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8 Best Things to Do in Corfu (Kerkyra)

A few years ago, we took a cruise that stopped for a day in Corfu — or Kerkyra, as the Greeks like to call it. One of the Ionian Islands, Corfu has long been one of the hottest vacation spots in Greece.

With a charming ancient city that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , endless sandy beaches for sunning, and a picturesque backdrop of mountains and sparkling, cerulean waters to tempt the camera, it’s no wonder that visitors consider it one of the best Greek islands to visit . Castles and monasteries are everywhere, there are plenty of things to do in Corfu, and every panoramic drive is full of awe-inspiring views.

Couple all of that with a warm, sunny climate, fresh seafood, and endless flavorful olive oil and local wines. What’s not to love?

It’s little wonder that cruise passengers and holiday goers flock to Corfu’s shores.

A brief history of Corfu

Corfu’s strategic location has made it a coveted piece of real estate. It’s been under the rule of many empires. The end result is that the culture of Kerkyra is a unique blend.

• 734 BCE – Kerkyra began as a Corinthian colony
• 229 BCE – the Roman Republic took over
• 336 AD – after the Roman Empire was divided it became part of the Eastern Empire, whose new capital was Byzantium (a.k.a. Constantinople / modern-day Istanbul).
• 550 AD – the Goths invaded Kerkyra.
• 1081 AD – Corfu was taken by the Normans
• 1084 AD – Corfu was returned to the Byzantine Empire
• 1204 AD – the Venetians regained control
• 1214 AD – the Despots of Epirus took over
• 1267 AD – the Angevins of Naples
• 1368 AD – Venice regained control and built the defensive fortresses you can see today
• 1797 AD – France gained control
• 1814 AD – it became a British protectorate
• 1864 AD – the island was attached to the Kingdom of Greece

And that’s where Corfu is today.

Best things to do in Corfu

If guided shore excursions are on your agenda, try to return early enough to explore the quaint, ancient city known as Corfu Old Town. We suggest reserving three hours or so for these Kerkyra attractions:

1. Achilleion

Our original plan had included a visit to Achilleion, an ornate palace outside of Corfu. The summer palace was built in the 1890s for both Empress Elisabeth of Bavaria and Germany’s Kaiser Wilhelm. It’s filled with Greek statuary and has a breathtaking panoramic view of Corfu and the whole southern part of the island.

And then we saw how many buses were waiting for cruise passengers and decided to skip it. Bus tours aren’t for us. We can’t get good photos when there are crowds, and besides, there’s always that one person who slows everyone down.

I kicked myself later, when I realized that we could have booked a private tour and avoided the hassles. Some guided tours take you to both Achilleion AND Old Town Corfu, and as a bonus, they also stop at other places along the way. It would have cost less, too.

Now you know.

2. Old Citadel (Palacio Frourio)

Between the 1300’s and 1700s, Venice built three forts to protect the island. We visited Corfu’s ancient Palacio Frourio (old citadel), which dominates the waterfront.

The Citadel is separated from the island by a narrow moat, but that doesn’t deter anyone from visiting. We joined everyone in crossing the moat to visit the ancient Venetian fortress.

Modern-day warfare being what it is, the old Citadel is more useful for cultural events and concerts these days.

3. Church of St. George

Almost 40 churches are spread around Corfu, and most of them are Orthodox or Roman Catholic. The Church of St. George is an exception, built to serve the religious needs of the Anglican soldiers who served in Corfu during the British occupation.

The Church of St. George is considered one of the largest churches in Corfu. It’s only open once a year … for Easter.

Even though it resembles an ancient Greek temple, it dates from 1840. You’ll find it on the southern flanks of the Palaio Frourio.

4. New Citadel (Neo Frourio)

The treat got better when we turned to see another of Corfu’s fortresses behind us, Neo Frourio (New Citadel). We bought tickets and went inside.

If nothing else, it’s worth the price of admission for the views alone.

5. Church of St. Spyridon (Áyios Spyrídon)

Corfu’s main church is dedicated to its patron Saint Spyridon, a bishop who played an essential role in the First Council of Nicaea (325 A.D.). The saint’s actual body still lies in a sarcophagus inside the church, to the right of the altar. It’s quite an attraction for the faithful.

The bell tower at Saint Spyridon is the highest spot in Corfu. You can see it in the above shot.

Dan was severely chastised when he began to photograph inside the church. This really surprised us, because plenty of photos already exist on the Internet.

We meant no disrespect. Quite the opposite, in fact, because this religious site is important to Corfu and we wanted to share it with our readers.

He was able to get the shots he wanted, though. The caretaker and I became engrossed in a conversation about the church and its patron saint. Apparently Saint Spyridon (b. ~270 AD) is honored in both Eastern and Western Orthodox traditions, and I enjoyed hearing about the miracles that have been credited to him. I could tell that the man was truly proud of his church.

6. Scuola Greca

Many people don’t realize that Jews have lived in Corfu for centuries. At one time, the town had four synagogues, but only Scuola Greca survived the Allied bombings during World War II. Painted yellow on the outside, the Venetian style synagogue was built in the 1800s.

Nearly 50,000 Jews lived in Corfu back then, but these days the population has dwindled down to 60.

7. Beautiful architecture

Travel is all about immersing yourself in a new environment, and that includes its buildings.

Most of the houses in Corfu Old Town date from the 19th century, but you’ll still find the odd arch here and there that is so typical of Venice. Venetian or not, gawking at all the structures is fun.

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We enjoyed aimlessly meandering through Corfu’s ancient bougainvillea-laden cobblestone streets. It was fun, peering into intriguing shops and following staircases and alleyways just so we could see where they would lead us.

All that meandering rewarded us with a treat: It brought us to a hill above Corfu and its bay.

8. Shopping in Corfu town

Corfu town is a “living” medieval city. It’s blessed with a delightful maze of winding streets and alleys lined with excellent shops and restaurants.

Any fashionista will revel in the jewelry stores and boutiques selling locally-made dresses and lacy jackets, while others will enjoy the ouzo shops and craft stores featuring pretty embroidered cloths, local soaps and more.

Celebrating a Greek festival: Ohi Day

Sometimes things happen that are beyond your control and you have to adjust your plans. When you travel, it usually seems to work out well in the end. Today we discovered Ohi Day.

As we walked through the streets, Greece’s blue-and-white flags were everywhere. And I mean everywhere. We found ourselves scratching our heads in bewilderment … I mean, this was far above your everyday patriotic display here.

What is Ohi Day about?

We were surprised to discover that today was a national holiday: Ohi Day, the “Anniversary of the No! “

October 28 marks the anniversary of the date in 1940 when Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas rejected an ultimatum he had received Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. In the wee hours of the morning, Mussolini sent a message demanding that Greece allow Axis forces to enter Greek territory and occupy certain unspecified “strategic locations” or otherwise face war. Metaxas refused with the reply, “Alors, c’est la guerre” (Then it is war).

Within an hour Axis troops were at the border and Greece was pulled into World War II. The Greek population took to the streets, shouting “όχι” (No!) and from then on, October 28 has been Ohi Day.

Everywhere we went, students and adults were gathering, preparing for to parade through the Old Town’s streets.

Later in the day, we heard music. The parade was starting! We broke off our sightseeing (okay, wandering) and hurried to watch them pass by. It was worth it. What a colorful experience!

Tip: To experience Ohi Day yourself, plan your trip so you can be in Greece on October 28. It’s an annual holiday throughout Greece and Cyprus.

Plan your trip to Corfu Greece

Here is some more information to help you plan your own trip.

• Tourism authority: Corfu’s tourism website has many useful trip planning resources.
• The code for Corfu International Airport is CFU. Book a shuttle here.
• This website has an easy-to-use tool that will tell you if you are eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA).
• Currency.  We use XE  to calculate currency exchange values.
• Travel insurance.  Trust us, when an airline misplaces both your suitcases for a week, you’ll be glad you have it.  Learn more here . You’ll be surprised at how cheap it is and how much it covers.
• View our best photos from Corfu here
• View our photos of Greek foods here

What to eat in Greece

Eating a foreign cuisine on its home turf is one of the things we most look forward to when we travel. We try to make it a point to try not only as many regional dishes as possible, but to see what is on offer at the markets.

Corfu was our first opportunity to eat Greek food in Greece, although it was hard to settle on a place. They all looked good. The weather was too hot for a heavy cooked lunchtime meal, so we decided to order something light, along with a glass of Mythos, the local brew.

The Greek salad they offered (horiatiki salata) sounded ideal. Except … the Greek salad we got was not what we expected. It came simply dressed with a drizzle of olive oil—no lemon or vinegar—over a big, fat, massive block of feta cheese.

The differences became even more pronounced once we had pushed the cheese aside and realized that there was not a single lettuce leaf in sight.

(And for those of you who have been to Florida’s Greek community in Tarpon Springs, there was no potato salad, either.)

Call us converts. We liked it so much that we ordered the same lunch every day, even when we visited Athens. Actually, these salads were so delicious and so unlike the Greek salads we have had elsewhere, I had to share the recipe as a blog post, My Big, Fat Greek Salad Recipe.

I hope you take the time to make it. I think you’ll prefer it, too. We recommend you enjoy your big fat Greek salad along with a glass of Mythos, the Greek beer. Or a glass of ouzo, if anise liqueur is more to your taste. 😊

Is it worth visiting Corfu for a day?

Corfu is a beautiful and interesting island with plenty to offer tourists. With so many things to do in one day, it’s the perfect destination for those who want to make the most out of their vacation. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, you’re bound to find plenty of things to enjoy.

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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6 thoughts on “8 best things to do in corfu (kerkyra)”.

When people ask us what our favorite thing about Greece was, we always say the food! Love a true greek salad. Thanks for sharing your trip.

Great article. Do you know if once you dock on the cruise ship in Corfu is transportation needed to visit these areas, or, can you simply just walk from the cruise port? I appreciate your help. Tina

Thanks, Tina! To answer your question, the cruise terminal is around 1.5 miles (2 km) from Corfu Town. If your cruise ship doesn’t offer a shuttle, you can either walk or pay 1.5 Euro to take the No. 16 bus from the port.

If you’d prefer to walk, it’s level walking, with sidewalks all the way. The sidewalk is a little rough in places, but not a big problem. Just exit the port and turn left. Keep the water to your left until you reach Corfu Town.

verhelderend

I will be visiting here as well as some other Islands while on a Mediterranean Cruise. I typically like to NOT book excursion with the cruise line and do my own planning and exploring. I have read on the NCL’s site that shorts are not allowed while visiting inside the churches. Did you experience this? Will be vacationing in July and wasnt planning on pants and skits for the day.

I don’t blame you. As a rule, shorts and sleeveless shirts are frowned upon in churches and temples, for men as well as women. I don’t know why covering the knees and shoulders are so important, but they are. In any case, it’s been our experience that not all churches enforce the dress code, especially in the most touristed sites. I often carry a large scarf in my bag; it’s easy enough to wrap around my waist or drape over my shoulders if needed. By the way, capri pants are usually acceptable.

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How to Spend One Day in Corfu Town (Kerkyra): Itinerary, Map, Travel tips

• October 30, 2023
• by Jenoa Matthes

If you’re heading to the island of Corfu in Greece, then spending one day in Corfu Town is a must! In this guide, we’re sharing our experience in this beautiful city and the top things to see.

Corfu Town, locally known as Kerkyra, is the capital of the magical Greek island of Corfu. Earlier this year, we spent a weekend in Corfu during our month-long stay in Albania.

