25 Corfu Sights, Monuments & Attractions

Last updated on September 6th, 2024 at 01:12 pm

Here is our full list of Corfu sights, landmarks, and historical monuments, a compilation of the most renowned attractions that you can explore to enhance your stay on this Island.

You may be pleasantly surprised by the plethora of offerings on this enchanting island, including its natural beauty and an array of scenic spots both within and outside the historic Corfu old town.

In Corfu, there’s always something for everyone to see, experience, and visit. Rest assured, we’ve conducted extensive research, and we’re confident that our list will greatly assist you. After all, we are permanent residents of the island and possess unparalleled insights into what can truly make your trip to Corfu exceptionally enjoyable.

Let’s embark on this exciting journey of discovery.

The Sights to See in the Old Town of Kerkyra

Kerkyra is the historical center of the island and the first view of Corfu for those who reach the island from the sea by ferry.

Without a doubt, the old medieval city of Corfu, where Venetian influences dominate, is the biggest attraction of the island as it is a UNESCO heritage site as a whole.

Even if you stay in another tourist resort you should get the time to visit the town at least for a day.

Here you will find the most important sights and monuments on the island. And you will get lost inside the narrow streets of the old city. Time will pass quickly before you realize it.

Some of the Sights to see here are the following:

1. The Awe-Inspiring Old Fortress

One of the most important monuments of Corfu.

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.

Converted into a fortress by the Byzantines in the 8th century AD and contained all the buildings of the small medieval town. But now many buildings inside the fortress have been demolished.

You can still find the buildings of the old English hospital thought, the Doric-style church of Saint George, and several buildings that house government services, such as the Ephorate of Antiquities of Corfu.

There is also a coffee bar.

The rock was always further reinforced to protect the city from the numerous invasions of the Middle Ages, and gradually the town grew around it.

The Old Fortress is open all day and is the ideal place to explore the old bastions and imagine their history.

It is a masterpiece of architecture and fortification art while offering visitors the best views of the city, the harbor, and over the sea to the mountains of Epirus.

How did the Venetians strengthen their fortifications, how did they dig the moat known as the kontra fossa, the buildings in the fortress and the bastions, the Venetian prison extended by the English, what buildings were in, and what buildings are left and used today in the Old Fortress?

Find all the answers on the page about Corfu old fortress

2. The Majestic New Fortress

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.

Venetians due to the permanent threat of the Turks felt that it was necessary to complete the fortifications of the city which meanwhile had been extended far beyond the old fortress.

They started the construction of the new fortress on the hill of San Marcos extended south with walls and ramparts reaching the sea at Garitsa Bay…

Read about when and how the New Fortress was built, what was in there, and what still exists inside the fortress today.

The museum of ceramic art, photography exhibitions, ceramic art, and sculpture, are all inside the fortress.

From time to time we have some happenings like concerts and other events here.

Do not forget the naval station of Corfu which is hosted in the fortress.

Find them all on the page about Corfu new fortress

3. The iconic Palace of Saints Michael and George

During the era of British rule in 1819, High Commissioner Sir Frederick Adams decided to build a house for himself and his family.

So he created in Corfu a unique palace in the Georgian style.

The building was designed by an English engineer Colonel Sir George Whitmore (1775-1862) and despite its enormous size is elegant and beautiful.

It has been described as the best example of regency architecture outside Britain.

It is the largest palace in Greece except for the palace of King Otto in Athens, which today houses the Greek parliament.

The large line of Doric columns has two gates, the Gate of St. Michael and the Gate of St. George.

In the garden is the statue of Commissioner Frederick Adams made by Corfiot sculptor Pavlos Prosalendis.

Outside it has carved representations of the Ionian Islands and two rows of Ionic columns surrounding the main hall, showing scenes from the Odyssey.

The first floor is decorated with Corinthian columns. There are three main halls: the ballroom, the throne room, and the symposium room.

The palace previously housed the Ionian Senate and is the home of the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George.

For half of the century, it was also the summer residence of the former Greek royal family. Today it has been refurbished as a museum displaying classical antiquities.

A meeting at the summit of the European Union was held here in 1994.

The building looks over the north side of Spianada Square on Iroon Politechniou Street and also houses the Asian Art Museum and the Municipal Gallery.

Palace of Saint Michael and George

4. The Corfu Town Hall

In 1663 the construction of the gallery of noble “loggia nobili” was begun, and took almost 30 years to complete.

