Corfu is a Greek island, just lying off the coast of Albania, in the Ionian Sea. The major town on Corfu Island is also named Corfu. Measuring just 36 miles in length, and 15 miles at it’s widest point in the North, there are approximately 135 miles of coastline around the island, and the highest point is Mount Pantokrator, standing at 906m. Corfu is the second largest island in a group called The Seven Islands.

Corfu has a chequered history denoted by many scars. Reputedly dating back to the days of Homer, Corfu has seen many changes. It was repeatedly attacked by the Normans, the Venetians and the Turks. During world war I, the island was used as a refuge for the Serbian army and was occupied by the Italians during World War II. The Germans took over in 1943, but Corfu was liberated by British troops in October, 1944.

The town of Corfu itself is steeped in history. For many centuries it was at the heart of the turmoil, and the town housed many small fortifications. To this day, a labyrinth of narrow streets and cobbled streets still remain. Many streets are too narrow for vehicles and can only be accessed by foot. If you are feeling hungry, simply walk down the promenade to the seashore and discover Liston, this is restaurant and bistro heaven. “Liston” means ‘list of a vendors fare’, in other words, the menu. Renowned for its European style, Liston is a firm favourite for hungry tourists.

There are many sights to see in the Old Town of Corfu why not try:

The Old Citadel, which is an old Venetian fortress, built on an islet, surrounded by smaller fortifications.

The New Citadel or Palaio Frourio is a massive area of fortifications that dominates the northeastern part of the city.

The Ano Plateia and the Kato Plateia are located close to the Old citadel. Officially the biggest square in the Balkans, these two squares are divided by just one street. Filled with green spaces and interesting ornamental monuments, these two squares are worth a visit. Why not picnic beside the Maitland Monument, which is a Roman style rotunda?

The Palaia Anaktora, just north of the Kato Plateia, is a complex of Roman buildings, and was reputedly used by the King of Greece. These halls and buildings are now open to the public, and house art exhibitions. There is a unique collection of Chinese and Asian exhibits in the Museum of Chinese Art. The gardens offer old Venetian stone aquariums, exotic flowers and trees. Beautiful views of the bay can be seen through old Venetian fortification peepholes and turrets.

Explore the craggy coastline and untouched sandy beaches, hire a car and lose yourself among the inland network of twisting roads. Stop in the tiny secluded villages and meet the true locals. If the village is big enough to have a restaurant or bistro, try their delicious mezzay starters. The Greeks are renowned for their enjoyment of food, and believe that mealtimes are a time to relax. Local dishes contain freshly caught fish, tender meats and salads picked straight from the garden. Olive oil is used liberally, as olive trees are grown in abundance. Don’t forget to try the local wine. For the shopaholics amongst us, Corfu offers chic little boutiques, craft shops, art studios, leather goods and souvenir shops. Water sports are also a firm favourite with holidaymakers. All major beaches offer visitors water sport facilities, such as boat hire, ski hire and snorkel hire. For those who prefer theme parks, try out one of the two large water parks. 

Cheap package holiday deals that fly into Corfu International Airport mean that many more people have the chance to visit this exquisite part of the world. Corfu offers everything you could wish for, soft secluded beaches, blue seas, glorious sunshine and most of all – time to relax.