Top things to do in Corfu

Corfu Town's old town is a delight to explore, with its Venetian architecture, shady alleyways, and historic buildings. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's easy to see why this area captivates visitors. Strolling through its shops, bars, and restaurants feels like wandering through an Italian Renaissance town. Highlights include the statue of Georgios Theotokis, the magnificent Liston pedestrian street, the old fortress, Spilias Square and the church of St Spyridon. A visit to Corfu's old town is not to be missed.

Nestling on the north-east coast of Corfu, the small fishing village of Agni Bay is perfectly formed. This collection of traditional fisher houses, docks and port facilities, stretching around the small cove and shingle beach, is a delight to behold and instantly transports you back to a bygone era. The seafront tavernas have become famous for their superb seafood cuisine. While the village itself certainly reflects simpler times, the clientele has become increasingly posh so it's not uncommon to see delicious lobster and crab dishes washed down with the finest champagne.

At the northernmost tip of Corfu, Cape Drastis is a stunning peninsula of white cliffs jutting out into the sea. The view as you approach the cape is both spectacular and magnificent. To reach the foot of the cliffs and the small beach, a road is accessible through a gate, which can sometimes be locked outside the summer season. Once through the gate, a steep road, which requires careful navigation, leads you to the beach and its breathtaking views. Amenities are few and far between here, so take plenty of water and prepare to be largely self-sufficient.

Many of Corfu's historic buildings are well worth a visit, as they offer a glimpse into the island's rich and colourful past. Here are a few of our favourites.

The Monastery of Vlacherna juts out into the sea on a tiny piece of land. It is reached by a wooden footbridge flanked by fishing boats. This charming building is a perfect photo opportunity and has been used as a backdrop in several films. In Corfu's old town, nestled inside the old fortress, is the charming Church of St George. This church, which looks like a piece of traditional Doric architecture, was actually built by the British in the 19th century and is well worth a visit. Our final suggestion is the magnificent Royal Palace of Achilleion in Gastouri. This splendid piece of architecture was built as a residence for Austrian royalty, but is now open to the public.

Off the southern coast of Corfu lie the stunning islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, known for their breathtaking beauty. Quaint houses dot the picturesque bays, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and luxurious beaches, framed by verdant hillsides; it is no wonder that the islands are a magnet for the rich and famous and the marinas are regularly filled with celebrity-owned super yachts. Boat trips departing from Kavos typically include visits to these islands, offering opportunities to swim in the warm turquoise seas and explore the three renowned caves, each boasting spectacular inner architecture.