Corfu, Greece | A Dream Island in the Mediterranean

🌟Highlights: Located in the Ionian Sea, west of Greece, Corfu is known as the "Emerald Isle." With lush vegetation, over two million olive trees, citrus groves, and vineyards, it's a sea of green. Its 217 km-long coastline boasts white sandy beaches and jewel-like waters. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Corfu blends Greek, Venetian, French, and British cultures. Strolling through its towns, you'll encounter unique architecture and experience the charm of this multicultural island. ❤Why Visit: Corfu caters to all types of travelers. Families can enjoy quality time on the beach, couples can take romantic seaside strolls, and friends can experience a variety of water sports. History buffs can explore ancient castles and palaces, indulging in a cultural feast. ✅Must-See Attractions Corfu Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town preserves medieval architecture. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, admiring the Baroque and Venetian-style buildings. Spianada Square, the second largest square in Europe, is surrounded by historic buildings. An evening stroll here immerses you in the rich historical atmosphere. Old Fortress: Situated on a hill by the harbor east of Corfu Old Town, the Old Fortress was originally a 12th-century Byzantine fortress. From the fortress, you can overlook Corfu's harbor and Old Town. The white Church of St. George is also located here, adding to the Greek ambiance. New Fortress: Facing the Old Fortress, on the west side of Corfu Old Town, the New Fortress was built between 1572 and 1645. It features the same Lion of Saint Mark emblem as St. Mark's Square in Venice, Italy. Ascend the fortress for breathtaking views of Corfu's harbor. Achilleion Palace: Located about 7 km south of Corfu Town, Achilleion Palace was the summer residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi). Named after the Greek hero Achilles, the palace boasts a rich collection of portraits and sculptures. The palace gardens offer picturesque views of the sea and Corfu Town, exuding romance and elegance. Kanoni: Situated at the southernmost tip of the peninsula, Kanoni features the Monastery of Vlacherna on a man-made islet. Climb the nearby hill for panoramic views of the harbor and Mouse Island. This scenic spot is a photographer's paradise. 🗓Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Corfu, check in to your hotel, and after a short rest, explore Corfu Old Town. Wander through the ancient streets, visit the Town Hall and the Municipal Gallery, and enjoy dinner in the Old Town, savoring local cuisine. Day 2: In the morning, visit the Old and New Fortresses, learning about their history and architecture while enjoying harbor views. In the afternoon, visit Achilleion Palace, exploring the palace and gardens and experiencing the life of Empress Sisi. Day 3: Visit Kanoni, climb the hill for views of the harbor and Mouse Island, and then head to Paleokastritsa to enjoy the sun, sand, and water sports on its beautiful beach. Day 4: Free day. Relax at the hotel or explore the local markets for unique souvenirs. 🍲Food Recommendations Pastitsada: A dish similar to Bolognese, pastitsada features a rich meat sauce made with beef or lamb, served with pasta. Sofrito: Thinly sliced veal is stewed in olive oil, garlic, and white wine, resulting in tender meat and a flavorful, aromatic sauce. Bourdeto: A fish stew made with fresh fish, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices. The fish is tender, and the broth is spicy and sour, making it a very appetizing dish. Kumquat Liqueur: A local specialty, this liqueur is made from the island's unique kumquats, offering a sweet and sour flavor with a distinct fruity aroma. 🚉Transportation By Air: Corfu International Airport receives many flights from mainland Greece. Starting around May each year, it also receives flights from various international cities. By Sea: Ferries to Corfu are available from Igoumenitsa and Patras in western mainland Greece, as well as from Bari or Ancona in Italy. 📝Tips 🕙May to October is Corfu's peak tourist season, with warm, sunny weather ideal for outdoor activities and beach vacations. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices for hotels and flights. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting in April or November, when the weather is still pleasant. 💰The currency used in Corfu is the euro. Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller shops and restaurants. 🧳Respect local religious and cultural customs. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as churches, avoiding overly revealing clothing.