Corfu Town (Kerkyra) is where the island breathes its oldest, deepest stories. A beautiful tangle of Venetian alleys, pastel façades, leafy esplanades, and lively squares, this town is not just a hub—it’s an experience.
You won’t find many Greek towns like this. Centuries of Venetian, French, and British rule have left their mark on the architecture, the cuisine, and even the rhythms of everyday life. Walk ten minutes in any direction and you’ll pass a 16th-century fortress, a French-style promenade, a Byzantine church, and a boutique selling handmade sandals. This is Corfu Town: cultured, elegant, and alive.
Whether you’re here to dive into history, shop until your suitcase begs for mercy, or just sip espresso while people-watching in a shaded square, don’t rush it. The magic is in the details.
🍽 Where to Eat – Courtyards, Rooftops, and Local Flavor
1. Salto Wine Bar & Bistro Creative small plates, curated wines, and a modern atmosphere. Ideal for a date night or a chic lunch.
2. Pane e Souvlaki Casual, fast, and full of flavor. Great for souvlaki wraps, Greek tapas, and salads on the go.
3. Rex Restaurant A Corfu classic near the Liston, serving traditional dishes with a touch of elegance. Their bourdeto is outstanding.
4. The Venetian Well A romantic fine-dining gem hidden in a historic courtyard. Perfect for a splurge-worthy night out.
5. Café Bristol Retro decor and jazz vibes meet tasty brunches and coffee. A great place to recharge.
6. Tsipouradiko to Meli Local hangout with shared plates, house tsipouro, and a buzzing atmosphere. Great for groups.
7. To Alato Tucked away on a side street, this spot serves modern Greek dishes with unexpected twists. Think beetroot hummus and grilled octopus.
🏛 What to Do – Fortresses, Museums, and Strolls
1. Explore the Old Fortress Climb to the top for stunning harbor views, then stroll through its history-rich corridors. A must-see.
2. Wander the Campiello This maze-like neighborhood is full of charm: laundry hanging from balconies, worn cobblestones, and secret corners.
3. Visit the Museum of Asian Art Housed in the elegant Palace of St. Michael and St. George, this unexpected museum is beautifully curated.
4. Take a Stroll Along the Liston Inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, this arched promenade is perfect for people-watching and espresso sipping.
5. Stop at Saint Spyridon Church Corfu’s patron saint rests here. The interior is ornate and peaceful, even during busy hours.
6. Watch Cricket on the Esplanade Yes—cricket! A British tradition that lives on. Bring a snack and soak up the quirky scene.
7. Walk to the New Fortress Looming above the old port, this lesser-visited site offers panoramic views and moody stone interiors.
🛍 Shops & Local Finds – Artisan Goods and Everyday Treasures
1. ICON Handmade Local designers showcase contemporary jewelry and accessories with Ionian influences.
2. Paramythi – The Storybook Shop A magical bookstore with Greek and English titles, including Corfu-themed children’s books.
3. Loukas Shoes Family-run leather sandal shop making custom-fitted pairs since the 1950s.
4. Corfu Ceramics Workshop Traditional meets modern in this studio selling hand-painted plates, mugs, and tiles.
5. Sweet ‘n Spicy Bahar Shop Spices from around the world, plus teas, oils, and homemade preserves. A sensory experience.
6. Patounis Soap Factory Visit this historic olive oil soap workshop. They’ll walk you through the traditional process—and the smell alone is worth the trip.
7. Olive Tree Boutique A curated shop for high-quality olive wood goods, from cutting boards to bowls and spoons.
ℹ️ Need to Know
● Getting There: Corfu Town is the island’s central hub. Easily accessible by car, bus, or
foot from nearby hotels. Parking is limited in the Old Town—use the paid lots near the
port or Garitsa Bay.
● Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon, especially in summer. Cooler,
quieter, and more golden-lit for great photos.
● Local Tip: Don’t just walk through—look up. Balconies, shutters, bells, and laundry lines
are part of the town’s personality.
🗓 7-Day Itinerary – Soak In the Town, One Day at a Time
Corfu Town rewards a slow, curious traveler. This itinerary blends exploration with downtime, so you can enjoy the rhythm of the place.
Day 1: The Heartbeat of Town
● Morning: Stroll the Liston and Esplanade
● Visit Saint Spyridon Church
● Lunch at Pane e Souvlaki
● Explore the Campiello neighborhood
● Dinner at Rex
Day 2: Fortresses & Views
● Climb the Old Fortress
● Coffee break at Café Bristol
● Shop at Loukas Shoes & ICON
● Sunset at the New Fortress
● Dinner at The Venetian Well
Day 3: Culture & Palaces
● Morning: Museum of Asian Art
● Explore the Palace gardens
● Light lunch at Salto
● Afternoon reading at Paramythi Bookshop
● Dinner at To Alato
Day 4: Local Life & History
● Visit Patounis Soap Factory
● Brunch at Tsipouradiko to Meli
● Tour the Corfu Ceramics Workshop
● Walk to the Old Port for sea views
● Dinner by the water
Day 5: Taste & Touch
● Morning market stroll for fresh fruit
● Visit Sweet ‘n Spicy Bahar
● Olive Tree Boutique browsing
● Midday espresso under the arches
● Dinner at Café Bristol (light & casual)
Day 6: Artisanal Day
● Take a handmade workshop if available (ceramics, soap, or cooking)
● Lunch at Salto
● Afternoon shopping or museum repeat
● Rooftop cocktail hour
● Dinner at Spiros Taverna (short taxi ride to suburb if preferred)
Day 7: The Slow Goodbye
● Breakfast at the Liston
● Revisit a favorite corner or café
● Last stroll through the Campiello
● Buy final souvenirs
● Farewell dinner at The Venetian Well or To Alato