Corfu Town completely stole my heart. I only had one day to explore, but thanks to a bit of planning (and a lot of walking), I managed to see a surprising amount—both the must-see highlights and a few tucked-away spots that made the day extra special.
From grand fortresses and elegant Venetian streets to quiet courtyards and charming local cafés, Corfu’s Old Town, also known as Kerkyra, is full of character and history at every turn. I was in awe of the gorgeous architecture.
Whether you’re here on a cruise stop, a short getaway, or just love exploring on foot, this guide will show you the very best of Corfu Town—including a few hidden gems you won’t want to miss.
Article overview
Where to stay in Corfu Town
So first things first, let’s take a look at where to stay in Corfu Town.
In the Old Town, you’ll be in the heart of it all—winding alleys, Venetian architecture, cozy cafés, and major landmarks right outside your door. It’s perfect if you love the atmosphere and don’t mind some noise or stairs. Just keep in mind that you might not be able to stop by car or taxi right outside your accommodation.
Since my stay was short, I found the Old Town to be the perfect base. It is close to the port, where I arrived by ferry from Saranda and the airport. You can also walk to most attractions.
I booked a newly renovated apartment in Celestial Suites, just look below how beautiful it is. Everything was clean, Though the stairs up to the apartment are steep and narrow, so I wouldn’t recommend it if you have mobility issues.
I also love Bella Venezia, a historic boutique hotel housed in a gorgeous neo-classical mansion on the outskirts of the Old Town. If you’re a fellow lover of old architecture, you have to see it!
Originally the 19th-century residence of one of the island’s “first families”, it has also served as a consulate and the National Bank of Greece. Now it has been recently updated and stands as one of the most beautiful hotels in Corfu’s Old Town.
If you’re on a budget, have a look at the Mandouki area close to the port. It’s not as charming as Old Town, but it’s practical and still walkable to major sights. And I find some great accommodation options there, such as Traveleclectic Apartments.
Top things to see and do
After my tour of Corfu with Corfu Union, I got some great recommendations for what to see and do in the Old Town. Because of bad weather, I only had one day to explore, but I made the most of it—and honestly, I’m still dreaming about it.
I started the morning wandering through the cobbled alleyways, completely charmed by the pastel buildings, some done up and some crumbling, little balconies, and locals hanging their laundry. Honestly, this is the best thing to do in the Old Town, just wander and dare to get lost.
Old Fortress
My first attraction of the day was the Old Fortress. Walking across the little bridge into the fortress felt like stepping back in time, and once I made it to the top, the views were absolutely incredible. You can see the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town, the endless blue of the Ionian Sea, and even across to Albania on a clear day.
Don’t forget to also check out Saint George’s Church inside the complex, it makes for the most stunning backdrop for a little photoshoot in the morning light. I only wish I’d remembered to bring my tripod.
During this visit, I didn’t take the time explore to the New Fortress, which despite its name, is still quite old (built in the 16th century), and sits above the Old Town on a hill.
Boschetto Garden
Right next to the Old Fortress entrance is the Boschetto Garden, which is such a peaceful spot—shady, green, and full of benches with views of the water. It’s kind of hidden in plain sight, but the locals definitely know about it because I saw a few older couples reading the paper and enjoying the breeze.
You’ll see several semicircular stone benches which are surrounded by a collonade, and busts and statues of prominent historic figures, including poets and writers.
I sat there for a bit with a pastry I picked up from Panetteria (more on that later), just soaking it all in, thinking about how grateful I am to live this creator life. If you’re visiting, definitely don’t skip this part—it’s the perfect place to start your Corfu day.
Liston Promenade and Spianada Square
After the fortress and garden, I wandered over to Liston Promenade, and honestly—it felt like I’d somehow ended up in Paris for a minute. The architecture is so elegant with those arched colonnades and cute cafés spilling out onto the walkway.
I grabbed a freshly squeezed orange juice and sat at one of the outdoor tables just people-watching and loving life. It’s such a vibe—locals chatting, kids running around, and everything just kind of buzzing in the best way.
Right next to it is Spianada Square, which I didn’t realize is actually the largest square in Greece. It’s this big, open space with palm trees, fountains, and a cricket field — yes, cricket.
It’s the kind of place you could just stroll through for hours, or plop down on a bench and chill. I loved how everything felt so open in contrast to the narrow streets of the Old Town.
Museum of Asian Art
From there, I walked over to the Corfu Museum of Asian Art, which is housed in the stunning Palace of St. Michael and St. George — honestly, the building alone is worth a stop.
