My first travel has taken me to the picturesque Greek island of Corfu, whose name, according to ancient mythology, derived from the naiad ‘Cercyra’, who was passionately involved with the Greek god of the sea: Poseidon.

Embedded at the entrance of the Aegean Sea, this island has experienced its fair share of history, even serving as the capital city of Greece in 1830-4, accumulating a vast trail of ruins that I spent three glorious weeks uncovering and documenting for this blog. 

From the prehistoric stone tools of Gardiki dating back to c. 20,000 BCE, to the astounding 15th century Byzantine castle of Angelokastro, I hope that this record opens your eyes to the often-overlooked remnants of this treasured island and entices you to venture deeper into the beauties of these relics. 

For now, here are the top 18 historical monuments in corfu (from oldest to youngest) that you just can’t miss… (plus some nit bits for you history fans out there 😉) Additionally, scroll to the bottom of this blog for a few special mentions of arguably the best beaches and restaurants on the island!

• 1. CORFU TOWN : c. 8^th C. BCE

ABOUT THE TOWN & ITS HISTORY: For those of you following Mediterranean getaway social media platforms and the likes, will be sure to have stumbled across photos of the iconic pillars of the Liston, and perhaps even the colourful, picturesque streets of Corfu town. Even if not, I’m sure it will come as a surprise to both, to learn that the origins of this town date back to c. 8th Century BCE! Formed when the Corinthians (the inhabitants of modern ‘Corinth’, a city just over 80km from Athens) took over the island of Corfu from its original Euboean mainland inhabitants. Not to go into too much detail, this usurpation of power led to a naval battle and eventually, after quarrels for nearly 2 centuries, was a contributing factor to the historic Peloponnesian war (431-404BC). Over the centuries, the town itself experienced inconsistent leadership and constant remodelling from, but not limited to, the Romans, Venetians, British and French. During this time, the population grew so large that its citizens had to begin building houses on top of each other to save space, creating the tall structures you can see today. Nowadays, people tend to focus on the intricate Venetian details of the town however, if you’re willing to look closer, the original Greek foundations of the city such as the two peaks of its famous fortress preserve the initial Corinthian ideas of fortification and defence from the islands’ enemies, allowing us to understand the reasons behind the town’s location.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: My advice would be if you are planning to travel with any motorised vehicle it must be small i.e. a motorcycle or small car (these can be hired and collected from or close to Corfu airport) – since the town is busy 24/7 and exceptionally so during the tourist seasons from May to October parking is incredibly difficult, therefore I recommend if you are planning to journey into town for an evening, aim for the earlier the better. There is a lot of free parking around the town but always read the signs as there are towing areas. Finally, for ‘Restaurant Recommendations‘ try: “Bellissimo” <https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g662629-d2235663-Reviews-Bellissimo-Corfu_Town_Corfu_Ionian_Islands.html> for a taste of Italian style food, or “To Pikantiko”<https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g189458-d10748627-Reviews-To_Pikantiko-Corfu_Ionian_Islands.html>, for arguably the best Greek gyros in town!

• 2. ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF CORFU: items: c. 80,000BCE = €7 EACH (SEE TRAVEL TIPS BELOW)

12 MIN WALK from Corfu town centre (paid parking just outside)

OPENING HOURS: 8am – 8pm daily but CLOSED ON TUESDAYS

ABOUT THE MUSEUM & ITS HISTORY: If you’re looking for a 40 min trip down Corfu’s memory lane then this museum is the perfect location for you. Opened to the public in the late 1960’s, Corfu’s Archaeological Museum is the largest one on the island. It exhibits over 1,600 items dating from the Prehistoric Period (c. 10,000BC) to the Late Antiquity (late 3^rd Century AD – 7^th Century) including artifacts discovered from the fabulous fishing village of Kassiopi in the Northwest of Corfu and the unforgettable gorgon frieze from the ruins of the Artemis Gorgo Temple just a short drive from the town. Although I didn’t know it at the time, my visit to the museum tied together historical sites that I had viewed on the island, including the large stone lion statue that had been separated from Menecrates Mausoleum (no. 5 on this list). Beautifully designed and air conditioned, this site provides an exquisite stop for those seeking to learn about the origin of Corfu’s culture.  

