Corfu Old Town in Greece is a fabulous destination! Featuring ancient forts, twisting lanes, colorful architecture and delectable local fare, the city has something for everyone.
To help fellow travelers plan their trip, we are highlighting the prime things to do in Corfu Old Town!
Our site utilizes Affiliate Links. If you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
Our stay in Corfu came at the end of our extended Trip to Greece. We wondered how it might stack up against ancient Athens, picture-perfect Santorini, historic Chania, rustic Naxos and bohemian Hydra.
What we found was that the Old Town of Corfu is unique and distinct. It’s difficult to compare to other Greek cities because it is so utterly different, in it’s own great way!
Planning a Trip to Old Town Corfu, Greece
There is so much more to planning a Corfu trip than figuring out what to see. Most travelers also need to figure out how to get there, where to stay and what to eat. No worries, we’ve got it covered!
In addition to our list of Old Town Corfu things to do, we also provide transport info and tips for the top hotels and restaurants. Also check out our guide for Planning a European Trip!
Whether visiting Corfu Town in a day or a week – it’s essential to keep track of the details. Our Printable Travel Planner is designed to ensure you stay organized!
Top Things To Do in Corfu Old Town
We spent 3 days in Corfu Old Town exploring, discovering and tasting – and left wishing we had just a bit more time. So, we hope you are ready, because we’re diving right in!
#1 Visit the Old Venetian Fortress of Corfu
The Corfu Town Old Fortress dates to the middle of the 6th century. At that time the Byzantines began to fortify the city for protection from invaders.
During Venetian rule, from the 14th to 18th centuries, the fortress was expanded to stave off Ottoman attacks.
In the 1800s, when the city was under British rule, the fortress was again modified. This time with an emphasis on creating a military outpost. 
Today, the Corfu Old Fort stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Monument. Inside, you can climb the ramparts and trek up to the hill-topping lighthouse.
Other Corfu Old Fortress sights include visiting the museum that features a few ancient artifacts and stepping onto a secluded beach.
#2 Enjoy the Views from Boschetto Garden
An elegant green space overlooking the Old Fortress across the moat, Boschetto Garden is one of the often-missed Corfu Old Town attractions.
The inviting space is marked with colorful flowers, fountains, busts of Greek literary greats and a statue of the Ionian Academy founder, Count Frederick Guilford.
Not only is the pretty garden a good place to take in views, but it also has a playground and public toilets.
The gorgeous Panagia Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Mandrakina at the north end of Boschetto Garden is a popular spot for photographs and weddings.
#3 Sit in Spianada Square
Located in the heart of Corfu Town Centre is the expansive Spianada Square. It ranks as the largest city square in all of Greece and more resembles a park.
The spacious and lush area was created by the French, when they briefly occupied Corfu in the early 1800s. The space features fountains, memorials and even a Cricket pitch!
#4 Stroll along Liston Lane
Marking the western boundary of Spianada Square is Liston, a lovely lane that is a Corfu Town must see sight.
Dating to the early 1800s, it features a mashup of architectural elements, including Venetian, French and British. The result is an enchanting façade of majestic arches with hanging lanterns and waving flags.
At one time, only nobility were allowed to walk on Liston. Today, visitors stroll its length and perch at one of the many cafes or restaurants.
#5 See Artifacts at the Corfu Museum of Asian Art
Highly touted as one of the best things to do in Corfu Town, the Museum of Asian Art hosts a vast collection of works from Japan, China, India, Pakistan, Tibet and Southeast Asia.
Displays include pottery, sculptures, ceramics, armor, religious icons, tapestries, jewelry and coins.
The museum is housed in the Palace of Saint George and Saint Michael and a ticket is required to see the exhibits.
Built by the British in the 1820s as the personal home of the High Commissioner, it was used as a royal residence when Corfu became part of the Kingdom of Greece.
More Corfu Town Museums
- The Ionian Banknote Museum details the history of Greek money, with many notes and coins on display.
- A 19th century mansion, Casa Parlante Museum invites guests to learn what it was like for an aristocratic family to live in the city in the 1800s.
- The Serbian Museum delves into their involvement in WWI and the tragedy at Vido Island, which sits just offshore from Corfu.
- The Archaeological Museum details the past beginning in the Paleolithic era. A variety of artifacts are on display and audio guides help to explain the exhibits.
#6 Parade through the Corfu Public Garden
Once the private Royal Palace gardens, the grounds on the east side of the palace are now open to the public and are now known as the Garden of the People.
Although not a particularly large park, there are abundant flowers, exotic trees and art installations – making it one of the top Corfu Town attractions.
The garden sits atop old fortifications, offering fine views over the sea and down to the Corfu City beach.
The spiral, wrought-iron staircase, which is now closed, was used by the royal family as a direct route from their residence to the bathing beach.