Apparently, a diplomat and Corfiot named Gregorios Manos donated his personal collection of over 10,000 Asian artifacts. I didn’t go inside the museum, but if you’re into Asian art and culture, it’s supposed to have a really impressive collection, especially considering it’s in the middle of a Greek island.
I spent a bit of time just admiring the neoclassical architecture from the outside—it has this grand, almost regal presence.
Right behind it is the Garden of the People, which was such a lovely surprise. It’s a peaceful little green space with benches and gorgeous views back toward the Old Fortress and the sea.
Faliraki and Kerkira Beach
From there I walked over to Faliraki and Kerkira Beach. Yes, you can swim right in Corfu Town—though it’s not a traditional sandy beach experience.
Even though it was too chilly to swim in March, I could imagine how dreamy these spots must be in the summer—crystal-clear water, sunbathers lounging on the rocks, and people cooling off with a dip right in the heart of the city. Just get there early.
Faliraki especially has a cool vibe with its little seaside café and stone steps leading straight into the sea. It’s not your typical sandy beach, but it has this laid-back, local feel that I really loved.
Churches
Then it was time to head back into the charming labyrinth of narrow alleys in the Old Town—a total maze in the best way. As I wandered, I passed by a few of Corfu’s most important churches, which are definitely worth a look even if you don’t go inside.
The most famous is the Church of Saint Spyridon, dedicated to the island’s patron saint. You can’t miss its tall red-domed bell tower, which is visible from all over town. Inside, it’s said to be richly decorated and holds the relics of Saint Spyridon himself, which many locals believe have miraculously protected Corfu through the centuries.
Another beautiful one is the Cathedral of Saint James and Saint Christopher, near the Liston. It has a lovely façade and is part of Corfu’s Catholic heritage, reflecting the island’s multicultural history.
And right in the heart of the town is the Metropolitan Church of Our Lady Spilaiotissa, Corfu’s Orthodox cathedral. This was my favorite due to the striking red face, everything with a sun on it makes me smile.
Shopping in the Old Town
I couldn’t leave Corfu Old Town without doing a little shopping. The narrow streets are lined with cute little boutiques, artisan shops, and family-run stores.
You’ll find everything from handmade olive oil soaps and local honey to kumquat liqueur, which is a Corfiot specialty. What I loved most was how many of the products are made right here on the island, often using traditional recipes and methods passed down through generations.
It felt really special to bring home a few things that weren’t just souvenirs, but a real taste of the island’s culture. I wrote more about some of the souvenirs I got in my last post about the perfect Corfu one-day itinerary.
Of course, you will also find the typical souvenir shops and stalls selling trinkets, postcards, summer dresses and jewelry. But this time I tried to focus on more quality handmade items.
Archaeological and the Byzantine Museum
As a history buff, I can never visit a new place without stopping by its archeological museum. So as the weather took a turn for the worse, I made my way to the Archaeological Museum of Corfu just outside Corfu Old Town.
And I’m so glad I did—it’s not huge, but it’s packed with incredible finds from ancient Corcyra (what Corfu was called in antiquity).
The highlight for me was the enormous Gorgon pediment from the Temple of Artemis, which is one of the oldest stone pediments in Greece. There were also beautiful statues, pottery, and mosaics.
I didn’t have the time to visit the Byzantine Museum, but I did take a look at the building—it’s located inside the old Church of Antivouniotissa, which is lovely on its own. From what I’ve read, the museum is full of religious icons, frescoes, and other pieces of Orthodox Christian art dating back centuries.
Hidden gems in Corfu Town
Kremasti Square: A tiny, atmospheric square with a Venetian well and a lovely quiet vibe. I didn’t find this place before my lovely guides from Corfu Union showed it to me.
It is located in the Campiello area, the oldest and most charming quarter of Corfu Town. It is a total maze of narrow alleys, stone staircases, shaded squares, and pastel-colored buildings with weathered shutters and hanging laundry—it kind of felt like stepping onto a movie set.
It’s quieter here than in the main tourist spots, and I loved how authentic it felt. I got a little lost (in the best way) and ended up finding cute balconies, hidden courtyards, and a few local cats lounging in the sun. I felt like I walked into someone’s backyard several times, but I had to remind myself that these are actually public walkways.
Dairy Shop of Alexis: This tiny, old-school dairy shop is beloved by locals for its traditional, homemade dairy products, especially the legendary rice pudding (I’m a huge fan), thick Greek yogurt and famous Corfiot butter.
