Mouse island and Vlaherna
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Last updated on June 25th, 2025 at 12:59 am

Sights in Corfu Town: Why They’re Worth Visiting

Corfu Town (Kerkyra) is the cultural and historical heart of the island — a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by centuries of Venetian, French, and British rule. Its compact old town is a treasure trove of grand palaces, imposing fortresses, elegant squares, and winding alleyways that invite exploration on foot.

From the iconic Liston Arcade and Spianada Square to ancient churches and fascinating museums, every corner reveals a piece of Corfu’s rich, multicultural past. Visiting these landmarks isn’t just sightseeing — it’s stepping into a living timeline that makes Corfu Town one of Greece’s most captivating destinations.

Corfu Old Fortress with the Old British Hospital

Old fortress in Corfu town from Faliraki
Old fortress in Corfu town from Faliraki

Step back in time at the Old Fortress — explore its historic walls, the British Hospital ruins, and enjoy spectacular views of Corfu Town.

Read more about the Old Fortress

Corfu New Fortress: A Venetian Fortification Masterpiece

Corfu Sightseeing - Corfu new fortress
Corfu new fortress

Dominating the skyline above the old port, the New Fortress offers panoramic views and a glimpse into 16th-century Venetian defenses.

Explore the impressive Venetian New Fortress and enjoy panoramic harbor views.

Discover why New Fortress is a must-see

Esplanade Square and the Liston Promenade

Esplanade square from google earth
Esplanade square from google earth

The heart of Corfu’s social life, this vast square is flanked by French-style architecture and the elegant arcades of the Liston.

Discover Esplanade and Liston

The Palace of St. Michael and St. George

Palace of St Michael and George in Corfu
Palace of St Michael and George in Corfu

Once home to British High Commissioners, today this neoclassical palace houses the Museum of Asian Art.

Visit the Palace of St. Michael and St. George

Corfu Town Hall – San Giacomo Theatre

Corfu town hall San Giacomo
Corfu town hall, San Giacomo

A baroque building that transitioned from a Venetian theater to the present-day Town Hall.

Learn about San Giacomo

The Bell Tower of Annunziata

Corfu Sightseeing - Annunziata in Corfu
Annunziata in Corfu

All that remains of a 16th-century church linked to the historic Battle of Nafpaktos.

Read about the Annunziata Bell Tower

Museums in Corfu Town

Michael and George Palace in Corfu - Museum of Asian Art
Michael and George Palace in Corfu – Museum of Asian Art

From archaeology to Byzantine icons, Corfu Town is home to many unique museums worth visiting.

Browse the Best Museums in Corfu

Corfu Town

As the capital and cultural heart of the island, Corfu Town (Kerkyra) is home to some of Corfu’s most iconic monuments. From Venetian fortresses and grand palaces to vibrant squares and hidden gems, this historic town is a destination in itself.
For a deeper look into the town’s layout, neighborhoods, and daily life.

visit our Corfu Town guide

Map of Corfu Town’s Monuments

Map with attractions and Things to Do in Corfu
Map with attractions and Things to do in Corfu

Use our Corfu map with sights to easily locate and explore the island’s top landmarks, both in Corfu Town and beyond.

Open Big size Map

Monuments and Sights Beyond Corfu Town

Corfu’s charm extends far beyond its historic town center. The island is dotted with impressive monuments and breathtaking sights that tell stories from ancient times to the modern era.

From majestic palaces and medieval castles perched on hillsides to serene islands and archaeological ruins, the cultural heritage outside Corfu Town offers a unique glimpse into the island’s diverse past.

Explore these fascinating landmarks scattered around Corfu and discover the rich history and stunning scenery waiting just beyond the city limits.

Achilleion Palace

Achilleion Palace Corfu
Achilleion Palace Corfu

Built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi), the Achilleion Palace is a neoclassical masterpiece overlooking the sea. Famous for its stunning gardens and statues inspired by Greek mythology, it remains one of Corfu’s top attractions.

Discover the grandeur and mythological beauty of the Achilleion Palace — plan your visit and explore its stunning gardens and statues today.

Visit Achilleion Palace

Angelokastro (Angel Castle)

Angelokastro near Paleokastritsa
Angelokastro near Paleokastritsa

Perched high on a cliff, Angelokastro is a Byzantine castle offering spectacular panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. This fortress played a key role in defending the island during medieval times and remains a symbol of Corfu’s resilience.

Climb up to Angelokastro for breathtaking views and a journey into Corfu’s medieval defense history.

