With a history spanning centuries, steeped in the mythological presence of the ancient gods and goddesses which have become linked with Greek culture and history over the years, Corfu stands as one of those island refuges which stretches back over the years to times when legends walked the earth, and mere mortals were only pawns in a greater game of chess played out by the gods. Today, Corfu is a modern tourist destination with some of the most beautiful island views in the country combined with old-world charms and UNESCO World Heritage sites like the old town itself, making for the perfect destination for the intrepid adventurer. From places such as the Bay of St. George to Palaio Frourio and the Garden of the People, Corfu is a treasure-trove of sights and experiences that will literally take your breath away.
Corfu has long been an important destination on the waters, and this importance can be seen in the number of ancient castles that rise up in strategic locations all over the island. From as far back as the ancient Phoenicians, Corfu has been at the heart of naval dominance of the surrounding seas, although its recent history has seen it transform into a celebration of history rather than a strategic dot on a map. From the mountainous areas of the northern regions to the sandy beaches of the south and everything in between, Corfu is a wonder to behold.
These days it is an important island for the production of olive oil and wines, making it a popular port of call for the region, but tourism is also a major draw, with plenty of ancient temples, architecture, history, and natural beauty to explore. A word of warning, however: the roads throughout Corfu are extremely treacherous and winding, so if you are someone who suffers from motion sickness easily, come prepared.
Following are the attractions you should not miss while you are in Corfu:
• The old fortress
• Palace of Saint Michael and George
• The New Fortress
• The Townhall
• The Ionian Parliament building
• Ionian Academy
• Annunziata, a monument of pan-European significance
• Achilleion(Achillion) Palace
• Remnants of the Byzantine castle in Gardiki
• Municipal Theater
• British Cemetery
• Jewish Synagogue
• Statues of many historic personalities
• Mouse island (Pontikonisi)
• Kanoni
• The Kaizer`s Bridge
• Spianada(Esplanade) square and Liston
• Aggelokastro in Paleokastritsa
• The Church of Saint Spiridon and the Cathedral
• Mon Repo
• Old Perithea village
• Throne of Kaizer
• Aqualand
• Pantokrator mountain
• Venetian shipyards at Gouvia
Here are the most traditional food recipes you can enjoy during your stay at Corfu
• Pastitsada
• Pastitsio Dolce
• Wild greens
• Bianco
• Bourdeto
• Bourdeto with octopus
• Sofrito
• Tsilichourda
• Figaddelia
In sweet and drinks you can have these recipes
• Sykomaida
• Ginzollas
• Corfu Bolshevikos
• Fogatsa
• Mandolato
• Tzaletia
• Kumquat
• Cheese Corfu
Easter
Easter celebration in Corfu is the most exciting, idiosyncratic, and experience carrying event from the Roman Catholic and Orthodox belief. The local bands of the Island and singing group go with the parade of Epitaphios. All churches’ parade meets at Spianada Square on Holy Friday.
On Holy Saturday, preparations begin early before dawn; locals celebrate the rebirth of Jesus Christ by dropping down clay pots from outside the door or window of their rooms. This is the most iconic tradition in Corfu town.
Saint Spiridon
Saint Spyridon who is known as the legend of Corfu Island has saved the island many times from calamities such as diseases and starvation by Saracens and Turks in the medieval ages. The luminary was never been in Corfu, and his leftovers appeared to the Corfu after his decease. Saint Spyridon is celebrated 4-times every year on the following dates:
December 12th
Sunday before Easter
1st Sunday of November
August 11th
June 24th
On June 24th, every year the feast day of Saint John is celebrated in different towns of Corfu. The day is usually celebrated by ones who still carry on the custom of jumping over the fires in Corfu villages.
July 2nd
In Corfu, there is a banquet in Panagia Vlacherna in Kanoni conducted on every 2nd July.
August 6th
On this iconic day, there is a buffet arranged in Pontikonisi to celebrate the complete change of Jesus Christ spiritual appearance.
Carnival
Corfu Carnival is almost same like the Carnival celebrated in Venice. Most of the traditional customs take place mainly in Corfu old city and the great parade in Liston. A lot of customary attires come to pass in the Corfu Old Town. Also a big parade is emerged in Liston in the cultural event.
Varkarola
Varkarola is a unique Corfu’s local event, celebrated with choral group in boats playing and singing romantic Cantades songs of 19th/20th centenary. Meanwhile, fireworks illuminate the sky.
Cricket Festival
The Cricket Festival in Corfu is celebrated annually. It was started and controlled by British lonian islands. Afterwards, it became a tradition and nowadays being played in a vast cricket stadium in Espianada Square, Corfu.
What is the cheap way to travel within Corfu?
The economical way to get around within Corfu is local public buses. But it’s a little hard to get the schedule of buses because it keeps changing without any notice.
In such a case, you can inquire from some local or there is a Kafeneon mostly next to every bus stop, you can ask them when the next bus would be arriving.
Can I ride mopeds or bicycles on Corfu roads?
Mopeds and bicycles are not much road-friendly in Corfu. But if you are still fond of riding a scooter then wear a crash hat and never drink before riding.
How suitable is to hire a car in Corfu?
Renting a car is the most recommended and easy way to travel around Corfu. The roads are not much open but still easy to drive.
How does it feel travelling around the sea on a motorboat in Corfu?
This is highly recommended. You should experience hiring a motorboat to travel around the sea. It will feel you charming and beautiful views, fresh and chilly breeze, no doubt a memorable experience. Smaller boats can be rented without a need for a maritime licence.
There is nothing like cruising around the island, dropping to a bay, finding a nice restaurant for lunch. The staff will often jump in and help you dock and assist in getting everyone off the boat.
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Graphic showing average weather in Corfu in Celcius and Centimeters (Change to Farenheit and Inches)
Month | Temp °C | Rainfall Cm | Temp °F | Rainfall Inches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Jan | 9.7 | 209.3 | 49.5 | 82.4 |
Feb | 10.3 | 170.9 | 50.5 | 67.3 |
Mar | 12.3 | 125.6 | 54.1 | 49.4 |
Apr | 15.3 | 88.8 | 59.5 | 35 |
May | 19.4 | 56 | 66.9 | 22 |
Jun | 23.6 | 27.3 | 74.5 | 10.7 |
Jul | 26.1 | 12.9 | 79 | 5.1 |
Aug | 26.2 | 23.5 | 79.2 | 9.3 |
Sep | 23 | 89.8 | 73.4 | 35.4 |
Oct | 18.6 | 181.7 | 65.5 | 71.5 |
Nov | 14.7 | 225.5 | 58.5 | 88.8 |
Dec | 11.5 | 249.3 | 52.7 | 98.1 |
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