A traveler friend of mine said this about Corfu: "This is the only place in Europe where you feel at home." Probably, each of us has favorite places away from home that we want to return to, but Corfu is really so hospitable, it opens its arms so warmly that you feel a real kinship with this cozy and friendly city. The heart of Kerkyra is the temple of St. Spyridon of Trimifuntsky and the temple of the Most Holy Mother of God Spiliotissa, where the relics of the holy queen Theodora, the protector of icon veneration, are kept. These kind, beloved by the Russian people, saints protect Kerkyra, its calm, wise inhabitants and guests.
Igoumenitsa - Corfu ferry schedules vary (about 10 ferries per day) depending on the time of the year, so check this.
The fare is 11 EUR per person and 40-45 EUR (including the cost of passenger and car transportation) if you are by car.
conditional areas. Descriptions and features
Corfu is a small island (65 km long, 33 wide), if you cross it by car in the central part from west to east (from Paleokastritsa to Kerkyra), then it will take no more than half an hour. And yet, the island is divided into several tourist areas. Which one to choose depends, first of all, on what time you are going to rest and what you expect from the rest. Options:
- Settle in Kerkyra (the capital of the island) or in its environs (Kanoni, Perama).
This option is suitable for lovers of urban, cultural recreation, shopping and nightlife. You can swim on the city beaches, which, of course, are inferior in beauty to the village ones, but still gather a lot of vacationers. In the city, in addition to sights, there is a long promenade for walking, from which you can admire the old fortress, mill and bay. Along the waterfront are cafes and taverns. There are, of course, in the city center. There is a bus station in the city, from which buses run to all remote villages of Corfu. You can choose a day and spend it on the village beach. The cost of a room in a 3 * hotel for two in the middle season (June, September) will be approximately 50-60 EUR (with breakfast), and in the season prices rise to 80-100 EUR, besides, finding accommodation in July and August in the center is quite problematic, the demand is very high. One of the most expensive areas is Kanoni. This is explained by the special location near the airport and not far from the center. Tourists who settled there every day can watch how planes arrive and depart on the island, it is especially beautiful in the evening. It is recommended to take care of booking rooms or apartments as early as possible. Be sure to check for air conditioning. And yet, I would advise you to settle somewhere in a village by the sea: you can always go to the city, and it’s better to relax in nature. And one more recommendation: learn that there is a port in the city, which receives many ferries and several international liners every day in the summer. Hotels in the port area are cheaper than, for example, in the Old Town, but it is noisy and crowded. 
- Choose a hotel on the coast and relax surrounded by greenery in close proximity to the beach. This option is the most logical. However, in this case, you are faced with the choice of the coast. The price of a hotel directly depends on which side of Corfu it is located on.
The most popular is the northeast coast. It is here (Gouvia, Dasia, Messonghi, Benitses) that there are large hotels that can accommodate up to 1000 people during the season, many villas and private apartments. One of the most beautiful places on the northeast coast is the village of Barbati. This is a spectacular place with a beautiful beach and good taverns, besides not very far from Corfu. If you do not settle here, then I advise you to visit at least once, swim or drink coffee. All villages are connected to the city by bus lines, you can also travel by taxi, although this is more expensive. 
- The north - Roda, Acharavi, Sidari - is famous for its sandy shallow beaches with warm water and proximity to the famous De Amor Canal (Lovers' Canal). The channel is really interesting, but, in my opinion, it is better to swim on the beaches of the west and east coasts. Accommodation prices in the north of Corfu are approximately 10-15 EUR lower than in Corfu.
- The northwestern part of the island is Paleokastritsa and the surrounding villages. Very popular, beautiful tourist place.
Paleokastritsa is literally buried in greenery. The sea here is of a delicate blue-turquoise color, the water warms up for a long time and only by the second half of July does it become a comfortable temperature (+25 degrees). Tourists joke that this feature is a payment for the beauty of beaches and bays. In the center of Paleokastritsa, on a hill, there is a male active monastery of the Virgin of Paleokastritsa with two miraculous icons. From this coast, a rock is clearly visible, which is called the Ship of Odysseus (from a distance it resembles a frozen ship with a high stern). There is a small port in Paleokastritsa, from which small boats ply along the coastal bays (the ticket costs 7 EUR). In early August, there is a theatrical and musical show on the water - Varkarola (the arrival of Odysseus on the island). If you are in Corfu at this time, be sure to visit the show, it involves artists, singers and musicians. At the end of the evening there will be noisy fireworks. 
Not far from Paleokastritsa is Angelokastro (Fortress of the Angels) - an ancient dilapidated fortress that used to be a strategic observation post for the Corthians. Its special atmosphere (the fortress seems to be floating above the clouds) will be remembered for a long time by everyone who visited it. Paleokastritsa has budget apartments and hotels, as well as luxury hotels, for every taste and choice. Apartments in the high season can be rented for 50-60 EUR, which is 20 EUR lower than accommodation in the city during the same period. - Ermones, Glyfada and Agios Gordis - picturesque villages on the western and southwestern coast of Corfu - are distinguished by lively beaches with many coastal cafes and children's attractions.
From Ermones, not far from Pelekas, the village where the Kaiser's observation post was. From here you can clearly see the central part of the island, Kerkyra and the city port. Prices, in general, can be called democratic, the same as in Paleokastritsa. Glyfada is more expensive. But in Ermones, for example, there is an expensive hotel with an external elevator, which can be used to go down from the rooms to the dining area and to the beach. 
- Kavos is the southernmost point of Corfu. The beaches here are sandy and mixed, gently sloping. In the evening, Kavos is very noisy and fun, this is a place of constant parties. Peaceful places to stay in the south are Levkimi and Agios Georgios.
The disadvantages are that it is quite a long way to get to the center from here by car, more than an hour. But housing prices are correspondingly lower. In mid-June, you can rent a room for 20 EUR. 
What are the prices for holidays
As we have already said, housing and car rental prices vary significantly from season to season. There are three seasons on the island:
- high (July, August),
- middle (June, September),
- low (May, October).
Hotels and apartments
In the high season, the price of an apartment or a double room in a hotel of at least 3 * will cost from 60 EUR (often breakfast is already included in this price). With the increase in the star rating of the hotel, the price also increases sharply (up to 100 EUR), if you rent a villa for several people, get ready to pay from 150–200 EUR per day.
In the middle season, the minimum price for the same accommodation will drop by about 10 EUR and will be about 50 EUR per room.
In the low season, the minimum price per room starts from 35–40 EUR for a double room with a hotel of at least 3 * level.
I recommend renting an apartment. As a rule, they are more comfortable and quieter than hotels. You can take an apartment with a kitchen, in case you want to buy, for example, fresh fish from the market and cook according to your favorite recipes. By the way, the seasonings in Corfu are wonderful. If you are traveling with a child, it is better to take studios or apartments with a kitchen: not all hotels can provide a children's menu. If you choose a hotel, then 3 * is a decent and not expensive option, often food is already included in the price.
Car rent
The same can be said about car rentals. The difference will vary by 10–20 EUR depending on the season. If in June you can find a good car with a manual gearbox for 40 EUR per day, then in August the demand increases greatly, and the same car will cost from 60 EUR per day, and you will have to agree on a rental in advance.
But at the same time, do not forget that driving in Corfu is quite difficult: the roads are winding and narrow, tourists drive uncertainly and often against the rules, violating the speed limit. I strongly do not recommend driving at night: many roads in the mountains are not illuminated, you risk at least getting lost. And of course, be sure to check the condition of the air conditioner in the car.
Taxi
Taxi prices do not depend significantly on the season. In general, taxis in Corfu can be called expensive transport. For example, the fare "airport - Paleokastritsa" costs 40 EUR. Sometimes, in the absence of buses (they run several times a day), you have to use a taxi. If you want to save money by going sightseeing or swimming on the beaches in another part of the island, I can advise this option: try to find fellow travelers and split the total taxi fare between you.
Food and excursions
Food and excursions cost also do not depend on what season you arrived. Food in the city, in comparison, for example, in good village taverns, costs 10–15 EUR more.
Excursions can hardly be called cheap (the simplest ones start from 35–40 EUR), so I would advise you to take an international driving license with you, rent a car and visit the places that you really want, and not those that are offered for groups. Although, for general acquaintance, a sightseeing tour of the city is quite interesting and eventful.
Prompt:
What are the prices for holidays?
Accommodation
The city has year-round hotels, but housing on the coast in winter is almost never rented. The city rents both hotel rooms and apartments (for example, in the Kanoni area, an expensive option), there are even villas.
The cost of housing in Corfu is very dependent on the month. And the availability of housing, by the way, too. Still, this is not a million-plus city, and hotels and apartments in July and August are overflowing with curious tourists. In the low season (winter, March, April, October) the average price of a room will be approximately 40 EUR (standard double room, sometimes breakfast included). In the middle season - about 50-60 EUR, and in the high season, the best option is to find accommodation for up to 80 EUR. The cheapest area, as I already wrote, is Portovy, the most expensive is Kanoni.
Nutrition
If you eat in city taverns, then you need to allocate at least 25-30 EUR per day per person, the price of a standard lunch (salad, hot and drink) is about 15 EUR (the cheapest option).
Moving around the city
The best way to get around Kerkyra is by bus. Traveling on it within the city will cost you about 1.5 EUR.
Prompt:
The cost of food, lodging, transportation, etc.