The island is only 2 kilometers away from Albania at its narrowest point, so we thought why not? We spent a day exploring the wonders of Corfu Town during our weekend trip.

While the town is quite touristy, we found ourselves smitten by the city’s stunning Venetian-style architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly people.

While most people opt to spend their time in Corfu at fancy resorts or on a white, sandy beach (rightly so!), we think Corfu Town is more than worthy of a visit for a day.

In this post, we are sharing the highlights from our day in Corfu Town, including our favorite sights, local restaurants to try, and some essential travel tips.

One day in Corfu Itinerary

Grab breakfast at starenio bakery.

Start your day off at Starenio Bakery , one of the best places to get traditional Greek pastries on the island. They serve vegetarian and vegan pies, but don’t let that fool you, they don’t taste vegan at all! And I’ve eaten a lot of vegan desserts.

The pies are buttery, flakey, and oh-so-flavorful. You can choose from a traditional spanakopita pie, a tomato and cheese pie, and so many other delicious flavors. Grab yourself a coffee to-go and enjoy a calm morning at one of their tables outside.

If you have a sweet tooth, then you can also get one of their many cakes, like the classic Greek walnut cake.

Enjoy amazing views from the New Venetian Fortress

The New Fortress is one of Corfu Town’s most notable landmarks, symbolizing the rich Venetian history of the island. The construction of the fortress commenced in 1576 under the Venetian rule and was completed in the early 17th century, a period when the threat of Ottoman invasions loomed large over many Mediterranean territories.

This fortress was built on the hill of St. Mark and was designed by Italian military engineer Ferrante Vitelli to reinforce the town’s defenses in complement to the existing Old Fortress.

Today, you can explore the New Fortress for yourself and enjoy some of the most stunning panoramic views of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea.

It’s open from 8:30am – 3:30pm daily, and the cost is €4 per person.

Check out the central market

Located just below the New Venetian fortress is the bustling Central Market. This market is epicenter of the town’s daily life where locals convene to socialize and shop for their daily groceries.

There are an array of stalls selling fresh produce, delicacies, and local specialties. You can find everything from freshly caught fish, locally grown fruits, olives, herbs, and homemade bread.

We purchased some fresh olives and ripe oranges to snack on throughout the day. If we had been staying in an apartment in Corfu, this is where we would do our shopping.

Even if you aren’t looking to purchase food, it’s a wonderful place to go and get a feel for daily life in Corfu Town and check out some of the locally grown produce.

Walk through Saint Spyridon Church

Saint Spyridon Church is a famous Greek Orthodox church located in the heart of Corfu Town. Dedicated to the island’s patron saint, Saint Spyridon, the church was built in the late 16th century and is famed for housing the saint’s relics, which were brought to Corfu in 1489 after the fall of Constantinople.

Inside, the church is decorated with beautifully adorned ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and exquisitely painted icons. Saint Spyridon is deeply loved by locals and is credited with saving the island from various calamities throughout its history.

Please note – photos are not allowed inside of the church.

Wander through the old town

One of the best things to do in Corfu Town is to stroll through the streets and narrow alleyways in the charming old town. Admire the city’s beautiful buildings that are deeply influenced by the Venetian, French, and British periods of rule.

The town is filled with pastel-hued buildings and Venetian-style shutters making you wonder if you’re still in Greece or instead wandering the streets of Venice itself?

You’ll find many boutiques selling local crafts, Mediterranean style clothing, jewelry, and pottery. Unfortunately, much of it is the same stuff over and over again. You have to look really hard to find a unique souvenir.

One of the most popular items you’ll find throughout the old town is a variety of kumquat products. This fruit originally hails from Asia but has been grown in Corfu for around 100 years.

Around town, you’ll find kumquat jams, chocolates with kumquats, kumquat liquor, and more. We personally loved the chocolate nougats with nuts and kumquats – they were absolutely delicious.

Have lunch at a local favorite

After all of your morning sightseeing, you’ll be ready for a heavy traditional meal. Say hello to Taverna Ninos. One of the best traditional Greek restaurants on the island serving up amazing local specialties.

The food is served cafeteria style, meaning it was made earlier in the day and is ready to eat. All of the dishes line a glass counter in huge pots and pans.

Our go-to? Pastitsada, a dish made with veal that’s been slowly cooked in a cinnamon and clove sauce and served over pasta. Bourtheto is another classic that is made with cod and a red sauce served over rice.

This restaurant is as traditional as you can get. You really can’t go wrong with any of their dishes, but we highly recommend trying their specialties. You won’t find them at many other places on the island.

It can get crowded at lunch, so be prepared to wait a bit, or arrive early instead to beat the rush.

Walk around the Liston and Spianada Square

In the heart of Corfu Town, you’ll find Spianada Square – the biggest square in all of Greece and a vibrant hub of local life. Next to it, there’s the stylish Liston promenade, an impressive arcade that can’t help but remind you of the chic Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

That’s actually not a random comparison, the French engineers during the Napoleonic era were behind its design.

The arches of Liston house some lovely cafés and eateries, offering an ideal spot to sit back, enjoy a coffee, and watch the world of Corfu Town go by.

Just a few meters towards the water is Spianada Square itself, a wide-open green space perfect for a walk, a picnic, or simply a nice place to relax.

We spent 20-minutes hiding from the sun on a bench near Spianada Square during a hot spring day and enjoyed a bit of people watching before making our way to the Old Venetian Fortress.

Check out the Old Fortress

Dating back to the 6th century under Byzantine rule, the Old Fortress was built to protect the city from barbarian invasions. Built atop two peaks towering over the old city, this strategic placement of the fortress allowed the city to defend itself for centuries.

From the 14th to 18th centuries, the Venetians expanded and strengthened the fortress significantly to safeguard against Ottoman invasions. Originally, it was separated from the island by a manmade moat, which contributed to Corfu being one of the few parts of Greece never to fall under Ottoman control.

The main features of the fortress include the central fort or “castel vecchio,” the British-built Church of St. George built in the neo-classical “Georgian” style, and the Savorgnan bastion, a marvel of military engineering.

The Old Fortress is open daily from 8am to 8pm and the entrance fee is €6 per person.

Walk through the Boschetto garden

Located between the Old Fortress and Spianada square is the Boschetto garden, a small garden featuring an array of Mediterranean flora and fauna and wonderful views of the sea.

The garden features marble statues of notable figures from Corfu’s history. The last addition, in 2006, are two bronze busts of the Durrell brothers. The famous English writers who put Corfu on the map to the rest of the world.

The garden was renamed the “Durrell garden” around this time as well.

Wander your way through the garden to admire the endless sea views, enjoy the fragrant flowers, and unwind for a bit before making your way to the next stop.

Visit the Corfu Museum of Asian Art

The Corfu Museum of Asian Art , located in the elegant Palace of St. Michael and St. George, is the only museum in Greece dedicated exclusively to Asian art. It boasts an extensive collection of over 15,000 artifacts dating all the way back to the Bronze Age to more modern pieces.

The museum provides a fascinating exploration of Asian cultures spanning from Japan and China to India, Pakistan, and beyond.

You can marvel at Chinese porcelain, Japanese woodblock prints, Indian sculptures, and an array of beautiful artifacts including textiles, metalwork, ceramics, and jade.

The museum’s aim is not just to display art, but to foster an understanding and appreciation of Asia’s diverse cultures, traditions, and histories. For any art enthusiast, a visit to the Corfu Museum of Asian Art is a must-visit.

The museum is open daily from 8am – 8pm. Tickets cost €6 per person.

Relax at Faliraki beach

Faliraki Beach is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of Corfu Town. This small, pebbly beach is a wonderful place to enjoy the crystal clear, Mediterranean waters and is the perfect spot for a refreshing swim.

The beach doesn’t necessarily have space to lay down a towel; instead, you can lay on the concrete next to the water. There are a couple of bars at the beach where you can grab a drink and enjoy the views of the Old Fortress.

Despite its city location, it never feels too overwhelming and is a peaceful respite from the bustle of Corfu Town.

We spent the evening watching the sun set and taking in the incredible island views with Albania in the distance.

Eat delicious Greek food for dinner

The food in Corfu Town is some of the best we’ve had during our travels in Greece. You can find everything from cheap gyros and greeks salads to more traditional fish and meat dishes like moussaka and sofrito.

If you’re in the mood for some fish, head to Fishalida to taste some locally caught fish, such as octopus, prawns, anchovies, and more.

For a classic Greek meal, try Marina’s Taverna , another local dining option similar to Taverna Ninos. Diporto is another solid choice offering local dishes.

Don’t forget to stop by Stazei Meli for some traditional loukamades (Greek donuts) for dessert! We love the honey and pistachio ones.

One day in Corfu Town Itinerary Overview

Here is an overview with a complete itinerary for your day in Corfu Town. We’ve included times as suggestion, but of course, you can take things at your own pace.

• 8:00am – Starenio Bakery
• 8:45am – Visit the New Fortress
• 10:00am – Walk around central market
• 10:30am – Visit Saint Spyridon Church & Wander around the old town
• 12:00pm – Lunch at Taverna Ninos
• 1:30pm – Visit the Old Fortress (walk through Spianada square on the way)
• 3:00pm – Walk through Boschetto gardens & visit the museum of Asian art
• 5:00pm – Relax at Falikari beach
• 7:30pm – Dinner

One day in Corfu Town Map

To help you best navigate your way around Corfu Town, here is a map of all of the sights and restaurants listed in this itinerary.

To save the map to Google Maps on your phone or computer, click on the star next to the title. You’ll be able to find the map in your “saved maps” list on your phone. To see a list of all the items on the map, click the box with arrow on the left. To enlarge the map, click the box on the right.

How long do you need in Corfu Town?

One day in Corfu Town is plenty of time to see the main sights. You will be busy going from place to place, but you will have time to see everything.

If you want to spend more time going shopping, relaxing at the beach, and soaking in the Greek culture, then two days might be better for you.

How do you get around Corfu Town?

The best way to get around Corfu Town is to walk. The town is quite small, and you can easily walk to all of the sights within 10-15 minutes.

There is a local bus system that you can use to get to the port from the old town, but you won’t need to use the bus for this itinerary.

Where to stay in Corfu Town?

We recommend staying in the old town during your visit to Corfu Town. This is the most convenient place to stay, as everything on this itinerary is within walking distance from the old town.

We stayed at Hotel Bella Venezia and absolutely loved it. The staff was incredible helpful, kind, and their garden and breakfast were dreamy.

Another option is to stay at the Corfu Palace hotel if you’re looking for a place that’s centrally located with a pool.

Tips for visiting Corfu Town in One Day

• Get started early – This itinerary is pretty packed, so we suggest getting out earlier in the morning in order to see everything.
• Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking a lot and will be grateful to have them.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen – Corfu Town gets really hot during the spring and summer, so make sure to protect yourself while you’re out walking all day.
• Wear your bathing suit – If you plan to visit the beach, wear or pack your bathing suit, so you don’t have to walk back to your hotel to change.
• Get to lunch early to avoid waiting – The lunch spots can get busy and the wait times can be long. Arrive before the lunch rush to avoid having to wait for so long.
• Book hotels in advance – We waited last minute to book our hotel and were lucky to get the last room available. Almost everything else was sold out. We suggest booking at least couple of months in advance to reserve the best spots.

