Corfu
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One of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, Corfu is an island in the Ionian Sea known for its cosmopolitan Old Town, spectacular sandy beaches and beautiful landscapes.
Corfu is the origin of the Ionian Academy, the first university of the modern Greek state, and the Nobile Teatro di San Giacomo di Corfù, the first Greek theatre and opera house of modern Greece.
Corfu, Greece. On the northern side of the Ionian Sea, Corfu’s stunning landscape inspired the setting of stories by Shakespeare and Homer. Today, those picturesque beaches and epic views still draw an audience. Hillsides are studded with whitewashed houses, Byzantine churches, and the remains of Venetian fortresses and Greek temples.
Jun 11, 2024 · Corfu was one of the first mainstream Greek vacation destinations, and it remains one of the most popular. Plan your trip to Corfu with this first-timer's guide to the island and the best things to do, from wandering the Old Town to exploring secluded beaches.
- Corfu Old Town. A city packed tight between two fortresses, Corfu’s Old Town is a knot of walkable streets and alleys between Venetian and Neoclassical houses painted pale yellow and orange.
- The Esplanade and Liston. Between the Old Town and the old fortress is the esplanade, a long green square that is a remnant of the Venetian fortifications in the 17th century.
- St Spyridon Church. Corfu’s foremost church is from 1580 and its Renaissance bell tower is the highest in the Ionian Islands. Hosting the relics of St Spyridon, brought to Corfu City from Constantinople in the 15th century, the church moved to this location after its predecessor was demolished to make way for the citadel.
- Achilleion. In 1888 Elisabeth of Bavaria, Empress of Austria, commissioned a summer residence at this elevated setting about 10 kilometres south of Corfu City.
Its rich multi-cultural heritage, its historic monuments, its stunning natural landscape, its crystal clear seas, and its excellent weather all year round explain why Corfu is one of the most cosmopolitan Mediterranean destinations weaving a powerful spell on its visitors.
Corfu is one of the most beautiful and romantic islands of the Ionian Sea. From lush green hills to noble mansions and from idyllic beaches to impressive museums, this island has everything it takes to please any type of traveler.