Currency: Euro, € US dollar, $ Russian ruble, rub
Despite the small size of Corfu, there is something to see here. I recommend that you definitely visit the two main cathedrals of Kerkyra: the Church of St. Spyridon and the Church of the Blessed Virgin Spiliotissa (Metropoli). One of the oldest churches in Corfu is the temple of the disciples of the Apostle Paul - Jason and Sosipater.
The highest point of the island is Mount Pantokrator. The feeling of lifting is unforgettable! Buses do not go there, but you can take a taxi or drive very carefully in a rental car. The road is dangerous, serpentine.
The symbol of Corfu is the Mouse Island and Blachernae Monastery on Kanoni. There is also a beautiful viewing platform located near the airport. Of the museums, the palace of Empress Sisi in Gastouri, the Maritime Museum in Benitses, the Museum of Asian Art in Corfu are interesting. Be sure to visit the Monastery of Our Lady of Kassopitra in Figareto and the Monastery of Our Lady of Paleokastritsa.
Walking places in Corfu are Liston Street and Mon Repos Park, the People's Garden. In the immediate vicinity of Corfu (only a few hundred meters) is the island of Vidos, where you can swim in small boats.
In Corfu itself, in the center, visit the museum-apartment of a wealthy citizen Casa Parlante. Archaeological and historical monument of Corfu - the Old Fortress.
In the city center, especially if you are with children, you can ride a train (6 EUR).
Museums on the island are not expensive, besides, you can guess and get on the days of free visits. To do this, view the information on the websites of Corfu museums (links to some of them will be given below). Entrance to churches and monasteries, of course, is free, but if the monastery is active, it may be closed at certain times of the day for prayer. In Paleokastritsa, for example, the monastery is closed from 13.00 to 15.00.
Top 5
Beaches. Which is better
There are a lot of beaches on the island. There are urban ones, there are rural ones - more beautiful and comfortable. Access is free everywhere. You can rent a sunbed and an umbrella for the whole day (the cost of such a set is 5–8 EUR). However, if you want to sunbathe on a towel (I always do this), no one will forbid you to do this. If you like to swim in the evening and come to the beach after 16.00, you can take any sunbed and, most likely, you will not be asked to pay for it.
Most of the beaches are equipped with changing rooms and toilets, with the exception of the less frequented village ones. On the island, in its southwestern part, there is a fresh lake. It is interesting to go there, but swimming is not recommended, because there are snakes near the fresh water.
West Coast
The beaches of Paleokastritsa bay are pebbly, sandy and mixed. There are equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are wild ones, for example, Rovinj, Limni and Paradise. You can get there by boat taxi, which departs from the main bay of Paleokastritsa and runs to all the beaches in the area.
The beautiful beaches of the west coast are Ermones, Glyfada, Agios Gordios. There are always a lot of people in Glyfada, there are water rides and other activities. There is fine sand, pleasant waves, the entrance is gentle, but deep, a beautiful horizon line. The same can be said about Agios Gordios. Ermones is a cozy bay, on the tops of which there are hotels and apartments.
East Coast
On the eastern part of the island, the sea is always a little warmer: on this side, it seems to be covered by the mainland. Messonghi, Agios Ioannis, Benitses, Dasya, Gouvia, Barbati, I advise you to choose for a holiday in the middle season, because in June and even in May the water here is already warming up well. On the east coast there are many cafes, bars, restaurants, shops, vibrant nightlife, many sightseeing spots. The most interesting and beautiful of all the beaches is Barbati. There are also many attractions here, there is a coastal zone planted with trees, where it is convenient to relax after swimming.
north coast
In the north of the island there are Roda, Acharavi and Sidari, most often there are small sandy and sandy-pebble beaches. Even small children bathe in Roda - it is so shallow here. There is an interesting tourist spot in Sidari, popular with young people, called the Canal De Amor (Canal of Love). It is a water channel between two bizarre sandy-colored rocky shores, turned by water. Swimming in the canal itself is unsafe, but next to it there are two small equipped beaches.
South coast
As we have said, the south of Corfu (Kavos region) is very popular with young people. Mostly the British rest there. The beaches are sandy and mixed, there are attractions, many cafes and bars.
In any small village in Corfu, you can find ancient churches, each with its own amazing history. Therefore, it is simply impossible to list them all. I will name the most famous.
Temple of St. Spyridon
Corfu is called the island of St. Spyridon of Trimifuntsky, whose relics rest in the very center of Kerkyra. During his lifetime, the saint was a shepherd, distinguished by special hospitality and mercy. He is also known for the fact that at the First Ecumenical Council he entered into a competition with the heretic Arius. The speech of St. Spyridon turned out to be so wise and penetrating that those around him realized that the Lord himself addressed people through him.
The relics of the saint are stored in a special shrine, which is opened twice a day - in the morning for 2 hours after the service (from 11 am to 1 pm) and in the evening from about 4 pm. The relics of St. Spyridon are imperishable, they weigh 80 kilograms and they are warm. The saint is shod in special velvet slippers, which wear out over time - this is evidence that the saint himself comes to the aid of the people of Corfu (and not only) in their needs.
Metropolis
This is the main cathedral of Kerkyra, consecrated in honor of the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary Spiliotissa (Cave), St. Blaise of Sebaste and Blessed Theodora. Righteous Empress Theodora restored icon veneration and established a holiday in honor of this event - the Triumph of Orthodoxy (celebrated on the first Sunday of Great Lent).
Temple of Jason and Sosipater
The oldest Christian church in Corfu is dedicated to the disciples of the Apostle Paul, Saints Jason and Sosipater (XII century), who brought the Christian faith to the island. This temple is the most important Byzantine monument.
Monastery of the Holy Mother of God Kassopitra
It is located in the Kanoni area (the town of Figareto). The miraculous icon of the Most Holy Theotokos Kassopetra, the icon with the relics of St. Parthenius of Lampsaki (brought by the abbot of the monastery from Mount Athos), in whose life there is a story about how he healed a woman suffering from a tumor, and many more holy particles of the relics of various saints are kept in the monastery. There are things that belonged to St. Paisius the Holy Mountaineer.
Monastery of Our Lady of Paleokastritsa
One of the most famous monasteries outside Corfu is the monastery of the Holy Mother of God Paleokastritsa. The monastery is active, male, open daily from morning to evening, but from 13.00 to 15.00 the doors of the monastery are closed - the monks pray alone.
In the monastery there are two miraculous icons of the Holy Mother of God Paleokastritsa and the icon of the Life-Giving Spring. If you want to visit the monastery without fuss, to be here in silence, I advise you to come after 15.00, when the main tourist groups have already left.
Lady of the Angels
In the south of the island, near the village of Levkimi, there is a monastery of the Holy Mother of God Lady of the Angels. In this monastery for 46 years the old woman Anastasia lived and got married (she died in 1979).
During the period of unjust persecution, mother Anastasia was evicted from her monastery cell, and then she found refuge in a large hollow of an olive tree (olive branches were intricately intertwined and formed a space in which a person could hardly fit), where she lived and prayed until until the persecution stops. From her fervent prayers, the tree glowed at night, now this hollow is called holy.
Museums. Which are worth a visit
Palace of Sisi (Achilleion)
One of the most important museums of Corfu is located in the town of Gastouri in the southeast of the island. This is a royal residence, a palace built in the 19th century by order of the Austrian Empress Elisabeth (known as Sisi). Architecturally and sculpturally, the palace is undoubtedly the jewel of Corfu.
In addition, you will find many interesting exhibits here, for example, the so-called Sisi phone, which works in Morse code. The entrance ticket costs 7 EUR.
Casa Parlante
The Casa Parlante Museum is located in the center of Corfu, not far from the temple of St. Spyridon, and is a museum-apartment - the home of a wealthy citizen. The exhibits in the museum are real, there are moving mannequins, family heirlooms, paintings and furniture. The museum has.
old fortress
This is one of the most important buildings of the Byzantine and Venetian period in Corfu. The fortress is built on a natural rock with two peaks. Construction dates back to the beginning of the 6th century AD. The Venetians fortified it and began to use it as a military base of the Adriatic and the center of trade routes throughout the Mediterranean. On the territory there is a church in the Dorian style of St. George, the patron saint of warriors.
Museum of Asian Art
It was created on the basis of the private collection of Grigoris Manos. Now it has 10 thousand exhibits from various periods of history, starting from the Neolithic. Chinese and Japanese art is selectively presented, there are objects of Tibetan, Indian, Thai, Korean, Pakistani and Nepalese culture. The museum is located in Corfu in the Palaia Anaktora area. The ticket costs 6 EUR. Museum website.
Maritime Museum
Located in the village of Benitses on the east coast and is called Shell museum (Ocean Museum). The collection of inhabitants of the deep seas of the southern seas was collected by Mr. Napoleon Sagias. He opened the Shell Museum, which was gradually enriched with new exhibits. There are sea shells, fossils, sea sponges, corals, mummified fish, sharks and their jaws, lobsters, crabs, sea urchins and snakes. Entrance costs 5 EUR. Museum website.
parks
Mon Repos
In Kerkyra itself, in the Garitsa district, there is a cozy Mon Repos park (in translation - My rest), in the center of which is the palace of the Dukes of Edinburgh. The atmosphere there is simple and aristocratic. On the territory of the park there are ancient Byzantine and medieval ruins, the ruins of an ancient temple and a fountain made in Venetian traditions. Royal families used Mon Repos as a summer residence until 1967, when the Hellenic Republic was proclaimed. In 2002, the ex-king sued the Greek state and received compensation in the amount of 1% of the cost of the palace, while Mon Repos remained in use by the Greek state.