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: If you’re on a budget travel and looking to visit a few other sites on this list (including: Corfu’s archaeological museum, Kapodistrias Museum. (no.), the old fort (no.), the new fort) then make sure to ask for a combined ticket which cost 17€ for adults and 11€ for children up to 18. 

• 3. MON REPOS GARDEN RUINS: c. 8^th C. BCE – PARK = FREE ENTRY – PALACE = €4 EACH

12 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town centre (free parking just outside)

OPENING HOURS: Park = 8am – 5:30pm         Palace = 8am – 9pm

ABOUT THE GARDENS & ITS HISTORY: Built in 1826 the mon repos palace was constructed for a British commander Frederic Adams and his wife, later becoming the summer residence of all British governors of Corfu, and was finally given as a gift to King George 1^st of Greece in 1864 following the unification of the Ionian islands. Interestingly, mon repos was also King Philip, Duke of Edinburgh’s, place of birth in 1921. However, this blog focuses on the gardens of this site which houses 12 ancient ruins including the Doric Temple of Kardiki (no.). The ruins date back to the 8^th century BC and their location in such close proximity to the old fort, convinces archaeologists that mon repos may have been the centre of the ancient city of Kerkyra.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: Make sure to wear mosquito spray as the heat and forest like environment of these gardens make it a perfect spot for swarms, making the trip particularly uncomfortable for those venturing unprepared. 

• 4. OLD PERITHIA: c. 3^RD C. BC – FREE ENTRY

1 HR 19 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free parking just outside)

OPENING HOURS: 9:30am – 11pm

ABOUT THE VILLAGE & ITS HISTORY: Shadowed under the great Mount Pantokrator (hiking and cycling/ electric bike options are also available but please note that it is a very steep climb), this traditionally Venetian village, now protected heritage site, was once a hideout for Corfiot inhabitants from the threatening pirates and diseased mosquitos that plagued their beaches. The surrounding luscious vegetation and location made this place perfect for sheep herding and the growth of vines and olives. It is the oldest inhabited town on the island, with evidence of human life dating back to 700 BCE, and even today remains home to 6 elderly citizens. It was not until the 20^th Century that this village became a hot spot for tourists, with a bed and breakfast available, as well as a base camp for those seeking to hike up Pantokrator. 

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: If you are seeking to travel up here by hired car make sure to test the engine strength before you attempt this route as it is particularly steep around certain corners! This is a great location for a traditional Greek meal in an idyllic natural setting, so try out the O Foros (O Φόρος) restaurant for some delicious tapas! And make sure to grab some authentic Grecian honey from the nearby ‘Siriotis Family Honey Shop’! 

• 5. THE OLD FORT: c. 6^th C. BCE – €6 – €10 PER PERSON

11 MIN WALK from Corfu Town Centre (Paid Parking all around)

OPENING TIMES: FORT = 8am – 8pm / FORT CAFÉ = 8:30am – 7:30pm

ABOUT THE FORT & ITS HISTORY: According to legend, the old fort’s location was chosen due to the two distinctive peaks that have today become the home of the ‘Land Tower’ (the main fort), and the ‘Sea Tower’. The construct provided its Byzantine Greek creators a perfect view of the sea and port, so they were prepared for any unexpected visitors, and a moat, that has since dried up, and drawbridge added an extra layer of protection for those living within the compound at the time. In the 15^th C, following the venetian occupation (1386), the inhabitants fortified the walls of the fort, adding a prison and heavy artillery such as canons as protection against the frequent Ottoman attacks. 

