Corfu is one of the most diverse islands in Greece, combining dramatic coastlines, historic villages, Venetian architecture, crystal-clear waters, and exceptional local cuisine. From famous destinations like Paleokastritsa and Corfu Town to hidden gems such as Old Perithia and Cape Drastis, the island offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa, often called the “jewel” of Corfu, is a breathtaking coastal village famous for its six turquoise bays and dramatic limestone cliffs. Surrounded by lush olive groves and cypress trees, the area offers some of the clearest waters in Greece, making it a paradise for snorkeling and exploring sea caves by boat. High on a rugged hilltop sits the 13th-century Monastery of the Virgin Mary, providing stunning panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and a peaceful glimpse into the island’s spiritual history.
Boat Tours & Experiences
- Short Cave Tours typically last 45–60 minutes and cost around €12–€20 per person. Operators like Paleo Sea Travel and Corfu High Seas are highly rated.
- Secret Beach Cruises are longer tours lasting 2–4 hours and include stops for swimming at secluded spots like Paradise Beach (Chomi) or Stelari Beach, which are only accessible by boat. Prices for these shared excursions range from €30 to €65 per person.
- Boat Rentals are also available for visitors who want total freedom to explore the coastline independently. Small motorboats can be rented without a license for roughly €60–€95 per hour plus fuel.
Pelekas (Kaiser’s Throne)
The Kaiser’s Throne Observatory
This viewpoint was the favorite sanctuary of German Emperor
Kaiser Wilhelm II, who frequently visited between 1908 and 1914 to find privacy and watch the sunset.
- The View: From the observation platforms, you can see Corfu Town, the lush countryside, and even the coast of Albania on clear days.
- Cost & Access: Entry to the main viewpoint is completely free. It isgenerally accessible 24 hours a day, though the nearby Levant Hotel offers a more formal setting for drinks during the sunset
- Amenities: There is a free parking lot at the top, a small binocular on the upper platform, and a cafe-restaurant with an open-air balcony.
Visiting Pelekas Village
The village itself maintains an authentic atmosphere with narrow streets and traditional stone houses.
Getting There
- By Car or Scooter, Pelekas is approximately a 25-minute drive from Corfu Town, and visitors can drive directly to the observatory entrance.
- By Bus, visitors can take the No. 11 Blue Bus from Corfu Town to the village center, followed by a steep 900-meter uphill walk lasting around 30 minutes.
Nearby Beaches
Pelekas is an excellent base for visiting the sandy beaches of
Glyfada and
Kontogialos (Pelekas Beach), both located just a short drive downhill.
Old Perithia
Old Perithia is a historic “ghost village” located on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator. Built in the 14th century to protect inhabitants from pirate attacks, it remains the oldest permanent settlement on Corfu and is now a protected Heritage Site.
The Best Tavernas in Old Perithia
Despite being largely uninhabited, the village has become a culinary destination known for authentic slow-cooked Corfiot recipes. Most tavernas are clustered around the central square, known as the “Foros.”
- Taverna Evdokia is highly recommended for its warm hospitality, with signature dishes including Rooster in red sauce and house-made Baklava.
- O Foros, located in the heart of the old square and featured by celebrity chef Rick Stein, is famous for its Walnut Cake and traditional Sofrito.
- The Old Perithia Taverna offers a beautiful terrace and serves dishes such as Pastitsada and locally sourced Mount Pantokrator Honey.
- Gabriel’s Steps is especially popular among meat lovers for its grilled lamb chops and traditional village salad with local feta cheese.
Visiting Tips
- The road from Kassiopi or Acharavi is winding but fully paved, and there is a large free parking area at the village entrance.
- Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes because the village streets are made of original uneven cobblestones.
- Most tavernas open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. During the off-season, evening visitors are advised to call ahead as opening hours may vary
Cape Drastis
Cape Drastis is the northwesternmost point of Corfu and one of the island’s most photographed natural wonders. It is famous for its dramatic white clay cliffs, turquoise coves, and uniquely sculpted rock formations.
Ways to Experience Cape Drastis
- The main viewpoint can be reached by driving from the village of Peroulades along a narrow mostly unpaved road. Most visitors park near the top and walk approximately 15–20 minutes to reach the cliff-top viewpoint.
- Boat tours are also available from Sidari and often include the Canal d’Amour.
- Visitors can also hike down the steep path from the viewpoint to a small rocky cove where local boatmen offer short tours or drop-offs at secluded beaches for approximately €20–€30.