Now the palace is a city landmark, where interesting exhibits, portraits, personal items, household items of its inhabitants have been preserved. On the second floor there is a small archaeological exposition collected during excavations on the island. Entrance to the park is free, to the palace - 3 EUR.
Spianada
The largest square in the Balkans. It is located in the very center of Corfu, on the one hand it borders on Liston, on the other - on the Old Fortress. On the north side are the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. George, the Museum of Asian Art, the People's Garden.
On the south side there is a variety stage, where concerts and musical performances are held, there is also a rotunda in the Romanesque style. Both locals and tourists love to walk along Spianada.
People's Garden (Bosqueto)
This mini-park is located on the left side of the Old Fortress. There are several sculptures, fountains, places for recreation, benches, magnolias bloom.
From here you have a beautiful view of the port, there is a playground nearby. Just behind the park is a small church.
tourist streets
The most famous and probably the most beautiful street of Corfu - Liston. It is located in the center of the city, to which small Corfiotian streets flow like streams.
Liston was built for 7 years at the beginning of the 19th century, modeled on the Parisian Rue Rivoli. Previously, only members of aristocratic families had the right to walk here. According to one version, the name Liston comes from the English list (list), which contained the names of these happy aristocrats.
On one side Liston is formed by two long houses with high arches on the ground floor. In this open gallery of arches, local cafes set up their verandas. These flying arches are considered a symbol of Liston and are responsible for its architectural appearance. In the evening, Liston is illuminated by arched lanterns and looks very warm and romantic. Opposite the galleries, there is an open cricket field which is currently hosting sports games and competitions. Liston is a favorite place for citizens and tourists who want to drink a cup of Greek coffee in the city center. From Liston to the temple of St. Spyridon of Trimifuntsky is only a 2-minute walk.
What to see in 1 day
If you only have one day in Corfu, you can spend it like this.
9:00-10:00 - Mon Repos (walk through the park, visit the royal palace and the archaeological exposition);
10:00–11:00 - Old fortress (sightseeing);
11:00–12:00 - St. Spyridon's Church (the saint's shrine opens at 11 am after the service);
12.00–14.00 - lunch in a tavern (for example, Rouvas, budget lunch, traditional Greek cuisine);
14.00–17.00 - trip to Paleokastritsa (visiting the monastery, tour of the bays of the western coast, beach);
17.00–18.00 - snack in the Limani tavern (family tavern, you can try fresh seafood);
18.00–20.00 - Kanoni (Mouse Island, Blachernae Monastery), snack at the Kanoni cafe;
20.00–21.00 - walk around Liston;
neighboring regions
nearby islands
Corfu is a border island. It has maritime links with the mainland (port of Igoumenitsa), from where you can reach the Italian Bari (8 hours on a night liner), as well as Venice, Ancona and Brindisi.
From some points of the coast with the naked eye you can see the neighboring country of Albania, which is also included in the excursion tours. Two neighboring islands - Paxos and Antipaxos - are included in the traditional one-day cruise, which is very popular with travelers. These two smallest islands of the Ionian archipelago (on Antipaxos, for example, only 100 people live) are not inferior to Corfu itself in beauty and uniqueness. You can go on a cruise from the port of Corfu, opposite which there are mini-offices of travel agencies that sell tickets in different directions.
Let's not forget about the island of Vidos and Mouse Island - they are just a few hundred meters from Corfu. You can get to them on tourist boats (cost 2.5 EUR). Previously, Vidos was connected to Corfu by an underground tunnel and was of great strategic importance, now there is a monument to Serbian soldiers there. Mouse Island is the symbol of Corfu and the first thing that tourists see from the porthole window when flying up to Corfu.
There used to be a functioning monastery on Mouse Island, now it is closed, but there is a church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.
Main attractions. What to watch
Kerkyra is full of interesting places and sights. I recommend starting your day with a visit to three churches: St. Spyridon of Trimifuntsky, St. Nicholas the Wonderworker and Metropolis (Virgin Mary Spiliotissa). All of them are located in the center next to each other.
Be sure to visit Kanoni, look at the Mouse Island (the symbol of Kerkyra), Ushakov's cannon and Blachernae Monastery.
Of the museums of interest are Asian art, Casa Parlante, the Old and New fortresses, which very well reflect all the historical events that took place in Corfu for several centuries.
A very beautiful place is the Mon Repos park and palace, which are located in the Garitsa district. And, of course, Liston Street is the second symbol of Corfu, a must-see.
If you wish, you can sail to the island of Vidos by boat. I will tell you more about it below.
Top 5
Despite its size, Corfu is full of enticing places and attractions. Firstly, of course, this is the city of Spyridon of Trimifuntsky, which is why there are so many pilgrims here who come to ask the saint for help and advice. In addition to churches and monasteries, the city has museums, and theaters, and parks, and streets for walking - whoever likes it. I think that you should visit these places:
Beaches. Which is better
Within the city there are several small beaches, which, frankly, are inferior in terms of convenience and beauty to the village beaches. Still, Kerkyra is a port city. And yet, here you can also swim:
Churches and temples. Which are worth a visit
Kerkyra is full of beautiful Orthodox churches, among which there are those that must be visited. Entrance to all churches and monasteries is free, usually in the summer they are open from 07:00 to 20:00 (21:00). Headscarves are optional for women and girls, but it is not good to enter the church in miniskirts, shorts and bare shoulders. So, I advise you to pay attention to:
- Temple of St. Spyridon of Trimifuntsky (Saint Spyridon church). On icons, the saint is often depicted clutching a small brick in his palm, a shard in memory of how at the First Ecumenical Council he proved the Unity of the Holy Trinity and forced the Arians to abandon their false doctrine. Its initiator - the priest Arius - did not recognize the divine origin and pre-eternal birth of Christ and said that Christ is simply the highest creation of God. Arius involved many people in his false teaching, and no one could stop him and bring him to reason. Then Constantine the Great (ruler of the Byzantine Empire) gathered an Ecumenical Council so that the wisest and most authoritative clergymen and theologians would pacify the heretic and stop the spread of heresy. Eulogy, the famous Greek sage, who supported Arius, came to the Council. Eulogy turned out to be assertive, sophisticated in rhetoric and sophistry, and using all verbal techniques known to him, he tried to ridicule the Orthodox faith. Saint Spyridon, who took part in the Ecumenical Council, asked for a word to reason with Eulogius, but the priests doubted: everyone knew that he had no theological education, from childhood Saint Spyridon was a shepherd. When he began to speak, people fell silent and froze. The words of the saint possessed some unearthly, incredible power. He put the proud Eulogy to shame with a simple but wise speech, and at the end he squeezed the shard in his palm, and a miracle happened. From above, a flame flared up above the palm, a stream of water spilled onto the ground, and earth remained in the hand of the saint. By this, Saint Spyridon proved that God is triune. So in the brick, three entities are combined into one. Eulogius was shocked and silent, instantly losing his eloquence. He bowed his head and could not find a single word to object to the old man. Finally, he turned to his followers and asked for forgiveness so that he would give up the Arian heresy and believe as this amazing man said.
Saint Spyridon performed many miracles, he saved Kerkyra from the plague and the Turkish invasion, healed the sick and even resurrected the dead, helped the islanders in everyday needs. The Corfinians passionately love their saint, they call their children by his name: boys Spiros, girls Spiridulas. The whole island reveres him and tremblingly preserves his relics. The saint's cancer is carried with a procession through the city "standing". His relics weigh about eighty kilograms - this is the weight of the body of a living person, and they are warm. Saint Spyridon is shod in velvet slippers. The ministers of the church say that from time to time they sew new shoes for the saint, because the old one wears out. This is evidence of a special miracle - Saint Spyridon truly goes to those who ask him for help. Worn-out slippers are carefully cut into pieces and distributed to believers. How to get there:
the temple is located in the very center of the city on Kalocheretou street, a few meters from Liston. Opening hours:
the temple is open every day from 7.00 to 20.00, the relics are opened after the morning service from 11:00 to 13:00 and before Vespers from about 16:30 to 17:30. - Mitroporoli(main temple of the island), Church of Panagia Spiliotissa(Virgin of the Cave). cathedral chuch
of Kerkyra.
A very beautiful, majestic temple, which houses the relics of the holy Empress Theodora, the protector of icon veneration. They are in a shrine, which is also opened for pilgrims. You can write notes and read prayers in Russian (the text of the prayer lies next to the shrine). The temple was built in the Baroque style, has a round star-shaped window above the entrance. The church has its own.
- Church of Saints Jason and Sosipater(Church of St. Iasonas and Sosipatros) . This is one of the first Christian churches, dates back to the XII century, dedicated to the disciples of the Apostle Paul, whom he even called his relatives. Jason and Sosipater preached the Gospel in Corfu in 63, built the first temple and baptized many people. They suffered persecution for the Christian faith from the emperor who ruled on the island, but his daughter named Kerkyra, seeing their steadfastness, also became a Christian. Soon the emperor died at sea, pursuing Christians who fled to a neighboring island, he was replaced by a new ruler, who ordered Jason and Sosipater to be thrown into a cauldron of tar, but when he saw that the tar did not harm them, he was frightened and began to ask for forgiveness and mercy. The preachers were released and lived in Corfu until old age. How to get there and opening hours: can be found on the church website.