What makes it really special is that they still use local milk and traditional methods, giving everything that nostalgic, creamy flavor you can’t get in mass-produced versions.
Patounis Olive Oil Soap Factory: Visit this family-run factory that has been producing handmade olive oil soap since the 19th century using the same age-old methods and machinery. It feels like stepping into a living museum, where you can see the soap being made, learn about the natural ingredients, and even pick up a bar or two to take home.
The Rooftop Café at Cavalieri Hotel: While locals and returning travelers may know about it, it still feels like a special, somewhat under-the-radar spot with panoramic views over the Old Fortress, Spianada Square, and out to the Ionian Sea.
It’s tucked away at the top of the historic Cavalieri Hotel, which was once a nobleman’s mansion, and the ambiance is elegant but relaxed. I wouldn’t go for the food, but definitely for a drink and snacks to escape the heat.
The Jewish Quarter: Tucked away near the New Fortress, this small, quiet neighborhood is filled with a deep sense of history. It was once home to a thriving Jewish community, and you can still visit the beautifully preserved Scuola Greca Synagogue, one of the few in Greece that survived World War II.
What and where to eat
One of the best parts about spending time in Corfu Old Town is the food—seriously. There’s a mix of cozy, traditional tavernas and modern spots with a creative twist, and I made it my mission to try a bit of everything.
Don’t miss local dishes like pastitsada, sofrito, and bourdeto.
During my first day, I stopped by Panetteria in the evening just because I was so hungry. Normally I don’t buy food in the middle of the most touristy areas, but I’m so glad I did here. The counter is filled with everything you could need for the perfect picnic.
So I returned the next morning and picked up a sandwich and cake to enjoy in the gardens throughout the day in Corfu Old Town. It was so affordable, I got a crispy chicken sandwich, one brownie, two donuts/buns topped with chocolate and one huge pizza slice for only €11.
I had my favorite meal at Mouragia, a traditional tavern that my new friends from Corfu Union wanted to show me.
We had bread and dips, Greek salad and pastitsada, a rich, slow-cooked beef stew made with a spiced tomato-based sauce (often including cinnamon, cloves, and red wine). Everything was so fresh, and I even got to meet the lovely older lady who cooks the food with love.
I was also introduced to the most delicious ouzo called Varvagianni Blue. Although it has 46% alcohol, it had a surprisingly mild taste and a nice anis aroma. I can highly recommend it along with the very tasty Corfu Beer red ale. And that is coming from someone who usually does not drink beer.
After dinner, we headed to Papagiorgis Patiserie-Gelateria, one of the best ice cream shops and patisseries in Corfu Old Town. Three generations have served up sweet treats here from 1924. I got Kumquat ice cream again (I talked about it in the Corfu itinerary) but this time with dark chocolate.
And, of course, I couldn’t come to Greece without having some Loukoumades. Small, fluffy sweet honey balls, deep fried to golden and crispy perfection, often topped with sugar and cinnamon or honey.
Final things to know
🇬🇷 It’s Greek—but with a twist: Corfu is part of Greece, but its culture has strong Venetian, French, and British influences, which show in the food, architecture, and even daily life. Don’t expect it to feel exactly like Santorini or Mykonos—it has a unique charm.
☂️ It rains a lot: Yes, there’s a reason why Corfu is so beautifully green. It rained for a few hours on most days during my visit in March. So bring an umbrella or raincoat if you visit outside of the main season. Next time I’m going there in early October, which offers the perfect mix of mostly sunny weather and fewer crowds.
🚗 Getting around: The historic center of Corfu Town is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Walking around is the best part. I took a taxi from the port to the Old Town for €15, but I wish I negotiated before getting in because the ride was super short. If it wasn’t for the rain I would have walked.
If you’re heading to the port, airport, or nearby areas like Kanoni or the beaches outside town, the blue local buses (run by Corfu City Bus) are cheap and reliable. If you want to explore the rest of the island I highly recommend you rent a car or book a guided tour with Corfu Union.
🧳 Luggage storage: I’m so happy I decided to leave my bags at Luggage Storage Corfu for my final day. Anna, the owner, is incredible. Even though she doesn’t speak much English, she gave me tips for what I should see and do. And her husband (I think) drove me to the airport for only €10, though I don’t know if this was an out-of-season price or not.
👀 Don’t forget to also check out my one-day Corfu island itinerary.
Leave a Reply