Visitor Essentials
- Access to the main viewpoint is free.
- There are no facilities such as toilets, shops, or cafés at the cape itself, so visitors should bring water and snacks.
- Sturdy walking shoes are recommended because the paths are uneven, dusty, and can become slippery.
- The best times to visit are early morning to avoid crowds or sunset for spectacular lighting conditions.
Nearby Highlights
Nearby attractions include
Loggas Beach (Sunset Beach), famous for its vertical cliffs and panoramic sunset views, and
the 7th Heaven Café with its glass viewpoint platform.
Issos Beach
Issos Beach is one of the most distinctive sandy beaches in Corfu and is often referred to as the “Sahara of Corfu” because of its massive golden sand dunes, which can reach heights of up to 15 meters.
Natural Features
- The Dunes & Cedar Forest: The beach is famous for its rolling sand dunes and a rare cedar forest that borders the northern part of the shore.
- Lake Korission: Located directly behind the beach, this 6,000-acre lagoon is the island's most important wetland. It is a protected Natura 2000 site and home to over 120 species of birds, including flamingos (visible between May and October) and cormorants.
- Shallow Waters: The beach has clear, shallow waters and a flat seabed, making it very safe and popular for families with young children
Activities
- Due to consistent winds on the southwest coast, Issos is one of Corfu’s top destinations for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
- The beach was also featured in the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only (1981).
- The dunes are widely considered among the best sunset-viewing locations on the island.
Practical Information
- The beach is only partially organized, with a few sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, while most of the 2km stretch remains wild and undeveloped.
- Issos has accessibility facilities and has been awarded a Blue Flag for water quality.
- There is a large free sandy parking area behind the beach, although visitors are advised not to drive too deep into the soft sand.
Marathias
Marathias is widely considered one of the finest beaches in southern Corfu, famous for its vast stretch of fine golden sand and exceptionally clean, deep blue waters. It offers a more relaxed and authentic atmosphere compared to the busier northern resorts.
Beach Experience
- The Vibe: It is a long, wide beach that never feels overcrowded. The southern end is more organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, while the northern end remains wild and quiet, perfect for those seeking privacy
- The Water: The sea is crystal clear but tends to get deep relatively quickly compared to nearby Issos. It has been consistently awarded the Blue Flag for its water quality.
- Sunsets: Facing the west, Marathias offers stunning sunset views directly over the Ionian Sea.
Where to Eat (Top Tavernas)
The village and beachfront are home to some of the best-rated seafood spots in the south:
- The Village Taverna: Located slightly inland in the traditional village, it is famous for its authentic Corfiot hospitality and local meat dishes like Sofrito.
- Wave Beach Bar & Restaurant: A great spot right on the sand for a more modern lunch or a sunset cocktail with high-quality Mediterranean plates.
- Sirene Restaurant: Well-known for its fresh fish and traditional seafood appetizers, offering tables with a direct view of the waves
Practical Info
- Access: About a 45-60 minute drive from Corfu Town. The road is wellpaved, leading down to several parking areas near the beach.
- Wind: Like most west-coast beaches, it can get wavy when the "Maistro" (northwest wind) blows, which is great for fun in the water but requires caution for young children.
Corfu Town
Corfu Town (Kerkyra), a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning blend of Venetian, French, and British architectural influences. It is widely considered one of the most elegant and atmospheric cities in the Mediterranean.
Must-See Landmarks
- The Liston & Spianada: The Liston is a grand pedestrian promenade with Parisian-style arches, perfect for coffee and people-watching. It borders the Spianada, the largest square in the Balkans, where you can still see locals playing cricket.
- Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio): A 15th-century Venetian masterpiece separated from the town by a sea moat. Climb to the lighthouse for a 360- degree view of the town and the Ionian Sea
- Saint Spyridon Church: The resting place of the island’s patron saint. Look up for its iconic red-domed bell tower—the tallest in the Ionian Islands.
- Campiello: The oldest district of the town, famous for its maze-like narrow alleys (kantounia), laundry hanging between balconies, and hidden piazzas.
Dining & Drinks
- The Venetian Well: Located in the quiet Kremasti Square, this is one of the most romantic and high-end dining spots in the city.
- Rex: A historic restaurant located just behind the Liston, serving classic Corfiot dishes like Pastitsada and Sofrito since 1932.
- Imabari Seaside Lounge: Tucked away at Faliraki (just below the Palace of St. Michael & St. George), it’s a great spot for a swim followed by cocktails with a view of the Old Fortress.