- Church of St. Nicholas Gerondon and Archangel Michael. This is a very ancient church (XIV century), probably the first one dedicated to Nicholas the Wonderworker in Corfu, so it is called Gerondon (oldest). Several Christians who died in the battle of Navpakto in the 16th century are buried in a special part of the temple. For a long time during the Venetian rule, the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker was the residence of the high priests. Many shrines are kept in the church: part of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord, part of the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, St. Lazarus, the Apostle Andrew, St. Charalambius and Panteleimon. How to get there: located between the church of St. Spyridon and the Virgin Spiliotissa (Metropolis), Kambielo township.
- Church of Our Lady of Strangers(Παναγία των Ξένων (Greek), Panagia ton Xenon). They say that the church was built by foreigners who came to live in Kerkyra. On Holy Week, on Holy Saturday, an earthquake occurs here, it is imitated by believers, as if rocking the walls with noise, in memory of the earthquake during which the stone was rolled away from the Holy Sepulcher. The icon of the Mother of God, the patroness of strangers, decorated with gifts from believers and flowers, is located to the right of the Royal Doors. How to get there: this very beautiful, cozy church is located next to the church of St. Spyridon (the square from the side of the second entrance). Opening hours: closes at 13:00 after the morning service. Opens in the evening if there is an evening service.
Museums. Which are worth a visit
old fortress (Old Fortress
This is a significant part of the city, through which you can trace the entire history of the island. The fortress is built on a large rock, the first buildings date back to the 6th century AD. Once upon a time there were houses of local residents (about 355), but then during the Venetian rule, the fortress began to be used as a military facility, and people moved out. The Venetians strengthened and modernized the fortress, dug the contraforsa canal. At this time, the city begins to rebuild, which later will be modern Kerkyra. The fortress fulfilled its defensive function: the island successfully fought off the Turks several times, while many cities and islands of Greece could not do this and fell under dominion.
In the 20th century, a military unit was based in the Old Fortress. Ordinary residents could enter here only on the holidays of Easter, the Nativity of Christ and on the Day of Remembrance of St. George, the patron saint of warriors (there is a large church in his honor on the territory).
Visit: the fortress is open to all comers from 08:30 to 16:00, admission is by tickets, which cost 7 EUR per one. There is a small museum with frescoes and icons. You can find a map of the fortress and general information.
Asian Art Museum (Museum of Asian Art)
Located in the very center of Kerkyra, next to Liston, the Old Fortress and the Church of St. Spyridon. The museum building is located in the Palace of Saints Michael and George. The collection is considered unique, its basis is the private collection of Grigoris Manos. The exhibits (about 10,500) belong to the art and everyday life of Asian countries, represented literally from all eras, starting from the Stone Age. There are armor and weapons, musical instruments. , Japan, Tibet, Korea, Pakistan - you can get an idea about these countries by visiting this museum.
Visit: the ticket costs 6 EUR. Website . Opening hours: in summer - from 08:00 to 20:00, day off - Monday.
Casa Parlante (Kasa parlante)
This is a small but informative museum of Corfu, which reproduces the apartment of an ordinary Kerkyrean with all household items, furniture, family jewels. Everything is real. An element of interactivity - moving mannequins.
Visit: the Casa Parlante Museum has, you can get acquainted with the details of the visit and exhibitions.
parks
"Mon Repo" (Mon Repo)
The wonderful park and palace "Mon Repos" (translated as "my rest") are located in the city of Kerkyra in the Garitsa district on Analipsi hill. The palace offers a breathtaking sea view.
In 1921, Prince Philip, the husband of the English Queen Elizabeth II, was born in Mon Repos. Now, after long litigation between the Dukes of Edinburgh and the Greek government, by decision of the Strasbourg European Court of Human Rights, Mon Repos has been owned by Greece since 2002.
I liked the palace itself with a calm and homely, but at the same time aristocratic atmosphere. Everything is here, as it was under the English dukes: furniture, household items, portraits, paintings, family heirlooms, a wonderful marble staircase to the second floor. And on the second floor there is an archaeological museum, which contains items found during excavations in Corfu.
In the park, we often saw people doing fitness, running, gymnastics. Visit: Entrance to the park is free, but the palace costs 3 EUR. Opening hours: the palace - from 08:30 to 15:00, the park is open until late in the evening.
neighboring regions
There are several tourist routes that offer travelers who want to see the surroundings of Corfu. I would recommend Paxos and Antipaxos, Meteora and Bari. If you decide on a trip to Meteora, I advise you to go to bed early the night before: there will be a long bus and ferry ride.
nearby islands
From the port of Kerkyra, ferries go to the mainland (port of Igoumenitsa), to Italy (Bari), Venice, Albania (it can be seen in good weather from the island), as well as to the neighboring islands of Paxos and Antipaxos. Tickets can be bought at tourist offices and ticket offices in the port. There is an electronic scoreboard at the checkout.
Paxos and Antipaxos
These are very beautiful islands, the smallest of the Ionian, which we did not regret visiting. Only a hundred people live on Antipaxos!
The atmosphere of these places, the wonderful bathing from the ship, the excursion program in Russian - we all really liked it, I complain. The tour cost about 45 EUR. The excursion lasts the whole day, and sailing to the islands takes about two hours.
Vidos and Pondikonissi
The closest islands to Kerkyra are Vidos (there is a monument to Serbian soldiers, a memorial) and Pondikonissi (Mouse Island), on which there used to be a monastery, and now there is a church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. Free peacocks roam the island. You can see Pondikonissi from the airplane window as you fly up to the island.
How to get there: you can swim to the first one on small boats for 2.5 EUR. To Vidos a little more expensive. In terms of time, it is literally a few minutes (to Mouse - 10, to Vidos - 15). They don’t stay overnight on the islands, they only go to see monuments and sights, go to the temple.
Food. What to try
Corfu cuisine is a gastronomic mix of traditional Greek dishes with Venetian and Italian recipes. The doges of Venice, who ruled Corfu for many years, instilled in the islanders a love for pasta and confectionery.
- Corfu beer is also made in Corfu. Depending on the strength, it differs in the color of the labels. The most consumed with red labels.
- The traditional Greek white wine is retsina. This is a dry wine with a pronounced taste of pine resin. Served chilled. Sometimes locals dilute it with soda, but in this case you will not feel the special taste of retsina, so I recommend not to do this. Of the strong drinks, ouzo (grape vodka with anise) and chipuro are considered traditional. They are often diluted with water and ice.
- Of the non-alcoholic drinks in Corfu, the gingerbeer drink (dzhindzhirbira) is very popular (especially in the hot months). It is a non-alcoholic beer made from grated ginger, lemon juice and sugar.
Now a little about what is familiar to our taste buds and what you will not find in Corfu:
- If you are traveling with children and rent an apartment with a kitchen, take cereals (oatmeal, buckwheat) with you. These porridges are not for sale.
- If you are a tea lover, take it with you, because there is little of it (mostly tea bags) and it is more expensive. There is, however, local mountain tea, but it is more like green tea and is consumed by local residents for medicinal purposes.
Markets and restaurants
If you are going to cook on your own, pay attention to the fact that in the center of Corfu there is a large market where you can find the freshest fish, vegetables, fruits, spices, olives and whatever your heart desires. Meat is sold in small shops that say Kreapolio (kreas - meat) and in large supermarkets like Lidl and Diellas.
Drinking water in Corfu is bottled. Drinking tap water is not recommended.
If you are against spending your holidays in the kitchen, be prepared for the fact that the average bill in a Corfu tavern will cost about 30 EUR per person (salad + drink + main course (meat or fish) + dessert). I advise you to look for family taverns and avoid dining in taverns located right next to the sights, they are usually more expensive.
In some taverns of Corfu, Greek evenings are held, to which a group of dancers in national costumes is invited. They introduce tourists to the culture of Greek dance and teach the basics. Greek dances are energetic, beautiful, the music is melodious, rich and groovy. Often taverns post an announcement at the entrance that on a certain day there will be a Greek evening (greek night), so keep this in mind and come to admire and eat at the same time.
Prices for food on the coast can be called about the same. However, taverns near attractions and cafes in the center of Corfu (on Liston, for example) are more expensive. It is recommended to stay in Greek family taverns, they are noticeably better in terms of quality and service.
Budget establishments:
- Rouvas Tavern,
- Tavern Xagiati,
- Tsipouradiko Corfu,
- Pane e Souvlaki.
Intermediate level:
- Ouzeri fish tavern,
- Bakalogatos,
- Taverna Stamatis,
- La Pergola,
- Elia.
- The Venetian Well,
- PomoDoro Vine Restaurant,
- Scheria,
- Fish Taverna Gouvelis.
Food. What to try
Gastronomic traditions and dishes
They cook amazingly in Corfu, the taste of the dishes is rich, the aroma is dizzy. This applies to meat, fish, and vegetable dishes. Here, the main thing is to choose a suitable tavern. The cuisine of Kerkyra was influenced by the Venetians, under whose rule Corfu was for several centuries - hence the love for pasta and sweets. If you pick up the menu of a family tavern, in addition to the main dishes traditional for Corfu, you will also find dishes from the chef, which will most likely be the embodiment of a family culinary recipe, the hallmark of this particular tavern. Moreover, it can be a special salad, and meat with a certain sauce, and an original snack (for example, eggplant).
