The influence of diverse European cultures has shaped the island’s unique character, evident to every visitor who succumbs to the allure of the Old Town. In this UNESCO World Heritage site, architectural marvels coexist with quaint neighborhoods, scattered monuments with narrow alleys, spacious squares with stone staircases, Venetian-style bell towers with sturdy fortress walls, and the blue sea with the pastel and reddish hues of old, tightly-packed mansions.
Beyond the town, spectacular monuments like Mon Repos, Achilleion, and Angelokastro complement idyllic fishing villages and a stunning coastline adorned with lace-like shores and crystal-clear beaches, where lush vegetation reaches down to touch the Ionian waters.
Add to this the rare musical tradition of the Philharmonic bands and the renowned Corfiot cuisine with its delectable specialties, and you have a dreamy destination that seems like a fairy tale from another era, yet is tangible and real.
Why Go in October
When it comes to a city as atmospheric and picturesque as Corfu’s old town, with such rich cultural heritage and numerous attractions, there’s no limit to when a traveler can enjoy it. The entire island, with statistics showing an increase in average temperature in recent years, is ideal for extending summer’s euphoria and carefree spirit.
In October, everything in Corfu falls into place. The streets breathe easier after the buzzing tourist swarms of summer, while the most quality vacation period begins for the more selective and demanding visitors. The same relieving calm settles over the Old Town: locals reclaim their noble lady, and you delight in observing them, watching their daily lives unfold.
While dining establishments and tourist infrastructure remain fully operational, with service provided eagerly and with a smile rather than mechanically and hurriedly, the weather changes – sunny days to enjoy the still-warm sea on the island’s many fantastic beaches, but also the first rains that lend the old town a romantic note – make Corfu truly irresistible.
Those who choose it as a destination for the October 28th long weekend will witness a uniquely themed parade with the famous Philharmonic bands accompanying in all their glory.
What to Do
Every stroll through Corfu’s old town is a journey through time, with each neighborhood and scene seemingly plucked from a history book, captivating even the most worldly traveler. Beyond the cinematic setting of the Liston, where you’ll start with coffee or the fresh local soft drink tsitsibira, return for ouzo and meze while your children enjoy playing in the Spianada, and inevitably come back for a final evening walk under the impressive lanterns, spreads an enchanting network of labyrinthine alleys where you’ll happily lose yourself to discover authentic neighborhoods and mesmerizing sights.
Arched galleries, walks, stone staircases, dozens of bell towers, and endless rows of hanging laundry beckon you to continue exploring and discovering. Melodies from philharmonic rehearsals spilling from open windows tempt you to linger and listen, while the tantalizing aromas of pastitsada or sofrito invite you to stop for a meal.
In the charming labyrinth of the Venetian Campiello district, start with brunch at quaint cafes like Porcelain and Gabao, discover historic churches with significant works such as Saint Nicholas of the Elders where Ioannis Kapodistrias was baptized, or Pantokrator, and vintage treasures at the Bizou café-antique shop. Enjoy a cocktail at twilight in the romantic little square where Favela 17 is located, and savor authentic Italian flavors at La Famiglia trattoria.
In the unpretentious old Jewish quarter of Spilia with its tumultuous history, you’ll see the moving monument, enter the New Synagogue, and try traditional dishes at Pergola and Efis Kantouni.
The epicenter of religious and social life are both the Plakada tou Agiou and the Old Town Hall Square. In the former, besides paying homage to the patron saint, the revered Saint Spyridon, you’ll see two more historic churches, the facing Panagia Faneromeni or ton Xenon and Saint John the Baptist, drink coffee with a view of the impressive Numismatic Museum building, and get a handmade ice cream from the excellent century-old Papagiorgis pastry shop.
In the Town Hall Square, you’ll see the Venetian past of the island revived once again around the majestic old San Giacomo Lyric Theater, the Catholic church – Duomo or San Giacomo in the characteristic late Baroque style of many Venetian churches, and the former Residence of the Roman Catholic Archbishop. The unique style of the historic square is shaped not only by the beautiful Venetian buildings but also by a mix of interesting shops with unique items, restaurants, cafes, and bars.