This beautiful building housed the famous San Giacomo theatre. Later, Nicholaos Mantzaros composer of our national anthem was the director of the orchestra.

Today the building has retained its beauty and has become the home of the Town Hall. It is located at the intersection of Eugene M. Voulgareos and M.Theotoki streets.

5. The Ionian Parliament building

At the intersection of Napoleon Zabeli and Moustoxidi streets is the building of the Ionian Parliament.

Here the representatives of the people of the Ionian Islands voted for union with Greece which was eventually ratified by a resolution of the Ionian Isles on 23rd September 1863.

The building was designed by Ioannis Chronis in 1855 in a neoclassical style with a distinctive entrance of Doric columns.

It was restored in 1978 and since then has been the home of the Museum devoted to the struggle of the people of Heptanisa (Ionian Islands) for freedom.

We hope that it will be restored to its previous glory and officially become the Ionian Parliament.

6. The Ionian Academy, Delve into the island’s educational heritage

The intersection of Akadimias and Kapodistriou streets at Southwest Upper Square of Spianada was one of the entrances to the city during the era of Venetian rule.

There the General Provveditore of the city (as he was called then) Grimani Correr started to build a building to be used as a barracks.

In 1823 following a resolution of the Ionian parliament with the help of Lord Frederick Guilford the Ionian Academy was founded, the first Greek university, which until 1841 was hosted in a government building in the old fortress.

In 1841 the university moved to the former Grimani Correr barracks which from then on was named the Ionian Academy, the schools of philosophy, law, and medicine, and later the polytechnic, obstetrics, and pharmacology were housed there.

In 1865, following the Union of the Ionian Islands with Greece, the Greek kingdom immediately rewarded the fervent desire of the Corfiot people for union with Greece by closing our university.

They also removed the electricity factory already operating in Corfu and took all its machinery to Piraeus, leaving Corfu in a state of spiritual and economic stagnation.

The Greek state denied Corfu’s spiritual and cultural leadership by removing a century of progress.

After the university was closed its building housed the Public Library, but during the Second World War, the building was bombed by the Germans in September 1943. It was restored in 1994.

7. Annunziata, a monument of pan-European significance

At the intersection of Evgeniou Voulgareos, Vrahliotis, and Montsenigou streets in Corfu, is the Annunziata, a church devoted to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary as well as to Santa Luccia, it was the Catholic Church of Lontsiada as the Corfiots knew it.

Today, only the characteristic bell tower of Annunziata remains stand, which is a monument of pan-European significance, this is due to its relationship with one of the most important events of world history.

One of the greatest naval battles of all times, the naval battle of Nafpaktos in 1571 among the fleets of the Holy Alliance, ie the fleets of Venice, Spain, Naples, Sicily, Genoa, and Malta against the Ottomans (undefeated until then) Turkish fleet.
Annunziata in Corfu

8. The vast Esplanade square and Liston

The Esplanade is the central square of Corfu and a meeting place for residents and visitors, surrounded by the streets of Iroon Politecniou to the east and north, Eleftherias and Kapodistriou to the West, and Akadimias Street in the South, and crosses in the middle by Dousmanis street.

Shaped in the style of the Royal Gardens of Europe it is the largest square in the Balkans and one of the largest in Europe.

In the square’s bandstand, there are often concerts and other events, especially during the summer.

Cricket matches are also frequently played there.
Cricket is a purely British sport that has been enthusiastically adopted by the Corfiots since the period of English domination of the island.

There are 12 cricket clubs and two other pitches on the island.

Corfu Cricket team is the only cricket team in Greece and so is the Greek National Cricket team also.

To one side of the square is the popular pedestrian area of The Liston with its French architectural buildings (modeled on the Rue de Rivoli in Paris) and numerous cafes.

The construction of The Liston began in 1807 by Napoleon, the sole purpose of the construction of the building was to house the French army.

It was completed in 1814. The buildings were designed by French architect Lesseps and implemented with the assistance of the Greek engineer Ioannis Parmezan.

Corfu Liston is a complex of buildings facing the Esplanade, with arched ground-floor galleries which the locals call “Volta”

The name was given by the word “list” which comes from the Greek word “lista” that was used for the list of the Nobles (Libro d ‘Oro) as in the old days only the nobility were able to walk in this part in the city.

Today, the arcades of Liston are the busiest part of Corfu, it is filled with cafes, restaurants, and craft shops in general, and one that is busy all year round.