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: For the optimal visiting times, try arriving early or late in the day, otherwise you may be subject to overcrowding, particularly in the summer months! Please note that the hilly terrain will present challenges for those with mobility issues so if you or someone in your group requires special assistance make sure to contact the fort in advance for further options!

• 6. FUNERAL MONUMENT TO MENECRATES: c. 600 BCE  – FREE ENTRY (NO PUBLIC ACCESS – CAN ONLY BE VIEWED THROUGH A FENCE)

10 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (paid parking all around)

OPENING HOURS: Monument = 24 hours daily

ABOUT THE MONUMENT & ITS HISTORY: Discovered in 1843, this tomb was discovered during a demolition of the surrounding area and is believed to have belonged to the necropolis (ancient cemetery) of Corfu. Its conical roof has been replaced since its original disappeared, yet its limestone material has survived and provides a perfect example of the more developed funerary constructions available at the time. According to the monument’s Corinthian inscription (dated to 400BC), the ancient Kerkyreans constructed it in honour of their ambassador Menecrates who was lost at sea during a battle, however the monument has experienced visible erosion and weathering since making it difficult to read. Its use of the old digamma symbol (which looks like an “F” – replaced by a “Υ” in modern Greek) makes this extant one of the oldest Doric Greek inscriptions discovered to date in Greece. Finally, a funerary lion statue (can be seen at No.2) sculpted in an Assyrian style (an ancient Mesopotamian civilisation 21BC – 14BC) was found close by the tomb and is believed to have been part of another monument belonging to Arniades (a warrior who fought in Ancient Amvrakia).

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: The monument is worth a look if your visiting No’s. 2 and/ or no. 5 since they are in walking distance of each other! But I recommend visiting either in the morning before 12pm or in the late afternoon/ evening, particularly for those travelling in the summertime, since the scorching sun can occasionally make for an uncomfortable environment.

• 7. TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS GORGO: c. 580 BCE – FREE ENTRY (NO PUBLIC ACCESS – CAN ONLY BE VIEWED THROUGH A FENCE)

12 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (there is space available to park nearby the temple)

OPENING HOURS: Temple = 24 hours daily

ABOUT THE TEMPLE & ITS HISTORY: Although only the foundations of the Artemis Gorgo temple remain, this is a great site to visit for those looking to get a glimpse of the types of environments ancient places of worship would have been found. Artemis was the Greek goddess of the hunt and the grassy, overgrown area in which this site can been viewed, adds an element of supernatural mystery to the setting. The temple is theorised to have been the first building constructed exclusively with stone, in the Doric architectural style of the Archaic period (columns placed close together, usually with a concaved shaft at the top and sometimes without any base). It was first discovered during the Napoleonic wars when French soldiers were digging their trenches, and again in the 20^th century by archaeologists. Kaiser Wilhelm II (the last German emperor and king of Prussia from 1888 – 1912) is believed to have been fascinated by the gorgon frieze (can be viewed at No. 2) that once decorated the temple’s front and was even inspired to begin attending seminars on ancient archaeology, appointing Reinhard Kekuleion Stradontic (an expert in the topic), as his advisor. 

DID YOU KNOW: some believe the Gorgon of the temple’s frieze has been constructured to resemble the shape of the Nazi swastika. In ancient culture, Medusa (1 of 3 gorgons) was used as a magical symbol to ward off evil and prevent it from entering temples, also worn as an amulet by gods and royalty.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: I definitely recommend visiting this temple during daylight hours as to reach it you will need to find your way through a series of winding backstreets. It can also be reached using the public bus but be advised some drivers need you to warn them of what stop you want to get off at before you take a seat as they don’t always stop at every stop, so make sure to take note of where your going!