Learn more about Aggelokastro

Mon Repos Palace in Paleopolis

Museum of Paleopolis in Mon Repos Corfu
Museum of Paleopolis in Mon Repos, Corfu

Once a royal summer residence, Mon Repos Palace sits within an archaeological park that reveals the ancient city of Corfu (Paleopolis). Visitors can explore ruins dating back to Greek and Roman times amid beautiful parklands.

Step into royal history and ancient ruins at Mon Repos Palace.

Explore Mon Repos in detail

Mouse Island (Pontikonisi)

Mouse Island and Vlacherna monastery
Mouse Island and Vlacherna

A tiny, picturesque islet covered with lush greenery, Mouse Island is one of Corfu’s most iconic images. Accessible by boat, it features a charming Byzantine chapel and is steeped in local legend.

Experience the magic of Mouse Island, one of Corfu’s most picturesque spots.

Find out how to visit Mouse Island

Paleopolis (Ancient Corfu City)

Ancient Corfu Paleopolis
Ancient Corfu Paleopolis

The archaeological site of Paleopolis offers fascinating ruins of the original ancient city of Corfu. It showcases remains from Greek, Roman, and early Byzantine periods, providing valuable insight into the island’s early history.

Uncover the secrets of Corfu’s ancient past at Paleopolis.

Explore Paleopolis

Aqueduct of Commissioner Frederick Adam (Benitses)

Roman aqueduct shematic
Roman aqueduct schematic

This impressive 19th-century aqueduct is a remarkable feat of engineering that supplied water to parts of Corfu. It is a hidden gem near Benitses, admired for its architectural beauty and historical significance.

Admire the architectural wonder of the Adam Aqueduct in Benitses.

Learn about Roman Aqueduct

Ruins of Roman Villa with Baths (Benitses)

Benitses Corfu Roman baths from east
Benitses, Corfu, Roman baths from the east

Located in Benitses, these archaeological remains reveal a Roman villa complete with ancient baths. The site offers a rare glimpse into the Roman lifestyle on Corfu.

Explore the ancient Roman villa ruins in Benitses and get a glimpse of Corfu’s Roman heritage.

Plan your visit today

Additional Sights & Recommendations

Besides the major landmarks, Corfu is full of lesser-known treasures worth exploring:

  • Ionian Parliament Building: The seat of local government with historic significance.
  • Church of St. George (Old Fortress): A hidden gem inside the Old Fortress walls.
  • Narrow Streets of Kampielo: Charming alleys perfect for a stroll.
  • Casa Parlante Museum: Experience Corfiot life in this unique living history museum.
  • Mount Pantokrator: The highest point on Corfu, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
  • Corfu Donkey Rescue: Visit and support this wonderful animal sanctuary.
  • Historic Monasteries: Paleokastritsa, Myrtiotissa, and Pantokrator-Kamarelas offer spiritual and architectural interest.

(And many more hidden gems to discover!)

Wrapping Up

Corfu’s rich history and stunning monuments make it a must-visit destination.

From the lively Old City to the peaceful countryside sights, there’s something for every traveler to discover.

Use this guide to explore the island’s cultural treasures and enjoy an unforgettable journey through Corfu’s past and present.

Corfu Town Hall: The San Giacomo Theatre

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Nestled at the vibrant crossroads of Eugeniou Voulgareos and M. Theotoki streets, Corfu Town Hall stands as an architectural masterpiece with an intriguing history.

The Palace of St. Michael and St. George

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During the era of the British rule in Corfu, High Commissioner Sir Frederick Adams in 1819 decided to build the Palace of Saint Michael and George

Esplanade (Spianada) Square and Liston in Corfu

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The Esplanade or Spianada is the central square of Corfu and a meeting place for residents and visitors, it is the largest square in the Balkans and one of the largest in Europe

Corfu New Fortress: A Venetian Fortification Masterpiece

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Another example of the high capacity of Venetians in fortification, and an architectural marvel of art built by the Venetians and with the physical labor of the inhabitants from 1576 until 1645

Corfu Old Fortress And The Old British Hospital

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This was originally a natural promontory offering in its rocks protection for the residents of the 5th century AD when the ancient city of Corfu was moved here after the destruction of the ancient city by the Visigoths.

17 Of The Best Museums in Corfu

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Due to rich historical and cultural heritage, the museums in Corfu are many and offer a wide variety of exhibits from Neolithic times to the present, there are also cultural museums dedicated to the rich intellectual life of the Ionian Islands, a bright example is Corfu Reading Society.

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