The walk-in front of Liston’s arches is something that every Corfiot does and taking coffee in one of Liston’s cafes is a daily habit for many Corfiots…
Esplanade and Liston

9. The church of St. George inside the Old fortress

This building is an imitation of an ancient Greek temple and was built by the English between 1815 and 1860 inside the old fortress of Corfu.

It is a Christian church, dedicated to Saint George.

The columns on the front side are of Doric rhythm.

Visiting the courtyard is free anytime, but you can enter only when the temple church is open.

10. The narrow streets of the old district of Kampielo

Kampielo is the name of the northern district of the old town.

Almost the most characteristic part of the city in terms of its Venetian character with the very narrow streets called Kantounia and the very tall buildings.

Small openings reveal some small squares jumping out between the buildings.

If you sit in the middle of a street and open your arms you will touch the walls of the opposite buildings.

The District exudes an air of other times and is worth getting to know it.

11. The elegant Mon Repos Palace

This palace was built at the start of the peninsula of Kanoni opposite the ruins of Paleopolis and has well-laid-out gardens and spectacular sea views.

After the union with Greece in 1864 was granted to the former royal family and was used as their summer residence.

Today it belongs to the Municipality of Corfu and has been transformed into a museum and a historic place that can be visited by all, It is open on weekdays from 8 am to 7 pm.

Mon Repos

12. The Corfu Museum of Asian Art

The Corfu Museum of Asian Art is a remarkable institution, renowned as the only museum in Greece dedicated exclusively to Asian art.

Housed in the elegant Palace of St. Michael and St. George in Corfu Town, this museum offers a captivating journey through the art and culture of Asia.

Established in 1927, the museum’s foundation was built upon the extensive collection of Gregorios Manos, a Greek diplomat and passionate art collector.

Over time, the collection has grown to encompass more than 15,000 artifacts from various Asian cultures, including Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Southeast Asian art.

Visitors can admire a vast array of treasures, from intricate Chinese porcelain and jade carvings to Japanese samurai armor and ukiyo-e prints.

The museum also showcases Indian sculptures and religious artifacts, as well as Buddhist and Hindu sculptures from Southeast Asia.

The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into specific themes or regions, providing fresh perspectives on Asian cultures.

The building itself is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, with beautifully decorated interiors that enhance the experience of viewing the exquisite art on display.

Located in the heart of Corfu Town, the Corfu Museum of Asian Art is a must-visit for those interested in art and culture.

Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply curious about the diversity of Asian cultures, the museum offers a unique and enriching experience, allowing visitors to explore the artistic heritage of distant lands while in the picturesque setting of Corfu.

13. The Holy Church of Saint Spyridon

The Holy Church of Saint Spyridon in Corfu Town is one of the island’s most revered landmarks. Dedicated to Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu, this church holds deep religious and cultural significance for both locals and visitors.

Saint Spyridon is believed to have miraculously saved the island from various disasters, including plagues and invasions, and his legacy is celebrated throughout Corfu.

The church, built in the late 16th century, houses the saint’s relics, which are kept in a silver sarcophagus behind the altar.

These relics are paraded through the streets during important religious festivals, attracting worshippers and tourists alike.

Architecturally, the church is a striking example of Venetian influence, with its tall bell tower, red dome, and ornate interior.

The walls are adorned with beautiful frescoes and icons, while the ceiling features intricate gold detailing, adding to the church’s grandeur.

A visit to the Holy Church of Saint Spyridon offers a profound connection to the island’s spiritual heart.

The peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make it an essential stop for those exploring Corfu’s rich religious heritage.

Whether attending a service or simply admiring the art and architecture, the church provides a glimpse into the deep faith and traditions that have shaped the island for centuries.

14. The Casa Parlante Museum in Corfu Town

The Casa Parlante Museum in Corfu Town offers a unique and immersive glimpse into 19th-century aristocratic life on the island.

Housed in a beautifully restored mansion, this living history museum recreates the daily life of a noble family during Corfu’s Venetian era.

The museum’s name, “Casa Parlante,” translates to “Talking House,” reflecting its interactive and engaging approach.

Stepping inside, visitors are transported back in time through carefully reconstructed rooms, complete with period furniture, décor, and personal belongings that evoke the elegance of the era.

What makes Casa Parlante truly special is its use of animatronics and sound effects, bringing the house to life.

Lifelike figures of the family and their servants are positioned throughout the home, engaging in everyday activities like reading, playing music, or serving meals.