#7 Relax at Faliraki Beach
Faliraki is a pleasant little spot for swimming in the crystal-clear sea and sipping a beverage on the water.
It is located on the northeastern tip of the city, providing stellar views of the Old Fort and Mandraki Marina.
The beachfront cafes are open from morning until night, serving coffee and cocktails – along with snacks and light meals.
That said, the beach is not sand; it’s a mix of concrete, peddle and shingle. There are stairs that can be used to enter the ocean (and help in getting back out) – but wear water shoes to protect your feet from urchins.
More Beaches Corfu Town
Faliraki is the favorite Corfu Town beach, mostly because it’s the only one in the Old Town! We are sharing a few other spots that you can reach on foot or with the city bus.
Old Fortress Beach
The small, pebbly beach at the Old Fortress is one of the hidden gems in Corfu Old Town. It is located along the north shore of the fort and is accessed via a tunnel. (Just follow the signs leading to the Corfu Sailing Club.)
Note that, unless you have a boat, this beach can only be reached via the Old Fort – so it’s best to visit it after you pay to tour the fortress.
Anemomilos Beach
The Anemomilos Windmill Beach is located south of the Old Town at the end of Garitsa Bay. Again, there is no sand, but rather concrete and steps leading into the sea at the small marina or across the street from Anemomilos Park.
Mon Repos Beach
A more traditional beach just south of the windmill, Mon Repos Beach Bar offers chairs and umbrellas for rent in the summertime. That said, it was closed during our visit – and looks as if it may not be reopening.
#8 Step Inside a Greek Orthodox Church
The quaint Greek Orthodox churches are some of the best places to visit in Corfu Town, and there a said to be more that 20 of them.
While all of these could probably be listed as Corfu Old Town things to see, we are highlighting the two we found most impressive.
Holy Church of St Spyridon
Dating to the year 1590, Saint Spyridon features a soaring bell tower that is the highest structure in Corfu Town (and the tallest bell tower in the Ionian Islands).
Known as the Keeper of the City, Spyridon is the patron saint of Corfu. His tomb and relics are kept in a chamber to the side of the alter and you can view them for free.
Holy Metropolitan Church of the Virgin Mary
The Metropolitan Church in Corfu is dedicated to the Virgin Mary – as well as Our Lady Spelaiotissa, St Theodora Augusta and St Vlasios (St Blaise).
The beautiful, salmon pink building sits at the top of a long staircase and inside you can see the relics of St. Theodora Augusta.
#9 Spend an Afternoon Shopping in Corfu
There is absolutely no shortage of places for Corfu Old Town shopping. The historic cobbled lanes are lined with a variety of stores – from handmade wares to kitsch souvenirs.
While there is certainly something for every type of shopper, there’s a few shops that are worth seeking out.
Plous Books and Coffee
Plous is cluttered with book-lined shelves and emanates a cozy atmosphere. There is also a small garden in the back to enjoy a beverage.
Olive Wood Workshop by Tom
Tom has been producing Corfu Olive Wood products for over 50 years. Goods range from decorative bowls to jewelry – and just about everything in between!
Kumquat Shops
Kumquat – a tiny citrus fruit – was introduced in the 1920s and is now a trademark of the island. Many Corfu shops sell kumquat products – including cakes, candies and liqueurs, all of which make great gifts!
#10 Navigate the New Fortress of Corfu
The New Fortress sits on St. Mark Hill above the west side of the city…and is still really old. It was built in stages, with construction commencing in 1572 and continuing through the mid-1800s.
Designed with two distinct levels of walls, the top of the bastion offers panoramic views of Corfu, mainland Greece (and Albania) and out to sea. You can also view old artillery positions and meander a maze of walkways.
#11 Join the Locals at the Corfu Central Market
Spending a morning at this small market is one of the fun things to do in Corfu Old Town. The outdoor bazaar bustles with activity and is open everyday except Sunday.
Watch as locals frequent their favorite vendors and men gather around the café to drink coffee and gossip. Fresh-caught fish is displayed on ice and colorful in-season produce is offered for sale.
You can also pick up regional specialties – like spices, olives and, of course, kumquat products. Just plan on visiting in the morning – as the market closes down by early afternoon.
#12 Take a Tour of the Patounis Soap Factory
When you think of what to see in Corfu Town, soap might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, we feel the Patounis Soap Factory is an interesting attraction to include in your Corfu sightseeing.
The family-owned shop has been in operation since 1891 and uses traditional methods to make soaps with natural oils. You are welcome to just have a look or join one of the free daily guided tours.
#13 Enjoy a Drink on Dimarchiou Square
This multi-level Corfu Old Town square is ringed by cafes and restaurants that beckon weary tourist to stop in for a cool afternoon drink or meal under an umbrella.