• 8. DORIC TEMPLE OF KARDIKI: c. 500 BCE – FREE ENTRY (ONE OF THE RUINS OF THE MON REPOS GARDENS)

12 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free parking just outside)

OPENING HOURS: Park = 8am – 5:30pm

ABOUT THE TEMPLE & ITS HISTORY: of all the ruins of Mon Repos gardens, the Temple of Kardiki stands as the most complete of the lot, showcasing the influence of Ionian architecture through its abnormally wide structure. Built in around 500BC in the ancient city of Kerkyra, this site allows visitors to glimpse the ancient significance of worshipping the gods Poseidon (god of the sea) and Apollo (god of prophecies, archery, and music, also Artemis’ brother), in traditions such as votive offerings (objects deposited with the intention of recovery), as well as displaying what the centre of an ancient city such as Kerkyra may have looked like. The temple was discovered accidentally in 1822 by British engineers who were excavating for fresh water and can now be found hidden within the natural growth of the royal park.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: this particular temple is right at the end of the parks hiking trail, so make sure to walk to whole path if this site piques your interest! Also “Kardiki” Is not to be confused with the “Gardiki Fortress” (no.12).

• 9. PALEOPOLIS CHRISTIAN BASILIKA: c. 5^TH C.  AD – FREE ENTRY (RIGHT NEXT TO THE ENTERANCE TO MON REPOS GARDENS – NOT ACCESSIBLE TO PUBLIC – CAN ONLY BE SEEN FROM BEHIND A LOW FENCE))

12 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free parking just outside)

OPENING TIMES: BASILIKA = 24 hours daily

ABOUT THE BASILIKA & ITS HISTORY: The Basilika was built in the centre of the old roman acropolis of Corfu in the 5^th C AD, and served as a large public building, most notably as a court of justice or a place for public assemblies. In the 11^th C it was rebuilt after experiencing extreme damage from invaders like the goths and vandals in the 6^th C, the Normans in the 11^th C, and finally the Turks in 1537. Following that last demolishment, the structure was reimbursed as a catholic church, constructed on the former roman ruins by the Bishop of Corfu at the time. Unfortunately. It was bombed during WW2 and that leaves us with the state it is in today. 

DID YOU KNOW: The Basilica is connected to the legend of the first female Corfiot martyr St. Kerkyra, who was put to death in 70AD for being a Christian on her own father’s orders (Roman governor of Corfu). 

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: Please take care if travelling with children as there are no pavements and the road next to it can get quite busy especially at night. I would also recommend visiting during the day as there is limited lighting available during dusk and dark hours. Finally please note that you cannot get close to the basilica as there is a fence surrounding it but you can still get some pretty epic photos for your sketchbooks!

• 10. HOLY CHURCH OR APOSTLES JASON AND SOSIPATER: c. 11^TH C.  AD – FREE ENTRY

23 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free parking all around)

OPENING TIMES: CHURCH = MONDAY – SATURDAY = 9am – 2pm / SUNDAY = 7am – 2pm

ABOUT THE CHURCH & ITS HISTORY: Dedicated to the Apostles Jason and Sosipater, the first disciples to teach Christianity to the inhabitants of Corfu, this 11^th Century church is the oldest one on the island. Jason had housed St Paul (who had previously persecuted Christians whilst in Rome, until he converted to the religion) when he was on the run from the Jews he had angered in Thessaloniki with his Christian teachings. After becoming disciples to Paul, Jason and his friend Sosipater travelled to Corfu, preaching words from the Bible, and were soon arrested by the then ruler of the island. According to legend, the pair converted 7 robbers to Christianity whilst in jail, causing them to be sent to the captain of the prefecture of Corfu (the head of administration on the island) to be unconverted through torture via boiling cauldrons of tar and resin. Unfortunately, Sosipater died, and the story of their conditions reached (the previously mentioned “Saint…) Kerkyra” who was compelled to join Christianity, selling all her jewellery to give money to the poor, leading to her eventual death by hanging and arrows. Jason however lived through it all and after his death at a ripe old age, him and Sosipater were christened saints, and are celebrated in Greece on the 29^th of April each year. 

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: Before visiting make sure to check if there are any religious events and opening hours as they will affect whether you can enter the church or not! It is also very close to the town and would make a lovely addition to those of you seeking to explore the Corfiot promenade!

