Corfu offers a choice of must-see attractions for inquisitive couples celebrating a honeymoon or romantic getaway on this enchanted Greek Island.
Explore a maze of narrow cobbled alleyways in the heart of Corfu’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Discover the Old Port and the imposing Byzantine- and Venetian-era fortresses of Paleo Frourio and Neo Frourio, where can ponder the past in gloomy dungeons and wander ancient battlements for views over the town and bay.
Stroll the graceful Liston, a French-styled arched street, relax at an al fresco cafe and watch the passing scene in the vast main plaza and park of the Spianada (Esplanade).
Admire stunning frescoes and religious icons in the Byzantine Museum, oriental artefacts in the Museum of Asiatic Art and a massive pediment from the Temple of Artemis featuring the Gorgon Medusa (which predates the famous Elgin marbles) in the Archaeological Museum.
Visit the restored 12th century Byzantine Church of saints Jason and Sosipater, with its decorated cloisonne wall masonry. View the silver-encrusted coffin of the island's patron saint, Spyridhon, at the 16th century Church of Ayios Spyridon, or pop into the 16th century Mitropolis Cathedral, home to the remains of St Theodora and a splendid iconostasis (icon screen/wall).
The 17th century Venetian-style Town Hall and the 19th century Achilleion Palace, with its manicured Italian-style gardens built by Empress Elizabeth of Austria, are also well worth a visit.
Visit the picture-perfect Monastery of Vlaherna, which stands at the end of a narrow causeway in a turquoise bay just south of the town centre. From here, take a short boat trip to the tiny island of Pondikonissi, with its 13th century church set among soaring cypress trees and the focus of an annual pilgrimage on 6 August.
Wander through the eclectic and grandiose rooms of this Teutonic- and Neoclassical-styled villa built in 1890 by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria–Hungary. See a range of historical artefacts such as the saddle-seat on which Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany once sat while performing his imperial duties.
Then stroll through the lush manicured gardens scattered with various commissioned statues including The Dying Achilles, by German sculptor Herter. From the edge of the terrace, enjoy spectacular views overlooking Corfu town and the east coast.
This medieval castle sits atop a pinnacle perched 300m above sea level overlooking Paleokastritsa Beach. The castle is accessible by hiking uphill from the beach or by car via a narrow winding ascent – famous for its sharp turns and sheer drops –followed by a 200m walk.
At the summit you will be rewarded with spectacular sea views. Nearby sits the 13th century Monastery of the Panagia, with a museum featuring a collection of religious icons, artefacts and a pretty garden with spectacular coastal views.
Latest update: Corfu Sights & Attractions: 9 May, 2022
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