• Easter Celebrations: Corfu’s Easter is famous throughout Greece, featuring processions, the unique tradition of “pot throwing,” and musical performances.
• Corfu Carnival (February/March): Inspired by Venetian traditions, the Carnival includes parades, colorful costumes, and street parties across the island.
• St. Spyridon Feast Days (August 11, December 12, and others): Celebrations honoring Corfu’s patron saint with parades, religious ceremonies, and music.
• Corfu Beer Festival (September): A unique event where local and international breweries showcase their beers, along with Greek and foreign food stalls.
• Corfu Music Festival (July): An annual festival that brings classical and contemporary music performances to venues around Corfu Town.

• British Influence: Corfu was a British protectorate in the 19th century, and as a result, cricket is still played on the island—a rare sport in Greece.
• Kumquat Specialty: The kumquat was introduced to Corfu by the British, and today it’s a staple ingredient in local liqueurs, candies, and jams.
• Unique Cuisine: Corfu’s cuisine is influenced by Venetian, French, and British cultures, creating unique dishes like sofrito, pastitsada, and bourdeto.
• The Ionian Philharmonic Societies: Corfu is famous for its philharmonic bands, and the island has multiple music societies that perform at events and parades.
• Home to Empress Sissi’s Palace: The Achilleion Palace was built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria as a tribute to her love of Greek mythology.
• Oldest Olive Trees: Corfu is home to some of Greece’s oldest olive trees, with some trees over 500 years old.
• International Film Locations: Corfu has been used as a filming location for movies like For Your Eyes Only and The Durrells TV series.
• Liston Arcade: Modeled after the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, the Liston is one of Corfu Town’s most elegant spots and a popular place to enjoy coffee.
• Mythological History: According to Greek mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, created Corfu as a romantic hideaway for his love, the nymph Korkyra.
• Historic Fortresses: Corfu Town’s two Venetian fortresses, the Old Fortress and the New Fortress, were built to protect the island from Ottoman invasions.

What is Corfu Island known for?
Corfu is renowned for its lush landscapes, historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Known as the "Emerald Isle" for its greenery, Corfu’s diverse heritage includes Venetian, French, and British influences, most visible in Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island also has a vibrant arts and music scene, picturesque villages, and offers an extensive range of outdoor activities, from beach sports to hiking.

Is Corfu Island a good destination for families?
Yes, Corfu is a fantastic family destination, with family-friendly beaches, charming towns, and activities for all ages. Families can enjoy beach days at Glyfada, Sidari, or Agios Gordios, explore Corfu’s historic sites, or take boat trips along the coast. Many hotels and resorts cater to families with child-friendly amenities and services. The island’s warm hospitality and variety of attractions make it a memorable vacation spot for families.

Is Corfu Island a safe destination for tourists?
Corfu is very safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. The island is well-developed, and local residents are friendly and accustomed to visitors. Standard safety precautions are recommended, especially when exploring remote areas or beaches. Overall, Corfu’s safe environment and reputation for hospitality contribute to a worry-free experience for travelers.

Do you need a visa to visit Corfu Island?
EU citizens do not need a visa to visit Corfu. Travelers from the U.S., Canada, Australia, and other Schengen Area countries can stay in Greece visa-free for up to 90 days. Nationals of other countries may need a Schengen visa. Corfu’s international airport connects it to many European cities, making it easily accessible for international travelers.

What is the best way to get to Corfu Island?
Corfu is accessible by air and sea. The Corfu International Airport has flights from Athens and major European cities, while ferries connect Corfu with mainland Greece, including from Igoumenitsa and Patras, as well as nearby Italian ports. Once on the island, renting a car or scooter is a great way to explore, but Corfu Town is also accessible by foot.

Should I rent a car on Corfu Island?
Yes, renting a car or scooter is recommended for exploring Corfu’s many beaches, villages, and scenic areas. Public transportation covers main routes, but a car provides flexibility, allowing you to reach remote beaches and explore at your own pace. Roads are generally well-maintained, though some narrow mountain roads may require careful driving.

Is Corfu Island wheelchair accessible?
Corfu has some accessible areas, especially in Corfu Town, where many streets and public spaces are flat. However, the island’s hilly terrain and cobblestone streets can be challenging in certain areas. Many resorts and larger hotels offer wheelchair-accessible facilities, but accessibility may be limited in older buildings and rural areas. It’s best to check with accommodations in advance for specific accessibility options.

What are Corfu Island’s most famous landmarks?
Corfu’s landmarks include Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO site with Venetian architecture, the Achilleion Palace built by Empress Sissi, and Angelokastro, a Byzantine fortress with panoramic views. The Mon Repos Palace, the Church of St. Spyridon, and Paleokastritsa Beach are also popular. These sites reflect Corfu’s blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and history.