• 11. ANGELOKASTRO CASTLE: c. 1205 AD – €3 PER PERSON ENTRY FEE

57 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free parking nearby)

OPENING TIMES: CASTLE = 10am – 5:30pm DAILY (TUESDAY = opens at 10:30am)

ABOUT THE CASTLE & ITS HISTORY: As one of Corfu’s big three fortresses, (the others being no. 11 and no. 12) Angelokastro played a big role in the fortification of the island, successfully defending the inhabitants against pirates (Normans and Ottomans) since its creation in 1205AD. From 1387 until the end of the 16^thCentury, Angelokastro was known as the capital of Corfu and as such housed the venetian governance during the occupation and wasn’t under the command of Corfiot nobleman until much later. Significantly, the castles powerful garrison allowed it to remain out of the hands of enemies including the Turkish invasion if 1537, when it remained, alongside the Old Fort, one of the only monuments still under Venetian control. Nowadays, it is a beautiful tourist attraction, and just a short hike up the ruined steps, catch a glimpse of the island’s natural coastlines and historical remnants glistening under the Greek skyline. 

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: Make sure to wear appropriate, grippy shoes as some of the stones can be slippy, and potentially dangerous, especially when climbing up to the castle. If travelling with children, take note that the castle is balanced at the top of a mountain with a very steep drop into the ocean to one side and there are very few protective railings so please take care when visiting!

• 12. KASSIOPI FORTRESS: c. 12^th – 13^th C. AD – FREE ENTRY 

1 HR 12 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free parking all around)

OPENING TIMES: FORTRESS = 24 Hours Daily

ABOUT THE FORTESS & ITS HISTORY: With foundations dating back to the 12^th – 13^th Century, this Byzantian castle secured the sea passage between Albania and Corfu during the Middle Ages and early renaissance period, defending citizens of the nearby fishing village from pirates as the las of Corfu’s big three castles. It experienced many destructions in 1386 and 1571 following invasions by the Venetians and Turks, and to this day sits in a state of significant disrepair. Nevertheless, it makes for a peaceful circular walk around the ruins of a once great historical fortress.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: Make sure to carry water whilst visiting this castle, particularly if you are visiting during the day as there is limited shade and can get particularly hot during the summer months due to its enclosed vicinity! Parking nearby is quite a pain due to limited options, so be prepared to walk a bit if you are determined to visit this glorious site!

• 13. GARDIKI FORTRESS: c. 13^th C. AD – FREE ENTRY 

1 HR 3 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (paid parking nearby)

OPENING HOURE: FORTRESS = 24 Hours Daily

ABOUT THE FORTRESS & ITS HISTORY: Gardiki fortress is a 13^th Century Byzantian structure used as one of Corfu’s 3 defensive structures, responsible for protecting the local village of Agios Malthaios. Interestingly, stone tools dating back to the Palaeolithic Era 20,000 BC, have been discovered in a cave just beyond these remains (now housed in no. 2). The castle’s 8 towers can still be made out and grant visitors the illusion of its former state. This particular fortress makes for a very pleasant and peaceful walk around the historic interior of a 700-year-old monument. Despite its crumbled state, Gardiki is a perfect location for photos or even a small walk across the walls of the compound.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: This is a very desolate monument and perfect for a quick drive by sight see! 

• 14. VENETIAN SHIPYARD AND ARSENAL: c. 15^th C. AD – FREE ENTRY

19 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free street parking nearby)

OPENING HOURS: SHIPYARD = 24 Hours Daily

ABOUT THE SHIPYARD & ITS HISTORY: Following Ottoman attacks, the Venetians fortified their position on the island by constructing this shipyard, making repairs and construction more efficient. Unfortunately, in 1798 it was abandoned due to a build-up of sand that rendered the shipyard unusable but at its prime, this construct was capable of holding up to 20 warships at a time.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: The surrounding area is very overgrown so I would recommend wearing long trousers since the tall grass can cause severe irritation! And as always, make sure to wear mosquito repellent as the environment is another great spot for swarms!

