Photo ↑ by @thethinkingtraveller
So, you have a few days in Corfu and you are thinking about the scenic route. A bit of history here and there, some museums, a few beaches and you have the perfect scenario for a vacation in Corfu. Keep in mind that this itinerary trip is suitable for vacations up to a week.
While you can normally drive all around these places in one day, you will need a bit of time to take everything in. Besides, this is a vacation, so you may need a bit of time to relax too. Furthermore, the itinerary is much easier to do with a car, rather than buses.
Keep in mind that you can organise your trip anyway you prefer, this itinerary is only a suggestion.
Start In Kerkyra
Take a day or two in Kerkyra. This is where all the great tours and trips start anyway. You can find plenty of historical attractions in Kerkyra, such as the New Fortress or perhaps the Old Fortress. Both of them provide some amazing views as well.
Landmarks, religious places, views, museums, you name it. Besides, imagine taking a full tour around the old town. Chances are you will need a break once you are done and nothing is more relaxing that a walk and a few drinks after sunset.
All in all, have a good breakfast the next day and move on with the tour.
Achilleion Is A Must
Achilleion is a must if you are into history and interesting characters from the past. It is located in Gastouri and was built for Sisi. It has an interesting story and represents one of the most attractive landmarks in the whole of Greece.
Not only is it beautifully designed, but it offers some extraordinary views over Corfu and its surroundings too. It is built around Sisi’s obsession with Achilles, so there are many representations of the Greek hero all around the premises.
Head Over To The Paleokastritsa Monastery
It is definitely quite a distance from Achilleion to the Paleokastritsa Monastery. However, this religious landmark offers access to an impressive history. There is not a lot to see around, you can probably finish your visit in about an hour.
However, chances are you will spend a bit of time taking pictures as well. The views from this landmark stand out. Furthermore, the monastery overlooks the bay with the same name. This means you can also chill on the beach, swim or have something to eat. The water is known for its clarity here.
Go To Lakones
Lakones is not too far from Paleokastritsa. There is not a lot you can do in there, but if you love history, you should definitely spend a bit of time there. You can walk, but get ready to spend more than an hour. It is totally worth it if you like hikes.
Once in there, Lakones will impress you with its old school appearance. It shows you the Corfiot life as it is, as you might have seen it in the shows based on the Durrell family. Once you get there, it is worth going up to Bella Vista too, one of the most popular viewpoints in Corfu.
Do Not Miss Angelokastro
Angelokastro is a Byzantine castle on a high peak. It is one of the most representatives locations in Corfu, mainly because of its history. Its historical significance makes it worth it. You may need more than an hour to visit everything and enjoy the views.
Angelokastro is not for everyone though. Getting there requires a decent physical condition. Keep in mind that despite all the invasions Corfu has been through, Angelokastro is one of those places that have never fallen.
Mount Pantokrator, The Highest Point
Mount Pantokrator is the highest point on the island. Getting there can be a bit confusing. You may have to ask people for directions because signs are not very clear. At the same time, some of the old people you will meet in villages around there may not be able to speak English – part of the experience.
The dirt track to Mount Pantokrator can be a challenge if you drive. Unless you have a 4×4 vehicle, small rental cars will not make it to the top. Do not even try it, as you will get stuck in the middle of nowhere. You can, however, walk up, but you need a good physical condition.
At the top, you will find a monastery and panoramic views of Corfu.
Old Perithia Takes You Back In Time
Old Perithia is easy to drive to. If you like walks, you can also park quite far and take a long walk to it. Even when you get there, it is not just the village you can visit, but also the surroundings. This ancient village has many buildings still standing, but some of them ready to collapse.
With these thoughts in mind, you must be careful when exploring it.
Other than that, you can also stop for some food and drinks in Old Perithia. The heritage protected village is the oldest in Corfu. It feels like going back in time, especially as you wander through the stone houses and ruins.
Based on how you organise your trip, Old Perithia could also be a stop on your way hiking to the top of Mount Pantokrator.
A Day At The Beach
Now that your tour is over, you can head back to Kerkyra and relax for another day or two, especially if you still have some landmarks to visit. You can also step out and spend a last day at the beach, relaxing in a beautiful scenario.
If you drive, head over to the other side of the island and spend a morning in Agios Gordios. You should be there in about half an hour. The beach is beautiful, there are plenty of facilities and you can also have some drinks and delicious food.
Bottom line, organise your trip based on your preferences, as well as your available time. It is highly recommended to take your time while visiting Corfu and its attractions. Chances are it will be hot, so you may have to relax, have a cold drink every now and then and simply avoid rushing.