The historic island of Corfu was once regarded as a ‘beautiful and rich land’ by Homer, and it is easy to see why. With its dramatic northern mountains, rolling peaceful countryside, golden sweeps of sand and historical heritage, you cannot fail to fall in love with it. And if you are one of those travellers with a busy itinerary to hand, here are the eight must-see attractions. You may want to take it easy – it is a holiday after all – but these are the eight to certainly make time for.
Palace of St Michael & St George
Now home to the Museum of Asian Art, which was founded in 1929, this spectacular palace was originally the house of a series of British high commissioners. The exterior facades are worth the trip alone, but head inside to peruse the collection’s 10,000 artefacts from all over Asia, including bronzes, coins, ceramics and works of art. The throne room, in particular, is a highlight with its period furnishings.
On the eastern side, be sure to also check out the Municipal Art Gallery, home to a large variety of works by leading Corfiot painters and temporary exhibitions. Look out for the Byzantine icons by the Cretan Damaskinos and paintings by the father and son Prossalendis.
Museum of Paleopolis
On the southern side of the island, this villa and garden is a nice quiet retreat. Commissioned by the second British Commissioner of the Ionians for his wife, this restored residence has certainly seen its fair share of history being made, including the birth of Queen Elizabeth II’s husband, Prince Philip. You can enjoy the stunning Period Room, locally excavated findings, and its sprawling grounds, which are home to two Doric temples – the perfect spot for a lovely afternoon picnic. Buses go from the Spianada every 20 minutes.
Ahillion Palace
If you take the coastal road south from Corfu Town, you will head to this breathtaking palace located near the village of Gastouri. This idyllic spot was the summer retreat for Austria’s Empress Elizabeth in the 1890s, who came to visit her uncle, King Otho of Greece. Explore the landscaped gardens, count up the various mythological statues, and climb the stairs to the right of the villa to view the famous fresco depicting Achilles.
Archaeological Museum
For history buffs who haven’t got their fix yet, this is the place. This brilliant collection boasts highlights including a 7th century BC Lion of Menekrates and a fragment of pediment featuring Dionysos. However its star attraction is the huge Gorgon pediment dating back to 580 BC – standing as one of the best preserved pieces of archaic sculpture in Greece, it was part of the west pediment of the Temple of Artemis.
Palaio Frourio
Built in the 15th century by the Venetians, what is now left of this Byzantine castle is still a marvel nonetheless. It is a bit off the beaten track, which is great if you want to avoid those crowds, while climbing to the summit of the inner outcrop will offer you stunning 360-degree views of the region. Before you leave, be sure to pop into the small but great Byzantine museum.
English Cemetery
You may not think a graveyard is a great place to spend your holiday, but this haunting reminder of British rule offers an alternative insight into the island’s turbulent past. Located in the south-west, this is more a peaceful garden than a cemetery with its manicured lawns.
Corfu Reading Society
Established in 1836, this place is the oldest cultural institution in Greece. Boasting a staggering 30,000 books, the site is filled with pieces of art, while upstairs features the first map of Corfu, created in the 15th century. The site also hosts a programme of events and lectures so be sure to check what may be on during your visit.
Vidos Island
And if all of that has tired you out of Corfu, head to the old port and get a boat for €5 to Vidos Island. The beaches here are pristine and unspoilt, or if you are feeling adventurous, why not ramble through various fortresses and a WWI Serbian cemetery?