• 15. BYZANTINE MUSEUM: c. 15^th C. AD – €4 PER PERSON

6 MIN WALK from Corfu Town Centre (free street parking nearby)

OPENING HOURS: MUSEUM = 8:30am – 3pm Daily / CLOSED ON TUESDAYS

ABOUT THE MUSEUM & ITS HISTORY: An eclectic window into the religious aspects of Byzantian art. This former church turned museum allows one to capture the importance of iconography during the 15^th – 19^thcenturies in Corfu. Furthermore, it’s a great way to spend 20 minuets, uncovering the artistic riches of the past.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: Keep an eye out when travelling to this museum as it is tucked away in a little corner of Corfu Town! The steps up to it are a perfect photo location for travel memorabilia! Please note that you will need to pay for parking nearby the site if you intend to drive however, this is a perfect museum to visit if you’re in town, and allows you to pass by the marketplaces that are less crowded during the daytime!

• 16. ACHILLEION: c. 1890-1 AD – €15 PER PERSON (SOMETIMES EXPERIENCES SHORT NOTICE CLOSURES SO MAKE SURE TO CHECK WEBSITE https://achillion-corfu.gr/?lang=en BEFORE VISITING)

31 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free street parking all around)

OPENING HOURS: PALACE: 8am – 8pm DAILY

ABOUT THE PALACE & ITS HISTORY: The Achilleion was first constructed for the Empress of Austria (“Sissy”), who was in search of a remote place away from the hardships of her royal household. Following the death of her son, she fled to Corfu and dedicated herself to completing the restorations of the palace and decorating the interior with pieces of Greek art and history. After her murder in 1898 the palace remained uninhabited until King George 1 of Greece suggested to Kaiser Wilhelm II that he purchase the palace. Unfortunately, he never managed to enjoy its beauties due to the outbreak of WW1, but the large statue of Achillies was his doing, supposedly as a reflection of his own personality. During WW1, the palace was used by the French and Serbian armies as a military headquarters and hospital and therefore experienced significant damage, explaining the frequent maintenance closures toiling the site to this day.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: Check for special events, as sometimes the palace hosts cultural events such as art exhibitions, music concerts or theatrical performances (all available on the website: https://achillion-corfu.gr/?lang=en)!

• 17. KAISER BRIDGE: c. 1905-7 AD – FREE ENTRY

26 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre (free street parking nearby)

OPENING HOURS: BRIDGE = 24 Hours Daily

ABOUT THE BRIDGE & ITS HISTORY: Completed in 1907, the ruins of Kaiser Bridge were of significant importance to Wilhelm II who, following his purchased of the Achillieon nearby, desired a pathway down to the beach. This bridge stood as a symbol of imperial vanity until its destruction by the Germans during WW2, who couldn’t fit their tanks underneath it. 

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: The ruins of Kaiser Bridge stand over a very busy road, so make sure to walk via the beach if you wish to get a closer look! Best views will be during the day, but it’s always a cool sight to drive by at night!

• 18. KAPODISTRIAS MUSEUM: c. 1981 AD – €5 PER PERSON / UNDER 18’S GO FREE

19 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre

OPENING HOURS: MUSEUM = 10am – 4pm TUESDAYS – SATURDAYS / CLOSED MONDAYS

ABOUT THE MUSEUM & ITS HISTORY: Disguised as a small house on a hill, the Kapodistrias Museum was built in 1911 for the housing of the legacy of Corfu’s first Greek governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias. Born into an aristocratic family in 1776, Ioannis contributed to the Russian military of foreign military of foreign affairs, the formation of Switzerland’s Federation, as well as the reformation of Greece’s political system. He was also close with Tsar Alexander II of Russia and was involved in the congress of Vienna in 1814 which focused on creating a new order in Europe after Napoleons defeat. Finally, his attempt to reform the centralisation of power in Greece created a lot of opposition, leading to his murder in 1831. This museum gives you a glimpse into Ioannis’ life of politics, schematics and national impact from a personalised perspective of his own home.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH EASE: Check out the all-inclusive ticket mentioned in no. to get a discounted entry to this museum! It’s also Very close to no. 14 so make sure to stop by the Venetian archways on your way out if you’re interested!

