Kalami in north-west Corfu is a hidden gem which many people know about because writer Lawrence Durrell once lived here in The White House.

Nestled along the northeast coast of Corfu, about an hour’s drive north of Corfu Town, lies the enchanting seaside village of Kalami. Renowned for its unique, horseshoe-shaped bay, this picturesque hideaway is widely celebrated as one of the most tranquil and visually captivating spots on the Ionian Sea. Surrounded by a dramatic landscape where steep, emerald hills covered in centuries-old olive groves and soaring cypresses cascade down to meet the water, Kalami offers a masterclass in classic Greek natural beauty.

Kalami’s Blue Flag Beach

The heart of the village is its pristine, Blue Flag-awarded beach. Composed of clean white pebbles and smooth shingle, the shoreline gives way to incredibly clear, cobalt-blue waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Because the sea is exceptionally calm and translucent here, visitors can easily spot marine life moving across the rocky seabed. While relaxation on hired sun loungers is the primary pastime, the beach also caters to low-key adventure, offering paddleboarding, canoeing, and a watersports center for water-skiing and wakeboarding.

Lawrence Durrell

Beyond its natural allure, Kalami holds a legendary place in twentieth-century travel literature. At the northern edge of the bay stands the White House. In the late 1930s, this oceanfront villa was the home of the acclaimed British author Lawrence Durrell and his wife, Nancy. It was here that Durrell was inspired to write Prospero’s Cell, his lyrical homage to the landscapes and culture of Corfu. The building still stands today, preserved as a nostalgic landmark that operates as a traditional tavern on the ground floor and offers holiday rentals above, allowing literary enthusiasts to look out over the exact same vistas that captivated the author.

Despite its prized reputation, Kalami has fiercely resisted the pitfalls of mass commercialization. It maintains an unpretentious, authentic village vibe that attracts couples, families, and hikers seeking a slower, more deliberate pace of life. Development remains low-scale and respectful of local architecture, characterized by a mix of traditional stone studios, elegant hillside villas, and a select few boutique hotels, such as the adult-only San Antonio Resort, which blends seamlessly into the cliffside.

As twilight descends, the resort’s minimal and intimate nightlife awakens. Evening entertainment in Kalami does not revolve around loud clubs, but rather around lingering dinners at the family-run waterfront tavernas. Places like Thomas’ Place and the White House Taverna serve exceptional Corfiot cuisine—such as fresh grilled squid, tzatziki, and locally caught seafood—accompanied by local wine and the steady, rhythmic soundtrack of the Ionian tide.

Where to Stay in Kalami

For those wishing to explore further, Kalami serves as an excellent base on the northeast coast. A scenic fifteen-minute coastal footpath wraps around the northern headland to the quiet, circular fishing harbor of Kouloura, home to a single fish tavern and a harbor dotted with traditional wooden boats. To the south, a similar trail connects to the pebbled coves of Agni Bay. Whether you are walking the ancient hillside trails, renting a small motorboat from the jetty to explore hidden coves, or simply reading a book under the shade of a beachfront tamarisk tree, Kalami remains a timeless, peaceful sanctuary that perfectly captures the romantic spirit of the Greek islands.

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Corfu has a mild Mediterranean climate with wet winters, sunny summers, long sunshine hours and lush landscapes. Best visit May–September.

Corfu has a very different climate from much of Greece, shaped by its position in the Ionian Sea and its exposure to moist Atlantic-influenced air masses. It’s one of the greenest Greek islands, and its climate is the main reason for that.

Unlike the arid, sun-baked landscapes of the Cyclades, Corfu experiences a humid Mediterranean climate with relatively high rainfall, mild winters, warm summers, and a noticeable seasonal contrast in vegetation.

Rainfall and humidity

Corfu is one of the wettest areas in Greece. Annual rainfall typically ranges from about 110 cm to over 130 cm (43-51 inches), depending on the exact location and elevation. This is significantly higher than most other Greek islands, especially those in the Aegean Sea.

The rain is heavily concentrated in the cooler half of the year, particularly from October through March. November, December, and January are usually the wettest months, often receiving frequent and sometimes intense rain events driven by Atlantic low-pressure systems moving into the Mediterranean.

Winter rainfall can be persistent rather than sporadic, meaning several days of overcast skies and rain are common. However, these conditions are also what sustain Corfu’s dense vegetation, olive groves, and cypress forests. By contrast, the summer months—June through August—are typically very dry, with rainfall becoming rare and often negligible for weeks at a time.