Read more about what you won’t find in Greece from our usual products, read in my about Corfu, in short, it’s buckwheat and oatmeal (hard to find), cottage cheese, which is easily replaced with excellent Greek yogurt, well, and not much of the usual good , in my opinion, tea.
Where to eat
LAIKI
In Greek, the market sounds like laiki (“likes”, stress on the second syllable). This is an obligatory attribute of any Mediterranean city, which can even be called a spontaneous attraction. Here you will see real Greek fishermen selling their morning catch, Corkyrea farmers loudly offering you fresh and organic vegetables and fruits. There are also imported products. A huge row with olives of various pickles, nuts and dried fruits, there are eggs from domestic chickens, the prices are different, from the store, in my opinion, they do not differ much, but for the sake of a large selection, freshness and atmosphere, it is worth shopping there at least once.
Supermarkets
There are also large stores in Corfu, products, household chemicals, vegetables, fruits, animal feed, and everything like that can be found in Lidl (German), Diellas (Italian), Dimitra (Greek), etc. You will have to go there at least for water: in Corfu you need to buy bottled water, not from the tap.
Cafes and restaurants
There are many taverns, cafes and restaurants of different levels in Corfu, but I recommend traditional Greek taverns, family ones. You feel at home in them, well, or like visiting your grandmother - the portions are large, the hosts are hospitable, talkative, benevolent. The price of a full dinner with wine for two will not exceed 40 EUR, approximately. Look for quieter places, away from tourist crowds - it's guaranteed to be cheaper there. You may also be lucky and you will get to the performance of a folklore group that will show you the choreographic skills of sirtaki and zorba (a very beautiful dance), although most often such Greek evenings are organized at a later time. See ads in taverns or ask the locals when it will be hellinico vrazi.
Holidays
The Greeks are very fond of celebrating Easter in Corfu, because here it takes place surprisingly solemnly, in compliance with ancient traditions - the way it was celebrated many years ago. The people of Corfu call Easter "Lambry Lambria" ("Shine of Lights"), thus emphasizing the bright joy of this happy day.
Holy Saturday begins with a long service and procession with St. Spyridon. This is the earliest religious procession in time. It was approved in memory of the miraculous rescue of the inhabitants of the island from starvation.
Three merchant ships that sailed to Italy suddenly changed course and moored at Kerkyra, bringing life-saving food with them. It was on Holy Saturday. The sailors said that they saw an old man in a cassock, who walked ahead of the sailboats, as if showing the way. Several times they heard a strong voice: “Towards Kerkyra. There people are starving. You will be paid, you will be paid. towards Kerkyra.
When the procession ends, the relics of St. Spyridon are left open next to the altar until Bright Tuesday - and on these three days the sea of pilgrims hurries to bow to their good saint and ask for help and intercession.
After the procession, everyone rushes to Liston Street - there begins a mass "destruction" of pots. Local residents open windows, throw red satin towels with golden fringes over the windowsills and wait for 11 am - exactly at this time, clay jugs filled with water will fly out of the windows so that they beat louder and more cheerfully - right on the main street of the city - and the sound of broken dishes will be heard probably all over the island.
The Sunday night service begins at 11 pm - it is small, but very solemn. People are waiting for the exclamation of the priest: “Christ Anesti!”, waiting for the arrival of the holy fire from Jerusalem. Before he is taken out of the altar, everything around him goes out and quiets down. And then - it flashes with great joy of the feast of Christ's Resurrection.
The Metropolitan, city authorities, philharmonic orchestras and thousands of people take part in the Sunday procession. A fantastic and unique sight: all the windows and balconies of city houses are open, candles are burning on them, and thousands of lamps flutter in the main square in the hands of believers who come to celebrate Easter in the largest square in Greece.
Holidays
The brightest holidays of Kerkyra:
- Easter, Christ's Resurrection - April or May;
- Assumption of the Blessed Virgin - August;
- The days of memory of St. Spyridon are the first Sunday of November and December 12.
Easter is preceded by Holy Week, which begins on Palm Sunday. On this day, a solemn religious procession takes place, the longest in Corfu, it moves along the streets that outline the perimeter of the city as it existed in 1630. This procession is set in memory of the deliverance of the inhabitants of Corfu from the bubonic plague.
The procession is accompanied by 18 philharmonic orchestras (musical "bands") from different villages of Corfu, all of them are dressed in full dress uniforms of bright colors, play classical compositions and marches. It is noteworthy that only some of the band members are professional musicians, mostly people of different professions - taxi drivers, doctors, policemen, economists - who graduated from music school in childhood and now regularly get together for rehearsals and performances.
After Palm Sunday comes Holy Week. At this time, the Easter holidays begin in Greece, the weekend, when students and adults working in other cities slowly come to Corfu to their homes. They are joined by pilgrims and tourists. Thus, another 70,000 join the island's permanent population of 130,000.
Despite the huge number of people, order and cleanliness, friendly mood, hospitality and tranquility reign on the streets of the city. People experience the events of each day of Holy Week very deeply and try not to miss a single service.
On the morning of Good Friday, a service is held in the temples, during which the Savior is taken down from the Cross. Children bring flowers to temples and the decoration of the Shroud begins. Usually young girls are engaged in decoration. In the evening, Epitaphios are held all over the island - processions with Shrouds. Each procession has its own route. Ahead, the village orchestra moves measuredly, then the priests with the Shroud go, and behind them the choristers and parishioners with lighted candles. In the village twilight, this slow procession with flickering lights seems especially touching. Believers deeply experience the suffering of Christ and even furtively weep.
Amazing things happen in Corfu on Holy Saturday. Early in the morning, an earthquake occurs in the Church of the Most Holy Theotokos, the Patroness of Strangers. He is "depicted" by believers who come to the liturgy in the morning. They are trying to shake the walls, stomp their feet, make a rumble - all in memory of the earthquake that happened on the morning of Great Saturday and during which a huge stone fell off the Holy Sepulcher. Then begins the procession with the relics of St. Spyridon, established in memory of the salvation of Kerkyra from hunger.
Then, at 11:00, the townspeople living on Liston arrange a whole performance: they throw clay pots filled with water out of the windows and balconies of their houses onto the pavement. Almost all Listons do it. And a deafening roar begins, in general everything looks fun and exciting. The pots are usually red or red-blue and are labeled Kalo Pasxa! ("Happy easter!")
By this time, there is absolutely no free space on Liston, everything is filled with believers and tourists. Representatives of newspapers, television and other media with all the necessary equipment are also visible and invisible. At the same time, the street is not cordoned off - everything happens naturally and simply, as in the old days. When the roar ends, and the clay dust settles a little, people arrange real excavations - they look for beautiful fragments and unbroken necks among the shards that they could take with them and save until next year.
This old tradition probably correlates with the biblical words about the crushing of “scrappy vessels”, there is also such an explanation: the myrrh-bearing women, not finding Christ in the Tomb, threw the vessels at the entrance to the cave, which they brought with them, and the vessels broke. This action is also correlated with the Italian, more precisely Venetian, tradition of throwing old things out of the window, which the Greeks modified “for themselves”. After all, as we already wrote, Corfu was under Venetian influence for a long time, almost 400 years (1401-1791). The Venetian style is most clearly expressed in the architecture of the central streets of Kerkyra.
At night, a festive Sunday service is performed, so bright and long-awaited. This is a day of happiness and endless joy. On this night, everyone becomes family to each other, hugs and wishes for many years, greeting each other: Christ is risen! If Christ is not risen, both our preaching and your faith are in vain!
Believers break their fast with painted eggs and sweet, rich bread called churek. Often it is baked in the form of a pigtail, in the middle of which colored eggs are inserted.
Corfu is considered a safe city, and the Greeks are hospitable, cultured and friendly people. They don’t cheat in cafes and shops, they don’t pester you on the streets. But we must remember that during the tourist season, not only Greeks are found on the streets, so it is better to go for night walks in the company. Despite the fact that tourists are often asked not to leave bags with personal belongings and money on the beach, personally, in my experience, it has never happened to hear that someone was robbed. There is only one thing to beware of - heat, which can really be harmful to health if you do not prepare for it.
On some beaches, mostly wild ones, there are sea urchins, if you are going to swim on such a beach, take rubber slippers with you.
Security. What to watch out for
From my observations:
- Kerkyra is a safe and friendly city, but we must not forget that in any tourist places there are a large concentration of different people, and no one can vouch for each of them. Sometimes there are beggars, for example, at the church of St. Spyridon, but they try not to let them inside the church.
- In cafes and restaurants, we have never been cheated, the same thing in shops and in the market. Once a friend bought a jacket and forgot it in a bag in the next store, we realized it only an hour later and returned, the sellers gave the bag back and said to be more careful.
- I do not recommend walking around the city at night, only if in a company and more or less crowded places.
- It is very hot in Corfu in summer and windy in winter, so dress for the weather and do not forget your hats.
Things to do
If you are visiting Corfu from June or September, I recommend joining a Nordic Walking group and walking a few kilometers around this beautiful island. This excellent anti-stress will help you both physically and mentally. Groups are usually formed at hotels. If you want to go on your own, study the route first and do not turn off the paths into the grove: there may be snakes there. Wear closed shoes and trousers. If you're traveling in the heat, replace Nordic walking with a safari walk.
