Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the eastern coast of Corfu Island, is a historic district known for its narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. The town’s rich history is evident in its many monuments, including the Old and New Fortresses, Saint Spyridon Church, and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George. Visitors can stroll through the charming streets, explore local shops and eateries, and immerse themselves in the town’s unique blend of Greek and Venetian influences.
Official website:
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/978/ (UNESCO)
Google map (Corfu Old Town)
The Best Places to Visit in Corfu Old Town
Saint Spyridon Church
Saint Spyridon Church Corfu Town, also known as the Church of Agios Spyridon, is an important religious and historical landmark in the island’s capital. This baroque-style church, characterized by a striking red dome and tall bell tower, houses the relics of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu. The church’s ornate interior displays a wealth of religious art and artifacts, making it a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Corfu Town.
Google map 4.8/5
Palace of St Michael and St George
Palace of St Michael and St George, situated in Corfu Old Town, is an imposing British neoclassical building dating back to the 19th century. Once the residence of the British High Commissioner, the palace now hosts the Corfu Museum of Asian Art and the Municipal Gallery. Visitors can admire the building’s grand architecture, explore its vast collection of Asian artifacts, and enjoy the manicured gardens with stunning views over the Ionian Sea.
Google map 4.7/5
Casa Parlante Museum
Casa Parlante Museum, located in Corfu Old Town, offers visitors a unique and interactive glimpse into the daily life of a 19th-century noble Corfiot family. This living history museum is set within a beautifully restored mansion, featuring authentically furnished rooms and life-like animatronics. Guests can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era, as the museum brings to life the customs, traditions, and daily routines of the past.
Google map 4.7/5
Metropolitan Church of Corfu (Greek Orthodox Cathedral)
Mitrópolis, also known as the Greek Orthodox Cathedral or the Metropolitan Church, is a prominent religious site located in Corfu Old Town. Dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, this 16th-century cathedral features a beautiful mix of Byzantine and neoclassical architectural styles. The interior houses a collection of religious relics, including the remains of St. Theodora of Arta. Visitors can admire the cathedral’s impressive iconography, marble iconostasis, and ornate chandeliers while exploring its spiritual significance.
Google map 4.8/5
Spianada Square and Liston
Spianada Square and Liston, situated in the heart of Corfu Old Town, form the social and cultural center of the island’s capital. Spianada Square, the largest square in the Balkans, hosts various events, concerts, and cricket matches, while the nearby Liston promenade features elegant arcades, inspired by Paris’s Rue de Rivoli. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, dine at the many outdoor cafes and restaurants, or simply relax and people-watch in this vibrant public space.
Google map 4.7 (Spianada Square) & Google map (Liston)
Vlacherna Monastery & Mouse Island
Vlacherna Monastery and Mouse Island, located near the southern tip of the Kanoni peninsula, are iconic landmarks of Corfu. The picturesque Vlacherna Monastery, dating back to the 17th century, is perched on a small islet connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. Mouse Island, or Pontikonisi, is a tiny isle with lush vegetation and a Byzantine chapel. Visitors can take a boat trip to these scenic locations, admire their natural beauty, and learn about their historical and religious significance.
Google map 4.7/5
Faliraki Beach
Faliraki Beach Corfu, also known as Alekos Beach, is a small, pebbly beach located near the old port of Corfu Town. This charming beach offers crystal-clear waters, sunbeds, and umbrellas, providing a convenient spot for relaxation and swimming close to the city center. The beach’s proximity to historical landmarks, such as the Old Fortress and the Vlacherna Monastery, makes it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a combination of sightseeing and seaside leisure.
Google map 4.6/5
Old Fortress of Corfu (Paleó Froúrio)
Paleó Froúrio, or the Old Fortress of Corfu, is a prominent historical landmark located on a rocky peninsula in Corfu Old Town. Built by the Venetians in the 15th century, this imposing fortress was designed to protect the island from invaders. Visitors can explore the fortress’s well-preserved bastions, walls, and tunnels while enjoying panoramic views of the town and surrounding sea. The fortress also hosts concerts and cultural events, adding to its historical appeal.
Google map 4.6/5
Holy Church of Saint George of the Old Fortress
Holy Church of Saint George of the Old Fortress is a notable religious site situated within the grounds of the Old Fortress of Corfu. Constructed by the British in the 19th century, this Doric-style church resembles an ancient Greek temple, featuring six columns at the entrance. Dedicated to Saint George, the church houses a collection of religious icons and artifacts, offering visitors a unique blend of architectural and spiritual history.
Google map 4.6/5
Anemomilos Windmill
Anemomilos Windmill, located in the Garitsa Bay area of Corfu Town, is a picturesque 18th-century windmill overlooking the Ionian Sea. This well-preserved landmark, surrounded by lush gardens and a small park, offers stunning views of the Old Fortress and the town’s skyline. Visitors can admire the windmill’s traditional architecture, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, and capture memorable photographs against the backdrop of this charming historical site.
Google map 4.5/5
New Venetian Fortress (Néo Froúrio)
Néo Froúrio, or the New Venetian Fortress, is a 16th-century fortification situated on a hill overlooking Corfu Old Town. Built by the Venetians to strengthen the island’s defenses, the fortress features bastions, underground passages, and a central gate adorned with the Lion of St. Mark. Visitors can explore the fortress’s various sections, learn about its history through informational plaques, and enjoy breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding sea.
Google map 4.4/5
Byzantine Museum of Antivouniotissa
Byzantine Museum of Antivouniotissa, housed in a 15th-century church in Corfu Old Town, is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting the island’s Byzantine and post-Byzantine art. The museum’s collection includes icons, manuscripts, and ecclesiastical artifacts, offering visitors a glimpse into the religious and artistic heritage of the region. The church’s beautifully preserved frescoes and wooden iconostasis add to the museum’s historical and cultural significance, making it a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts.
Google map 4.3/5