Humidity levels are generally higher than on most Aegean islands, especially in summer. While this contributes to the lush landscape, it can also make hot days feel warmer than the thermometer suggests.

Sunshine hours

Despite its reputation for rain, Corfu still enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine annually, averaging around 2,200 to 2,400 hours per year. This is lower than sunnier parts of Greece such as Crete or Rhodes, which can exceed 3,000 hours annually, but still high by European standards.

Summer is the sunniest season, with June, July, and August often delivering 11–13 hours of sunshine per day. Skies are typically clear or mostly clear, with long daylight hours enhancing the island’s appeal for beach tourism.

In spring and autumn, sunshine remains strong but more variable, with a mix of bright days and occasional cloud cover or showers. Winter sees a significant reduction, with December and January often averaging only 3–5 hours of sunshine per day due to increased cloud cover and rainfall.

Temperature patterns

Corfu’s temperatures are moderate compared with mainland Greece and southern islands. Summers are warm but rarely extreme, with average daytime highs around 30°C in July and August. Heatwaves can occur but are usually less intense than in inland Greece due to the moderating influence of the sea. Nights remain relatively comfortable, often dropping to around 20–23°C.

Winters are mild, with daytime temperatures typically ranging between 10°C and 15°C. Frost is rare at sea level, although higher inland areas may occasionally experience colder conditions. Snow is extremely uncommon on the coast but can appear briefly on the island’s highest peaks during cold snaps.

Comparison with other Greek islands

Compared to the broader Greek island groupings, Corfu stands out as one of the most climatically distinct. The Cyclades (including islands such as Mykonos and Santorini) are much drier, windier, and sunnier, with annual rainfall often less than half of Corfu’s. These islands experience the strong Meltemi summer winds, which help moderate heat but also contribute to a harsher, more arid environment.

Crete, Greece’s largest island, has a more varied climate but is generally warmer, sunnier, and drier than Corfu, especially in the south. Eastern Aegean islands like Rhodes and Kos also enjoy more sunshine and lower rainfall totals, making them more reliably dry for summer holidays.

In contrast, Corfu belongs to the Ionian Islands group, which is influenced by western weather systems. This results in higher rainfall, higher humidity, and greener landscapes. While the Aegean islands often appear rocky and sun-bleached, Corfu feels more like a temperate Mediterranean garden, with dense vegetation and abundant water sources.

Best time to visit
See our page on the Best Time to Visit Corfu

Corfu Climate Summary

Corfu’s climate is defined by mild winters, warm dry summers, high rainfall in the cooler months, and relatively moderate sunshine compared to Greece’s drier islands. Its weather creates one of the most fertile and green island environments in the Mediterranean.

While it may not offer the extreme sun reliability of the Cyclades or Crete, it provides a more temperate, lush, and varied climate that shapes its distinctive character and seasonal appeal.

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The history of Corfu and cricket goes back to 1823 when the island was under British rule, which left them with a legacy of loving both cricket and ginger beer.

A History of Corfu and Cricket

On 23rd April, 1823, on the feast of the English patron saint, St George, an event took place on Corfu whose effects are still being felt 200 years later. And felt not only on Corfu, but far away in the British Embassy in Athens too. That event was the first ever cricket match to be seen by the curious Corfiots.

Corfu was under British rule at the time and in order to amuse themselves a match was arranged between the officers of the island-based British Garrison and the visiting British Royal Navy. But the game didn’t only amuse the British, for whom cricket is a passion and an obsession, it amused the local people enormously and they decided to take the game up too.

Over the next few years two local teams were formed, both to play against each other and as a challenge to the British. The two teams went by the simple names of Large and Small, according to the players’ abilities.

The British Leave, but Cricket Stays

When the British left Corfu in 1864 there were still only two enthusiastic clubs on Corfu, though by now the names had changed to Gongakis and Camvissis. By 1893, though, interest in the game had waned, which is hardly surprising when you only have two teams!

The two teams merged in 1893 because there simply weren’t enough players to keep two clubs going, and the sole remaining team took the name of Gymnastikos. Their only opponents were occasional visiting British ships, but Gymnastikos kept the faith alive and the club still exists today as part of the Kerkyraikos Gymnastikos Syllogos multi-sports club.