Shopping and shops
There are several interesting places for shopping in Corfu. First of all, the center.
- There are shops with European brands, for example, Mark&Spencer. Opposite is the Hondos Center. This is a rather expensive store, on the ground floor there are perfumes and cosmetics, on the rest - men's and women's clothing. The store on the ground floor deserves attention: there are Greek cosmetics and related products for sale, at average prices.
- On the way to the port (Limani) there is a clothing store Triandafilo. This is a very visited place: the products there are mainly of Greek production, at low prices. There are Italian things. Nice men's section on the ground floor, where you can buy jeans for only 10–12 EUR. I love this store and would recommend checking it out.
On the streets of Corfu, white cotton items are sold in abundance at average prices. For example, a simple summer sundress can be bought for 15 EUR. Lots of shops selling olive wood products. It is difficult to call them cheap, a small cutting board can be bought for 8–10 EUR.
There are several shoe stores in Kerkyra that sell, among other things, Greek shoes. During the discount season, you can buy Italian shoes at low prices. For example, men's boots made of genuine leather for the spring-autumn season will cost 40 EUR. There are no winter shoes for sale.
Of course, there are fur shops in Corfu that also sell leather items. Compared to Russian stores, Greek stores can be called cheap, things are of good quality, sellers make good discounts (up to 30%), so you can bargain, but politely. I advise you to look into the fur shop next to the church of St. Spyridon: there is fur and leather at reasonable prices, very friendly owners, if you need to adjust the jacket or fur coat a little, they will do it in front of you (at the store - their own atelier).
Lots of jewelry stores. Greek gold of yellow, sunny color, is more expensive than Russian. But silver jewelry can be found inexpensively. Traditional jewelry of Corfu consists of a light-colored silver that does not tarnish with time (a special alloy), complemented by a blue-green stone (the Greeks call it a type of opal).
In the area of Corfu, which is called Fesi Katsimidi, there is a large Greek shop for children - jumbo. This is a chain store with a huge number of toys, educational games, dolls, jewelry, children's clothes, sweets, etc. And on the ground floor - goods for the home, garden, kitchen, for animals. Jumbo is considered one of the cheapest stores for kids.
Usually the time of discounts falls on the beginning of May and the middle of August.
Bars. Where to go
On the resort island, of course, there are many bars on the coast. They are located directly on the beach or at the hotel. Such bars are open in the afternoon, from about 16.00 to one in the morning. Usually they have a TV, which broadcasts the football beloved by the Greeks, and in the evenings a lot of spectators gather here. The range of drinks is standard: beer, Greek wine, metaxa, whiskey, bacardi, vodka, gin, liqueurs, various cocktails, etc. Most popular places - Kavos, Messonghi, Glyfada, Benitses, Dasia, Gouvia, Ipsos, Paleokastritsa.
- There are several bars in Kerkyra, but compared to, for example, Kavos, they are quieter and more peaceful. This Bristol, Cafe Central, Down Town Cafe-Bar, Josephine Cafe-Bar and etc.
- Popular in Gouvie Corfu by night, Ekati, Esperies, national music is played here. There is also a Mexican themed bar. Poco loco.
- Bar in Paleokastritsa Acapulco And La Grotta. The latter is located in the gorge of the rock, food and drinks are brought to it by boat, and to get there, visitors need to go down from the main road along a special staircase of 142 steps.
- There are a lot of bars in the youth and party Kavos, for example, Bonkers Bar And Buzz Bar.
Prices vary depending on the establishment, for example, in the bar of the Liapades Beach Hotel, Cricketer taverna(Liapades village, Paleokastritsa region) any cocktail costs 7 EUR, beer (one of the best Corfu beer in Europe) - 3.30 EUR per 400 ml, bottled is a little more expensive. Liquor - 5 EUR, bacardi and whiskey from 5 to 7 EUR. Greek wine on tap 250 ml - 2.20 EUR. The public is going everywhere different depending on the area, mostly tourists.
Clubs and nightlife
The nightlife in Corfu is vibrant. In all the main tourist places - Gouvia, Dasia, Ipsos, Kavos, Messonghi, Paleokastritsa, Sidari, Acharavi - there are several nightclubs. And, of course, there are nightclubs in Corfu.
- One of the most famous - "54" . The club is open on Friday and Saturday, opens at 12 midnight and until the morning. During the tourist season the clubs are open every day. They play Greek music, European dance music, and various alcoholic cocktails are offered in bars. A ticket to the club "54" costs 10 EUR and includes 1 drink. There is no face control. Often invited to perform Greek popular singers. During the summer, the main visitors are tourists, but, of course, Greeks also visit the clubs on weekends. The prices for drinks are different, but not more than 8 EUR per one.
- Kavos clubs - Atlantis, Venue Club, SOS Nightclub, Kavos Summer Club. English DJs and singers often come here.
- Popular in Ipsos "B52" And "The Old Tree".
- In Acharavi - Sonic Cocktail Bar.
extreme sports
Tourists from Corfu are carrying:
- kumquat products (liqueurs, sweets, Turkish delight), Greek wine and ouzo (aniseed vodka) - from 3–5 EUR,
- olive crafts - from 5 euros,
- tablecloths with a national pattern (olive branch with berries) - from 10 EUR,
- silver jewelry - from 10 EUR,
- soap and natural cosmetics - from 2 EUR.
Alcohol is often poured into bottles in the shape of the island of Corfu. Pilgrims bring icons and oil from the relics of St. Spyridon. Often tourists buy rustic olive oil from locals. I strongly advise you to buy oil and, for example, a cutting board for cooking in the olive kitchen.
Things to do
Judging by the reviews, tourists really like boat trips and boat trips with barbecues. This is quite logical: the bays and lagoons around the island of Corfu are not only beautiful, they are remembered for a lifetime. I heard several times from people who have nothing to do with art, how they regretted that they could not write a picture or poetry about the nature that they saw on the island. Therefore, I recommend taking one of these boat trips, there are many offices offering water tours around the port, for example, you can ask.
extreme sports
Of the extreme sports in Corfu, there are parachuting and diving. Before engaging in activities, you need to be trained by a coach, as a rule, coach services are offered by large hotels.
There is a diving school in Paleokastritsa. Also on the beaches of Corfu there are water activities such as wakeboarding, parasailing and water skiing. Suitable marinas are on the beaches of Gouvia, Barbati, Glyfada, Ipsos, Lefkimi, Petriti (south of Corfu). The village of Agios Georgios has the Corfu Windsurfing Center and the kitesurf stations of Chalikuna Beach and Issos Beach. Instructors conduct training courses for beginner kiters, the simplest 10-hour course costs from 270 EUR. There is also equipment rental (kite, trapeze, board), per day 55 EUR.
Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift
In Greece, everything is there, in Kerkyra, apparently, too, but the most “taken away” by tourists can be formed into a list:
You can buy a bottle of good Greek wine for yourself or as a gift, I like dry red, the simplest, produced by the Goulis family, it costs from 2 EUR per bottle, that is, cheap. White wine lovers will love retsina (dry white with pine aroma).
How to get around the island
A standard trip from the airport to the city costs from 15 EUR, to distant corners depending on the distance (to Paleokastritsa, for example, 40 EUR). Taxis are metered, but there are predetermined rates. It's better to pay in cash. It is difficult to catch a taxi on the street, there are parking lots. Corfu taxi service phone (+30) 266 1033811here), a scooter costs 15 EUR per day, an ATV 20-25 EUR. Take your international driving license with you. Gasoline in Corfu costs from 1.5 EUR per liter. Be sure to take out insurance and take office phones on a trip.
How to move around the region
It is convenient to move around the city on foot (if there is no heat), on blue buses and by taxi. Travel around the city costs from 1.5 EUR. Only green buses go to the surrounding villages. Discounts and passes for tourists are not provided. A tourist bus runs around the city from the port (two floors, the second is open, costs 5 EUR).
Taxi. What features exist
A standard trip from the airport to the city costs from 15 EUR, to distant corners depending on the distance (to Paleokastritsa, for example, 40 EUR). Taxis are metered, but there are predetermined rates. It's better to pay in cash. It is difficult to catch a taxi on the street, there are parking lots. Corfu taxi service phone (+30) 266 1033811
Public transport
It is convenient to use the bus to Corfu, the only drawback is that they run infrequently, especially from remote villages. The center is connected with the outskirts by green buses. Schedule and ticket prices can be found at.
Blue buses run through the center. Schedule, stops and prices can be viewed
Transport rental
Renting cars, scooters, quads and bicycles in Corfu is very popular. There are local and international companies. Both of them do not cause any complaints, however, the car must be well inspected and checked before renting. For a car with a manual gearbox, depending on the month, they charge from 40 to 60 EUR (you can see the option and compare prices), a scooter costs 15 EUR per day, an ATV 20-25 EUR. Take your international driving license with you. Gasoline in Corfu costs from 1.5 EUR per liter. Be sure to take out insurance and take office phones on a trip.
When renting a car, do not forget to take your international driving license with you. Be sure to take insurance. It is not recommended to drive at night, especially far from the center: there are no lights on many roads. In Corfu, mountain roads with steep edges, there is a serpentine. Check the brakes before picking up the car.
And it also happens that a herd of sheep or goats crosses the road in the mountains.
