Corfu Attractions

Corfu, a beautiful island in Greece, offers a wide range of beach and leisure activities for all tastes and preferences. Here is a list of activities you can enjoy on the island:

1. Nudist Beaches: Corfu is home to several nudist beaches where visitors can enjoy the freedom of being in their natural state. Some popular nudist beaches on the island include Myrtiotissa Beach, Halikounas Beach, and Mirtiotissa Beach.

2. Water sports: Corfu offers a plethora of water sports for enthusiasts. From jet skiing, wind surfing, paddle boarding, and parasailing to scuba diving and snorkeling, there are plenty of options to choose from.

3. Boat tours: Touring the island by boat is a popular activity in Corfu. Visitors can explore hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coastal landscapes while enjoying the Mediterranean sun.

4. Hiking and walking trails: Corfu is a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails winding through lush forests, olive groves, and picturesque villages. The Corfu Trail is a popular long-distance hiking route that covers the length of the island.

5. Cycling: Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the island’s natural beauty and picturesque villages. There are several bike rental shops on the island, and you can choose from easy coastal rides to more challenging mountain routes.

6. Golf: Corfu has a beautiful 18-hole golf course, the Corfu Golf Club, where visitors can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning sea views and lush greenery.

7. Horseback riding: Experience the beauty of Corfu’s countryside on horseback with guided horse riding tours. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there are options for all levels.

8. Yoga and wellness retreats: Corfu is a popular destination for yoga and wellness retreats, offering a tranquil setting for relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-discovery.

9. Beach volleyball and beach soccer: Many of the beaches in Corfu have designated areas for beach sports such as volleyball and soccer. Join in a friendly game or watch a match while soaking up the sun.

10. Traditional Greek cooking classes: Learn the art of traditional Greek cooking with hands-on cooking classes that showcase the island’s delicious cuisine and fresh local ingredients.

Corfu caters to visitors of all ages and abilities, offering accessible leisure activities such as beach wheelchairs, adaptive water sports equipment, and guided tours tailored to individuals with disabilities. Whether you are looking for relaxation on the beach, adrenaline-pumping water sports, or cultural experiences, Corfu has something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Old Town of Corfu:

- Opening hours: The Old Town is open 24/7, but specific attractions within the Old Town may have varying opening hours.

- Ticket prices: Entry to the Old Town is free, but some attractions within the town may charge entrance fees.

- Booking tips: No booking is required to visit the Old Town, but it’s recommended to book guided tours in advance to learn more about the history and culture of the town.

- Accessibility information: The Old Town may have cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, making it challenging for wheelchair users. However, some parts of the town are accessible, such as the Liston Promenade and Spianada Square.

2. Achilleion Palace:

- Opening hours: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm (April to October), 8:00 am to 3:00 pm (November to March).

- Ticket prices: Entrance fee is around 10 euros for adults and free for children under 18 years old.

- Booking tips: It’s advisable to book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.

- Accessibility information: The palace has wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, and ramps for visitors with mobility issues.

3. Paleokastritsa Beach and Monastery:

- Opening hours: The beach is open 24/7, while the monastery is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

- Ticket prices: Entrance to the beach is free, but there may be a small fee to visit the monastery.

- Booking tips: No booking is required for the beach, but it’s recommended to check the visiting hours of the monastery in advance.

- Accessibility information: The beach may have some steep slopes and uneven terrain, while the monastery may have stairs, making it challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

4. Corfu Archaeological Museum:

- Opening hours: 8:30 am to 3:00 pm (Tuesday to Sunday).

- Ticket prices: Entrance fee is around 4 euros for adults, with discounted rates for students and senior citizens.

- Booking tips: No booking is required for individual visitors, but groups may need to book in advance.

- Accessibility information: The museum is wheelchair-accessible, with elevators and ramps for easy access.

5. Mount Pantokrator:

- Opening hours: The mountain is open for hiking and sightseeing throughout the day.

- Ticket prices: There is no entrance fee to access the mountain, but there may be charges for guided tours or activities.

- Booking tips: It’s advisable to book guided tours or transportation services in advance if needed.

- Accessibility information: The mountain may have steep hiking trails and rough terrain, making it unsuitable for those with mobility issues.

Corfu is a unique island with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Here are some local insights and tips:

1. Beaches: Corfu is blessed with numerous beautiful beaches, each with its own charm. Some popular beaches include Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, and Sidari. For a more secluded experience, head to quieter beaches like Agios Gordios or Pelekas.

2. Food: Corfu’s cuisine is influenced by Italian, Greek, and Venetian flavors. Don’t miss trying local specialties like sofrito (beef cooked in wine sauce), pastitsada (pasta with rooster in tomato sauce), and bourdeto (fish stew). Make sure to also try the local kumquat liqueur.

3. Old Town: Corfu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Explore the historic alleyways, visit the Old Fortress and the Liston promenade, and enjoy the lively cafés and shops.

4. LGBTQ+ Friendly Spaces: Corfu is generally LGBTQ+ friendly, with a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. While there are no designated LGBTQ+ venues, many bars and clubs in the town center are open to all. The island hosts events during Pride Month and has a supportive community.