…SPECIAL RESTAURANT & BEACH MENTIONS…

1. KANONI CAFÉ: For a beautiful sunset meal or coffee date near the airport try out the Kanoni Café. Just a 27 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre, it is certainly worth the trip at least once before you leave.

• AGIOS GORDIOS BEACH & BLACK ROCKS CAFÉ: An idyllic destination for those seeking to explore the blue oceans of the Mediterranean, with a refreshing beverage stop on the side, and a perfect spot for photo opportunities. Just a quick 34 MIN DRIVE from Corfu Town Centre. Black Rocks Restaurant also hosts a BBQ night every Thursday during the summer period (but make sure to check your dates and availabilities before you visit as this event is not offered all year round).

• HISVOS RESTAURANT: A perfect spot for a nighttime sweet treat or stroll to the Holy monastery of Panagia Vlacherna, a 17^th C. church on a tiny islet peeking out of the natural curve of the island. It’s definitely one for the postcards! 

• FAT CAT CAFÉ: If you are ever on the search for a lunchtime break from the glorious wonders of Corfu town, look no further than the fat cat café and grab yourself a delicious sandwich. Also, this café is very close to (no. 6) so don’t forget to stop at Menecrates’ monument if you have a few extra minuets!

• SPITINIKOS POOL & APARTMENTS: For those of you who prefer holidays where you aren’t constantly covered in salt and sand, try Spitinikos’ pool and apartment, for wonderful meals and crisp, cool bathes! For more info, visit https://www.thomascook.com/holidays/greece/corfu/gouvia/spiti-nikos-apartment-and-stuidos-47230/!

• FORTEZZA NUOVA: Out for a late-night stroll in town? Fortezza has you covered, with gorgeous meals in a picturesque setting, hidden under the shadow of the New Fort. Check it out at https://fortezzanuova.com!

• PELEKAS BEACH: Now the moment some have been waiting for, where to set up your beach towels and umbrellas. Pelekas in the ideal beach for all ages, and even comes with a rock to jump off of for anyone looking for an extra daring experience!

• NISOS RESTAURANT: On the opposite side of the water from the Kanoni Restaurant, Nisos offers a quieter option for meals or drinks, still with a beautiful view of the sunsets and planes!

• IPSOS BEACH & INFLATABLES: For those of you looking for more adventurous experiences, why not visit the Ipsos inflatables. Only €10 per person for 2 hours of fun, whats not to like! And, for any nightclub enjoyers, second only to the Kavos (the southern tip of the island), this is the nightlife central of the island!

• SIDARI CLAY BEACH: Sidari beach is a lovely day trip away from the business of the main town, with its clay walls offering natural face masks, and pedalo boats creating lasting memories for anyone feeling sporty enough to pedal out in search of the deep blues of the beach!

• FRAKA RESTURANT: Finally, Fraka Restaurant is another authentic option for anyone seeking to experience the true Greek cuisine of the locals whilst on a budget (a personal favourite of mine)!

If you have managed to read this far, I applaud you! Believe it or not, this blog only BEGINS to tip the iceberg of Corfu’s fascinating history and culture. The island holds a special place in my heart for its beauty and enchanting nature, and I hope it does the same for those of you who end up visiting its shores yourself. For you history and non-history fans alike out there, this is the place for making memories all year round…

So, as always travel safe and see you in the next blog! 

Erin ✈️✨

(P.s. If you just can’t get enough of Corfu, feel free to head over to my Instagram handle @travelwithe.s for more photos… and stay tuned for my (first) travel scrapbook page coming soon… x)!!