th century. Its design and build quality were such that it succeeded in repulsing three separate Ottoman sieges over the next 300 years. Subsequent additions to the fortress by the British and the French have only added to the site’s character.
The Palaio Frourio is easily reached from Corfu Town by heading east across Spianada Square. Access to the Old Fortress costs €6 for adults and is free for concessions. Once you pass the ticket office, you’ll cross a bridge, which leads to the entrance to the fort. There’s a small museum by the entrance, included as part of the ticket, before you enter the main fort. From here, you can explore as little or as much as you like. The spectacular British-built Georgian church is well worth visiting, while the views from the top of the central summit are stunning. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy 360° views across the city and surrounding ocean. The climb can be slippery and challenging in places, so approach it with caution. A far more relaxing but equally rewarding viewpoint is from the onsite café, which affords spectacular views across the sea and southern Corfu Town.
The main beach at Paleokastritsa is one of the island’s most popular, and it’s not hard to see why. Known as Agios Spiridon Beach, it’s one of 3 beaches in the town. Located in an idyllic cove, the beach is part pebble, part sand, but with crystal clear waters. Set between two headlands, the cove is overlooked by the beautiful Paleokastritsa Monastery, which sits on the western headland. Along the beach, you’ll find a range of restaurants and tavernas and plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas. Set back from the beach are a host of other restaurants and shops selling everything you could need. Next to the beach, there’s an aquarium, although a glass-bottom boat tour might be a better choice if you’re keen to see the marine life in its natural environment. A boat tour of the caves also comes highly recommended.
Standing at an elevation of 906 meters, Mount Pantokrator towers above the surrounding countryside in the north of Corfu. The highest peak on the island, the views from the top are sensational and far-reaching. As well as the views across the Greek and Albanian mainland, it’s possible to glimpse the Italian mainland to the west on a clear day. Alongside the views from the summit, you’ll find a café, a 17th-century monastery, and a telecommunication tower.
Getting to the top is either by vehicle on a winding road, which features plenty of hairpin turns or a moderately difficult hike. If you’re planning to hike, the trail starts out at Old Perithia and winds it’s way up the mountain. The ascent shouldn’t take you more than 90 minutes, but be warned there’s little to no shade on the route, so come prepared with water and a hat.
The picturesque Vlacherna Monastery is located just south of Corfu Town, off the Kanoni Peninsula. Situated on a tiny islet and connected to the mainland by a long jetty, the monastery is one of Corfu’s most iconic images. Dating back to the 17th century, it’s an incredible sight to visit alongside the nearby Mouse Island. The monastery is best observed from above, and the views from the Cafe Kanoni over both Vlacherna Monastery and Mouse Island, as well as the surrounding areas, are breath-taking.
The spectacularly located Angelokastro is home to the ruins of a castle from the Byzantine era. Believed to date back to the 12th century, the castle formed part of Corfu’s strategic defenses. Located over 300 meters above the surrounding ocean, its vantage point provided extensive views across the sea and land. Such was Angelokastro’s impregnable status that it was made the capital of Corfu for over 200 years. While in later years, the castle was abandoned and fell into decay, recent restoration efforts have seen excavations and reconstruction of some parts of the site. The site is now open to visitors, and it’s a must-see if you’re in the northern part of the island. The views from the top are sensational.
Not far from Angelokastro and set atop the western headland above Agios Spiridon Beach is Paleokastritsa Monastery. This pretty little monastery can be reached within 15 minutes by walking up the hill from the beach. On arrival, you’ll find a lovely church, set in some fine gardens with spectacular views across the sea and coast. There’s also a small museum, which houses some religious artifacts. Entry to the site is free, and it’s open daily, although closed between 1 pm and 3 pm.
The traditional fishing village of Kassiopi is located on Corfu’s northeast coast. Unlike some other resorts in Corfu, development in the area has been subtle and low-key. The surrounding areas have luxury apartments and villas, creating a more relaxed and authentic resort. In town, you’ll find the crumbling Kassiopi Castle, believed to date back 1500 years. You’ll also find plenty of good tavernas where you can enjoy the seafood that the town is famous for. Further afield, there are plenty of beaches and pretty coves, with Bataria Beach, Kanoni Beach, and Avlaki Beach the pick of the bunch.
The Canal d’Amour, which translates into the ‘channel of love,’ is one of Corfu’s most distinctive images. It’s also possibly Corfu’s best beach and certainly the most spectacular. Located close to the resort of Sidari, the small beach is squeezed in between two long cliffs that stretch into the ocean. Accompanied by shallow waters, which are crystal clear, it’s an excellent and memorable spot for a swim.