Additional Information for your trip to Corfu:

• Unforgettable Corfu to Albania Day Trip
• How to get from Corfu to Ksamil by Ferry, Taxi, Bus

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Corfu Old Town : An extensive guide to exploring Kerkyra

Corfu Old Town is a magical place, with a character unlike anywhere else in Greece. Even if you’re staying elsewhere on the island, here’s why Kerkyra (as the city- and Corfu island itself- is also known) is well worth a visit.

*This site contains affiliate links, where I earn a small commission from purchases you make, at no cost to you.

Corfu Old Town’s Venetian streets

Although Corfu is a Greek island, the streets of Corfu Old Town seem far more Italian in their aesthetic. For around four hundred years, the Venetians ruled Corfu, and it’s clear just from a wander through the labyrinthine alleyways. The narrow paved streets are devoid of any cars, and the old townhouses are several stories high, providing plenty of shade for the crowds of people who wander through the warren and into open squares. The shuttered windows, peeling pastel walls and downright marvellous stone archways all combine to create a strong sense of faded Venetian elegance.

The best thing to do in Corfu Old Town is, without a doubt, to just walk around and see where your eyes and ears and whiskers lead you. And the atmosphere is so so different at different times of the day! From early morning, when the streets are empty aside from the odd local heading to open up their shops, to the middle of the day with people bustling past each other and examining leather sandals or olive wood products stacked outside doorways. As the sun begins to set and the cruise ships sail away, people gather outside restaurants and bars in the centre of the town, swallows swoop and twitter overhead, and the street lamps start to twinkle on, illuminating strings of washing swaying in the breeze between the buildings.

Liston and Spianada Square

Of all the streets of Corfu Old Town, the Liston is the most famous. This covered arcade with its beaut arches- in front of a wide promenade- was actually built when the French were briefly in control of the island, during Napoleon’s times. The Liston is the place to people watch like there’s no tomorrow, and it overlooks Spianada Square.

And, curiously, Spianada Square is home to something rather full on English: a cricket pitch.

The British controlled Corfu (as part of the United States of the Ionian Islands) for 49 years, and during this time cricket took off in a big way. So, despite the fact that the sport is barely known about across the rest of Greece, on Corfu the legacy lives on.

Check out another Ionian island: Exploring the Incredible Island of Lefkada

Corfu Old Fortress

Corfu Town is built on a piece of land which juts out into the Ionian Sea, which is a strategically brilliant location. Kerkyra regularly had to defend itself against Ottoman or pirate attacks, and so the Venetians built a big old fortress (on top of the old Byzantine one) to help with the defence efforts. The fortress was a massive success, as it survived three whole sieges.

Well done, those Venetians. That’s a lot of sieges.

Things took a darker turn during World War 2, when the Nazis occupied Corfu and ordered all the Corfiot Jews to gather in the fortress before being transported to Auschwitz. Out of the 1,800 Jews who were deported, only 120 returned to the island after the war.

Off-the-beaten-path in Corfu: Staying in a secret Corfiot village

It’s definitely worth visiting the Old Fortress in Corfu, and you’ll need at least an afternoon to explore it as the whole sight is a lot bigger than it seems. Nowadays you can climb all the way to the top in about 20 minutes. Although a word of advice on your footwear- the cobbled slope which leads up to it is incredibly slippery, so wear something with grip!

One of the most brilliant things about the Old Fortress, in my humble opinion, is the fact that the Ionian University’s music department is housed here. Turn left after you cross the bridge into the fortress and head towards a big white building. At most times of the day, you’ll hear music students practicing through the open windows- and it’s downright lovely to hear someone warming up or rehearsing over the chirrup of the cicadas.

Entrance fee for Old Fortress: €6 per person. Discount for cruise ship crew.

Beaches in Corfu Town

Bad news, guys. Officially, Corfu Old Town doesn’t have any beaches. But that’s only officially. There are places to swim in Corfu Town, if you only know where to look.

Faliraki Beach is the easiest ‘beach’ to reach, and also doesn’t cost a penny! A small strip of sand with a view of the Old Fortress and a few bars and restaurants make a chilled location which can get busy occasionally. This beach is popular with locals who live nearby as well as visitors.

A tale of Greek kindness: Saved by a Stranger in Corfu

My favourite place to hang out in the whole of Corfu Old Town, however, is the beach at the Old Fortress. To reach the beach, keep to the left as you enter the fortress, and continue past the music school until you reach a slope downwards with directions to the Corfu Sailing Club. Just before the Sailing Club there’s a tiny beach which barely anyone knows about. And those that do might be slightly put off by the fact that you have to pay to enter the fortress in order to reach it, let’s be honest.

The beach might be tiny but the sea is so incredibly turquoise and BEAUTIFUL, and the atmosphere so relaxed compared to the busy Old Town streets, that I am a big fan. You can also just stroll on over to the Sailing Club for a drink or bite to eat (or alternatively just to use the loos), whenever you fancy.

Museums in Old Town Corfu

There are plenty of museums to visit in Corfu Old Town, if you fancy getting your learning cap on. (And so you should.)

Casa Parlante is right in the heart of the Old Town (and easy to walk past without even realising). The museum shows what life was like on the island for a wealthy 19th Century family, and although it only takes around half an hour to get around- it’s still worth a visit.

You’ll be able to see the Corfu Museum of Asian Art from a mile off. This museum is housed in the old house of the British Lord High Commissioner. Although frankly the building is less of a house, more of a palace. The magnificent structure is at one end of Spianada Square and is worth seeing as much for the beaut architecture as for the collection within its walls.

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The Serbian Museum

The most interesting museum is one which I actually walked past three times before I even realised it was there. The Serbian Museum of Corfu is inside an old town house in a quiet back street, and is free to visit. It tells the story of 150,000 Serbians- soldiers, women and children- who were given refuge in Corfu during the First World War. Fighting against the Austrians and Germans, the allies promised support which never came, and the Serbs were forced to retreat through Kosovo and Albania in the middle of winter. Thousands of them died of starvation en route to Greece, many of them were barely alive when they finally did make it, and many more died within days of arriving in the safety of Corfu.

The tiny island of Vidos- which is mere minutes away from Corfu- became a quarantine and was the final resting place for over a thousand of the Serbian arrivals.

It’s harrowing to see the photographs and hear the stories of that tragedy, but it’s also incredible to see how willingly the Corfiot people welcomed them. Humans can be terrible creatures, but they can also be pretty downright brilliant, and this is a story which shouldn’t be forgotten.

I left the museum feeling rather emotional about this piece of history I’d previously known absolutely nothing about, wandered into the tiny shop next door, and absentmindedly thanked the lady at the till with a ‘hvala.’ (I don’t speak Serbian, I just know a few words and recognised that the people in the shop were all speaking the language.) The woman was so delighted that she proceeded to speak only Serbian to me, tested me on all of my phrases, and was so delighted that she thrust several magnets into my bag ‘as a gift!’

Churches in the Old Town

Like all Greek islands, Corfu is full of churches, and Corfu Old Town has at least twenty. They just can’t get enough!

The most famous is Saint Spyridonas Church. Outside the church, people light candles in prayer, and inside are the relics of Saint Spyridonas. This guy is the patron saint of Corfu, and he’s said to have protected the Corfiots from two plagues, one famine, and a whole load of Turks. What a guy. Four times a year, the relics of the Saint are paraded around the city for all to see, in memory of the miracles.

There are plenty of other churches of all shapes and sizes to stumble across, and stumbling across them is definitely the best way. Just remember if you want to go into an Orthodox Church, you have to be covered up, and that means no bare shoulders and no tiny shorts either.

It would just be plain disrespectful, you know!?

Where (and what) to eat in the Old Town

There is no shortage of places to eat and drink in Corfu Old Town. Squares and alleyways are overflowing with tables and chairs and delicious food, and whether it’s a traditional taverna you’re after or a modern restaurant, the options are endless.

For a casual eatery with some of the most delicious grilled fish I ever tasted, head to Mare Misto. For a boujis cocktail bar get on down to Sway, just behind the Liston. And for dinner with a view head on over to the Corfu Sailing Club.

Traditional Corfu dishes you should try include pastitsada and sofrito- both meaty dishes involving all the red wine- and anything with fish and seafood, as you know it’s going to be the freshest of all. And bright orange kumquat liqueur is sold all over the island, although the kumquat isn’t a native fruit. It was brought to Corfu over a hundred years ago and stuck around; and now the lucozade-hued alcohol is one of the most famous Corfiot beverages of all.

Eating out in Corfu: The Best Restaurants in Corfu Old Town

Where to stay in Corfu Old Town

Corfu Old Town has an incredible selection of AirBnbs, and I loved staying in Piccolo Campiello, in a quiet street near the Church of Saint Spiliotissa. The studio apartment was compact but well equipped with everything I needed for a few days in town. Staying within the Old Town means getting to see the streets of the city in all its many guises, and I’d definitely recommend staying there as opposed to further out.

AirBnbs are a popular option when staying in Kerkyra and tend to book up quite far in advance- especially during the summer months- so it’s worth planning ahead.

Popular hotels include the Bella Venezia – in a restored Venetian mansion with a beautiful terrace to eat your breakfast on. And the Puppet Guest House , an incredibly decorated B&B with an equally incredible bar and coffee shop downstairs. (Seriously pals, click the link. They’ve done a brilliant job with the decor and are eco-friendly to boot)

Getting to Corfu Town by public transport

Corfu Old Town is extremely walkable, which means the only transportation you really need to worry about is how to reach the Old Town in the first place, if you’re not already staying there.

It’s not possible for vehicles to drive into the actual Old Town, as the streets are so crazily narrow. So if you’re heading into Kerkyra by bus, you’ll probably arrive at San Rocco Square, from where it’s super easy to walk. Blue buses run around the city, and these also go to the port and the airport (technically speaking, you can walk to both. But you might not want to do that with luggage). For blue bus timetables head to the Corfu City Bus website.

Fancy a day trip: How to get the ferry from Corfu to Albania

And green buses head out to the towns and villages across the island. These depart from the bus station just outside the centre of town, and come less frequently and at a more relaxed kind of a ‘schedule.’ Truth be told I once missed a bus here by a mere 30 seconds and had to spend the next two hours in the bus station eating dry croissants and trying not to need the loo so I didn’t lose my seat. It was very glamorous. For green bus schedules and routes, head to the Green Buses website.

There are always plenty of taxis waiting at the port or airport, and both are only about ten minutes drive from the Old Town; although buses are also available.

I love Corfu Old Town. Despite the fact that it’s clearly a popular place for tourists, it hasn’t lost its character and is still very much a ‘lived-in’ city, with as many locals as visitors. I was lucky enough to visit it several times between August and October, and loved getting to explore new nooks and crannies, working out my own favourite hang-outs as I went.

And when I go back, I know I’ll find a hundred more!

Corfu, you’re a dream.

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10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Corfu Town

Written by Jane Foster Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Wandering the streets of the pedestrian-only UNESCO-listed old town, past terra-cotta rooftops and wrought-iron balconies, is a lovely way to pass an afternoon in Corfu Town. The capital of the island of Corfu (Kérkyra), the town sits in a stunning location on an eastern promontory, dominated by two sturdy fortresses and overlooking the sparkling turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.

The elegant Italianate architecture is the result of the nearly four centuries that Corfu spent under Venetian rule (1401 to 1797). Later, Corfu spent a period under British command (1815-1864), which has added some extra peculiarities to its cultural heritage and also made it a mecca for British tourists, even today. James Bond fans may recognize the town from the film For Your Eyes Only (1981), as a few scenes were filmed here. There are many fantastic things to do and rewarding places to visit. Narrow down your options with our list of the top attractions in Corfu Town.