The number and variety of particularly noteworthy museums in Corfu town is impressive: the unique in Greece Asian Art Museum in the spectacular Palace of Saints Michael and George, the Municipal Art Gallery in its former stables, the renovated Archaeological Museum, the Numismatic Museum, Solomos’ house in Mouragia, the Byzantine Art Antivouniotissa, the Philharmonic Society, and the original Casa Parlante that revives the lifestyle and habits of a 19th-century Corfiot aristocratic family.
The unique collage of monuments and experiences is completed by the imposing silhouettes of the Old and New Fortresses, which are open to visitors and offer unparalleled views of the old town and surrounding coasts. Take a walk in the shady People’s Garden, enjoy refreshing dips at the small Faliraki beach or the facilities of the Nautical Club, just as the Corfiots do. Indulge in a romantic dinner at the Venetian Well restaurant in the atmospheric Kremasti Square, have ouzo in the Windmill area, experience a culinary journey through Corfu at the elegant Pomo d’Oro in the picturesque Skaramanga Square, savor a rich, homemade cream from Periklis Alexis dairy, and try an authentic Venetian focaccia from the traditional Korakianitis bakery. These, along with sweet kumquat from Lazaris, will make perfect gustatory souvenirs.
Outside the city, the route – which can be done on foot – to the elegant Mon Repos palace is worth the trip. This well-preserved example of neoclassical architecture from the Regency era now houses the Palaeopolis Museum. An autumn walk in its extensive gardens with lush vegetation is a must.
Equally enchanting are the terraced gardens of the statue-filled Achilleion, known as the retreat of the popular Empress Elisabeth of Austria-Hungary, in the settlement of Gastouri, just 10 km from Corfu town. Another visitable historic country house full of interesting exhibits is located in Koukouritsa – the house where Greece’s first governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias, spent part of his youth.
A visit to the picturesque Kanoni area is essential. Here, you can walk to the beautiful islet of Vlacherna, one of Corfu’s most characteristic images, as a small strip of land connects it to the mainland with the 17th-century church of Panagia dominating it. Many confuse it with the famous Pontikonisi, the rocky islet in the center of the bay, which you can reach by boat and which, according to myth, is Odysseus‘ petrified ship.
Enjoyable for the whole family is a visit to Danilia, a recreated, authentic Corfiot village with alleys and stone staircases, archways and balustrades, all characteristic of Venetian architecture. Here you can wander paths surrounded by medieval houses, visit folk art museums, and get a better understanding of the locals’ daily life for over 300 years.
As for your last swims, Corfu’s beaches are among the top in the Ionian, with dazzling azure waters, endless sandy stretches or lace-like shores embraced by lush vegetation. Sidari, also known as the “Canal of Love,” is a unique sculpture carved by waves and wind, with spectacular fjords and an enchanting seabed. Ai Giorgis ton Pagon, Glyfada, Acharavi, and Moraitika are ideal for families. Kontokali and Kerasia are cosmopolitan, while Agios Gordios, Kalami, Chalikounas, and Arillas are suitable for water sports. The six coves of Paleokastritsa are of unique beauty, which you can combine with a visit to the 1225 monastery of Panagia and the unparalleled view from Angelokastro fortress.
Where to Stay
01
Corfu Imperial
Set in a scene of breathtaking natural beauty, just a few kilometers from the city, seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape, Corfu Imperial by Grecotel adds its own touch of absolute elegance to the lush Kommeno area. This timeless cosmopolitan resort enjoys the privilege of a private peninsula where its themed accommodation options spread out, exemplifying high aesthetics and corresponding service levels.
The surrounding olive groves, the colorful garden palms, the picturesque azure coves, along with the gleaming marble, wooden decks, the relaxing oud wood aroma that dominates all spaces, the classic yet light furnishings, and scattered artistic touches, conspire to compose your personal paradise. Choose from elegant bungalows and maisonettes, impressive suites, or brand new, dreamy villas, all with private pools and sizes that can exceed 450 sq.m., ideal for hosting up to 12 people.