In 1923 another club was started, taking the name of Ergatikos, although in 1936 it changed its name to Byron Cricket Club in honour of the British poet, Lord Byron, and that club is also still going strong today. Others have classical names like Atlas and Achilles. You can find out more at the CricketCorfu website.

Hellenic Cricket Federation

There is now a Hellenic Cricket Federation, which has 15 members, all on Corfu except for teams in Athens and Thessaloníki, Greece’s second city. There is a Corfu island team, and a Greek national team, as well as an occasional team fielded by the British Embassy in Athens. In addition, the teams on Corfu have very active youth policies and also have under-18 and under-14 teams.

It is these youngsters you might now see playing on the cricket pitch in front of the Liston in Corfu Town. The main teams used to play there until recently, when some of the space was taken for a car park, reducing the size of the pitch. When the men played, with cars parked all around, there would inevitably be damage to the cars sometimes, although the Town Hall used to pay the bills!

The arrival of large numbers of British tourists on Corfu every year has been a great boost for the island’s cricket lovers. Cricket teams from Britain come touring, and school teams as well, to play against the younger sides. A new ground was built at the Kontókali Marina to make up for the loss of the one in the town centre, though there are no reports yet of yachts being damaged by flying cricket balls.

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This guide to southern Corfu’s beaches and villages includes busy resorts, quiet beaches, hill villages and the southernmost tip of Corfu at Cape Asprókavos.

Pérama

Pérama is an often overlooked little resort, the first one you reach heading south from Corfu Town, on the far side of the Chalkiopoúlou lagoon from the airport. The fact that it does get some airport noise, depending on the wind direction, means it’s not proved popular with the overseas package tour operators. You also have to climb down some steep steps to the beaches, which is not so bad, though the climb back at the end of the day puts many people off.

If you’re not an avid beach person, though, the village can make a handy base, with several good restaurants, easy access to Corfu Town, the east coast and to the Achilleion Palace and the village of Gastoúri around it. It also remains very Greek and has not taken on an international face as most other resorts have.

Sinarádes

This large, attractive hill town is a friendly place where the older locals greet you and seem pleased you’ve paid a visit. Its main attraction is the History and Folklore Museum of Central Corfu which, though small, is one of the most delightful museums on the island, set in a traditional Corfu house on a quiet back street.

Worn steps lead to the first floor, which contains a replica kitchen, dining room and bedroom of 1860-1960. On the second floor is a fascinating array of items including musical instruments, toys, traditional costumes, shadow theatre, weaving loom, corn mill, shoemaker’s workbench, and a stuffed caretta turtle.

The star exhibit is a Papyrella, a boat made of reeds like those of ancient Egypt and used on the island’s west coast until World War II. Some 450 items are on display, many donated by the people of Sinarádes and nearby villages.

Ágios Górdis

Though comparatively small, Ágios Górdis has become a brash and busy resort which is not for those who like the quiet side of Greek life. Plenty of people do enjoy what it’s got to offer, and this includes one of the best beaches on the island, a curving bay of soft sand backed by wooded hills.

Much of the entertainment centres on the Pink Palace, which is a hotel that’s as flamboyant as the name suggests. It houses swimming pools, bars, restaurants, shops, sports facilities and a disco, all open to non-residents.

Worth noting if you’re just visiting for the day to sample the beach is that parking by the beach is very limited indeed, and the narrow roads can get jammed with traffic, so look for the car park sign further up the hill before you start descending to the beach and leave your car there.

Áyii Déka

Corfu’s second highest mountain is Áyii Déka, which stands 576 meters (1,889 feet) high, to the south of Corfu Town. There is a gorgeous view back towards Corfu Town from the village of Áyii Déka, which is reason alone to warrant a visit.

If you don’t have the freedom of a car, many coach tours take a stop here to both take in the view and relax in a typical hill village. The name, incidentally, means ‘Ten Saints’, and there is an exhilarating climb to the top of the mountain from the village of Áno Garoúna.

Paramónas

One of the nicest resorts on this stretch of the west coast, although it hardly merits being called a resort – more of a village with a beach, a few tavernas, and several places to stay. No buses go here and the narrow road to it from the nearest town, Ágios Mattaíos, zig-zags and forks several times so casual visitors may or may not end up there.

Those who do get there, find a pleasant beach, somewhere good to have lunch or an evening meal, a hotel to stay the night if you wish… and not much else. For many people, that’s all they need.