These elements, combined with the sounds of a bustling household, create an authentic atmosphere that allows visitors to experience history firsthand.

The museum provides insights into the social customs, traditions, and lifestyle of Corfu’s aristocracy, offering a deeper understanding of the island’s cultural heritage.

Through its detailed recreations and storytelling, Casa Parlante paints a vivid picture of Corfu’s past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the island’s rich legacy.

Sightseeing and Monuments on the rest of Corfu island

15. The Famous Achilleion Palace

The beautiful neoclassical Achilleion building was built in 1890 by Empress Elizabeth of Austria on a property originally owned by the philosopher and diplomat Petros Vrailas Armenis, on the site of the former “Villa Vraila”.

It is located 10 km south of Corfu town and three km north of Benitses village, on the edge of Gastouri village.

The Palace was built by Empress Elizabeth of Austria who became known as the sad queen Sissy.

Elizabeth was the younger daughter of the Duke of Bavaria, and the Emperor of Austria, Franz Joseph, was told by his mother to marry her elder sister, but he fell in love with her instead.

She felt stifled by the very strict protocol, dominating mother-in-law, and the regimented life in Vienna, and appears to have suffered minor breakdowns and depression frequently.

Achilleion is an attraction that one can not miss while in Corfu. Here you will see great works of art.

The Palace is Dominated by the two statues of Achilles and great paintings, sculptures of ancient gods and heroes. But also due to the famous outdoor gardens and an amazing view of the city of Corfu is worth visiting.

Achilleion Palace

16. Angelokastro

Angelokastro, or “Castle of Angels,” is a Byzantine fortress perched atop a cliff on the northwest coast of Corfu, near the village of Palaiokastritsa.

One of the most important and impressive fortifications on the island, Angelokastro offers both historical intrigue and breathtaking views.

Dating back to the 13th century, the castle played a crucial role in defending Corfu against pirate raids and invasions, particularly during the Venetian period.

It served as a strategic lookout point due to its elevated position, which provided a panoramic view of the surrounding sea and coastline. Over the centuries, it became a symbol of the island’s resilience and strength.

Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Angelokastro, including its defensive walls, ancient church, and remnants of living quarters.

The hike up to the fortress is steep but rewarding, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the dramatic landscape below.

Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with an unforgettable panorama that stretches far across the island and out to the sea.

Angelokastro is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, combining the allure of Corfu’s past with the island’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re interested in its rich history or simply seeking a stunning viewpoint, this ancient fortress offers a unique and memorable experience.

17. The Remnants of the Byzantine castle in Gardiki

Angelos Komninos built the castle in Gardiki at the same time as Angelokastro.

It is located in the area of Halikounas in southwestern Corfu. At a strategic point, where it controls the western side of the island and is in visual contact with Angelokastro.

Concerts and other events take place in the ruins of the castle, visit it.

18. Mount Pantokrator

Mount Pantokrator, the highest peak on Corfu, rises to 906 meters (2,972 feet) and offers some of the most breathtaking views on the island.

Located in the northeastern part of Corfu, near the village of Old Perithia, the mountain is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking a panoramic perspective of the island and beyond.

The summit of Mount Pantokrator provides a 360-degree view, allowing visitors to see the entire island, the Albanian coastline, and on a clear day, even the distant mountains of mainland Greece.

The ascent to the top can be made by car via a winding road or by hiking along one of the several trails that lead through picturesque villages, olive groves, and rugged landscapes.

At the summit, you’ll find the Pantokrator Monastery, which dates back to the 14th century.

The monastery is still active today and offers a serene place for reflection, as well as an opportunity to explore Corfu’s religious history.

The peaceful ambiance, combined with the stunning views, makes the summit of Mount Pantokrator a truly rewarding experience.

For those interested in outdoor activities, the mountain is also a great spot for birdwatching, photography, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of Corfu’s diverse landscapes.

Whether you drive up or hike, a visit to Mount Pantokrator is a memorable way to experience the island’s rugged terrain and magnificent scenery.

19. Vlacherna and Mouse Island

Everybody knows the picturesque Mouse Island at the Gulf of Halikiopoulos entrance, it is Corfu’s trademark.

On this tiny islet is the Byzantine Church of Pantokrator surrounded by dense vegetation.

Pontikonisi was named so perhaps because of its shape which resembles a small mouse (mouse is pontiki in Greek).

It used to be inhabited by Pontian monks who lived in the monastery of the Pantocrator, so, another theory says that the name comes from those monks, as a corruption of the word Pontius to Pontikos.

