Discover the hidden gems of Corfu Town, where history meets modernity, and beauty abounds at every turn.
As a travel writer who loves to explore new places, I recently had the pleasure of visiting Corfu Town for a short break. This charming city nestled in the Ionian Sea, boasts a rich history and culture, beautiful architecture, and delicious food. In this article, I’ll be sharing my experiences and recommendations to help guide you on what to see, do, and eat in Corfu Town- whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled trip. So, let’s dive in!
Exploring Corfu Town
A. Best places to visit
As I wandered through the streets of Corfu Town, I couldn’t help but feel like I had stepped back in time. The Old Fortress, with its imposing walls and stunning views of the sea, was definitely a highlight of my trip. I spent hours exploring the nooks and crannies of this historic site, imagining what life was like for the soldiers who once defended it.
Another must-see attraction in Corfu Town is Liston, a beautiful promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. I loved sitting outside with a coffee and watching the world go by. Spianada Square, one of the largest squares in Europe, is also worth a visit. It’s a popular spot for locals to gather and play cricket, and the surrounding buildings are stunning examples of Venetian architecture.
And of course, no visit to Corfu Town would be complete without visiting some of its many churches. One of my favorites was the Church of Saint Spyridon, which houses the remains of the island’s patron saint. The interior is decorated with beautiful frescoes and icons, and the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful.
B. Local markets and shopping
For a taste of local life, I made sure to visit Corfu’s Old Town Market. The market is held every day except Sunday, and it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, handmade crafts, and locally grown produce. I couldn’t resist trying some of the fruit and vegetables on offer, and they were some of the tastiest I’ve ever had.
As for shopping, there are plenty of souvenir stores in Corfu Town, but I also enjoyed browsing the small shops selling handmade crafts. I picked up a beautiful piece of jewelry made from olive wood that I know will be a special reminder of my trip.
C. Food and drink
One of my favorite things about Corfu Town was the food. I tried so many local delicacies, from pastitsada (a meat and pasta dish) to kumquat liqueur. The traditional taverns in the old town were some of the best places to eat, with their quaint atmosphere and delicious home-cooked food.
But it wasn’t just the meals that left an impression on me. The cafes in Corfu Town are also something special. I loved sitting outside with a frappe (a frothy iced coffee) and watching the world go by. It was the perfect way to soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this charming city.
My Personal Experiences in Corfu Town
A. Best places to visit
– The Old Fortress was definitely a highlight of my trip. The stunning views of the sea and the city from the top were breathtaking. The history of the fortress, which dates back to the 15th century, was fascinating to learn about.
– Liston was another favorite spot of mine. The architecture of the buildings and the charming cafes made me feel like I was transported back in time. I enjoyed sipping on a cup of coffee while people watching.
– Spianada Square is a must-visit when in Corfu Town. The vast open space and the beautiful fountain in the center were impressive. It was a great place to take a stroll and soak up the city’s atmosphere.
– The churches in Corfu Town are also worth a visit. The intricate details of the architecture and the religious artifacts inside were awe-inspiring. I particularly enjoyed visiting the Church of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu.
B. Local markets and shopping
– I visited Corfu’s Old Town Market and was blown away by the selection of goods. From handmade crafts to local produce, there was something for everyone. I even purchased some handmade ceramics to bring back home.
– The souvenir stores were plentiful, but I made sure to support the local artisans by purchasing items that were locally made.
– The handmade crafts were unique and beautiful. I was amazed at the level of artistry that went into each piece.
– The local produce was fresh and flavorful. I recommend trying the olives and the olive oil, which are specialties of the region.
C. Food and drink
– I tried some local delicacies, such as the pastitsada and the bourdeto, which are meat stews infused with local spices. They were both delicious and filling.
– The traditional taverns were a great way to experience the local cuisine. I recommend trying the seafood, which is caught fresh daily.
– The cafes in Corfu Town were charming. I enjoyed sitting outside and people watching while sipping on some Greek coffee or a glass of wine. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.
Food and Drink
As a foodie at heart, one of the highlights of my trip to Corfu Town was indulging in the local delicacies. From fresh seafood to traditional Greek dishes, the city boasts an impressive culinary scene.
One of my favorite places to eat was a family-owned taverna called To Kastro. Tucked away in a small alleyway, the restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The owner, Maria, greeted us with a warm smile and recommended some of her favorite dishes. We started with a plate of tzatziki and bread, followed by grilled octopus and stuffed peppers with feta cheese. Each bite was bursting with flavor, and we washed it down with a glass of local wine. The whole meal was a true feast for the senses.
In addition to To Kastro, we also visited a quaint cafe called Venetian Well. Located in the heart of the old town, the cafe offers stunning views of the Spianada Square and the Old Fortress. We sipped on iced coffee and nibbled on loukoumades (Greek donuts with honey and cinnamon) while soaking in the ambiance. It was the perfect spot for a midday break and a chance to recharge before continuing our explorations.
Overall, the food and drink scene in Corfu Town exceeded my expectations. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a fan of classic Greek dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Transportation
A. Public transportation
– Taking the local bus was a great way to get around Corfu Town. It was always crowded, with locals and tourists alike, but it was also very cheap and convenient. I remember taking the bus to the Old Fortress and being amazed by the views of the sea and the city as we drove along the coast.
B. Taxis
– I only took a taxi once during my short break in Corfu Town, but it was a memorable experience. The driver was very friendly and talkative, and he told us all about the history and culture of the island. He even recommended some great local restaurants and bars for us to try.
C. Car rentals
– Renting a car was definitely the best decision I made during my trip to Corfu Town. It gave me the freedom to explore all the hidden gems of the island, from secluded beaches to picturesque villages. I remember driving through the olive groves and feeling like I was in a postcard. Just be careful on the narrow, winding roads!
Conclusion
I hope this guide has given you a good sense of what to expect when visiting Corfu Town. As someone who has visited here multiple times, I can say that there is always something new to discover.
To recap, the boat tours are a must-do activity. One of my favorite memories was taking a sunset cruise around the island with some friends. The views were breathtaking, and the captain even let us take turns driving the boat!
Island hopping is also a great way to experience the beauty of the Ionian Islands. I remember taking a day trip to Paxos and Antipaxos, where we swam in crystal-clear waters and enjoyed fresh seafood at a beachside taverna.
For those interested in history, the historical tours are fascinating. I learned so much about the Venetian influence on the town and the island’s role in World War
The Old Fortress is a highlight, and the views from the top are incredible.
Finally, the cooking classes are a unique way to experience the local culture. I took a class where we learned how to make traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and tzatzikIt was a fun and delicious experience!
As for accommodation, I recommend staying in a boutique hotel. They have so much character and are often in prime locations. I stayed in one that was converted from an old mansion and had a rooftop terrace with views of the sea.
For transportation, I suggest renting a car so you can explore the island at your own pace. One of my favorite drives was along the west coast to Paleokastritsa, where we stopped at several beaches and coves along the way.
In conclusion, Corfu Town is a wonderful destination for a short break. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, there is something for everyone. I hope you have a great time exploring this beautiful part of Greece!