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Corfu

Corfu

Corfu, or Kerkyra in Greek, is an extraordinary island in the Ionian Sea blessed with lush vegetation, spectacular beaches, incredible old world charm, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. A unique combination of Western and Greek traditions with an artistic flair, the island’s diverse culture and distinct character is a reflection of centuries-long Venetian, French and British rules that left their indelible marks on the island.

The island where Odysseus was offered a warm welcome and a ship to return to Ithaca, Corfu is still renowned for its warm hospitality. Corfiots are friendly people who in turn offer a welcoming atmosphere to their visitors. The locals are also deeply melodic, as you can hear in the way they speak, which isn't a surprise as Corfu is the musical capital of Greece with 18 philharmonic orchestras.

The old town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves its distinct local flavour. Aristocratic historic buildings, palaces, and fortresses blend with traditional houses, and kantounia – the characteristic narrow cobblestone lanes of Kerkyra – that are filled with life, flower pots, and delicious scents from local cooking. To this day, the characteristic arcades, reminiscent of Rue de Rivoli in Paris, offer a romantic setting to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while people watching. Even though Corfu Town is a jewel that you'll want to visit again and again, the island has much to offer its visitors. With its charming fishing villages, fantastic beaches, exceptional attractions, and incredible dining and nightlife scene, Corfu is a fascinating Greek island that spellbinds its visitors!

From secluded picturesque coves to vast stretches of golden sand with beach bars, the list of beaches is endless; Agios Gordios, Issos, Agios Georgios Pagon, and the unspoiled beach of Chalikouna are just a few. Paleokastritsa, surrounded by verdant cliffs, is a must-see as it is the most famous tourist resort in Corfu. Canal d' Amour Beach in Sidari, with its incredible rock formations, is also worth visiting and local folklore says that couples who swim through the channel will be in love forever!

Things to do:

• Visit Mon Repos Palace
The British High Commissioner Frederick Adams built Mon Repos Palace as a gift to his Corfiot wife. Today, this lovely colonial-style palace houses the Museum of Palaiopolis. Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh and husband of Elizabeth the Second, was born here in 1921. The estate includes a beautiful botanical garden, as well as the ruins of Palaiopolis, the ancient city of Corfu.

• Discover Achilleion Palace
The island's imperial past is one of the reasons it is such an alluring destination. After falling in love with Corfu, Empress Elizabeth of Austria-Hungary, the legendary Sissi, built this palace in 1891, amidst cypress trees and myrtles. The stunning palace, dedicated to the myth of Achilles, has housed the just as legendary Casino Corfu since 1961 and is an extra reason to visit!

• Take-In the Views at Kanoni
The terrace of Kanoni, meaning canon in Greek, is the ideal spot for a Corfiot selfie as it offers incredible views of the bay and the tiny island of Pontikonissi.

• Watch the Sunset in Pelekas
The lovely authentic village of Pelekas on top of a beautiful green hill is said to offer the best sunsets on the island. You can make a day-trip out to Pelekas by combining it with a swim at one of the magnificent nearby beaches and dinner at one of the local taverns. When it's time, head to the spot called "Kaiser's Throne" and you will be rewarded with breathtaking sunset views and some great photo opportunities!

• Take a Day-Trip to Paxi and Antipaxi
These small islands boast some of the most beautiful crystal clear waters in the Mediterranean. Once in Paxi, the thing to do is rent a traditional kaiki boat and sail around the island, or head out to explore Antipaxi in search of your very own private turquoise paradise!

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