The City of Corfu
This guide is tailored for cruise passenger visiting Corfu.
Corfu ranks amongst Europe’s most fascinating destinations marked by intriguing contrast and consecutive influences, a crossroad of colors and civilizations.
The Old Town of Corfu was listed as a UNESCO world heritage monument in 2007. Is cited as a well-preserved example of a fortified Mediterranean port town noted for its medieval and later forts, streets and buildings.
Corfu boasts the biggest museum in Europe of Chinese and Japanese art housed at the Palace of St. Michael & St. George, builded by the British in the early 19th century as the British Governors Palace in the Ionian Islands.
For the cruise visitor Corfu offers excursions in some beautiful sites as Paleokastritsa, Lakones, Barbati, Glyfada, Pelekas at the seaside, or “Achillion” Sissy’s and then Kaisers Palace, but also in the medieval villages of the interior.
The center of social life in Corfu Town is undoubtedly to be found at the Liston-Espianade.
Beaches
The Top-4 beaches in Corfu
Glyfada - Distance 18km
Among the most popular beaches, awarded with blue flag has a long sandy beach. Fully organized with sun beds, umbrellas and water sports facilities.
Often winds blowing in the area and is likely to encounter waves. Features bar, cafes and a wide variety of hotels.
Paleokastritsa - Distance 30km
Situated in northwestern Corfu Paleokastritsa offers many small pebble beaches and sand and rocky coves.
Is a fully equipped resort with many luxury hotels, apartments, studios and numerous restaurants, cafes and bars next to the sea with wonderful views.
Pelekas - Distance 15km
The beach on the west side of Corfu is famous for the notorius sunset. Pelekas is a quiet sandy beach ideal for relaxation and games with the children.You will find restaurants, cafes and plenty of accommodation.
Peroulades - Distance 30km
Peroulades beach in northwestern Corfu is one of the most beautiful beaches.
It is sandy with shallow waters, ideal for families with young children. This small beach awarded with blue flag, surrounded by towering cliffs that make the magical landscape.
It is organized with umbrellas and sunbeds and at the region will find taverns and hotels.
Museums
Archaeological Museum :: Construction:: 1962-1965, expanded in 1994.
The most impressive exhibits in the museum are from the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman Era and come mainly from the excavations of several ancient sites of Corfu and Epirus.
Collections and contents: Statues, gables, copper, marble, pottery, burial finds and objects.
Byzantine Museum :: Construction:: 15th century. The museum was founded in 1984. Renovated in 1994.
The museum is housed in the Church of Our Lady Antivouniotissa, which is a lovely well-preserved church built in the 15th century.
Collections and contents: Icons and sacred objects from the 15th to the 19th century.
Asian Art Museum :: Construction:: 1819-1824, founded in 1927.
The Museum of Asian Art contains excellent collections of Asian countries. The building has a long and distinguished history, having been headquarters of the British General Staff, Headquarters of the Ionian Senate, as well as a summer residence of the Royal Family of Greece. The majority of the exhibits are donations from prominent Greek citizens, the Municipality of Corfu and the National Archaeological Museum.
Collections and contents: Chinese artefacts from the Ming Dynasties, Sung, Cheo, Han, Wei, Ching. Japanese items such as weapons and masks. Items from Pakistan, India, Nepal, Tibet, Cambodia, Korea, Thailand and Siam. Furniture, portraits, medals, paintings of presidents of the Ionian Senate and relics of that era.
Kapodistrias Museum :: Founded:: 1981
The exhibits were donated by Mary-Desylla Kapodistrias, who was Mayor of Corfu during the period 1956-1959. The museum was built on a plot of family property of John Kapodistrias, the first governor of Greece.
Collections and contents: furniture and relics of the era, personal items of John Kapodistrias.
Port Facts
- Tour busses can be positioned on the pier to carry passengers on their shore excursions along with two (2) shuttle buses hired from CPA S.A. to transport free of charge all day long from pier to terminal.
- The Tourist Information desk is open during cruise calls and offer free maps of Corfu along with useful info to whom they ask for routes, sites etc.
- Car rental stand situated in the terminal along with Taxi Company and a new dedicated nonstop bus service connects Corfu Port with the city.
- Passengers and crew can use free Internet Access (Wi-Fi) inside the terminal along with five (5) interactive information panels.
- There is also a stand with bicycles who anyone can rent one to enjoy a ride in the city.
- Boats to Italy and Albania use the terminal for their departures in daily bases.
Welcome to the port of Corfu
This AI-generated guide, courtesy of ChatGPT, is tailored for cruise passengers arriving in Corfu for the first time.
General Port Facts
Corfu, a jewel in the Ionian Sea, welcomes you with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Discover the magic of this Greek island during your limited time in port.
Touristic Information
Explore Corfu's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming cafes. Enjoy the island's beaches, olive groves, and the iconic Achilleion Palace.
Transportation Options
Transportation in Corfu is convenient. Taxis are readily available at the port. Additionally, you can explore nearby attractions by bus or car. Here are some accessible destinations:
- Kanoni and Mouse Island - 4 km (2.5 miles), 15 minutes
- Paleokastritsa Monastery - 25 km (15.5 miles), 45 minutes
- Achilleion Palace - 10 km (6.2 miles), 20 minutes
- Corfu Town (Old Town) - 2 km (1.2 miles), 10 minutes
Local Foods
Indulge in Corfu's delicious cuisine. Try traditional dishes like moussaka, pastitsada, and kumquat-based products. Local tavernas offer a taste of authentic Greek flavors.
Top 5 Attractions
- Achilleion Palace - Entrance fee: Approximately €10
- Corfu Old Town - Free to explore
- Paleokastritsa Monastery - Free to enter, small donation appreciated
- Kanoni and Mouse Island - Free to visit
- Liston Promenade - Enjoy a stroll and local cafes, no entrance fee
Nice to Know Facts
- Corfu has a strong influence from Venetian, French, and British cultures due to its historical significance.
- The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for water activities.
- Corfu is known for its Easter celebrations, including solemn processions and vibrant festivities.
Local Customs
Respect local customs and traditions. Greeks are known for their warm hospitality, so a friendly "Kalimera" (Good morning) goes a long way. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Fun Things for Children
- Up to 6 years old: Play at Corfu's family-friendly beaches.
- 7-12 years old: Explore the Old Town's narrow streets and visit the Old Fortress.
- 13-18 years old: Enjoy water sports or a boat trip to Mouse Island.
Google Maps
Explore the location near the cruise port on Google Maps.
Main Tourism Office Website
For additional information, visit the official Visit Greece website: Visit Greece.
Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure.