Corfu, known to Greeks as Kerkyra, is widely regarded as one of Greece’s most beautiful and culturally rich islands. Located in the Ionian Sea off the western coast of Greece and Albania, Corfu has a recorded history spanning nearly 3,000 years. Its identity has been shaped by successive foreign rulers, leaving a distinctive blend of architectural and cultural influences.
To experience the island’s past most vividly, visit the fortified Old Town of Corfu, or Palaia Poli Kerkyras. Like many Greek islands, the main town shares the island’s name. This historic district on the eastern shore earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2007 and remains a living mosaic of Venetian, French, British and Greek heritage.
Begin your visit at Spianada Square, which sits at the entrance to the Old Town. This expansive open space is the largest town square in Greece and the Balkans, and it forms a natural meeting point for both tourists and locals. Strolling across Spianada, you’ll see people enjoying leisure time, sporting activities and occasional cultural events.
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Bordering one side of Spianada is the Liston, a long pedestrian promenade characterized by Neoclassical arcades. Erected in the 19th century to accommodate the French military presence, these graceful buildings now host cafés, restaurants and traditional kafeneia (coffee houses). The Liston is ideal for a relaxed walk, people-watching or enjoying a light meal outdoors.
Beyond the square, Old Town unfolds into a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone lanes lined with colorful buildings that reflect its layered history. The Old Fortress, a prominent Venetian stronghold, stands as a reminder of the island’s defensive past. Exploring the streets and alleys evokes a sense of stepping into another era, even as contemporary shops and cafés serve modern comforts to visitors.
The Old Town’s calendar is full of cultural life, with festivals and events throughout the year. Easter in particular showcases unique local customs: on the Saturday before Easter, residents take part in the centuries-old botides tradition, tossing bright red clay pots filled with water from balconies onto the streets below in a lively display of communal celebration.
While Corfu’s many beaches and vibrant nightlife are well known, it is the history and culture concentrated in Old Town that make the island especially memorable. The combination of architectural variety, long-standing traditions and everyday island life draws both first-time visitors and returning travelers back to Corfu time and again.