See also: Where to Stay in Corfu Town

1. Old Fortress (Citadel)

2. the esplanade, 3. new fortress, 4. church of st. spyridon (áyios spyrídon), 5. mon repos, 6. the church of saints jason and sosipater, 7. pontikonisi (mouse island), 8. the achilleion, 9. the royal palace: museum of asian art, 10. casa parlante, where to stay in corfu town for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in corfu town, corfu, greece - climate chart.

Built by the Venetians in 1546 on the site of an older castle, the magnificent Old Fortress lies on a small, rocky peninsula, immediately east of the old town. It is accessed off the Esplanade via a bridge that spans a moat, the famous contrafossa, which is some 15 meters deep and up to 40 meters wide.

Inside the fortress is a small church, in the style of a Doric temple, which the British constructed in the 19th-century. Make sure to walk to the highest point of the site, which is marked by a lighthouse, as from here you have magnificent vistas of the town and east across the sea towards Albania.

Between the tightly packed buildings of the old town and the Old Fortress, the Esplanade (Spianada) is a vast green space and claims to be the second largest square in Europe. Corfu's main public gathering space, it is overlooked by the arcaded Liston, built by the French in the 19th-century, and home to a row of pricey cafés that are ideal for people-watching. Locals play cricket (a game passed down to them by the British) on the carefully tended lawns of the Esplanade, and there is also a bandstand where brass bands occasionally play.

An uphill climb past the open-air market selling seasonal fruit and vegetables brings you into the massive New Fortress, built in 1577 by the Venetians to protect the city against the Turks, making it only a little "newer" than the Old Fortress . Once inside, you are free to wander through the empty stone halls and passages and, best of all, climb to the top for amazing views over the terra cotta rooftops of the old town and out to sea. The entrance ticket also covers a free drink at the small café.

Address: Plateía Solomou, Corfu Town (Kérkyra)

A haven of peace and tranquility, just off the arcaded Liston, this church is named after Corfu's patron saint, St. Spyridon. Built in 1589, its red-domed bell tower dominates the skyline from afar. Inside, in a low-lit side chapel decorated with moody frescoes, note a silver sarcophagus adorned with precious stones, enclosing the remains of St. Spyridon.

A shepherd from Cyprus, Spyridon lived in the second century AD, and before he died, he became a bishop and began performing miracles. Since his remains are in Corfu, locals believe that his miraculous intervention saved their island from catastrophe on several occasions. The silver casket containing his relics is paraded around town to mark important religious festivals, and in tribute to him, Spiros is the most popular boy's name on the island.

Address: Agios Spiridon, 49100 Corfu Town (Kérkyra)

Set in a beautiful park and approached along a winding tree-lined avenue is the Neoclassical palace of Mon Repos, birthplace in 1921 of HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Built in 1831 for the British High Commissioner, it was later used as the summer home of the Greek royal family.

Sadly, the palace is falling into a state of disrepair, and the garden is overgrown in places. Besides being a tourist attraction, it is used to host conferences. You'll find it in the Kanoni area of town, a pleasant 30-minute walk from the center, and also served by public bus.

Close to Mon Repos , the tiny Church of Saints Jason and Sosipater is dedicated to two of St. Paul's disciples who brought Christianity to the island in AD 70. It is a typical example of 11th-century Byzantine architecture, based on a cross-in-square plan, and made of large blocks of stone, probably taken from nearby ancient buildings.

Originally, the interior was entirely covered in frescoes. Unfortunately, these were whitewashed in 1820, but some fragments of the paintings remain. However, there is an impressive 18th-century iconostasis (the screen between the nave and the altar) and some beautiful religious icons.

South of the center, off the southern tip of Kanóni, two small islets rise from the sea. On the nearer one, reached via a causeway, is the small 17th-century Monastery of Vlacherna, and beyond this is Mouse Island (Pontikonísi), crowned by a whitewashed Byzantine chapel and a cluster of cypress trees. A peaceful escape from the crowds, Pontikonísi is often featured on picture postcards. Catch a boat from Kanóni harbor to get here.

You can also pay a visit to the Vlacherna monastery, which served as a location for the James Bond flick For Your Eyes Only . It was a functioning monastery until 1980. Today it is used for celebrations, and serves as a tourist attraction. There is a small shop on the grounds selling trinkets and souvenirs. Animal lovers will notice a lot of cats and ducks hanging around and sometimes begging for snacks.

The Achilleion is about 10 kilometers from Corfu Town and is an impressive piece of architecture with a sad story. It was built in 1890 as a summer palace for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, a tragic figure who was plagued by misfortune (her husband was unfaithful, and her son committed suicide) and was eventually assassinated in 1898. Often referred to by her nickname, Sisi, the empress had the villa decorated in pseudo-classical style, complete with grand, sweeping staircases and frescoes.

A state property since 1928, The Achilleion is open to the public. Inside, you'll discover period furniture, paintings, and even some of Sisi's clothes. Whatever you do, don't skip the garden area. It is a highlight of a visit and filled with 19th-century statues and superlative sea views. Reach this attraction by public bus from Corfu Town.

In a building that was commissioned in 1816 as the Royal Palace for the British Lord High Commissioner, the Museum of Asian Art is one of the top things to do in Corfu Town. Today, the Neoclassical mansion at the north end of the Esplanade is a remarkable museum.

The museum itself was founded in 1928 following a donation of Sino-Japanese art. Today it features an impressive collection of Chinese, Japanese, and Indian paintings; porcelains; and sculpture, dating from the Neolithic era through the 19th century.

This is the only museum in Greece dedicated solely to Asian art, and it has more than 15,000 pieces of art in its collection. Check out the permanent and rotating exhibits here. There's also a lovely courtyard café with fantastic views across the sea channel to Albania.

Address: Plateía Spianáda, 49100 Corfu Town (Kérkyra)

Official site: www.matk.gr

In a 19th-century mansion in the heart of the old town, Casa Parlante is a unique historical museum. It brings to life the lives of The Count and Countess, who called this manse home in the 1800s, by using robotic technology, animated figures, and even smells.

As you wander through the home, you'll feel like you are stepping back in time into a real life scenario: smell food cooking, listen to children playing music, or check out the headlines in a newspaper placed in a room with replica decor and furnishing from this era.

For easy access to all the top attractions in Corfu Town, the best place to stay is near the old town or the Esplanade, where you'll also find the Liston, Church of St. Spyridon, and the Royal Palace with the Museum of Asian Art. From the Esplanade, the Old Fortress lies a short stroll to the east. Hotels on the seafront within walking distance of these attractions are especially desirable. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient and central locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Options for true luxury accommodation are limited in Corfu Town, but the elegant Corfu Palace Hotel , on the seafront, less than a 10-minute walk from the Liston, is one of the town's best hotels, with a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a Jacuzzi. Although listed as a five-star property, the hotel has lost some of its luster in recent years, however, and could use a refresh.
• Also on the seafront, steps to the beach, but about a 20-minute walk to Corfu Town, the adults-only Mayor Mon Repos Palace Art Hotel spotlights 18th-century antiques and is known for its friendly staff, ocean-view swimming pool, and well-appointed rooms with balconies.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Near the heart of the old town, the great-value Bella Venezia Hotel , with free breakfast in a wisteria-covered garden, resides in an elegant Neoclassical mansion. The boutique property is one of the most popular hotels in the capital city. The three-star property has just 30 rooms and a family suite. The beds are very comfortable.
• In a stately old building, a short walk from the ferry port, the adults-only Corfu Mare Boutique Hotel is a little far away to walk into town, but it offers contemporary-styled rooms, a gym, free breakfast, and an outdoor pool.
• On a busy road, a short bus-ride from the old town, the family-run Sunset Hotel has an outdoor pool and dated but clean rooms. There is a large garden area, breakfast is complimentary and this property welcomes children. If you are driving, parking is also free.

Budget Hotels:

• Near the airport and about a 15- to 20-minute walk to the old town, the no-frills Hotel Bretagne has simple rooms and helpful staff. It is a great option if you just need a place to stay near the airport, as it is about a five-minute walk from the terminal.
• The Arion Hotel Corfu is another good budget option. It is just a short stroll to the seafront, but a bus or taxi ride from town, has modern rooms and free parking.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Around Greece : Corfu is just one of many wonderful attractions in Greece, which is home to stunning scenery, compelling history, and lots of gorgeous beaches. For help narrowing down your Greek vacation options check out our article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greece . or look through our piece on the top Greek Islands .

Athens: A trip to Greece often begins in Athens, and this city is a must-visit for history buffs. To find out more about what you need to see in Athens, our article on the Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens breaks it all down.

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Imbued with Venetian grace and elegance, historic Corfu Town (also known as Kerkyra) stands halfway down the island’s east coast. The name Corfu, meaning ‘peaks’, refers to its twin hills, each topped by a massive fortress built to withstand Ottoman sieges. Sitting between the two, the Old Town is a tight-packed warren of winding lanes, some bursting with fine restaurants, lively bars and intriguing shops, others timeless back alleys where washing lines stretch from balcony to balcony. It also holds some majestic architecture, including the splendid Liston arcade, and high-class museums, along with no fewer than 39 churches.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Corfu Town. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Palaio Frourio

The rocky headland that juts east from Corfu Town is topped by the Venetian-built 14th-century Palaio Frourio. Before that, already enclosed within…

Corfu Museum of Asian Art

Home to stunning artefacts ranging from prehistoric bronzes to works in onyx and ivory, this excellent museum occupies the central portions of the Palace…

Achilleion Palace

Set atop a steep coastal hill 12km south of Corfu Town, the Achilleion Palace was built during the 1890s as the summer palace of Austria's empress…

Palace of St Michael & St George

Beyond the northern end of the Spianada, the smart Regency-style Palace of St Michael and St George was built by the British from 1819 onwards, to house…

Corfu Town owes the elegant, photogenic Liston, the arcade that lines the northern half of the Spianada, to neither the Venetians nor the British but to…

Vidos Island

Hourly boats from the Old Port make the 10-minute crossing to tiny, thickly wooded Vidos Island (€4 return), immediately offshore. The island is the final…

Church of Agios Spyridon

Pilgrims and day-trippers alike throng this Old Town landmark. As well as magnificent frescoes, the small 16th-century basilica holds the remains of Corfu…

Mon Repos Estate

This park-like wooded estate 2km around the bay south of the Old Town was the site of Corfu’s most important ancient settlement, Palaeopolis. More…

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Latest stories from Corfu Town

Nov 21, 2016 • 6 min read

Like every great seducer, Corfu knows exactly how to reel you in. Sunsets, sandy beaches and clear seas have made this Ionian island a summertime…

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One Day In Corfu Town – Exploring Kerkyra Corfu

We visited the beautiful island of Corfu Greece in early October planning to escape the changing seasons of the UK, lets face it we weren’t ready for the summer to end. The main reason for the trip was to relax but there were still some places we had to visit and Corfu Town was one of them.

Corfu Town or Kerkyra as it is known in Greek is a UNESCO world heritage site and its easy to see why, steeped in history having been occupied by the Venetians to defend against the Ottoman Empire and many influences coming from when it was ruled by the British. You may find that a day is not long enough to see all that this historic town has to offer so maybe consider adding an extra visit on or staying in the town itself.

Our hotel which was located on the north east of the island, provided a free shuttle bus to Corfu Town which was great although if you want to catch the local bus ask for a timetable from your hotel as they will know the best route or you can find some times and routes here . We arrived in Corfu Town near the port, as you come into the town you notice the huge cruise liners decorating the water.

