Corfu Town

Κέρκυρα

The capital of Corfu island, featuring Venetian fortresses, elegant arcaded streets, and a rich multicultural heritage from centuries of Venetian and British rule. The old town's narrow lanes, the Liston waterfront promenade, and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George make it the cultural heart of the Ionian Islands.

Things to do

• Explore the Old Fortress — Walk through this 16th-century Venetian fortress with its distinctive moat, bastions, and panoramic views over the town and Ionian Sea.
• Stroll the Liston Waterfront — Wander along this elegant arcaded promenade built during the French occupation, lined with cafes and offering views of the fortress and sea.
• Visit the Palace of St. Michael and St. George — Tour this neoclassical palace that served as a royal residence and now houses the Museum of Asian Art with impressive collections spanning Asian cultures.
• Wander the Narrow Old Town Lanes — Navigate the maze of Venetian-era streets with pastel-colored shuttered buildings, hidden courtyards, and local shops selling crafts and regional products.
• Climb to the New Fortress — Ascend to this 16th-century hilltop fortress with multiple levels, museums, and commanding views over the town and surrounding coastline.
• Attend the Spianada Cricket Match — Watch the local cricket tradition on the Spianada, Europe's largest square, a legacy of British rule and still played by locals on weekends.
• Explore the Corfu Museum of Asian Art — Discover rare Eastern sculptures, ceramics, and artifacts housed in the palace's elegant rooms with detailed interpretations of each piece.
• Visit the Church of Saint Spyridon — Enter this ornate Venetian church to see the ornate iconostasis and the reliquary of Corfu's patron saint, an important pilgrimage site.

Food to try

• Pastitsada — A slow-cooked rooster or veal in a rich wine and tomato sauce with pearl onions and spices, traditionally served with pasta or rice and a signature Corfiot dish.
• Sofrito — Thinly sliced veal or beef cooked slowly with garlic, white wine, and vinegar until tender, served as a main course and unique to Corfu.
• Bourdeto — A spicy fish stew made with local catch, red peppers, and paprika served with polenta or crusty bread, reflecting the island's fishing heritage.
• Kumquat Liqueur — A distinctive sweet digestif made from the tiny gold kumquats grown locally, often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink or souvenir.
• Fava — A creamy puree of yellow split peas from local producers, served as a dip with olive oil and lemon at waterfront tavernas.
• Saganaki — Fried cheese squares often flambéed tableside in traditional tavernas, a classic Greek appetizer found throughout Corfu Town restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Cricket Tradition — Cricket is deeply ingrained in Corfiot culture as a legacy of British rule; locals take the sport seriously and you may encounter matches or enthusiasts discussing the game.
• Learn Some Venetian History — The town's architecture and street layout reflect nearly 400 years of Venetian rule, so understanding this history enhances your appreciation of the narrow lanes and fortifications.
• Visit During Religious Processions — Corfu has vibrant religious celebrations, especially during Easter and the Feast of Saint Spyridon in May, which showcase local traditions and draw both locals and visitors.
• Dress Modestly for Churches — When visiting the Church of Saint Spyridon or other Orthodox churches, cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for active places of worship.