Corfu - holidays with children
Corfu has two large water parks (AQUALAND in Agios Ioannis and Hydropolis in Acharavi), one small one (Sidari Water Park in Sidari), a Zoo (road - Paleokastritsa), an entertainment center in Kondokali "Aladdin" and an amusement park COREXPO (on the way from Kerkyra to Sisi Palace).
In addition, in Corfu there is a ship with a transparent bottom Calipso Star, which offers excursions to the island of Vidos, including an underwater show and a fur seal show. In large hotels, animation programs are organized for children, so they will not be bored.
Corfu - holidays with children
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Greece is an amazing country. This is a country that has everything! As Pushkin said about Greece, probably everyone dreams of visiting the homeland of gods and heroes. Greece is a dream, a dream that must come true. Everyone should discover their own Greece!
In the Greek port of Kerkyra, the capital of the island of Corfu, they moored next to the Costa. Parking time from 13-00 to 19-00, all on board at 18-30. Parking of the liner in the new cruise port, 30-40 minutes walk to the city center. You can use the ship shuttle that runs from the ship to the city center every 20 minutes, the price is 8.9 euros per person, or by city bus from the gate of the cruise terminal to the city center, the price of one trip is 5 euros per person. This bus is specially prepared for cruisers and it starts from the stop, which is located on the territory of the port.
Where to go
The first thing that comes to mind is to take a walk around Corfu with a mandatory visit to the medieval part of the city.
You can go on a boat cruise around the island of Corfu along the emerald sea with stops in the most stunning coastal recreation areas.
Climb Mount Pandokrator. Mount Pantokrator is the highest point of the island, it is located in the northeast of Corfu. Its height is 906 meters. Climbing to its top along a steep and narrow path, you can see the whole island at a glance, from here you can see Albania, separated from Corfu by a narrow strait, and in good weather even Italy.
Go to the Kanoni Peninsula, located in the south of the city of Corfu. The name of the peninsula comes from the name of an artillery gun and is translated as "cannon". You can get to Kanoni by taxi, or by bus, you can walk on foot, the distance is only five kilometers. There, in a bay not far from the airport, on a small island, is the monastery of Vlacherna, which is considered a symbol of Corfu. It can be accessed via a narrow bridge. Take a boat to the islet of Pontikonisi or mouse island, the highest point of which rises only 2 meters above sea level. On the island stands the ancient monastery of Pantokrator of the 12th century. The white stone staircase descending from the monastery to the water resembles a long thin mouse tail from afar, which is what the island owes its name to. A very beautiful legend belongs to this place. They say that Poseidon himself once turned this island into stone, and earlier it belonged to Odysseus, it was his ship!
Or go to Achillion Palace, located 20 km from Corfu. The palace is dedicated to Achilles. The Palace has exquisite interiors, decorated with works of art and quirky furniture, there is an amazing armchair of the German Kaiser Wilhelm II. At the Palace there is a wonderful park descending to the sea in terraces. The park has a huge number of statues, most of which depict the ancient Greek hero Achilles.
Due to the lack of sufficient time for long trips, we set off to explore Kerkyra. We are not looking for easy ways, traveling by bus is not included in our plans. First, we take pictures of our ship in all its glory and further to the New Fortress, exploring the city along the way. From the gates of the cruise terminal we turn left and along the fence that encloses the port, we move towards our goal. Flowering shrubs grow along the road, exuding a breathtaking aroma and attacked by a swarm of bees. Spring in Kerkyra!!!
Seeing shops on the opposite side of the road, we went to explore. Souvenir shops - nothing special, the assortment is ordinary, selected for tourists - magnets, plates and all sorts of rubbish, all made in China. Looking at one souvenir shop after another, we lost our way, and in the end we had to wander along the streets of Kerkyra. I would have asked where to go, but these streets were empty, no one, no people, no animals.
The entrance to the New Fortress was found with difficulty. We entered the fortress from the back side. And the first we were met by charming creatures - lizards. For one of them we arranged a photo session.
The new fortress (Neo Frurio) has several names. Sometimes it is called St. Mark's Fortress or Sea Fortress. The fortress was built by an Italian architect on the hill of St. Mark. The internal structures of the fortress were completed by the French and the British. The fortress was an important part of the defensive structures of Corfu and was a miracle of the defensive architecture of those years. The fortress consists of two large identical bastions. The space of the fortress is divided into three parts, and the bastions look both towards the island and towards the city. Two rows of walls are interconnected by a whole system of passages and corridors. On the walls of the bastions there are images of lions with Venetian inscriptions. The fortress organizes exhibitions, concerts and other events, there is a bar and a gallery where you can buy printed publications, postcards, guides and maps. From the height of the fortress offers a wonderful view of the surroundings. Be sure to climb to the top platform of the "Sette Venti" bastion.
From the height of the upper platform of the bastion, there is a stunning view of the sea and the city in the center, which is dominated by the Cathedral of St. Spyridon of Trimifuntsky and the Cathedral. Saint Spyridon Trimifuntsky is considered the patron saint of Corfu, according to history, he saved the islanders from hunger, Turkish invaders and plague. The relics of St. Spyridon are kept in the cathedral. The bell tower of the Cathedral is the tallest building in the city.
The entrance to the fortress turned out to be free, but the climb to the central part of the bastion costs 4 euros per person. At first we were embarrassed, a very strange cashier and a cash register installed on an old stool, but the sight of the "formidable" red-haired security guard did not leave us any chance of a free pass, we had to fork out. Leaving the fortress, we still found the main entrance. A small area with a cash register kiosk, stalls and several shops, devastation, rubbish and lizards all around, apparently now they are the owners of this island of the fortress.
Along the narrow streets of the old city, through the New Fortress Square along the territory of the naval base, we went to the Old Pier Square and then to the old seaport, sat in a cafe, admired the views of the New Fortress, the sea and the old city.
We continue our way along the coastline to the Old Fortress. On the way, we stop at the observation deck of the Venetian harbor, from where amazingly beautiful landscapes open up, the Old Fortress and the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, here it is shallow and crystal clear, with a translucent stone bottom.
Through the gates of the Palace of Saints George and Michael we enter the palace square. The Palace of Saints George and Michael was built by the British and was intended for the residence of the High Commissioner Sir Thomas Maitland. The building consists of three floors and is divided into two parts, one is named after St. George, the second - in honor of St. Michael. Covered galleries have two exits: to the Venetian harbor and the palace park. The Palace is home to the Museum of Asian Art, which houses a collection of more than 10,000 exhibits. On the territory of the Palace are the public library, the archives of the Ionian Senate and the Inspectorate of Classical Antiquities.
Then we go along a small grove located next to the entrance to the Old Fortress. In the grove there are busts and statues of writers and philhellenes who lived on the island, there are two small pools with goldfish.
And here it is, the goal of our trip - the Old Fortress (Paleo-Frurio). At the entrance to the fortress there is a ticket booth with an announcement that the fortress is open until 15:00, the ticket price is 4 euros. We look at the clock - 14:45. There is no cashier in the booth, but the fortress gates are open and everyone can freely enter the territory of the fortress, so we went.
The old fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fortifications were witnesses of the rule of the Byzantines, who in the 7th century began to build defensive walls, defending themselves from the raids of the conquerors. Gradually, the buildings grew and turned into a real fortress. The eastern part of the fortress is closed, work is underway to strengthen it, since it is it that is exposed to the destructive effects of waves.
On the territory of the fortress stands the Church of St. George. It was built as an Anglican church in 1840 and converted into an Orthodox church in 1865.
215 years ago, on March 3, 1799, the Russian-Turkish fleet under the command of Admiral Fedor Fedorovich Ushakov captured the impregnable fortresses of Corfu. The capture of Corfu completed the liberation of the Ionian Islands from French rule. On the liberated islands, under the temporary protectorate of Russia and Turkey, the Republic of Seven Islands was created, which for several years served as a support base for the Russian Mediterranean squadron.
We managed to walk only along the lower part of the fortress. The gates through which you can go to the top of the fortress and its Tower in front of our noses were closed by two young ladies and kept repeating - finish, finish.
Various festive events, holidays and festivals are held in the Old Fortress. From the walls of the fortress, there are beautiful views of the city, the crystal clear Ionian Sea, the harbor, and a windmill flaunts in the distance.
We leave the Old Fortress and get to the Esplanade or Spianada, the largest and most popular square of the city, as well as the second largest square in Europe. It is located between the Old Fortress and the city.
The square houses monuments to Ioannis Kapodistrias, who was the first President of Greece, and Thomas Maitland, the first British High Commissioner on the island. At the fountain there is a marble monument, on which the symbols of all the Ionian Islands are carved.
In the center of the square is a square planted with beautiful vegetation. In the square there are rides, benches, shops with food and drinks, souvenir shops, restaurants and bars. And how many fur shops, just a paradise for lovers of fur coats.
After sitting in a cafe on the square, we set off on our way back through the narrow streets of the old city. But all the streets always lead to the main tourist "path" - a pedestrian promenade with numerous shops. Shops are all closed - siesta.
Kerkyra can be conditionally divided into the old and the new city. The old city is a large medieval complex. It is protected by the state. The layout of the streets is chaotic, and the picturesque narrow streets "kantunya", which can only be walked on foot, lead to monuments, Byzantine churches, Venetian stairs and stone-clad springs and fountains. The new city smoothly passes into the old one, in such a way that wide streets with spacious squares stretch next to the cramped narrow streets.