If you only have one day to visit Corfu Town you will have to plan what sites to see first as you can end up walking a long way. The first site we planned to visit was the New Fortress which conveniently stood looking down on us from the bus stop, now to find the entrance.

We decided to do what us Brits do best follow the crowd, someone had to know where the entrance was. We ended up looking for the entrance ourselves as everyone else from the bus walked away from the Fortress. Eventually we found a road leading up to what looked like the entrance. We started to get a feel of a town with charm as the streets turned to cobbled stone and vines hung from wooden trellis, we even found some wonderful street art.

The New Fortress was a clear indication of Corfu Towns defensive history, with tunnels dug into the ground and buildings within the structure itself. Of course, we headed straight to the top, the view is what we wanted and it didn’t disappoint. The rooftops of buildings glistened in the sunlight and the sea sparkled like a blue gem, you could watch for hours the people going about their day, everything could be seen from up here.

After enjoying the view for a few minutes more we headed down into the town taking turns down roads rammed with locals going about their day, island life was in full swing. There seems to be several other roads coming off one road so wherever you turned there was something new. We managed to find the main street and much to our amazement there was a Marks and Spencer’s along with a few other well-known brands. We had a look in some of the shops but we weren’t in the market to buy anything so didn’t spend much time looking, although if you want to have a bit of retail therapy Corfu Town has plenty to offer from authentic to branded.

After exploring the retail areas of Corfu Town, we wanted to head on over to the Old Fortress and hoped to bump into the Royal Palace on the way. Just up from the port there is a road leading around a bend with some lovely little restaurants overlooking the sea. At the top of this road is a classic view of the Old Fortress which everyone seems to take a picture of so obviously we couldn’t resist.

The Royal Palace is actually home to the museum of Asian art and stands gloriously overlooking Corfu Towns cricket pitch which was developed when the British empire occupied the island, another example of how diverse a culture this island is. We didn’t go inside the palace but explored the outside, we new we only had a day so we wanted to make the most of it.

Passing the palace, we entered a much more modern area of the town, this area was pedestrianised and looked fairly new, the road being lined with restaurants and cafes including both a Starbucks and a McDonalds, another example of the mainstream mixing with an old-fashioned town. We made our way towards the Old Fortress strolling through the beautiful park, opposite here is a good place to park if your driving into the town.

The Old Fortress is a much bigger site than the New Fortress and if you were to compare the two you would probably assume the Old Fortress was in fact the newer construction as its in much better shape than the New Fortress we saw earlier. This Fortress does cost to get in but its not much and is well worth it. As you enter the gates you cross a bridge where there seemed to be an awful lot of people taking photographs however I wouldn’t waste time here as there’s some amazing opportunities for photos inside.

The first area we entered had two museums located either side these are great places to give you a feel for the history of Corfu Town and what this fortress has stood through. The exhibits on show in the museums are taken from inside the fortress itself including pieces that have been hidden away under more recent architecture, don’t forget this fortress was used by several empires…I bet there’s still stuff to be found.

After admiring the history, we made our way up to the most recognisable area where the church of St George stands, the church was built in 1840 to meet the needs of British soldiers when Corfu was under British occupation. The interesting and most recognisable feature is the fact it looks more like a Greek temple although the layout has been changed due to bombing during the second world war. The building and whole area is something you must see for yourself and the scale of it considering it is a military fortress is immense, there are some great views overlooking the sea and town.

If views are something you love then this next area is a must, the climb is quite long with rather a lot of stairs so be prepared. The lighthouse is another recognisable image of Corfu Town and standing high above the fortress grounds it’s a great place for some photos. The lighthouse and its dwelling were built in 1822 by the British to guide ships into the harbour, you can tell this area must have been a great vantage point for the military.

We made our way back down to the open square where the church of St George stands. We started wandering around as there are lots of nooks and crannies to go down. We found the old military kitchen with old style stone ovens, we also had a look at the jail cells and cannons which looked very weathered. We managed to find a small tunnel to go down which came out at the side of the fortress overlooking what I can imagine was some sort of training ground. There were lots or areas that weren’t accessible to the public, which shows that this fortress has so much more hidden away and I can imagine soldiers would live for months on end not setting foot outside the walls.

After roaming around for what must have been nearly 3 hours we decided to make our way back to the bus as it was leaving soon. We strolled through the streets gazing up at the high buildings which look like they have stood for hundreds of years. Corfu Town has significant influences from different ages and it’s easy to see that people who live here are accepting a modern world into there town but along with that they are keeping their character and charm which has built up over so many years.

Corfu Town is somewhere you must visit to really get a feel about what is really at the heart of this island. It’s the perfect example that different cultures can take small influences from one another and create a really harmonious way of life.

Have a look at hiring a speedboat while in Corfu its another great idea for an adventurous day and its not as hard as it looks! Have a read of our experience hiring a speedboat in Corfu HERE

If you enjoyed reading about our adventures in Corfu Town there’s a link below to the Thomson (TUI) website where you can find out about all there latest holiday deals and coupons including holidays to Corfu. 

This article contains affiliate links. This means if you click on an advertisement or purchase something, then I receive a small commission, from that company. I only recommend products that I would use myself.

Dean Lissaman

My name is Dean and I love to travel, especially when it comes to family. It's my goal to inspire others through writing about those places I've been. Everything I write about is taken from first-hand experience and knowledge. Being a keen dog owner I also share my knowledge over at PathwayPooch.com, where I offer advice on getting out and about with your dog.

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10 Best Things To Do In the Port of Corfu, Greece + Port Info

Welcome to the port of Corfu! (Post updated: March 2024)

Also known as Kerkyra (Κέρκυρα in Greek), Corfu is the second largest of the Greek Ionian Islands and the greenest island in Greece. With its UNESCO-listed Old Town, pristine beaches, centuries-old villages and various things to do, Corfu is a frequent port of call in the Eastern Mediterranean cruise itineraries. In this article, read about:

• Port of Corfu  (Corfu cruise terminal, getting around, helpful links)
• Top 10 things to do in Corfu port & best Corfu shore excursions

Visit also our cruise port guides to Athens (Piraeus) , Santorini , Mykonos , Valletta (Malta) , Limassol (Cyprus)

Port of Corfu

Corfu cruise port is located in Corfu Town (aka Kerkyra), the capital of Corfu island located on the eastern coast of the island. Cruise ships dock in the “New Port” (Nea Limani), situated around 1.5 km/1 mile (a 20-25 minute walk) west of Corfu’s old town which is the main tourist hub of the city.

The Corfu port is large and consists of a long L-shaped pier dedicated to both cruise ships and ferries. There is a terminal building at the exit of the port, and free shuttle buses are provided to transfer passengers between their pier and the cruise terminal building. In the terminal, you can find tourist information kiosks, check-in counters, a duty-free shop, free wi-fi, an ATM, and car rental agencies.

Outside the cruise ship terminal, taxis are available and the ride to Corfu Old Town usually costs around 10€ per vehicle one way. Some cruise lines may organize shuttle buses (free, or for an additional fee, depending on the cruise line) to Corfu’s old town. Alternatively, you can take a pleasant 20-minute walk along the coast to the old town.

Getting Around Corfu, Greece

• The official currency in Greece is EURO (€). Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted. It is recommended to always take some cash with you as local buses and some places don’t accept cards. ATMs and currency exchange are available in Corfu Town.
• The public bus network in Corfu is excellent and the towns are well connected with resorts, beaches and villages on the island. There are two lines: the Blue Line , which operates in the area of Corfu Town, and the Green Line , which covers the rest of the island.
• The central bus station for blue buses is located at San Rocco – Georgiou Theotoki Square in Corfu’s old town. The blue buses connect the old town with the port, Kanoni, Mandouki, Benitses, Achillion, Gouvia and Kontokali. Buses #15 and #2b connect the port of Corfu and Corfu’s old town. You can check the schedule and timetables at https://astikoktelkerkyras.gr/
• The central bus stop for green buses is located on Eth. Antistaseos street, near Corfu port. These buses cover routes to Paleokastritsa, Lefkimi, Acharavi, Roda, Messongi, Pelekas and generally all the beaches and villages on the island. The ticket prices depend on the final destination. You can check the prices and schedules at the official webpage https://greenbuses.gr/
• Corfu Hop on Hop off buses are available and they stop at the port of Corfu as well, which is a very convenient option for cruise passengers who want to get a glimpse of Corfu on a sightseeing bus. There are two lines: Kanoni Line and Achilleion Line, and they run every 15-20 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the seasonality and whether the ships are in port. Kanoni Line covers the major city landmarks including the Old Fortress, Spilia Square, Spianada Square and Mon Repos Palace, while the Achilleion Line also goes to the Achilleion Palace and Gastouri Square. You can check Corfu Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
• Corfu Sightseeing Train is also a great way to see the highlights of Corfu Town. The train departs every hour from Pentofanaro Spianada Square and includes 4 stops, hop-on hop-off style.
• Corfu is a small island, only 40 miles long and 20 wide, so you can visit a lot of attractions in a day. The most comfortable and fastest option to get around the island is by car, however, during the summer season (July-August), finding parking may be challenging and Corfu Town is pretty packed. Check out Corfu car rental deals
• Corfu International Airport “Ioannis Kapodistrias” is located around 3 km/1.9 miles (less than a 10-minute drive) southeast of Corfu cruise port. Bus line #15 connects the airport with the old town and Corfu port.
• Book a private transfer to/from Corfu cruise port
• Explore Corfu tours and activities
• Book accommodation in Corfu Town

Watch my YouTube video about Corfu Cruise Port, Old Town & Best Beaches!

10 Best Things to Do in the Port of Corfu

Before I share the best things to do in Corfu, I invite you to grab your copy of the “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide” , the most comprehensive guide to 45 Mediterranean cruise ports (including Corfu) , packed with practical information, expert tips & unforgettable experiences! (PDF format/200 pages)

1. Corfu Old Town

Corfu’s UNESCO-listed old town is best visited on a guided walking tour as the town itself is centuries-old with lots of cobblestones and historic narrow streets. The old town is sandwiched between the New Fortress on the western edge of the city and the Old Fortress at its eastern end. The top attractions include:

• Spianada Square (The Esplanade) – This vast, green city park lies between the streets of the Old Town and the Old Fortress. Spianada is the largest square in Greece and claims to be the second-largest in Europe. Constructed by the French in the 19th century, the Esplanade is both a local and tourist hotspot, surrounded by cafes ideal for people-watching. Here, you’ll find statues, monuments, a large parking lot and Corfu Cricket Pitch, where you can see locals playing cricket, a game passed down to them by the British during the British occupation of Corfu (1814-1864). Check out Spianada Square tours and activities
• Corfu Town Hall – Located on Dimarchiou Square (Platia Dimarchiou), the imposing Town Hall building was built between 1663 and 1693 and represents one of the finest examples of Venetian architecture on the island. Constructed primarily in marble and stone, the fascinating building was initially used as a club for the noblemen. In 1720, the building hosted the Noble Theatre of Saint Giacomo of Corfu, the first Greek opera house. In 1903, it was turned into a Town Hall.
• Saint Spyridon Church – This Greek Orthodox church is the most important religious monument in Corfu dedicated to St Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu. It was built in the 16th century and houses the relics of Saint Spyridon, kept in an ornate sarcophagus inside the church. The Church of Saint Spyridon is known for its red-domed bell tower, the highest bell tower in the Ionian Islands.
• Liston – The name “Liston” refers to the pedestrian street and neighborhood on the western edge of Spianada Square. It was constructed during the French domination in the Ionian Islands (1807–1814) and imitates Rue de Rivoli in central Paris. This place is packed with trendy cafes and overlooks the vast Spianada Square.
• Church of Saints Jacob and Christopher – This historic cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Corfu, Zakynthos and Cephalonia. It is located at Dimarchiou Square and is known for its valuable art collection.
• Banknote Museum of the Ionian Bank – Housed on the first floor of an elegant historic building, this interesting museum displays a collection of Greek paper money and coins spanning 180 years of history.
• Corfu Museum of Asian Art – Founded in 1928 as the Museum of Sino-Japanese Art, this stunning museum contains 15,000 works of Asian art from private collections and individual item donations. The museum is housed in the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George, originally used as the residence of Britain’s High Commissioner and later by the Greek Royal family.
• Casa Parlante Museum – Housed in a 19th-century historic mansion, Casa Parlante is a unique history museum that features animatronic figures that recreate the everyday life of the island’s 19th-century nobility.
• Old Port – Only 500 m north of the Old Town, you can walk along the Old Port of Corfu and admire the picturesque harbour and the view of the New Venetian Fortress.
• Archaeological Museum of Corfu – Only a 10-minute walk south of Spianada Square, a little bit outside the old town area, the archaeological museum showcases fantastic collections tracing the island’s history from the Paleolithic area to Roman times.

Explore Corfu Old Town tours and activities

2. Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio)

Built by the Venetians in the second half of the 16th century, the imposing fortress was built on the site of an ancient Byzantine fortification and lies on a small, rocky peninsula east of the old town. It is accessed via the Contrafossa moat bridge across from Spianada Square and overlooks the picturesque Mandraki Marina and the turquoise Strait of Corfu.

Inside the Old Fortress, you can visit several points of interest including the Byzantine art collection, the Holy Church of St. George, the Venetian Prison, and British Gunpowder Depots. There is a lighthouse at the highest point of the promontory, offering unmatched views of the town and Albania across the strait.

Check out Old Fortress tours and activities

3. New Venetian Fortress

Only 800 m west of Spianada Square, a massive New Fortress sits on top of the hill of St. Mark and dates from 1577. The fortress features a maze of empty passages, arched chambers, galleries, ventilation shafts, stairs and ramps and offers magnificent views of Corfu Town and the sea.

Check out New Fortress tours and activities

4. The Achilleion Palace

Tucked in the village of Gastouri, 10 km/6 miles (a 20-minute drive) south of the port of Corfu, the lavish Achilleion Palace was built in the second half of the 19th century for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi. The palace served as the Empress’ summer refuge after the tragic death of her only son Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria in 1889.

The magnificent mansion was built in a neoclassical style inspired by the motives of the Greek mythical hero Achilles whom Sisi admired. Set on top of the hill overlooking the sea, in a landscape filled with olive groves and lush vegetation, the palace boasts beautiful gardens and currently operates as a museum. For information about the price and opening hours, check the official webpage https://achillion-corfu.gr/

Explore the Achilleion Palace tours and activities

5. Mon Repos

Mon Repos is a villa nestled in the forest of Palaeopolis, south of Corfu Town and approximately a 10-minute drive southeast of Corfu cruise port. The neoclassical mansion dates from the 19th century and was built as a summer residence for the British Lord High Commissioner Frederick Adam, and his second wife, Diamantina “Nina” Palatino.

Throughout history, it housed the School of Fine Arts and was a place of residence for multiple important historical personalities, such as Empress Elisabeth of Austria, the Greek Royal family, and others. Nowadays, the mansion houses the museum and a wonderful park surrounding the villa is open to the public.

Check out Mon Repos tours and activities

6. Church of the Holy Apostles Jason and Sosipater

The oldest Greek Orthodox church on Corfu is dedicated to two saints, Jason and Sosipater, who were the first to teach Christianity to the inhabitants of the island in the 1st century AD. This beautiful church is located in the Garitsa neighborhood, near the archeological site of Paleopolis, a 10-minute drive southeast of the Corfu cruise terminal. The church was built in the 11th century on the site of an ancient temple and boasts unique Byzantine architecture with a decorated interior and valuable artworks.

Check out the Church of the Holy Apostles Jason and Sosipater tours and activities

7. Kanoni and the Mouse Island

Kanoni is a small peninsula located around 4 km/2.5 miles (less than a 10-minute drive) south of Corfu Town, renowned for the iconic Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna and Pontikonissi islet, which literally means the “Mouse Island”. The Corfu Airport occupies the western part of Kanoni, while the south and east feature a few small beaches.

The 17th-century Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna is the symbol of Kanoni, built on a small islet south of the Kanoni peninsula accessed via a stone pier (this little islet is not to be mixed with the Mouse Island which is bigger and located just behind it). From the church, there are daily boat departures to the tiny Pontikonissi island and it takes only a 5-minute boat ride to reach it. Due to its small size, this lush, green island is known as the “Mouse Island” and the only landmark you can visit here is a small Byzantine chapel dating from the 13th century.

This scenic area can be best admired from two cafeterias located on top of the hill overlooking Vlacherna Monastery and Mouse Island. You will also frequently see airplanes landing and taking off, as the airport lies only a few km from there.

Explore Kanoni and Mouse Island tours and activities

8. Corfu Beaches

The east coast of Corfu boasts numerous beaches perfect for swimming due to the calm sea, however, some of the most beautiful and scenic beaches are nestled along the island’s west and north coast. The most popular beaches include:

• Paleokastritsa – Tucked in the village of Palaiokastritsa, Paleokastritsa beach is set in a lush scenery featuring a picturesque harbour and stunning bays surrounded by olive tree forests. There are a few sandy and pebble beaches in the area, including Agia Triada , Agios Spiridon Beach and La Grotta Beach . You can climb to the surrounding hills and discover centuries-old churches and monasteries ( Chapel of Agios Georgios and Monastery of Paleokastritsa ), incredible viewpoints, and a wide variety of Greek taverns and cafes offering jaw-dropping views of the area. Distance from Corfu cruise port: 21 km/13 miles (a 30-minute drive). Check out Paleokastritsa Tours and Tickets
• Glyfada Beach – One of the most popular beaches in Corfu lies on the west coast and is awarded the Blue Flag status for its pristine waters. A long stretch of soft golden sand is particularly popular for a younger crowd, and the cliffs surrounding the beach offer unique photo ops. You can enjoy numerous facilities in the area, including beach clubs and restaurants, and a car park. Distance: 16 km/10 miles (a 30-minute drive). Explore Glyfada Beach tours and activities
• Canal d’Amour (Kanali tou Erota) – Nestled in the village of Sidari on Corfu’s north coast, the legendary “Channel of Love” is one of the most scenic places on the island. It boasts unique rock formations that form a series of beautiful coves and canals and has a small beach where you can enjoy the picturesque scenery. Distance: 36 km/22 miles (a 50-minute drive)
• Agios Georgios Beach – The long stretch of white sandy beach is located on the island’s west coast and is lined with cafes and restaurants. Water sports and supermarkets are available. Distance: 30 km/18.5 miles (a 45-minute drive)
• Dassia Beach – Dassia is a small village located only a 15-minute drive northwest of Corfu Town. This tourist resort has a nice, developed beach perfect for families due to its calm, shallow water and lovely views of neighboring Albania. Distance: 11 km/7 miles (a 15-minute drive)
• Barbati Beach – This long pebble beach lies 17 km/10.5 miles (a 25-minute drive) north of the port of Corfu and features turquoise, crystal-clear waters.
• Kassiopi – This fishing village lies on the northeast tip of Corfu and has several beautiful rocky beaches. Distance: 34 km/21 miles (a 50-minute drive)
• Faliraki Beach – If you decide to explore Corfu Town and still take a dip in the Ionian Sea’s crystal clear waters, head to Faliraki beach located 700 m north of Spianada Square. Although it doesn’t have a developed beach, the place has a few bars and restaurants and access to the water via stairs and a concrete platform. It’s a great spot to chill and enjoy views of the Old Fortress.

Explore Corfu beaches’ tours and water activities

9. Paxos and Antipaxos Islands

Discover Paxos and Antipaxos, two hidden gems of the Ionian Sea and the smallest of all Greek islands. The islands are known for their unspoiled nature, spectacular sceneries, picture-perfect beaches and series of blue caves that you can explore on a boat tour departing from Corfu Town. The two most popular locations include the stunning Voutoumi Beach and the picturesque Gaios village and the main port in Paxos.

Explore Paxos and Antipaxos tours and activities

10. Taste the Local Food and Wine

While in Corfu, make sure you treat your taste buds with delicious Greek food that includes fresh seafood, meat dishes such as gyros, souvlaki and moussaka, fresh salad with fresh olives and cheese, and tzatziki dip with pita as an inevitable starter. Top off your meal with a shot of Ouzo, the local brandy, or a glass of white wine from the region.

Corfu is one of the most important wine-production regions in Greece that has been making wine for centuries. The main focus is on white wine that you can taste in local restaurants, but for an ultimate experience, you can book one of the wine-tasting tours in one of the estates scattered around the island. The top-rated wineries include Theotoky Estate, Goulis, Livadiotis Winery, Nicoluzo and Ambelonas Corfu/Vineyard & restaurant.

Check out Corfu food and wine-tasting tours and activities

Wrapping Up

Whether you decide to explore Corfu Town, enjoy the spectacular beaches, or explore the historic palaces, make sure you plan your day ahead to maximize your stay on this enchanting island!

Visit also our cruise port guides to Dubrovnik , Split , Rome (Civitavecchia) , Naples , Taormina (Messina) , Florence (Livorno) , Kotor

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Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your Mediterranean cruise experience with our “ Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide “- your ultimate companion to discovering the region’s hidden treasures and creating unforgettable memories; click below to purchase your copy today and embark on the voyage of a lifetime!

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Corfu at Easter

Discover the holiest place on the island, namely the Church of Agios Spiridon. Watch the procession of over 100 Marching Bands as they take the revered saint’s remains along the Liston and through the cobbled streets of old Corfu Town. Please note that this only occurs on four occasions each year at Easter on Palm Sunday, (this year the 28th April), and Holy Saturday (20th April 2019), on 11th August, St. Spiridon’s Name Day and on the 1st Sunday in November

Easter is by far the holiest of Greek holidays, also the most joyous as it is a celebration of the arrival of spring. Corfu at Easter is ideal since the island hosts the most melodic celebrations in Greece with the city’s philharmonic marching bands taking to the Liston and streets in Old Corfu Town. Unlike Easter elsewhere, it is a movable holiday in Greece as its celebration falls on the first Sunday after the full moon of the spring equinox.

On ‘Holy Saturday’ morning thousands of Greek Orthodox and tourists alike gather to see the dropping of the ceramic pots, known as ‘botides’ which are filled with water and thrown from the apartment windows onto the cobblestone streets. The spectacular marching bands again take to the streets on Holy Saturday and Palm Sunday.

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The 187 best things to do in Nisos Kerkyra

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Free Wi-Fi on the following ferry boats:

 agia eirini, simple, fast and intact.

Corfu Ferries, always focusing on all of you who choose us for your travels and with respect to Public Health, simplifies the ticketing process with the upgraded e-Ticket service.

Keep your distance and get your ferry tickets online, from the comfort of your own home.

In just a few steps from your computer, tablet or any smartphone device:

• Visit https://corfuferries.gr/
• Book your tickets
• Board the ship, with the demonstration of the e-Ticket that you will receive in your email (in electronic form or in print).