On the north end is the prominent Corfu Town Hall. Originally built in 1691 as a lodge for the Nobles, it was renovated into the San Giacomo Theatre in 1720. In 1903, it became City Hall.
In the northeast corner, the Catholic Church of Saints Jacob and Christopher is worth a visit if open. The steps along Dimarchiou Sqaure are also a popular place for evening buskers and as a perch for people watching.
#14 Stroll the Seaside Promenade
The seaside along Leof. Dimokratias Street is one of the cool Corfu Town places to visit. The walkway extends from the Old Fort to the Anemomilos Windmill along the crescent-shaped Garitsa Cove.
The route passes by the Douglas Obelisk, which is a monument dedicated to Howard Douglas. He was the British Lord High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands in the 1830s.
#15 Admire the Corfu Windmill
Marking the south end of Garitsa Bay is a stunning stone windmill that stands proudly on the water’s edge. Although the current one is a replica, it tells the story of Corfu’s past.
During Venetian times, many windmills were constructed on the island and used to mill grains. The original one dated to at least the 17th century.
#16 See the Mon Repos Palace
Visiting the Mon Repo Palace – a mansion erected in 1826 – is one of the top things to do near Corfu Old Town. The palace (actually, the palace kitchen table) was the birthplace of the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
The Mon Repos Estate is a sprawling, wooded park that once served as the palace grounds. Old trees provide shade and the gardens boast diverse plant species (many of which were given to the royal family as gifts).
The palace now houses the Museum of Palaiopolis, which features archaeological finds from the estate, as well as other historical information.
#17 Visit Ancient Ruins in Corfu
The Mon Repos Estate was built on the site of Palaiopolis – the ancient Korkyra City – and several ruins have been excavated here.
Two sights that visitors can easily walk to are the Kardaki Temple and the Sanctuary of Hera Akraia.
Kardaki is a Doric temple that dates to 500 BC, but it was only discovered in 1822 by British Navy engineers.
The Sanctuary of Hera Akraia (also called the Temple of Hera or Heraion) was a heavily decorated religious site constructed in 610 BC.
Near the entrance of the Mon Repos Estate are other ruins. These include an early Christian church that was built on the site of a 5th century Roman Agora.
#18 Enter the Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna
The pretty, whitewashed Panagia Vlachera Monastery sits on a small islet off the Kanoni Peninsula.
The church, with a quaint belfry and gorgeous location on the sea, is a landmark Corfu sight. In fact, 007 fans might recognize it from the James Bond movie, “For Your Eyes Only”.
The monastery dates to the 17th century, but it was converted into a church in 1980. Although the interior is very small (about half the size of the attached gift shop), it attracts attention for its unusual location.
#19 Hop Aboard a Boat to Mouse Island
Pontikonissi Island – better known as Mouse Island – is a picturesque islet surrounded by the turquoise blue water of the Chalkiopoulos Lagoon.
It is just a stone’s throw from the Vlacherna Monastery and can be reached by boat for a small fare. At the center of the lush island is an 11th century Byzantine chapel.
Mouse Island also plays a part in Greek mythology. According to the tale, Odysseus’ ship was not looked upon kindly by Poseidon, so he struck it with his trident and transformed it into a rock, where it still sits today.
#20 Go Corfu Plane Spotting
The pedestrian bridge that connects Kanoni and Perama is a useful shortcut to cross the mouth of Chalkiopoulos Lagoon. However, it’s an even better place to watch planes landing at Corfu Airport!
Aviation geeks gather on the Kanoni-Perama Bridge to watch aircraft scream past just over their heads. If you prefer plane spotting with amenities, the hilltop cafes on Kanoni are popular spots to go in Corfu to watch the planes.
#21 Set Sail on a Day Cruise from Corfu
One of the best Corfu Town activities is to sail away on the Ionian Sea. There are several boat trips available – and we are highlighting a few of the top choices.
Sunset Cruise from Corfu Town
Hop aboard a wooden ship to cruise around Corfu at sunset. The 2-hour boat journey includes cocktails, snacks and music. Get more details!
Full Day Cruise to Ionian Islands
A popular Corfu day trip, this cruise takes you on a 10-hour sea adventure to two idyllic islands: Paxos and Antipaxos. In addition to the scenic landscapes, there is time for swimming, snorkeling and shopping. Reserve your spot!
Pirate Ship Cruise from the Corfu Old Port
The Pirate Ship is a popular option for those who are short on time, but still want to get out on the water. It departs multiple times a day for a 1-hour tour. Book it!
What and Where To Eat in Corfu, Greece
Now that you know what to see, it’s time to talk about eating in Corfu Old Town! The places we’re featuring range from cheap take-away shops to contemporary tavernas. We even toss-in a few fun bars, too!