5. Community Activities: Corfu has a strong sense of community, with various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Don’t miss the Easter celebrations, the Carnival parade, and the summer music and arts festivals. Residents often gather in cafes and tavernas to socialize and connect.

Overall, Corfu is a welcoming destination with a mix of history, nature, and local charm that will make your visit memorable. Enjoy the local hospitality and explore all that this beautiful island has to offer!

Corfu offers a variety of shopping opportunities, from local markets to unique artisan crafts. Here are some of the best places to shop in Corfu for unique finds and local products:

1. **Corfu Town**: The old town of Corfu is a great place to shop for a variety of goods, from traditional Greek products like olive oil and honey to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The narrow streets are lined with shops selling everything from jewelry and ceramics to leather goods and textiles.

2. **Spianada Square**: This bustling square in the heart of Corfu Town is a popular spot for shopping, with a range of shops selling clothing, accessories, and local products. You can also find street vendors selling handmade souvenirs and other unique items.

3. **Local Markets**: Corfu has several weekly markets where you can shop for fresh produce, local products, and handmade crafts. The most famous market is the Corfu Town market, where you can find a wide range of goods including fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and more.

4. **Kerkyra Handmade**: Located in Corfu Town, this boutique shop offers a curated selection of handmade products by local artisans, including jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and more. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.

5. **Olive Wood Workshops**: Corfu is known for its olive trees, and many local artisans craft beautiful products from olive wood. You can find shops and workshops selling olive wood products such as cutting boards, utensils, and decorative items.

6. **Traditional Greek Products**: Be sure to sample and purchase some of Corfu’s traditional products, such as olive oil, honey, wines, and local herbs. These make great gifts and are a way to bring a taste of Corfu back home with you.

7. **Inclusive Shopping**: Corfu is a welcoming destination for all visitors, and many shops and markets are accessible to people with disabilities. Additionally, some shops in Corfu Town have adopted inclusive practices, such as providing accessibility ramps and offering a diverse range of products for all customers.

Overall, shopping in Corfu offers a diverse range of opportunities to find unique, locally-made products and support the island’s artisans and small businesses. Whether you’re looking for traditional Greek products, handmade crafts, or inclusive shopping experiences, Corfu has something for every shopper.

Corfu, like the rest of Greece, is predominantly Greek-speaking. English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Here are some basic Greek phrases that may come in handy during your visit to Corfu:

1. Hello - Γεια σας (Yia sas)

2. Goodbye - Αντίο (Adio)

3. Please - Παρακαλώ (Parakalo)

4. Thank you - Ευχαριστώ (Efharisto)

5. Yes - Ναι (Ne)

6. No - Όχι (Ochi)

7. Excuse me - Συγγνώμη (Signomi)

8. Where is...? - Πού είναι...; (Pou einai...?)

9. How much is this? - Πόσο κοστίζει αυτό; (Poso kostizei afto?)

10. I don’t understand - Δεν καταλαβαίνω (Den katalaveno)

It’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in the local language as a sign of respect and to help make your interactions with locals smoother.

Communication Tips:

1. Greek people are generally warm and friendly. A smile goes a long way in breaking the ice.

2. If you encounter language barriers, try using simple words, hand gestures, or even drawing to get your message across.

3. Learning some basic Greek sign language can also be helpful. For example, nodding for yes, shaking your head for no, and pointing can be easily understood gestures.

4. Consider using translation apps on your phone to facilitate communication in case of difficulties.

5. Be patient and speak slowly and clearly when communicating with locals who may not speak fluent English.

Overall, being polite, patient, and open to new ways of communication will help you navigate your interactions with the locals in Corfu effectively.

Corfu, known for its beautiful beaches, historic monuments, and lush landscapes, is an ideal travel destination. Here is some practical information for travelers visiting Corfu:

Weather:

- Corfu has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

- The summer months, from June to September, are the most popular time to visit Corfu. Average temperatures range from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C) during this time.

- Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) are also good times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer tourists.

Seasonal Guides:

- During the summer months, many cultural events, festivals, and concerts take place in Corfu. One of the most famous events is the Corfu Festival, held in the ancient town of Kerkira.

- In spring, the island bursts into color with blooming flowers and green landscapes, making it a great time for hiking and exploring nature.

- Autumn is also a good time to visit, as the weather is still warm, and the island is less crowded with tourists.

Emergency Services:

- In case of an emergency, dial 112 for general emergencies or 166 for medical emergencies in Corfu.

- The police can be reached by dialing 100, and the fire department by dialing 199.

Medical Facilities:

- Corfu has several medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, providing quality medical care to locals and tourists.

- The General Hospital of Corfu (General University Hospital of Corfu) is the main hospital on the island, located in Kerkira.

- Pharmacies (Greek: φαρμακείο) can be found throughout Corfu, and many are open late or 24/7 in tourist areas.

Travelers to Corfu should also be aware of basic safety precautions, such as staying hydrated, using sunscreen, and being cautious of pickpocketing in busy tourist areas. It’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation in case of unforeseen events.