Various conquerors had a positive impact on the architectural style of the city. We walked among the narrow streets of the city and every time we saw something new. Small courtyards, stone stairs, small decorated balconies and elaborately finished window frames, all this gives Corfu a unique charm.
Our time is up, it's time to go to conquer new cities.
To the island of Corfu we say: - "Goodbye, you have conquered our hearts."
Benitses is an old fishing village located 12 kilometers from the city of Corfu, the capital of the island of the same name. If you move from Corfu along the island in a southerly direction, then this will be the first resort area that has recently become very popular among vacationers.
Previously, this area was called “Pinisse” (from the ancient Greek word “pinio” - river). The waters of the springs flowing down from the mountains of Agi Deka and Stavros form two small rivers, hence the name of the village. Until the mid-70s, the village lived a quiet provincial life. Fishing was the main occupation of the local men. The pier of the Old Port every morning saw off and met the fishermen with their catch. Local residents and owners of nearby eateries came to the port to buy fresh fish. Fishing boats rocked quietly on the waves at the pier of the Old Port, and it seemed that it would always be so.
However, with the development of the tourism business, the life of the local population has changed dramatically. The patriarchal way of life was suddenly broken by the noise of night discos and beach parties. This was not to the liking of the local population, and over time, young people stopped coming here on vacation. Despite this, Benitses still remained a popular resort, but today it has a calm, almost family-like atmosphere. And in the Old Port, along with simple fishing boats, pleasure boats also appeared, and luxury yachts began to moor more and more often. With their appearance, the Old Port acquired a new life, without losing the local flavor.
A free bus runs every half an hour from the pier to the city centre. Stop at the gate to the fortress. We decided we had to go. Entrance 6 euros, students and pensioners (65+) three euros. There is such an orientation: to the right you go - to the church, prisons and the square, straight ahead - the path to the lighthouse to the top, to the left - to the beach, there is also a yacht club and a cafe. There is no lift to the lighthouse, although we hoped.
The cafe has internet. And there is the beach! Then we walked around the old city, a beautiful place ...
They returned happy, it was a good day!
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Kerkyra - two fortresses and a city between them
The next stop on our cruise was the island of Corfu. In preparation, two options were developed. A trip to the beaches of Paleokastritsa or a walking tour of Corfu with a visit to both forts. I met the dawn on the upper deck, admiring the views of the city, with a mug of coffee in my hand. Looking at the sights of the city from the very top of our ship, I already memorized the landmarks by which we would have to move around the city ...
The plan of our route in Corfu was simple and ordinary. First, the new fortress of Neo Fiorio, then a walk through the city to the old fortress of Palais Fiorio. And on the way back, go to the Church of St. Spyridon (Bios Spirydhon).
We leave the ship in full force. Twenty meters from the gangway there is already a shuttle bass, into which the passengers of both ships sit. Three minutes we drive to the port terminal, we pass through it and see a bus stop thirty meters away. We approach, the Old Town sign hangs on the bus. We get better at the driver. The price of the issue is one and a half or two euros, I don’t remember exactly. Ten minutes drive without stops and we are in the very center of the old city. From here you can already see the new fortress perfectly, so you won’t miss it. At the heart of the New Fortress are two large-scale bastions, looking towards the city and into the depths of the island. There are many passages and corridors between the bastions and walls inside the castle.
We walked around the fortress in about forty minutes, well, maybe an hour. And along and across. The views are amazing!
After resting, we go down the narrow streets to the old town. We have to go through almost all of it ... through and through. We're going slowly. The music of Sirtaki is pouring from somewhere, which makes everything that happens even more Greek. It is surprising that already at this time street cafes are almost completely filled. Moreover, there are much fewer tourists than local residents. It seems that no one ever works in Greece. Of course, there will be a crisis ... with such a desire to work.
The old fortress is the remains of fortifications, the predecessors of which, according to archaeologists, date back to the early antique Greece of the 7th-8th centuries. However, at the same time, the fortress itself was built by the Venetians in 1550-1559, having rebuilt for this purpose the walls left after the Byzantines. The Contra-Fossa canal was also dug and later became the site of many suicides. I liked the old fortress better. Nearby are wonderful lagoons with snow-white yachts and greenish water. Old cannons, the sound of cicadas, a broken clock on the tower.
From the walls of the fortress we see several places suitable for swimming. From here you can see the whole city, the new fortress... and our boat. The forces are gradually leaving us, and with great pleasure we plop down in a cafe on Liston Street.
Liston Street is considered one of the most curious in Corfu, where in the past only representatives of aristocratic families had the right to walk. There was a separate sheet with those who were allowed to - hence the name of the street. Later, this right disappeared. When the French dominated the island for a short period, the street was thoroughly rebuilt and today there are many shops and taverns, so Liston is rightfully considered one of the best streets of Corfu for city walks.
In general, I want to say to those who will be in this city for the first time. Everything is very clear here and no special preparation is required. Find out on the spot.
After resting, we went to the church of St. Spyridon. Here, the unexpected happened to me - the batteries in both the photo and video cameras were discharged at the same time. Here is such a miracle.
Saint Spyridon is the patron saint of Corfu. A beautiful church was built in his honor, within the walls of which a silver sarcophagus with the relics of the saint is sacredly guarded. Every year on the day of the celebration of Easter, the relics of the saint are carried through the streets of the city, and the inhabitants traditionally hang red paintings from the windows. The love of the Corfuans for their protector and patron is obvious: the most common male name on the island is Spiridon.
Well, here is the program. Now you can walk around souvenir shops, which are apparently invisible here, or drink beer in numerous cafes.
We walked back to the port. It was a big mistake...in this and that heat. Thirty minutes walk ... some spicy places are rubbed red. And why did I subscribe to this, I asked myself for the hundredth time a question to which I never found an answer.
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And we walked and bought, it’s a pity we didn’t go around the island
In Corfu, the pier is somewhat aside from the city center. On board, a transfer was offered for 8 euros and a sightseeing tour for 40, but we decided to walk on our own. And they didn't regret it. Yes, the center is about 20 minutes walk, the city is nice, clean.
Not immediately, but we found the beach of Faliraki, which I read about in preparation for the cruise. First time swimming on this cruise. The water is purest! True degrees 20-22, no more. There were few people.
Water procedures awakened appetite. In search of a cafe with affordable prices, we so imperceptibly returned almost to the pier. So let's go to the ship and eat! We ate, got tired, looked from the deck, it seems that we went around almost everything. And they stayed on the ship. Sunbathing by the pool.
Friends who returned from an excursion around the island in the evening admired the beauties they saw so much that we even regretted that we did not go with them. The tour cost around 60 euros, I don't remember exactly.
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Beach and sea above all praise
We didn’t go anywhere in Corfu, we just wanted to relax and lie on the beach.
Having gone ashore, we went to the nearest beach and swam in the sea. The beach and the sea are beyond praise. Didn't want to leave.
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The route is circular, so if you do not plan to walk back, then you need to purchase a return ticket right away. You can buy from the driver, but it will be more expensive. To the question “How much more expensive?” the man from the stall shrugged.
At the kiosk, we clarified the location of the bus stop 1A, which went to Kanoni. She was 100 meters ahead.
We came to the stop, according to the schedule, the bus had just left, and the next. in 20 minutes. But then suddenly a minute later pulls up. It appears to be late. Drive approximately 15 minutes.
We got off the bus and walked down the path. At the beginning of the path, we were met by a dog that ran ahead, as if showing the right path. She kept stopping and turning in our direction.
We walked around a bit and decided to swim to the island. We approach the boatman, we buy tickets (2.5 euros for 1 person). When are we going to sail? He answers that in a minute, go out into that boat, sit down.
The boatman took us and said that he would arrive in half an hour. There is a lot of this time, 10 minutes is enough for everything about everything. But we had no choice, we had to sit on the island for half an hour. We climbed the stairs to the church of the XII century.
We swam back and went a little further along the shore. We went from the monastery to the center of Kerkyra on foot. On the map, go about 5 km, but we are not looking for easy ways, especially since we decided to walk as much as possible. Yes, and the plans were on the way to see the Mon Repos estate.
Here, of course, we are stupid. We still had to take the bus to the beginning of the harbor, and then on foot. We would have saved time, and the legs would have regretted it, especially since we did not see anything interesting near the Mon Repos estate.
The only thing that was beautiful was the view of the sea from the terrace near the estate.
In general, we reached the beginning of the harbor, where the windmill is located, in 1.5 hours (taking into account the entry to the Mon Repos estate).
The next point of our inspection was the Old Fortress or Palio Frurio in Corfu. From the mill we walked along the harbor along the pedestrian promenade. We entered the fort. Entrance - 4 euros for 1 person.
We left the fortress and went towards the street and Liston Square. On it we went to the Palace of Saints George and Michael. Then we went a little further along the coast and turned into my favorite streets, which are not visited by a large tourist crowd.
But all the streets always lead to the main tourist "path" - a pedestrian promenade with numerous shops. On the way back we stopped at the New Fortress. It has several names. Sometimes it is called St. Mark's Fortress or Sea Fortress. Entrance 3 euros for 1 person.
And then they returned to the ship. The clock was around 4:00 pm.
You can see a detailed photo report about our walk on the island of Corfu.
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