Corfu Cuisine
Before we get to where to eat, let’s chat for a moment about what to eat. We are sharing a couple iconic Corfiot foods that should be on your Corfu Foodie List!
Pastitsada
A timeless Corfu dish, pastitsada is a beef or chicken stew in a tomato-based sauce that is served over pasta noodles. The sauce features Mediterranean spices, but cinnamon is the unique ingredient that makes it a Corfu specialty.
Sofrito
This Corfiot classic is a slow cooked dish of tender, melt-in-your-mouth veal. The meat is prepared with a lot of garlic along with herbs and vinegar – and is usually served with fries or rice.
Best Restaurants in Corfu Old Town
Since it is way too tough to award one place the top spot, we are highlighting a few of the best Corfu Greek restaurants we actually ate at.
Taverna Ninos
Regularly ranked as the best gyros in Corfu Town, Ninos is a classic Greek taverna that dishes up delicious food at fair prices.
In addition to gyros, they make a variety of traditional Greek fare and local Corfiot specialties, too. The service is fun and casual, which is another reason why we believe it’s one of the prime places to eat!
Pane e Souvlaki
Located on Dimarchiou Square, Pane e Souvlaki is always busy and we completely understand why!
Their specialty – as the name suggests – is pita bread and skewered meat. That said, we highly recommend the tzatziki as a starter, as well as the Corfiot sausage stuffed with cheese!
Mouragia
Situated right across the street from the sea on the north side of town, Mouragia offers traditional, homemade Greek food at excellent prices.
The Corfiot Sofrito is superb, but their grilled meat (try the handmade stuffed burgers) and seafood dishes are excellent, as well.
Chryssa
This place actually gets our vote for the best bakery in Corfu. Their spanikopita is amazing, but everything we ordered from Chryssa was absolutely delicious!
Best Corfu Town Bars
For travelers looking for nightlife in Corfu, there are loads of cocktail lounges and beer bars to choose from.
Sway tops our list of best bars in Corfu Town. Known for their exceptional cocktails, they also have regional wine and local beer options, too.
Iznogood is your best bet for craft beer on Corfu. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. Strada Beer Bar and Alle-Koukou both have the local brew on tap, as well.
Sightseeing Map of Corfu Town
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Corfu, Greece things to do map below.
Old Town Corfu Travel Tips
Now that we have covered what to do in Corfu Town, Greece, we are sharing some additional advice about what it’s really like to travel here.
Things To Know about Visiting Corfu Town
The tap water in Corfu is technically safe, but locals advised us to drink bottled water. The high mineral content could cause an upset stomach.
You can not flush toilet paper – the plumbing can’t handle it! Don’t risk clogging the pipes; use the receptacle next to the toilet.
We found cell service on Corfu to be a bit spotty and occasionally, not working at all. Luckily, we had our trusty Pocket WiFi and were able to get a better connection as we moved around town.
How To Get to Corfu
The Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU) is located just 1 mile south of Old Town Corfu and is served by multiple airlines (but mostly UK tour package operators and low-cost carriers).
To find flights to Corfu – at low prices – use our Tips for Getting Cheap Airfare, then start your search on SkyScanner!
To get to Corfu Town from the airport, you can take a cab, bus or even walk about 30 minutes. Taxis were pricey for the short ride, so we rode the Corfu Airport Bus 15 and it costs less than $2 each.
Where To Stay in Corfu Town, Greece
From villas to hostels, there is lodging to fit a range of budgets. Just don’t start your search without reading our tips for Booking Places for Cheap!
One of the highly rated hotels in Old Town Corfu, Arcadion is situated right in the center. Guests rave about the phenomenal view, included breakfast, superior service and comfortable rooms.
Ranked as one of the best boutique hotels in Corfu Town, Siora Vittoria is housed in a 19th century mansion. The elegant property boasts classic charm alongside modern conveniences.
What To Pack for Corfu, Greece
Our final tips for your Corfu vacation are all about packing your suitcase or backpack. So, grab our FREE Checklist and let’s get you to Greece!
Versatile Shoes
Comfortable shoes are a must for Corfu! I like to wear these trainers and Kris prefers Merrell Trail Shoes. You can find all of our advice in our guide to The Best Shoes for Traveling.
Travel Camera
The top places to see in Corfu Town are incredibly photogenic! Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to a real camera.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. It’s a fantastic set-up at a great price, and we rank it as the Best Camera for Budget Travelers.
Zippered Day Bag
While sightseeing you will want a pack to stow all of your everyday travel essentials. We carry these small backpacks. Read our complete guide for finding your Best Day Bag for Travel.
Greece Travel Insurance
Trip insurance can help in all kinds of situations – from lost luggage to getting injured or sick while abroad. Check the affordable rates and robust coverage with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Greece! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