It is easy to visit as several small boats sail there from the beach below Kanoni.

The other small island Vlacherna is joined with Kanoni by a short bridge and took its name from the Virgin of Vlacherna in Constantinople.

Learn how Mouse Island took its name, read how Odysseus, yes the man from Homer’s Odyssey, is involved in this matter, and see more photos and much more on the page…About Mouse island

20. The District of Kanoni

One of the most famous attractions in Corfu, located south of the town on the peninsula next to the airport, is named after a French cannon battery type that is left there.

From Kanoni there is a fantastic view of Mouse Island and the Monastery of Panagia Vlahernas next to it, also as the airport on the side and Perama and Benitses towards.

Kanoni peninsula

21. The Kaizer’s Bridge

The Kaizer’s bridge was built at the beginning of the 20th century and was used by Kaiser Wilhelm the Second to moor his yacht, and also to go from the Achilleion Palace to the sea and enjoy swimming away from prying eyes.

It is located 2 km north of Benitses and was blown up during World War 2 as the German troops needed to get their tanks through the low arch.

So the Germans destroyed something made by another German.

22. The Kaiser Wilhelm II Observatory

The Kaiser Wilhelm II Observatory, situated near the village of Pelekas on the west coast of Corfu, is a historic site that offers one of the best panoramic views on the island.

Perched on a hill known as the “Kaiser’s Throne,” this spot was a favorite of the German Emperor Wilhelm II, who would frequently make the several-mile journey from Achilleion Palace to admire the breathtaking sunsets and sweeping vistas of Corfu and the Ionian Sea.

Today, the observatory can be easily visited by car or via hiking trails leading up to Pelekas, making it accessible to both casual visitors and adventurous travelers.

The site remains a popular destination not only for its historical connection to Kaiser Wilhelm II but also for its incredible views, which encompass much of the island’s coastline and the surrounding islands.

It’s an ideal spot for photography, picnics, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of Corfu, offering a peaceful retreat with a unique historical backdrop.

23. The Ruins of the Kassiopi fortress

Kassiopi Castle is located on the northeast coast of Corfu above Kassiopi.

It was one of the three castles of the Byzantine period that defended the island before the Venetian era.

There was a defensive triangle, with the cliff at Gardiki guarding the south of the island, Kassiopi to the northeast, and Angelokastro to the northwest.

Its location is on the northeast coast of Corfu, which controls the Corfu canal that separates the island from the mainland, therefore it has a significant advantage and increased strategic importance.

Kassiopi fortress is one of the most important defensive remains in the Ionian Islands

24. Corfu Donkey Rescue

Corfu Donkey Rescue, located in the picturesque village of Doukades on the island of Corfu, was established in 2004.

This dedicated organization focuses on the welfare and rehabilitation of donkeys and mules that have been abandoned, mistreated, or require care.

The sanctuary provides a safe and loving environment for these animals, offering them essential medical care, food, and shelter.

Visitors to the rescue can take guided tours to meet the donkeys and mules, learn about their individual stories, and understand the organization’s mission.

The tours also provide insight into the broader efforts to improve animal welfare on the island.

Corfu Donkey Rescue also engages in community outreach and fundraising activities to support their cause.

Donations and volunteer opportunities are available, allowing individuals to contribute directly to the well-being of the animals and support the ongoing work of the sanctuary.

25. Some of Corfu’s historic Monasteries

In Corfu in addition to the many churches, there are many famous monasteries also worth visiting.

A) Monastery of Paleokastritsa

Among the most important monasteries in Corfu, it is on a rock above the sea, one of the most beautiful monasteries you have ever visited because of the breathtaking view it provides, but also because of the exhibits there.

Among other exhibits of religious interest, there are the bones of a whale that had washed up dead by sea on the beach below the monastery.

B) Monastery of Myrtiotissa

It is located between Pelekas and Vatos villages, on a small hill just meters from the small but famous Mitriotissa beach.

C) Monastery of Pantokrator-Kamarelas

It is in the village of Nymfes, at Northwest Corfu, with 5 very friendly hospitable nuns always willing to show you around.

Wrapping Up

This is our large and complete list of the most attractions in Corfu, these are the numerous sights and monuments left behind by Corfu’s many conquerors.

Surely there are some more we missed, but these are a good number for you to start and help you enjoy your Corfu holidays to the full.

More Corfu Historical Sights and Attractions

All Sights and Monuments