popular places in corfu

Halikounas beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches over the island. It is situated in the southwest side of Corfu, next to Korission Lagoon. The landscape is full of contradictions. Rocky hills rise on one side, which towards the seaside are converting into a 3km golden beach. The beach is easily accessible through a wooden bridge, which connects lagoon to the sea. The beach is surrounded by a thick juniper forest, which complements landscape’s beauty. A spectacular sunset reflecting upon the deep blue waters is to be admired. Even though Halikounas beach is not one of the most popular beaches on the island, it is considered as a diamond of nature’s beauty as well as a landmark to the Ionian Sea. Halikounas has also a beach bar. It is a beach ideal for those who love kite surfing due to the winds.

Arillas is a small settlement of the northern part of Corfu island. City centre is 38km away from Arillas village. Next to the village, Arillas beach is stretched, which is characterised by its incredible crystalline waters. Waves also burst into golden coasts. Even if it is about an organised beach, there a lot of isolated places, where anyone can enjoy its privacy and peacefulness. Its geographical position offers an amazing view towards the Diapontian Islands, a view enriched by the sunset. The beach is shallow and, therefore, suitable for families and children. In addition, there is a nudist beach situated behind the rocks. Rocks have aluminium, which is mainly used in spas thanks to its therapeutic effect. Finally, restaurants, rooms to let and small hotels can be easily found.

Nisaki beach is located on the northeast side of the island, only 22km away from the city centre. The beach is extended in a small bay, which protects it from the winds. With these means, an idyllically relaxing landscape is created. The extremely rich seabed appeals every year those who love diving. Its crystal waters in combination with the white pebbles represent the island’s beauty to its whole. Anyone, who is resting by the seashore, can enjoy the Corfiot sun, which is reflecting upon the deep blue waters. Beyond its splendid beauty, Nisaki beach possesses traditional restaurants, known as taverns. Guests can enjoy luscious tastes and local cuisine, while they rejoice in viewing sky’s paintings during twilight.

Mountain Kassiopi is located 38km away from the city capital and is characterised as one of the most popular regions in northeast side of Corfu. Kassiopi is a fishers’ village opposite to the coasts of Albania. The village is surrounded by rich vegetation, while at the rear Pantokrator mountain rises. The beaches of Kassiopi are very small, covered by pebbles with crystal clear waters and surrounded by rocks. Northern, there are two large beaches known as Kalamionas and Imerolia, where different water sports are available. Beach Kanoni is ideal for diving. Kassiopi is also known for its intense nightlife.

Next to the mountainous village of Gastouri and only 10km south of the city, the Achilleion Palace is to be found. It is the palace which was built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria known as Sissi. Achilleion Palace is one of the most famous royal mansions in Europe. Its name was given by Achilles, who was a hero during the Trojan war. It is built according to the neoclassical architecture and includes a numerous variety of statues illustrating figures of Greek mythology. Indoors, there are beautiful portraits, murals and the personal possessions of the priors to Elisabeth. In the garden, which has thick vegetation, dominated the world-famous statue of “dying Achilles”. Its beauty is reinforced by the fact that the palace is built upon a mountainous slope surrounded by thick vegetation.

Palaiokastritsa is only 25km away from the city centre and consists of two peninsulas and six small bays. It is one of the most famous beaches of Corfu thanks to its unspoiled natural beauty. It has crystal waters and a rockery coast covered by pine trees. Its total blue and cold waters as well as its sandy coasts are its most main features. Palaiokastritsa is known for its caves and its underwater wells, which are formed due to its rocks. In the region, there are many restaurants, which, nevertheless, do not affect negatively the natural landscape.

The leafy land of Mon Repo is only 3km away from the city and covers 258 acres of vegetation with a variety of 2.000 different kinds of plants. In 1831, English Frederick Adam built the palace of Mon Repo in honour of his wife. It is the same palace, where legendary princess Sissi had lived. By crossing the leafy paths through the Mon Repo old city, anyone can reach its beach, known as Kardaki beach. Kardaki beach is considered as a shelter mainly during scorchers. There also a platform for those who would like to sunbathe or those who would love diving. Besides the thick vegetation, there is an eye-catching fount from which frozen drinking water flows.

Gouvia Marina is orientated in the northeast side of the island, only 7km away from Corfu city and the airport. It is located on the Gouvia gulf and it is considered as one of the best marinas in Greece. It is the first private marina in Greece, which is fully organised and provides high levelled services. It also possesses full technical support for the yachts, which is open 24 hours. There are many facilities which include various shopping malls, rental agencies, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, launderette, WC and showers, as well as playground, swimming pool and sport facilities outdoors. In the surrounding area, there are hotels and traditional buildings of Corfu surrounded by a leafy landscape.

Corfu city is known as the “capital” of the island and it is by its own one of the most beautiful landmarks. In the old city, onecan walk through the typical traditional lanes known as Kantounia, and admire the old houses and the architectural monuments. Throughout the city, there a lot of small churches. However, the most important one is the church of Saint Spyridon, who is the patron saint of the island. Campiello is the oldest neighbourhood, whose small lanes and medieval architecture are its best feature. In the city, Spianada square, the biggest square in the Balkans, is also located. Near Spianada square, there is also the most famous walkaway, Liston, where anyone can enjoy a cup of coffee. Old and New Fortress, as well as the Metropolis, are unique attractions. Therefore, all these monuments contribute to create a city which reminds a different age.

Dassia is located on the northwest coast of Corfu Island. It is quite easily accessible, only 13km away from Corfu city. Dassia used to be one of the first villages on the island which became an organised holiday resort. It is a very popular destination for its sea sports as well as its nightlife, whereas it provides many restaurants, bars and hotels. The coast is ideal for families, well known for its shallow and warm waters. It is a narrow beach with a great extent, covered by sand and pebbles. Opposite to the coast, the mountains of Albania and mainland rise. There is also an ideal platform for diving.