Ágios Mattaíos

This is the only town of any size in this part of central Corfu, though if you blink you could miss it. Blinking while driving through isn’t recommended, however, due to the narrow streets and blind corners which all through traffic has to negotiate. Drivers have to simply hope that a huge bus or tractor isn’t coming the other way.

It has a cluster of shops and cafés, and very much a rural feel, hardly impinged upon by the tourism along the coast. It stands on the slopes of the mountain of the same name, which at 463 meters (1,519 feet) offers a good hike from a path within the village, and at the end some impressive views of the valley inland and the coast to the west.

Moraïtika

First impressions of Moraïtika might not be favourable, as it appears to be a long stretch of bars, shops, and restaurants along a busy main road, but it has managed to retain some character and it attracts a broad cross-section of people.

As with many of the resorts, away from the beach there’s an old part of town, in this case Áno Moraïtika, which nestles on the slopes of the hill towards the north of the modern town centre. Here there’s some peace in among the old houses and the relaxed cafés and tavernas, where the locals hang out.

You won’t find much peace on the main street of modern Moraïtika in the evening, when the bars and clubs burst into life, but as yet it has not become an over-the-top party place like Kávos, further south. During the day the activity focuses on the long beach, which might not be as pretty as some on the west coast but makes up for it with plenty of activities.

Mesongí

Mesongí is separated from Moraïtika only by the Messongís River, which is surprisingly wide in winter and spring after the rains. It makes rather an attractive boundary, too, and although the two resorts do merge into one, there is a definite change of feel as you head south into Mesongí.

It is quieter and more laid-back than its ‘big brother’, with more of a family and a Greek feel to it. The beach isn’t as large or as good as the one across the river, but if you don’t mind that and want somewhere that’s a little quieter then the narrow streets of little Mesongí could be it. And south of here the coast gets quieter still.

Gardíki Castle

The road south from Paramónas and the one north from Lake Korissión meet at Gardíki Castle, though don’t expect a towering ruin as Gardíki is an odd castle in that it is almost at ground level. The Byzantine fortress is thought to date back to the start of the 13th century and for a long time was closed to the public but now is open again… not that there’s very much to see.

A walk up to the highest point, which is a small mound, gives an overall view of the defensive walls. You also get a view of the land around, which gives an idea of how flat this particular part is, but there is not a lot else for the casual visitor: big green lizards, wild flowers and an old Coca-Cola cabinet.

A short walk along the road towards Paramónas, on your right, is a path which leads up to a cave where Paleolithic remains have been found and which can be seen in the Archaeological Museum in Corfu Town.

Boúkaris

Boúkaris is one of the most delightful spots on the whole of the east coast. It’s a world away from the bustle of the resorts north of Corfu Town, as this is the world of the deserted beach, the fish taverna by the sea, and low-key tourist development. It’s a place for walkers, and those seeking to find the traditional way of life of Corfu, before fishing villages like this were swallowed up by the needs of the modern holidaymaker.

The coast road south from here becomes rather too rough for the average car, and nervous drivers should take the inland road if they want to head further south. Boúkaris, though, is the kind of place you may never want to leave, once you’ve found it.

Petríti

If Petríti had a good beach then it would no doubt be a popular tourist spot by now, as it’s a pleasant village that spreads out from a large harbour into an open plain and up the slopes of green hills. It has a big, open feel to it, and a friendly air, perhaps caused by the fact that it isn’t a busy tourist resort.

The harbour for such a small place is surprisingly large, with some big commercial fishing boats going in and out, as well as the smaller family boats off to catch fish for the island’s markets and tavernas. If touring this part of the island, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Ágios Geórgios

At the southern end of Lake Korissión, the lovely sandy dunes become the lovely sandy beach of the small resort of Ágios Geórgios. Small but growing, as there’s now quite a bit of tourist development here and plenty of watersports on the beach to keep everyone occupied.

It’s a place that’s popular with families, as there are plenty of children’s activities too, and though there’s not much of a Greek feel to the place, it’s still an enjoyable relaxed resort in a pretty setting.

Ayía Varvára

If you want somewhere quiet but still with a bit of life to it, then Ayía Varvára, hidden away at the end of a side road in the south of the island, could be just the spot. It has an attractive sandy beach, a few tavernas and rooms, and inland on a hill sits the old village where life goes on as it has for centuries at its own slow pace. There are good walks to be had, and it’s the perfect place for chilling out for a few days and getting totally relaxed.

Lefkímmi

There are few if any conventional tourist attractions in Lefkímmi – no museums, no beach, no seafront tavernas – and since the building of a bypass which takes traffic right to Lefkímmi port for the ferries, there is probably no reason for visitors to go there at all. This is a shame, as it’s because of these very reasons that people should try to pay a visit.

It is the main town of southern Corfu, the second largest on the island after the capital, and very much a rural community. It’s a rare chance to see a sizeable Corfu town that is virtually untouched by tourism. Lefkímmi is made up of several little villages that have all grown together, and negotiating the one-way system that winds through them can be daunting for the driver. The best solution is to find somewhere to park as soon as you can, and get out and walk.

There is a bustling community here, shops that sell everything apart from souvenirs, tavernas where you can get a real Greek meal, and several large and interesting churches: you can’t mistake the Church of St Arseniou, with its twin belfries.

Kávos

People tend to love Kávos or hate it. Those that love it will be staying there, and those that hate it probably won’t go within miles of the place, though perhaps some are drawn by curiosity. It’s the undoubted party capital of Corfu, by a long way, but is tucked away at the far south of the island where it can be left to its own devices and not affect the lives of most Corfiots.

When most of the rest of the island is sleeping, Kávos is booming to the beat of disco music, its streets filled with mostly European youth in various states of dress and inebriation. Along the main streets and down by the beach, clubs and bars with brash names all compete for custom, staying open until dawn. It winds down a little during the day, of course, when clubbers crash out on the very good sandy beach – one of the reasons for the resort’s initial development.

Cape Asprókavos

About thirty minutes’ walk south of Kávos, and a world away in atmosphere, is the southern tip of Corfu: Cape Asprókavos. It’s the recommended starting point for the Corfu Trail and to get to it you take the southern road out of Kávos, marked for Sparterá, and follow the signs for the path to the Cape.

It’s a lovely walk through farmland, a breath of air after the non-stop nature of Kávos itself. The path leads to the Cape’s cliffs, from where you can see Paxos across the sea to the south, and if you continue on around the headland you come to the ruins of an old monastery, which stands quietly retaining its monastic peace and solitude.

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These Corfu shopping tips include advice on buying souvenirs like ceramics, jewelry, gold, silver, wood carvings, and food and drink, with tips on haggling.

Corfu has quite a good range of shopping options. Although it is primarily a mass-market tourism destination, it also attracts a number of cruise ships whose passengers have money to spend. The best variety and quality is to be found in Corfu Town, and if based outside the capital you should certainly include a visit there if you want to find some good souvenirs.

Ceramics

There are some excellent ceramic items available all over the island. Some are mass-produced but there are also good work from local artists. You should shop around as not all shops stock the same goods.

Food and Drink

Extra virgin olive oil can be found everywhere, some in elaborate bottles suitable for buying as gifts, but make sure it is olive oil from Corfu as a lot is imported from mainland Greece. If you simply want to buy in quantity to use yourself, consider getting a large tin of it.

Honey is also good, although not necessarily a cheap buy. You’ll see hives all around the island, and some of the mountain honey is really delicious, flavoured by wild herbs and flowers.

Liqueur made from the island’s kumquats is an unusual and very special gift. Watch for the different strengths available, as it’s usually a case of the stronger it is, the better and richer it tastes. Some restaurants will give you a complimentary glass of the liqueur at the end of a meal, but these are usually the weaker and cheaper varieties. If these don’t impress you, do try to sample the stronger versions. Many shops will let you try a taste.

Other specialities to look out for include local olives, herbs, spices, nuts, and cheese.

Gold, Silver, and Jewellery

You’ll find silversmiths all over Greece. There is a long tradition of the craft in Epirus, and in particular in the city of Ioannina, across from Corfu on the mainland. Some of the work makes its way to the island, so do ask about it.

Some Greek jewellery is rather too flamboyant for many people, but there are young designers today creating more subtle work with a wide choice of rings, ear-rings and necklaces.

Museum replicas are usually very well-made, and make good personal souvenirs.

Icons

There are few more typical Greek gifts than icons, a centuries-old Greek tradition. Most are machine-made, but you will still find a few artists producing these by hand. You can find the best choice when visiting the island’s monasteries.

Leatherware

Leather is a good buy almost everywhere in Greece, and Corfu is no exception. Look for sandals, shoes, bags, and belts in the Old Town in Corfu Town.

Weaving

Good quality hand weaving and embroidery can be found throughout the island, as it is quite a cottage industry here. You are just as likely to find top class items in some quiet village as in Corfu Town – and at a much cheaper price. Kassiopi is a centre for lace and crochet work.

Wood Carvings

With so many olive trees on Corfu, it is only natural that the islanders should want to make use of the wood too. There are now many wood carving workshops, almost one in every town, where you can buy items like walking sticks, light pulls, beautiful bowls, and kitchen utensils.

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Benitses is a busy but charming coastal village blending Roman history, lush mountain hiking & beautiful beaches, located south of Corfu Town.

Nestled on the verdant eastern coastline of Corfu, the village of Benitses stands as a testament to the island’s ability to reinvent itself while honoring its deep-seated traditions. Once a quiet fishing hamlet, then a high-octane party capital of the Mediterranean, and now a revitalized, family-friendly resort, Benitses offers a unique blend of lush mountain scenery, crystal-clear Ionian waters, and a history that stretches back to the height of the Roman Empire.

History of Benitses

The history of Benitses is inextricably linked to its abundant natural resources—specifically its freshwater springs. The name itself is believed to derive from the ancient Greek word Pinio, referring to the confluence of streams that flow from the nearby mountains of Agioi Deka and Stavros. These springs were so plentiful that they fueled the village’s early economy, powering numerous watermills that processed olives and flour for the entire region.

Evidence of the village’s importance in antiquity can be found in the remarkably well-preserved Roman Baths. Located in the heart of the village on a private estate, these ruins include a vaulted hall and intricate mosaic floors dating back to the 3rd century AD. Centuries later, during the British Protectorate in the 1830s, the village’s water sources were harnessed once again to create the island’s first modern aqueduct, a project led by Sir Frederick Adam to solve the water shortages in Corfu Town.

Throughout the Middle Ages and the Venetian era, Benitses was a resilient community that frequently found itself on the front lines of history. It was raided several times by Ottoman forces during the Great Sieges of Corfu, and in the early 20th century, it served as a refuge and hospital site for the Serbian army during World War I.
The mid-20th century brought a dramatic shift. In the 1960s and 70s, Benitses became one of the first organized tourist resorts in Greece. It famously attracted global icons like Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, and even Paul McCartney. By the 1980s, it had transformed into a legendary nightlife hub, home to the world-renowned “Spiros on the Beach” nightclub. Today, the neon lights of the 80s have largely faded, replaced by a sophisticated atmosphere that favors culture, gastronomy, and nature.

Location and Geography

Benitses is situated approximately 12 kilometers south of Corfu Town and the Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport. Its location is often described as “where the mountain meets the sea.” The village is squeezed into a narrow strip of land between the turquoise Ionian Sea and the emerald-green slopes of Mount Agioi Deka.
The village is divided into several distinct areas:

• The Old Village (Panochori): A labyrinth of narrow, whitewashed alleys and traditional stone houses that climb the hillside, offering a glimpse of authentic Corfiot life away from the coastal road.
• The Marina and Commercial Center: A modern, picturesque harbor that hosts both traditional wooden fishing boats (kaikia) and luxury yachts.
• The Coastal Strip: A long stretch of pebble and shingle beaches that run parallel to the main road, lined with tavernas and cafes.

Things to Do for Visitors

Whether you are a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to soak up the sun, Benitses offers a diverse range of activities.
1. Explore Ancient and Cultural Sites
A visit to the Roman Baths is essential for understanding the village’s roots. Just a short distance away, the Corfu Shell Museum (widely considered one of the best of its kind in Europe) houses a massive collection of rare shells, corals, and fossils from the Indian and Pacific Oceans. For those willing to venture just a few kilometers north, the majestic Achilleion Palace—the summer retreat of Empress Elisabeth of Austria—offers stunning architecture and panoramic views of the coast.

2. Hiking and Nature Trails
Benitses is a paradise for hikers. Numerous well-marked footpaths lead from the village into the mountains. One of the most popular routes takes you to the Springs of Benitses and the ruins of the British Aqueduct. The trails wind through ancient olive groves, some hundreds of years old, and lead to hidden chapels like the Church of Agia Marina, which offers a breathtaking vantage point over the village and the sea.