Before boarding the ship, make sure you have your police ID or passport with you and you must provide all the necessary documents / supporting documents in case you are entitled to a special discount (students, large families, disabled, etc.).

Find out in detail here about the supporting documents and the conditions of the respective discount.

Travelling Instructions We would like to inform you that according to Government Gazette 2137/Β/30-04-2022, for the movement of passengers, it is no longer required to present - demonstrate documents proving the vaccination against coronavirus COVID-19, the recovery from the disease or a negative laboratory test result after coronavirus COVID- 19 testing.

The use of a protective mask is mandatory in all indoor public passenger areas. If a passenger does not wear a mask, he will not be allowed to board the vessel. 

The following individuals are excluded from the obligation to use a mask:

• persons for whom the use of a mask is not indicated for proven medical reasons, such as due to respiratory problems and
• children under the age of four (4).

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Free Walking Tour Akureyri

Free walking tour Akureyri guides you through the charming city of Akureyri located in northern Iceland and is known as the “Capital of the North.” Surrounded by stunning mountains and fjords, it offers a unique blend of urban and natural beauty. The city is a hub for cultural and social activities, with a bustling city center and numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. Akureyri is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring the surrounding wilderness.

General information

Meet your guide outside of the Akureyri Church

11:00 hrs / 18:00 hrs

Tip only basis

Please remember to check your ticket after booking to ensure you don’t miss any updates from your guide.

Free Walking Tour Akureyri – Itinerary

Free walking tour Akureyri begins at the Akureyri Church, a beautiful wooden church built in 1940 and located in the heart of the town. From here, head towards the town’s old harbor, which is surrounded by charming wooden houses and picturesque views of the Eyjafjörður fjord. You can take a stroll along the harbor and admire the colorful boats bobbing in the water.

Next, visit the Akureyri Museum, which offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the town and the surrounding area. The museum features exhibits on the history of Akureyri, the local fishing industry, and the region’s unique flora and fauna.

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Your next stop should be at the Botanical Garden, which is located on the outskirts of town. The garden features a variety of native Icelandic plants and flowers, as well as a greenhouse showcasing exotic plants from around the world.

Lastly, end your tour at the top of the hill in Akureyri, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. From here, you can see the beautiful mountains, fjords, and the sea in the distance, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

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You decide what you pay:

Ouir entertaining and diverting free tours take place on pre-set dates which you can find in our calendar. At the end of the tour, we appreciate a reasonable tip (we are not paid by any other organisations or associations). Therefore, there is a minimum number of participants of 10 persons. All free tours can also be booked exclusively in the course of a young tour .

“The best things in life are free”

Small print: The guide will gladly accept a reasonable tip at the end of the tour.

To make this beautiful city accessible for everyone we offer our free tours on a regular basis. These are a selection of different themes to experience this beautiful city of Graz and to see it from different points of view.

The classic Old Town Walking Tour shows the highlights of the Old Town of Graz, which may call itself a “Unesco World Heritage Site”: Graz Cathedral, the largest mausoleum of the Habsburg family, the Old University, the heart of the city the Graz Main Square with its historic town hall and bourgeois houses, the oldest Renaissance courtyard in the city, the distinctive “Landhaushof”, the baroque Palais of the “Sackstraße” and much more.

With the castle hill tour we offer exclusive insights into the city’s landmarks, namely the clock tower and the bell tower, and also enjoy a wonderful view.

The evening tour is again dedicated to darker themes, hidden cemeteries, legends and stories of the dead and undead.

With our “Lust and Vice” tour we will illuminate funny topics around famous people of Graz and their scandalous sex lives and life stories, unique in Graz.

Light and lively, colourful and playful, our children’s tour is an experience for the whole family. A journey back in time to the Middle Ages, the Renaissance period and the Baroque period. Children playfully experience and discover the sights of the Old Town, the “Franziskanerplatz” and its guild signs, the “Landhaushof”, the “Herrengasse”, the “Hauptplatz”, the facades of the “Sporgasse” and the beautiful city palaces of the “Sackstraße”.

Of course, we also show you the magic of Christmas on our Advent tours through the districts of Gries and Lend. Less classical but more funny, bizarre and amazing things about Christmas in Graz.

Graz can also be different: When visiting Graz, a tour on the “other side” of the Mur, through the former Mur suburbs , is a must. The area is young, artisanal, modern and historic, simply different.

A historical guided tour on a still very important topic is the tour “Graz during the Second World War” . This guided tour is made for adults, but above all for children and young people in the upper grades, and is also held regularly in cooperation with museums and other institutions.

The chronological continuation of “Graz in the Second World War” is “Graz very British” . This city tour deals with the post-war period and the British occupation and is interesting and surprising for German-speaking guests but especially for guests from Great Britain.

The tour “from street art to street food” is really colourful, urban and artistic. Suitable for families, adults, young people, people interested in art and design lovers.

Madonna attracts 1.6M fans for free concert in Brazil to wrap up her Celebration tour

RIO DE JANEIRO − More than a million people thronged Brazil's Copacabana beach for a free Madonna concert on Saturday, braving the heat to see the end of her "Celebration" world tour .

The sand and oceanfront boulevard around Rio de Janeiro's famed beach were filled for several blocks by a crowd the city estimated at 1.6 million.

Many had been there for hours or even days to get a good spot, while richer fans anchored in dozens of boats near the beach and onlookers crowded beachfront apartments.

Firefighters sprayed water before the concert, when temperatures exceeded 86 degrees Fahrenheit, to cool fans gathered near the pop queen's stage, and drinking water was distributed for free. Temperatures were around 81 F during the late night show.

Review: Madonna tells fans it is 'a miracle that I’m alive' at Celebration tour concert

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Madonna, 65, performed songs such as "Like a Prayer," "Vogue" and "Express Yourself" for more than two hours starting at 10:45 p.m. as she wound up the greatest hits tour that started late last year.

"Rio, here we are, in the most beautiful place in the world, with the ocean, the mountains, Jesus," Madonna told the crowd, referring to the city's huge mountaintop Christ the Redeemer statue. "Magic."

Brazilian pop artists Anitta and Pabllo Vittar, as well as younger musicians from samba schools, participated in the show.

More than 3,000 police officers were deployed around the concert area, where the Rolling Stones and Rod Stewart have also drawn million-strong crowds. The authorities used a crowd-management strategy similar to their handling of the city's famous New Year's Eve celebrations.

Madonna turns 65: So naturally we rank her 65 best songs

Brazilian authorities have stepped up their vigilance to head off heat-related health problems after a young Brazilian fan died from heat exhaustion at one of Taylor Swift's Eras tour shows last year.

Rio's state and city governments said they spent 20 million reais ($3.9 million) on the concert, while the rest was financed by private sponsors. The authorities estimate the concert could bring about 300 million reais to Rio's economy.

Contributing: Leonardo Benessato, Renato Spyrro, Rodrigo Viga Gaier, Sebastian Rocandio and Sergio Queiroz in Rio de Janeiro, and Andre Romani in Sao Paulo

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Madonna Brings Massive Free Concert to Rio, Capping Celebration Tour

The pop superstar performed a final date on her global trek marking four decades of hits: a set on Copacabana Beach before the largest live crowd of her career.

By Flávia Milhorance and Julia Jacobs

Reporting from Rio de Janeiro and New York

When Madonna stepped out onto the mammoth stage constructed on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach on Saturday night in a gleaming halo headpiece and black kimono, she was greeted by the largest live crowd of her four-decade career.

The free show, announced in late March, was a grand finale to the pop superstar’s latest world tour, which has delivered 80 performances since last October . Without ticket data, concert crowd sizes can be difficult to gauge; Riotur, the municipality’s tourism department, estimated that 1.6 million people flooded onto the 2.4-mile stretch of sand on Saturday that had been turned into a roughly $12 million playground surrounding the 8,700-square-foot stage.

It was the culmination of days of Madonna-mania in the city, where talk of the singer, 65, was inescapable. Her songs spilled out of stores and car stereos. Fans assembled outside her hotel and shouted her name. Updates about the concert, which was broadcast on the network Globo TV, dominated local media reports.

The spectacle in Rio was a milestone in Madonna’s career: the victory lap for her first stage retrospective, called the Celebration Tour , in which she chronicled her rise to stardom, performing hits like “Into the Groove,” “Like a Prayer” and “Ray of Light” with a cadre of dancers, four of her six children, and a wardrobe of elaborate costuming that recalled some of her most memorable looks.

“Here we are, the most beautiful place in the world,” Madonna announced early in the concert, indicating the ocean and the mountains around her. “This is magic.” Later, she expounded on her gratitude for her Brazilian fans. “You have always been there for me,” she said. “That flag: that green-and-yellow flag, I see it everywhere. I feel it in my heart.”

The two-plus-hour Rio show hewed closely to the Celebration show, with a few exceptions: Madonna added her 2000 track “Music” to the set list, rearranged as a samba with live drummers and a special guest, the Brazilian drag star Pabllo Vittar. “Live to Tell,” staged as a tribute to victims of AIDS , included photographs of the Brazilian musicians Cazuza and Renato Russo, and the actress Sandra Bréa. For “Vogue,” Madonna appeared in a sparkly dress in the colors of the Brazilian flag and was joined by the pop sensation Anitta , who helped “judge” the competitors strutting down the runway.

The show had lifelong Madonna fans — many of whom came dressed in homage to their heroine in cone bras and lace gloves — screaming and dancing along. Ernesto Magalhães, 42, adorned in the style of Madonna’s “Material Girl” era in a gown and boa while balancing on stilts, epitomized the exuberant spirit of the occasion: “I’ve been a Madonna fan since I was 8; I couldn’t miss this.” Surya Rossi, a 31-year-old illustrator, decided on a last-minute trip from Rio Claro, São Paulo, after coordinating with her cousin, and stayed with friends. “Madonna has been a tremendous influence on me, both as a feminist and an artist,” she said. “Her empowering history and approach inspire me.”

It was also something of a landmark moment for live concerts globally. At a time of astronomical ticket prices and rising production costs for major shows, a free concert attracting a crowd of this scale is exceedingly rare, especially in the United States. California’s Coachella festival, where a three-day general admission pass starts at about $500, draws up to 125,000 attendees a day. Musikfest, a mostly free music festival in Pennsylvania, welcomed about 1.3 million visitors over 11 days last year.

“To have a free show like that in recent years is relatively unheard-of,” Katelyn Yount, the director of festivals at AEG Presents, said of Madonna’s closing show. Hangout, an upcoming music festival on Alabama’s Gulf Coast that is among the annual events AEG produces, is capped each day at about 40,000 attendees, who pay more than $300 for a three-day pass.

If a performance of this magnitude was going to be held anywhere in 2024, it would probably be in Rio, where officials have experience with enormous crowds. In 2006, about 1.5 million people attended a free Rolling Stones concert at Copacabana Beach, Brazilian police and other authorities said at the time. An even larger crowd was said to have gathered for a Rod Stewart show there on New Year’s Eve in 1994.

The idea for the sprawling event was first planted two years ago, when Luiz Oscar Niemeyer, an executive with Bonus Track, a live entertainment company based in Rio de Janeiro, approached Madonna’s managers after hearing about plans for the tour. The Rolling Stones concert in 2006 helped convince him that something like this was possible, he said.

Negotiations stalled until last year, when a Madonna show in Mexico City was announced — ticketed dates for the Celebration Tour ended up wrapping with five nights there at the Palacio de los Deportes — and Niemeyer resumed his efforts to convince the pop star’s representatives and secure funding.