What are the best beaches on Corfu Island?
Corfu has many stunning beaches, with something for everyone. Paleokastritsa is famous for its turquoise waters and scenic cliffs, while Glyfada offers a lively beach atmosphere with bars and water sports. Sidari is known for its Canal d’Amour rock formations, and Agios Gordios provides a relaxed vibe and beautiful sunset views. For a quieter experience, head to Myrtiotissa or Issos beaches.

What is unique about Corfu Island’s wildlife?
Corfu is home to diverse wildlife, including birds like herons and flamingos in the wetlands of Lake Korission. The island’s olive groves, lush forests, and clear waters support a variety of flora and marine life. Corfu is also a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles, making it a popular destination for eco-conscious visitors and nature lovers.

What traditional foods should you try on Corfu Island?
Corfu’s cuisine includes Venetian-inspired dishes like pastitsada (pasta with meat and spices) and sofrito (beef in garlic sauce). Local specialties include bourdeto (spicy fish stew) and sweets made from kumquat. Olive oil, used in many dishes, is a staple, and locally caught seafood is often grilled and served with lemon and herbs. Local tavernas offer an authentic taste of Corfiot cuisine.

Can you drink tap water on Corfu Island?
While tap water in Corfu is generally safe for brushing teeth and cooking, it’s recommended to drink bottled water, which is widely available. Some visitors prefer bottled water due to the mineral taste of tap water, especially in remote areas. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops provide bottled water for convenience.

What is the nightlife like on Corfu Island?
Corfu offers a vibrant nightlife, particularly in areas like Kavos, Ipsos, and Corfu Town, with a mix of bars, clubs, and beach parties. Corfu Town has a sophisticated scene, with rooftop bars, cafes, and live music venues, while beach towns provide a lively, casual atmosphere. Whether you want a relaxed evening or a night of dancing, Corfu has options for every preference.

How can I stay connected to the internet on Corfu Island?
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants, especially in Corfu Town and popular tourist areas. Cellular coverage is reliable, and major carriers provide good service across the island, though remote areas may have weaker signals. Visitors using European carriers should have no trouble staying connected, and SIM cards are available for purchase locally.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from Corfu Island?
Popular souvenirs from Corfu include kumquat liqueur, local olive oil, and hand-carved olive wood items. Handmade jewelry, traditional ceramics, and kumquat sweets are also widely available in local shops. Olive oil soap and beauty products, as well as traditional woven textiles, make beautiful gifts that reflect Corfu’s culture and natural resources. These items capture the essence of Corfu’s beauty and craftsmanship.

• Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sissi): Built the Achilleion Palace as a retreat, which became a tribute to her admiration for Greek culture.
• Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Born on Corfu in 1921 at Mon Repos Palace before his family went into exile.
• Gerasimos Daskalakis: A contemporary Greek painter known for his depictions of Corfu’s landscapes and architecture.
• Edward Lear: The British writer and painter who spent time on Corfu, creating landscape paintings of the island.
• Gerald Durrell: The British naturalist and author of My Family and Other Animals, which recounts his family’s life on Corfu.
• Lawrence Durrell: Brother of Gerald, a celebrated British novelist, also wrote about Corfu in Prospero’s Cell, describing the island’s beauty.
• Dionysios Solomos: Greece’s national poet, wrote the national anthem while residing on the island.
• George Theotokis: A prominent Corfiot politician who served as Prime Minister of Greece in the early 20th century.
• Spyros Samaras: The Corfiot composer of the Olympic Hymn, still performed at every Olympic Games opening ceremony.
• Aristotelis Valaoritis: A poet and politician whose works celebrated Greek culture and history, inspired by the Ionian landscapes, including Corfu.

• For Your Eyes Only (1981): A James Bond movie featuring scenes shot on Corfu’s coastline, with its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
• The Durrells (2016-2019): A popular British TV series based on Gerald Durrell’s books about his family’s life on Corfu.
• My Family and Other Animals (2005): A TV adaptation of Gerald Durrell’s memoir, capturing the natural beauty of Corfu.
• Mediterraneo (1991): While filmed on other islands, the movie’s portrayal of Greek island life mirrors Corfu’s charm.
• Jason Bourne (2016): Scenes were filmed around Corfu, showcasing its idyllic scenery and urban landscapes.
• Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (2001): Filmed mainly in Kefalonia, but Corfu’s similar scenery is often associated with the film’s romantic setting.
• Summer Lovers (1982): Although set in the Cyclades, the movie’s vibe reflects Corfu’s romantic and natural beauty.
• The Magus (1968): Based on John Fowles’ novel, filmed on Greek islands with settings that evoke Corfu’s mystique.
• The Blue Villa (1993): A thriller set in the Greek islands, with scenery similar to Corfu’s dramatic coastlines.
• Before Midnight (2013): While set on another island, the film captures the romantic ambiance typical of Corfu’s charming villages and scenic beaches.