3. Life on the Water
The beaches in Benitses have been awarded the Blue Flag for their water quality and cleanliness. The sea here is exceptionally clear, thanks to the vast meadows of Posidonia oceanica (sea grass) that filter the water.
• Snorkeling and Diving: The rocky outcrops and seagrass meadows are home to a vibrant array of Mediterranean marine life.
• Boat Trips: From the marina, you can rent a small boat or join a cruise to the nearby islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, or visit the “Blue Lagoon” on the Greek mainland.
• The Laopetra: Don’t miss the iconic “Laopetra” (People’s Rock), a large limestone formation rising from the sea just offshore, which has become the symbol of the village.

4. Culinary Delights
Dining is a central part of the Benitses experience. The village is famous for its fish tavernas, a legacy of its history as a fishing community. Here, you can enjoy some of Corfu’s special dishes like bourdeto (a spicy fish stew) or sofrito (veal cooked in a garlic and vinegar sauce) while sitting just meters from the lapping waves. The central square comes alive in the evenings, offering a mix of traditional Greek hospitality and contemporary bars.

5. Local Festivals
If you visit in July, you might catch the Feast of Agia Marina (July 17th). This is the biggest event of the year, featuring a religious procession followed by a traditional panigiri (festival) with live music, folk dancing, and plenty of local food and wine.

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Northern Corfu Drive

The main sites to see in Corfu Town are listed on our Corfu Town page, and some also have their own pages, but here are some of the other places to see.

The main sites to see in Corfu Town include the Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine Museum and the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George, but there are plenty of other places to visit too. Here’s our list of the best of the rest.

Solomos Museum

This isn’t a museum to attract the average visitor, but Greeks are very proud of their poet, Dionysios Solomos, who died in this house in 1857. He was born on the Ionian island of Zákinthos in 1798 but moved to Corfu in 1828. His most famous work is Hymn to Freedom, part of which was set to music to become the first Greek national anthem.

Here in his former home are photographs, paintings, manuscripts and memorabilia, although most of the information is in Greek only. It is also rather hard to find, in a back street to the rear of Arseniou, near the Byzantine Museum. Ask at the Byzantine Museum if you’re having trouble locating it: it isn’t well signposted.

Corfu Reading Society

The Corfu Reading Society was founded in 1836 and has its home in an elegant building at the far north end of Kapodístriou, across the street from the Palace of St Michael and St George. Look for the steps going up to where its library is located.

There are 10,000 volumes about Corfu and the other Ionian islands, and although it is not generally open to the public as an attraction as such, because it is a working library still, interested visitors are more than welcome to call in and look inside. Scholars may also apply to consult the library and sometimes there are special exhibitions. There are also newspapers, maps, documents, paintings and photographs housed in the library too.

The Orthodox Cathedral

The island’s Orthodox Cathedral, or Mitrópoli, is in the northern part of the Old Town and stands impressively at the top of a flight of steps. It dates back to 1577 but was not dedicated as a cathedral until 1841. Inside it is rather gloomy, but with a high roof and three aisles it is quite an impressive building.

There is the usual array of icons, the most notable of which is one of St George, just inside the main entrance. The opening hours vary, and while it is mainly open on weekday mornings, and of course for services on Sunday, it can also be open in the afternoons so try the door if passing.

The New Fortress

The Venetians began work on the New Fortress (Néo Froúrio) in 1576, almost thirty years after the Old Fortress was built, showing how important the defence of Corfu Town was to them. These days there is not a lot to see inside the walls, although there are sometimes exhibitions and concerts, and there’s a café that’s mainly open in the summer.

The best reason for visiting, though, is for the views. Just beyond the entrance to the Fortress at the western end of Solomou are good views over the rooftops of the Old Town, and once you have climbed to the top there are better views across towards Albania and the Greek mainland, and over the Old Port down below. There’s also a cafe at the top where you can enjoy the views with a drink and a rest.

The Liston

On the eastern end of the Old Town stands the street known as the Liston, whose name derives from the list of noble people who were, when it was first built, allowed to walk here. It was constructed in 1807 during French rule and designed as a copy in miniature of the rue de Rivoli in Paris, and like the rue de Rivoli it has a mix of coffee shops, restaurants and souvenir shops. It constantly buzzes, day or night, with local people meeting friends, reading newspapers, chattering on mobile phones or simply having a coffee. Your drink will cost more here than elsewhere in town, but people think it worth it for the atmosphere.

The Spianáda

The Spianáda or Esplanade is the pleasant park that is such a focus of life in Corfu Town. The northern half is bordered by the Liston to the west, the Palace of St Michael and St George at its northern end and the Old Fortress to the east. Originally the whole area was a parade ground for the Venetian army. Later the northern part was used as the town’s cricket pitch, but recently the need for parking has cut into the green space so it is only half the size it once was, and few cricket matches are played here these days (see our Corfu and Cricket page).

The southern half of the Spianáda is still very pleasant, though, with an impressive fountain, flowers, greenery, paths and seats, a bandstand used for concerts in summer and at the far end a curious but attractive round building. This is the Maitland Rotunda, built in 1816 as a memorial to the first British Lord High Commissioner to Corfu, Sir Thomas Maitland.

The Town Hall

On the northern side of Plateía Dimarcheío is the elegant Town Hall, built of white marble from around Mount Pantokrátor. It was put up by the Venetians in 1665 as a single-storey building to be used as an assembly room. In 1720 it became the San Giacomo Theatre, showing the cultural enthusiasm that has always existed in Corfu Town. The building only became the Town Hall in 1903 under the British, who built the upper floor in perfect keeping with the harmony of the building. It is not open to the public but the outside can be admired from this pleasant little square.

Platitéra Monastery

To the west of San Rocco Square and a not particularly pleasant 10-minute walk due to the traffic is the peaceful oasis of the Monastery of Platitéra. To be strictly accurate it used to be a convent, and it is no longer in use as such but it is open to the public and used for services.

The traffic noise does at least recede a little as you enter the whitewashed courtyard with its large palm trees, and an archway luring you beyond to the main buildings. It is extremely small and there is not a great deal to see. The dimly-lit church was first built in 1743 but destroyed by the French when attacking the island and rebuilt in 1801.

There are some tombs of notables to one side of the church, but the most notable of all is hidden away behind the altar screen and not readily accessible unless one of the attendants is willing to let you see. It is the last resting place of Ioannis Kapodistrias, who was born on Corfu and in 1827 became the first President of the modern Greek state.

The British Cemetery

From San Rocco Square follow the airport road for a few minutes, and down a side street on your left is the easily-missed entrance to the British Cemetery. As well as a burial place for the island’s British residents, and some of those who died in combat defending Corfu, this is a real treat for the nature lover, especially the botanist.

At the right times of year you will be greeted by a little hand-written sign from the caretakers: ‘please be careful not to tread on the wild orchids’. Almost 30 species have been found here, and less exotic plants such as roses, pansies, ferns, fuchsia, poppies and lilies are here in abundance, along with the birdlife that these also attract. It is a suitably peaceful and dignified resting place for the people buried here, and some of the tombstones give moving glimpses of the lives they commemorate.

The Church of Saints Jason and Sosipater

Tucked away in the southern suburb of Corfu Town called Anemomílos, but easily visited if you are walking out to see Mon Repos, is this, the only complete Byzantine church on Corfu. One of the frescoes on the walls has been dated back to the 11th century at least, so the walls and other parts may well be even older, and it is still very much in use today, a thousand years later.

The two saints to whom it is dedicated were both bishops and followers of St Paul, and brought Christianity to Corfu in the 1st century AD. The church’s tiled roof, ancient brickwork, bell tower and dome are all compressed into a tiny space, very photogenic from the outside and very atmospheric within. The frescoes shouldn’t be missed.

Palaiópolis

Palaiópolis means ‘old town’, and it is here that the oldest remains in the area have been found. There is no set focus to it, but several scattered sights in and around the grounds of the Palace of Mon Repos. The most noticeable remains are directly opposite the entrance to Mon Repos, the church of Áyia Kérkyra. This is the saint who provides the Greek name for the island of Corfu: Kérkyra.

The substantial walls still stand toweringly high, and parts date back as far as the 5c, even though they have been knocked down and rebuilt several times over the centuries. It stands where a 5th century BC pagan temple once stood. It is not open to the public at present, but may be so at some unspecified time in the future. Other parts of Palaiópolis are harder to get to and not as rewarding, and in any case should be seen only after a visit to the museum in Mon Repos, which lays out the history of this whole area splendidly.

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