Evocative Old Perithia is an old abandoned village located close to Mount Pantokrator. Dating back to the 14th century, the town was abandoned in the 1960s when a tourism boom hit the island and attracted the population to the coast. Hidden at altitude amongst the surrounding hills and forests, it’s an excellent place to visit to get an authentic experience of Corfu’s history. It’s also a great spot to start the hike to the top of the nearby Mount Pantokrator. Over recent years, a number of the properties have been restored and are available to rent through Airbnb. A stay here is a wonderful and remote experience once the day visitors have dispersed.
Mirtiotissa Beach is another of Corfu’s fine beaches. This secluded beach on Corfu’s west coast is reached by a steep track that leads down from the car park. A popular spot for couples and naturists, it has soft, fine sand and crystal-clear waters. The small beach has sun loungers and umbrellas, along with a small beach bar serving drinks. During the summer months, the beach can become busy, so arrive early to guarantee a decent spot.
Issos Beach in the south of Corfu is unique because of its large size and the absence of pebbles. This fine beach stretches for several kilometers and is backed by sand dunes, which separate the beach from Lake Korission. The southern end of the beach is the busiest, given its proximity to the town and resorts of Agios Georgios South. As you head west along the beach, it becomes much quieter, and the far northern end is popular with naturists. There’s a good range of water sports on offer, while you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas at various spots along the beach.
Mouse Island, or Pontokinisi as it’s known in Greek, is a tiny island just south of Corfu Town and the airport. Along with the nearby Vlacherna Monastery, it’s part of one of Corfu’s best-known vistas. The island is located close to the Kanoni Peninsula, where you can take a small boat from the harbor to the island for €2.50. On the island, you’ll find a small Byzantine monastery, which dates back to the 11th century AD. The monastery is usually closed and is only open to visitors on very limited dates.
The small and beautiful island of Paxos is located 14 kilometers to the south of Corfu. The island is known for its traditional, laid-back pace of life and beautiful scenery. Limited development and the absence of an airport have meant the island is largely unspoiled. You’ll find endless olive groves, tiny coves, and crystal clear waters here, plus the pretty port town of Gaios. Its Venetian architecture and tavernas make this a popular destination for day-trippers. Still, there are plenty of reasons to stay longer, with numerous things to enjoy on Paxos or its smaller neighbor, Antipaxos. The islands are easily reached during the summer months by taking a hydrofoil from the New Port in Corfu Town. The journey only takes an hour, and there are multiple daily sailings.
One of the staples of the Greek Islands is a large waterpark, and Aqualand Corfu does not disappoint. This large waterpark features 51 slides, several swimming pools, a kid’s splash zone, and a long, winding, lazy river. During the summer tourist season, the park is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily and attracts many visitors. Admission is €30 for adults and €20 for concessions if booked in advance and online. The park is located a few kilometers west of Corfu Town and can be reached via the No.8 blue bus from Corfu Town.
Corfu Donkey Rescue is located near the village of Doukades in the island’s center. This charitable enterprise has been established to take in and care for sick, old, and injured donkeys. Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, it’s a great place for couples and families to visit. Even better is to volunteer here, although opportunities are limited to those living on the island.
You can drive to Morocco from the neighboring countries of Spain and Mauritania, but not Algeria, despite a nearly 2000 km long border between the two countries. Travel between Morocco and any of its neighbors comes with its fair share of challenges. At first glance, you could be mistaken for
If you love solitude, amazing landscapes, and vast open spaces, you’re going to love Western Australia. This amazing land, and the northwest in particular, is often referred to as the ‘Last Frontier’. It’s a land of endless remote possibilities and nowhere showcases this better than the amazing array of national
The Albanian port city of Vlore is one of Albania’s spectacular coastal highlights. Situated at the northern end of the Albanian Riviera and overlooking the beautiful Bay of Vlore, the city is blessed with a wealth of attractions. The home of Albanian independence and the gateway to the Riviera, the
You can drive to remote Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean using the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway, also known as the “Mackenzie Highway” or “Tuk Highway.” The road provides access to Tuktoyaktuk from Inuvik in the Northwest Territories. Inuvik is accessible from mainland Canada by using the Dempster Highway, which runs all the
It’s possible to drive to beautiful Gasparilla Island from the nearby Florida mainland using a bridge known as the Boca Grande Causeway. The causeway connects the unincorporated community of Placida on the mainland to the northern tip of Gasparilla Island, allowing vehicles to access the island. There’s a $6 round
You can drive to Guyana but only from one of the three South American countries with a common land border. The border crossing with neighboring Brazil in the southwest of Guyana is currently the only open crossing. However, it is located in a very remote region. There are currently no