The common denominator is luxury, unparalleled comfort, brilliant Corfiot light flooding every space, and postcard-perfect views of the Ionian. The crown jewel is the brand new Medusa Estate, a true Corfiot-style mansion that transforms into your personal palace in the most privileged location on Kommeno hill, combining genuine luxury and traditional color, offering captivating, panoramic views.
The gastronomic delights at Corfu Imperial are also a top experience, reflecting the high quality and variety of Greek and international cuisine, whether it’s the impressive buffet at Mon Repos restaurant, the upgraded version of the Italian Trattoria, the Yali Waterfront Restaurant with fresh seafood, or the à la carte Aristos restaurant, honoring Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis.
02
Eva Palace
Eva Palace by Grecotel also enjoys the privileged location of Kommeno and the fascinating view of the Ionian. Its beautiful shoreline exudes a belle epoque feeling, rivaled by a giant pool hidden within lush gardens with integrated palm trees. Like an enviable, majestic boutique hotel nestled among olive trees and cypresses, it gives the feeling of being far away, cut off from everyone and everything, despite being just a 10-minute distance from Corfu’s picturesque old town.
The magic of the environment and the unparalleled elegance of the common areas envelop the collection of spacious rooms, comfortable bungalows, suites with upgraded views dominated by earthy tones and natural materials, and, of course, incomparable villas reaching up to 140 sq.m. These villas, in addition to the privilege of their beachfront location, also feature private pools.
At Eva Palace, the art of gastronomy finds its ideal expression in dining areas that marry aesthetics with the finest flavors: The wide range of international dishes at Mediterraneo restaurant is complemented by a large buffet of healthy and vegetarian options. At La Contessa, next to the illuminated pool, a brand new à la carte dinner menu is enriched with Italian flavors, and a new beach bar joins the Serenissima Bellini Bar and Pool bar.
The Elixir Rooftop Love Spa adds a luxurious touch of wellness and relaxation to the already unique stay experience at Eva Palace, sure to delight couples with its treatments inspired by the goddess of love and beauty.
03
LUXME Costa Botanica
The spectacular Costa Botanica resort in northern Corfu, specifically in the Acharavi area with its enchanting sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, celebrates the completion of its extensive renovation with a newly inaugurated Spa-gym.
Embodying the summer paradise destination we’ve all dreamed of as children, close to Antinioti lagoon and the captivating northern beaches, with gentle, verdant hills as a backdrop and a kilometer-long beach stretching before it, Costa Botanica welcomes visitors to the seven neighborhoods of its beautiful expanse of a unique “traditional village,” surrounding the Piazza Popolare, a clever reference to the island’s Venetian past.
Beautiful summer residences are spread across four Corfiot-style buildings around the spectacular setting composed of the outdoor pool and surrounding exotic palms. Each has its own theme – Botanists World, Explorers Era, Romantic Corfu, Country House – to cater to every family need and all that makes our holidays unique and precious.
Family rooms, studios, apartments, maisonettes, bungalows, and suites, all spacious, with verandas or balconies offering views of the lush gardens or the pool, some sharing private pools, epitomize chic country-side living and exude warmth, familiarity, and a genuine sense of hospitality.
Children will enjoy play and relive summer carefree days in the 40,000 sq.m. Aqua Park, among fantastic open and closed water slides and slow-flowing rivers surrounded by manicured lawns. Everyone will experience top culinary delights at the four à la carte restaurants offering Greek, Italian, and Asian specialties, at Botanica Fine Dining, at the rich buffet of Mediterranean, and in the hundreds of selected labels from domestic and international vineyards offered at The Cava Bottega.
The handmade sweets, traditional treats, and sugary delicacies of the Chocolate Bar, along with the temptations of the Creperie & Gelateria at the Beach Club, remind everyone that on holidays and trips – no matter how big or small – we deserve to enjoy the best with all our senses.
