Guide to Corfu

Undoubtedly one of the best places to explore is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Nestled between two imposing fortresses, you’ll find yourself wandering through history and getting lost down the slender cobblestone lanes. You’ll spot majestic Venetian buildings, pastel-coloured homes along narrow streets, and numerous restaurants spilling out into the pathways.

Intriguing museums and noble palaces can be found here too, along with grand architecture such as the French-built Liston Promenade. Take some time to visit the stately Achilleion Palace, once a home for Austrian royalty, and Mon Repos, an estate with deep roots in Corfiot history and the birthplace of Prince Philip, now husband to Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II. There’s no shortage of cafes or restaurants in the Old Town, and you’ll soon find the winding alleys will open out onto bustling plazas, where you can pause in your explorations for lunch or a glass of wine. 

If you can pry yourself away from the beautiful meandering streets of Corfu Old Town, you should make your way over to Vlacherna Monastery. Jutting out into the sea on it’s own tiny islet, the monastery is an iconic site and connected to the mainland by only a stone bridge. A quiet, charming place to spend some time, Vlacherna is open all year round to visitors who want a peaceful moment to sit amongst the cypress trees, or learn about it’s long history as a nunnery. There was also once a scene filmed there for the James Bond movie, ‘For Your Eyes Only’.

Spending time on this beautiful island without visiting a beach would be impossible and Corfu has over 100 for you to choose from. Cruise along the coastline to the other side of the island from Vlacherna Monastery, and you’ll discover Porto Timoni beach, a stunning and unique site that you should certainly take some time to enjoy. The beach is split down the middle by a strip of lush vegetation, giving visitors two glistening beaches to choose from.

The crystalline waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and if you visit early in the morning, you’ll be one of the only people there. If quieter beaches are what you search for, Paradise Beach is not far along the coastline from Porto Timoni and is only accessible by boat. Why not sail your charter yacht on the relaxed afternoon winds to one of the most exquisite beaches in Corfu, and revel in its unspoilt natural environment. 

After a day basking in the sun, hunger is bound to strike and Greece is well-known across the world for it’s mouth-watering cuisine. Local Corfiot dishes can be found throughout the isle; expect mountains of fresh seafood and shellfish, alongside meat dishes that will typically be made with lamb. To enjoy a drink or meal while watching the sunset, head to the very northwestern tip of the island to a restaurant called 7th Heaven. Here you’ll have panoramic views out across the Ionian Sea and a spectacular sky of colours. For those with a taste for the finest cuisine, Etrusco Restaurant in the town of Dassia boasts a Michelin starred chef. 

There are several strategically placed marinas in Corfu, allowing you chance to explore this island to its fullest potential. Some of them can accommodate large vessels up to 80m, such as the fully equipped Gouvia Marina. Petriti Marina welcomes vessels with a maximum length of 60m and is located near some of the best beaches in the area. Palaiokastritsa Marina can accommodate platforms up to 60m too, and is located relatively close to the city. Other marinas like Kavos Marina can only take a max length of 9m, but is the best place to berth to experience Kavos' renowned nightlife. Alternatively you could anchor in one of the many secluded coves for a chance to discover somewhere all to yourself. 

This sparkling and romantic Greek island is ready for you to discover. Start planning your next trip with family and friends by comparing all Greece charter yachts.