Corfu is one of the most beautiful Greek islands, with amazing things to do for every taste. Corfu is known not only for its well-preserved Old Town and its stunning beaches, but also for its interesting history and rich cultural tradition that is dominant everywhere.
Enjoying your holidays together with your loved ones in a luxury villa in Corfu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, which combines the uniqueness and privacy in your accommodation with the cosmopolitanism of this wonderful destination.
Corfu Old Town
In Corfu Old Town, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, magic unfolds the Venetian town, under the arches of Liston, the Catholic Cathedral and the Spianada Square, where the heart of the island beats. The landmark of the island, Fortrezza, with the Doric-style church of St. George, is an unforgettable journey in time.
The paved paths of the Old Town, in addition with the gardens of the palace of St. Michael and George, also known as the People’s Gardens, will impress you. The Town Hall Square is home to the majestic building, which once hosted the Loggia of the Nobles and later San Giacomo Theatre, the first Greek theatre to stage Italian opera.
The famous Liston is an impressive early 19th century arched colonnade, where you can enjoy your coffee or cocktail in a stunning setting, while Spianada Square is one of the biggest squares in Europe and the place where the cultural heart of the island beats to the tunes of the brass bands, also known as philharmonics.
The district of Kanoni is a picturesque spot in Corfu Old Town. Up on a hill, there is a canon, and from there, the view to Pontikonisi, a small, green island, which is linked to the mainland with a narrow pathway, is just breathtaking.
Discover all Corfu close to town villas
Historical sites in Corfu
Corfu is known for the following historical sites, located inside the Old Town or in close proximity to it:
- Achilleion Palace: Achilleion was built in 1890 exclusively for Elizabeth (Sissy), the Empress of Austria. It used to be the summer retreat of the Empress, and after her assassination, it was sold to Kaiser of Germany.
- Ionian Academy: The Ionian Academy is the first University of Greece, from 1824 until 1864. Today, it hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
- Mon Repos Palace: Mon Repos used to be the summer residence of the former royal family of Greece. Nowadays, it is a popular tourist attraction, which hosts a museum with Ionian treasures.
- Kapodistrias Mansion: The mansion, where the first governor of modern Greece, Ioannis Kapodistrias, was born in 1776, is located in Corfu Old Town and is one of the most impressive buildings of the whole area.
- Ionian Parliament: The historical importance of this neoclassical building is great since, in 1863, the parliament voted for the unification of Corfu with the Greek state.
- Old Fortress: The Old Fortress of Corfu is one of the most impressive fortifications in Europe. It is located on the eastern side of the town, on a rocky peninsula and was built by the Venetians in the 15th century. Near the fortress is the church of Saint George, which was built by the Venetians according to the Doric style and is the only church in Greece with this kind of architecture.
The best beaches in Corfu
The beaches in Corfu are characterized by crystal-clear waters and soft, golden sand. The most famous of them are all organized, with sunbeds, umbrellas and water-sports facilities. best beaches in Corfu to visit with your friends and family are:
- Paleokastritsa is the most famous beach resort in Corfu, and it is located close to the capital (23 km). It is a sandy, organised beach with diving club and water-sports amenities, but the most impressive is its landscape, where huge green cliffs surround the beach and sea caves dominate the whole scenery.
- Agios Gordios, only 19 km from Corfu Town, is a sandy, family-friendly beach with all the tourist facilities you may need. Turquoise waters and imposing rock formations make this beach a miracle of nature standing in front of you.
- Pelekas is located 13 km west from Corfu Town. It is a long beach with soft sand and water sports facilities. Rocky cliffs and caves around the beach create an ideal scene for diving lovers.
- Glyfada, one of the most popular beaches of the island, which is also very close to Corfu Town (16 km), is awarded the Blue Flag for its crystal-clear waters and its high quality touristic facilities. It is considered one of the most famous beach resorts on the island for young people, and thus, it is noisy, crowded and party-friendly.
- Sidari is one of the most beautiful villages of the island, 36 km from the capital, surrounded by lush, green forest. Near the village is the Channel of Love (Canal d’ Amour), an idyllic area with rock formations that create stunning coves and canals. According to tradition, couples, who swim in the canal, will get married soon. However, this place is not recommended when the weather is windy.
- Gialiskari is a secluded bay, although it is located close to Corfu Town (15 km). The beach is small but partly organized, and the rocks behind it offer shade. The setting is tropical, with blue crystalline waters and picturesque green mountains around the area. There are also water sports in Gialiskari for the lovers of adventure.
- Kassiopi is an astonishing beach, 35 km from Corfu Town, with white, soft sand and emerald waters that remind of exotic beaches. It is partly organised and an ideal place to relax and admire the natural beauty around you.
Explore our top Corfu villas near beaches
Corfu can offer you unforgettable holidays to enjoy cosmopolitanism, historical tradition and unique atmosphere. Discover our amazing villas in Corfu with private pool and luxury facilities that are the epitome of high-end living and relaxation in a private environment, emerging from a fairytale.
You can find the best Corfu villas from Kinglike Concierge, the top rental agency in Corfu for luxury accommodation that serves a broad VIP clientele all over Greece as well as Italy. Our goal is to ensure the full satisfaction of our customers with exclusive properties and high-quality services that provide the best guest support, such as in-house chef, butler, and bartender, as well as VIP reservations, private tours, beauty services and, of course, the highest standards of security.
Discover why Corfu is celebrated for its stunning sites and beautiful beaches. Wondering how to plan your stay? Dive into How Many Days to visit Corfu and explore local secrets in Corfu What to See. Need tips on villa rentals? Learn How to rent a villa in Corfu and find your ideal accommodation in Where to stay in Corfu. Explore the island’s charm and history, and if you are traveling from Mykonos, here’s everything you need to know.
