Things to Do & Explore in Benitses
Benitses is not a place defined by major attractions, but by slow, easy exploration. The experience comes from moving between the village streets, the seafront, and the green hills just behind the settlement within minutes.
Here is a wide range of attractions and activities, from historical sites and nature experiences to boat trips and local culture, making it one of the most diverse areas in Corfu for visitors.
1) Step Back in Time: The Old Village Vibe
Benitses’ traditional part lies in a beautiful location in the middle of a green valley that sweeps down to the sea and has kept its natural beauty intact despite the intense activity and large touristic development since mass tourism started in the 1960s.
Up here, just a corner’s away from the seaside promenade, the feeling changes completely. Due to the proximity of the mountains and the higher altitude, you get the feeling that you are not in a seaside resort but rather in a mountain village of Greece, where life looks easier and more laid back.
The village consists of five settlements.
The traditional old and most populous part is located between the mountains and called Panochori (meaning “the upper village”).
Another settlement, Vaska (reservoir), is around the aqueduct.
The settlement around the old port is called Skaloma, and it is the current commercial centre of the village with the most shops.
The village expanded south through the part called Chontrakia or Kontrakia along the main road to Lefkimi, up to the Tsaki (chimney) area, the last settlement and where Benitses ends.
The village’s population is 1,000 residents, most of whom deal with tourism, but in the past their traditional occupations were fishing, cultivating olives and citrus fruit, and in the distant past, the operation of watermills for flour production on the mountain side of the village, occupations some of which, like fishing, are reviving now especially during winter.
The existence of sources created a river which many years ago passed through the current path of the old village; the diversion of the river was earlier in the last century.
These sources are, to this day, the aqueduct and are the reason that Benitses has been inhabited since ancient times and the origin of its name.
2) The Mountain Side of Benitses: Villages, Trails & Views
Benitses is literally built at the foot of green mountains, where several small churches are hidden among the trees, including Agia Paraskevi and Agia Triada, which stands on a beautiful hilltop with impressive views. Numerous old paths and trails lead from Benitses through the countryside towards the mountain village of Stavros, offering a completely different experience from the seaside and revealing the quieter side of Corfu.
Stavros is one of the most rewarding viewpoints above Benitses, with panoramic views stretching across central and southern Corfu. The village has a traditional atmosphere and is a pleasant destination for those who enjoy walking, cycling, or exploring the mountainous side of the island. A well-known local stop there is Kostas’ Bar, a small family place where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
For visitors who want to discover more than the coastline, the hills above Benitses offer some of the best opportunities to experience the natural landscape and local character of the area.
The village also has doctors, a pharmacy, a surgery, travel agencies, a laundry, and water sports.
3) Find out what happened with the Sea Museum
Once home to one of the most impressive private marine collections in Greece, the Sea Museum showcased rare shells, fossils, and sea life exhibits before closing in 2018.
👉 Read more about the Sea Museum of Benitses. A historic article only.
4) The Ruins of Roman Baths
Although commonly known as the Roman Baths, the site is believed to be part of a wealthy Roman villa dating from the 2nd century AD. The name comes from its water system and bathing facilities rather than from a large public bath complex.
Today, only limited structural remains are visible, as the original mosaics are protected beneath a layer of earth. The site is a small but interesting reminder of the Roman presence in the area.
👉 Read more about the Roman Baths in Benitses. This guide includes photos and directions on how to find the site.
5) Achilleion Palace (must-visit)
A landmark palace built in the 19th century, the Achilleion lies 3 kilometers from Benitses and belongs to the Gastouri neighbourhood village; it is known for its classical architecture, gardens, and statues dedicated to Achilles.
Easy to visit due to its proximity to Benitses. Keep in mind, though, that during the last few years, only the gardens are accessible to the public due to extensive renovation of the site.
👉 Read full details about the Achilleion Palace.
6) Daily boat trips
From here, boat trips connect to nearby islands and coastal destinations such as Paxos, Antipaxos, and southern Corfu. For full details, see the Benitses Marina.
For day boat trips or daily Cruises to the Greek Mainland, there are travel offices around the promenade where you can book, or ask at your accommodation; they will happily help you.
Note: It’s good to know that the current owner of the marina has forbidden fishing from the docks of the port. But there are always other points on the seaside free for fishing.
7) History – See Old Historic Buildings
Benitses features several traditional and historic buildings that reflect its long history as a coastal village.
👉 Read more in the Old Historic Buildings of Benitses.
8) Visit the West Coast Beaches
From Benitses, visitors can easily access some of Corfu’s most beautiful sandy beaches along the west and south coast.
👉 Read more in the West Coast Beaches. Something for every type of traveler, whether you prefer relaxing or exploring.
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