“It was an ambitious project for everyone, aiming to attract the largest audience of her career, and I thought this would help me persuade her,” Niemeyer said in an interview last week.

The concert’s corporate backers include the Brazilian bank Itaú and Heineken, and the government has made a significant investment as well.

Preparation for Madonna-palooza had consumed a segment of the city in recent days. A week ago, cargo planes carried about 270 tons of concert material to the city, including costumes and gym equipment. Eighteen sound and video towers were built across the beach, and last Wednesday, 4,000 workers prepared the stage in scorching heat.

Because this was the only Celebration concert in South America — Madonna last toured there in 2012 — fans congregated from all over the continent. In the days leading up to the event, a Madonna impersonator, Izelene Cristina, danced to “La Isla Bonita” at a bus station as she welcomed travelers. She would not be attending the concert because excitement over the superstar’s performance had led to a flood of bookings.

“Such is the life of an artist,” she said. “You work to move and entertain people.”

On Monday, Madonna and her touring team of about 200 arrived in Rio, heading directly to the French Riviera-inspired Copacabana Palace, the luxury hotel near where the stage was built. Later in the week, crowds gathered as close to the stage as possible, as the pop star crossed a specially built footbridge from the hotel to the stage to rehearse with some of her dancers.

Social media was flooded with clips of Madonna running through songs including the opener, “Nothing Really Matters.” “Are you happy? Are you ready?” she asked the assembled crowd at one point . The response: wild cheering. “OK, just checking,” she replied.

At a press briefing ahead of the concert, officials discussed the safety concerns that can accompany an audience of that size and unpredictable weather on the shore. Last year, the Brazilian D.J. Alok scheduled what had been billed as the “concert of the century” on Copacabana Beach, but a storm led part of the crowd to scatter, and concertgoers were faced with rampant pickpocketing , a problem at least some faced on Saturday night as well.

Marco Andrade, a spokesman for the Rio police, told reporters that the department planned to deploy 3,200 officers at the Madonna concert, compared with about 900 for Alok’s event. He said that facial recognition technology would be used at inspection areas, in addition to drones to monitor the crowd. In the end, the audience stretched into the ocean as well — a collection of boats anchored in the waters near the venue.

The atmosphere on the ground Saturday night was like a World Cup event, street carnival and New Year’s Eve celebration combined. Street vendors offered shirts, hats, cups and fans adorned with Madonna’s face and rainbow colors, and a plethora of barbecue, grilled cheese, empanadas and the Brazilian cocktail caipirinhas were available. To fight the heat, a firefighter atop a fire truck sprayed a jet of water on the crowd.

As the show ended with a remix of her 2009 track “Celebration,” Madonna addressed the audience for a final time: “Thank you, Rio,” adding “obrigada,” the equivalent in Portuguese. She smiled and let go of a Brazilian flag, flipped a white veil over her head and descended beneath the stage.

An earlier version of this article misstated the name of the Bonus Track executive who approached Madonna’s team about the Brazil show. He is Luiz Oscar Niemeyer, not Luiz Guilherme Niemeyer.

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Julia Jacobs is an arts and culture reporter who often covers legal issues for The Times. More about Julia Jacobs

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Madonna’s Celebration Tour pulls record 1.6M fans into the groove at Rio’s Copacabana

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More than a million music fans gathered at Brazil’s iconic Copacabana beach to prove their love to Madonna over the weekend.

The “Get into the Groove” and “Vogue” pop diva concluded her career-spanning Celebration Tour with a bang over the weekend, treating fans in Rio de Janeiro to a free beach concert on Saturday. “This really happened,” the singer reminisced in an Instagram video shared Sunday.

The Instagram clip shows an aerial view of attendees assembling on the sandy Brazilian strip, which stretches more than 2 miles along the coast. While some fans danced on the beach, others hosted house parties in nearby beachfront apartments and hotels, the Associated Press reported.

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“This place is magic,” the 65-year-old singing icon said during her show, which also featured appearances from Brazilian artists Anitta and Pabllo Vittar.

An estimated 1.6 million people gathered for Madonna’s Celebration Tour finale, Brazilian outlet G1 reported, citing Rio City Hall’s tourism agency. The event was also broadcast on Brazilian network TV Globo. Even before a million-plus fans descended on Copacabana over the weekend, Madonna announced in late March that her send-off would be her “biggest gig yet.”

“The show will be free of charge as a thank you to her fans for celebrating more than four decades of her music over the course of the epic global run of the tour,” her website said.

Saturday’s concert broke Madge’s personal attendance record — 130,000 fans at Paris’ Parc des Sceaux in 1987 — by more than tenfold. Madonna also bested the record previously held by the Rolling Stones’ 2006 Copacabana concert , which drew 1.5 million people.

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” @Madonna makes history in Rio tonight marking the largest ever standalone concert for any artist, with over 1.6 million fans attending as she closes The Celebration Tour,” Live Nation announced on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday.

Madonna’s Celebration Tour launched in October, months after she was hospitalized for a bacterial infection last June. The Grammy winner brought her headline-generating tour to Inglewood’s Kia Forum for several nights in March.

Times critic Mikael Wood wrote that the singer’s Celebration Tour “ was curiously short on joy. ”

“A pop concert is a theater of personality and craft, not one of plot or character development,” he added. “But a narrative this messy needed more razzle-dazzle.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Alexandra Del Rosario is an entertainment reporter on the Los Angeles Times Fast Break Desk. Before The Times, she was a television reporter at Deadline Hollywood, where she first served as an associate editor. She has written about a wide range of topics including TV ratings, casting and development, video games and AAPI representation. Del Rosario is a UCLA graduate and also worked at the Hollywood Reporter and TheWrap.

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Breaking news, anti-israel protester, 16, arrested for vandalizing central park wwi memorial after father turns him in.

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A teenage anti-Israel protester who vandalized a World War I memorial in Central Park earlier this week has been arrested — after his father turned him over to the cops, according to the NYPD and police sources.

The 16-year-old boy was charged with criminal mischief in the third degree, a felony, and making graffiti, which is a misdemeanor, for allegedly defacing the 107th Infantry Memorial during an unruly demonstration on Monday night.

The teen, a regular face at rallies organized by the anti-Israel group Within Our Lifetime, only landed in custody after his dad turned him in on Thursday night, the sources said.

NYPD Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry posted a blurred photo to X of the young vandal in handcuffs sitting on a bench in a police station.

“The despicable vandalism we saw earlier this week on the WWI Memorial will not be ignored, and will not go unpunished,” Daughtry tweeted as he announced one of the culprits’ arrest.

“This isn’t simply juvenile hijinks — it’s an act of desecration that undermines the freedoms our heroes fought and died for,” he added.

Sources said the youngster attends Tottenville High School and has no prior arrests.

The war memorial was defaced by several vandals who scrawled “Gaza” and “Free Palestine” on its base and plastered the statue with anti-Israel stickers.

Another protester torched an American flag in front of the bronze memorial depicting seven WWI foot soldiers in battle.

Several others were seen climbing on top of the infantrymen and waving Palestinian flags.

The desecration of the memorial outraged New Yorkers who visited the site Tuesday to see the damage themselves.

“These people are just nuts and violent,” Michael Skol, who has lived in the tony Manhattan neighborhood for 25 years, had told The Post.

“Burning the flag is anti-American. It’s stupid,” he added. “It definitively doesn’t help Palestinians or the peace process. These are people who are not in the tradition of believing America is a good place. It’s disgusting.”

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The enraged locals argued that the throngs of pro-Palestinian protesters were only hurting their own cause with their mindless destruction.

“It’s horrible to treat a World War I memorial the way they did. It breaks your heart,” said Ron Zucher, 50.

“In this country, you have a right to voice your opinion, but not destroy memorials that pay tribute to heroes who died for our country.

“You gotta have some decency,” he added. “The protesters are not helping their own cause destroying monuments and burning the flag.”

A cleanup crew on Tuesday scrubbed off the graffiti left behind at the memorial using power washers and a biodegradable chemical cleaning agent.

Anarchists on Monday night also vandalized the Civil War Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman monument in nearby Grand Army Plaza on 59th Street.

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Madonna’s final celebration tour concert takes over copabacana beach in rio — here’s how to watch in the u.s..

The massive show will only be broadcast locally in Brazil on Saturday, May 4, but there are a few ways for those in the U.S. to stream it online.

By Danielle Directo-Meston

Danielle Directo-Meston

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Madonna is showing her appreciation for fans with a free concert on Saturday, May 4, at the Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro — the final stop of her Celebration Tour.

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At a Glance: How to Watch Madonna’s Celebration Tour in Rio Online

• When Saturday, May 4 at 5:45 p.m. PT/8:45 p.m. ET (9:45 p.m. local Brazil time)
• Channel TV Globo (Brazil)
• Stream online DirecTV , Sling (add-on required)
• More ways to watch online Globoplay (available at Appstore for Android on Amazon , Apple App Store )

Madonna’s free Celebration concert in Rio will only be broadcast locally in Brazil, including on the Brazilian streaming video-on-demand service Globoplay. Fans outside Brazil can livestream the big event online on a cable streaming service that carries TV Globo or through a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Below, keep reading for more details on how to watch Madonna’s Celebration show in Rio online in the U.S., including for free.

How to Watch Madonna’s Celebration Concert in Rio: Date, Time, Channel

Madonna’s final Celebration Tour stop will take place at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, May 4. It will air on the Brazilian channel TV Globo at 9:45 p.m. local time in Rio.

Stream Madonna’s Celebration Show in Rio: How to Watch in the U.S.

If you want to watch Madonna’s Rio concert outside of Brazil, you can tune into TV Globo at 5:45 p.m. PT/8:45 p.m. ET in the U.S. You can stream TV Globo on any live TV streaming service that carries the Brazilian channel, including DirecTV and Sling .

Already have a Globoplay account? There’s a way to access your service from outside of Brazil.

Get more details on how to watch TV Globo and other Brazilian channels in the U.S. below.

DirecTV Stream

You can watch Madonna’s concert in Rio on DirecTV when you add Brazilian programming (including the TV Globo channel) to a satellite or internet-based plan. New subscribers can stream for free with DirecTV’s five-day trial. For satellite subscribers, you can add international programming to a Basic or Preferred Choice base package ($27.99 to $59.99 per month plus tax). The BrazilianDirect add-on is an extra $29.99 per month and includes TV Globo, or you can get the standalone TV Globo channel add-on for $19.99 per month. For DirecTV subscribers connecting via internet, add Brazilian programming for just $30 per month on top of your existing cable TV streaming package. Learn more here. And for a limited time, eligible subscribers can save up to $240; learn more here .

Watch Madonna’s Celebration concert in Rio on TV Globo with Sling , which offers a free three-day trial when you add select Brazilian TV Pack plans (reg. $13.99 and up per month) to your streaming package. New subscribers save half off their first month of Sling, so you can stream Madonna’s show in Brazil starting at only $20 for the Orange plan (reg. $40 per month) that includes CNN, HGTV, ID, A&E, ESPN, Disney Channel and other networks. Other packages include the Blue tier ($22.50 for the first month, reg. $45 monthly) and the combined Orange & Blue package (reg. $60 monthly) that includes exclusive news and entertainment channels such as ABC, NBC, Fox, E!, FS1, FX and others.

For those who already have Brazil’s Globoplay streaming video-on-demand service, you can use a virtual private network (VPN) to access your account in the U.S. Plans start at $12.95 per month or $8.32 monthly with annual billing; learn more here .

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