Corfu: the evergreen island

Day 2: Through the streets of Corfu Town

Follow us to a journey through time and learn all the trivia about the Corfiot history and the capital of the island. After visiting the gardens of Mon Repos – the summer residence of the Greek royal family until 1967 – you will continue with the visit of Jason and Sosipatros church, one of the most important churches dating back to the Byzantine times. Jason and Sosipatros were students and disciples of Apostle Paul who visited Corfu in 48 AD and are said to have introduced Christianity to the inhabitants of the island.

Further on to the centre of the old city of Corfu, included in the list of UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage. The old city of Corfu with its narrow streets and its monuments with a history of 8 centuries stands between the New and the Old Fort, both built by the Venetians during their 500-year-dominion in the Ionian Islands. In the narrow streets of the old city you can find buildings with marble-flagged arcades hosting numerous galleries and souvenir shops. One of the most famous landmarks of the old city and favorite place for the locals is the enormous square of Esplanade (mostly known as “Spianada”), which is one of the largest squares in the Balkans. On the northern side of Esplanade stands the old city part of Kambiello, located by the sea.

Do not miss a visit to the patron saint of Corfu, Saint Spyridon, thought by the locals to do miracles. In the wonderful baroque-style church decorated with western-art wall and ceiling paintings, you can find the remains of the Saint in a sarcophagus and his silver slippers, which –according to the myth – Saint Spyridon wears every night and takes a walk in the streets of the old city. Saint Spyridon died in about 350 AD in Cyprus, but when the Arabs conquered Cyprus in 650 AD the remains of the former Bishop of Trymithous were taken to Constantinople (today Istanbul) and later in 1453 from there to Corfu, in order to be protected by the Ottomans. You will also visit the City Hall at the centre of the old town of Corfu and Liston with its arcaded terraces and fashionable cafes, built in 1807 by the French imperial commissioner Mathieu de Lesseps. The design was inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris. One of the most famous beliefs about its name is that it was named after the list of the noble families of Corfu written on a wooden board; these families were the only ones allowed to cross this road. Last but not least, you will breathe some fresh air on the old fortress; you may climb a little, but the view is absolutely breathtaking! Return to your booked hotel. Hotel and overnight stay.

 

Day 4: From Empress Sissi to Paleokastritsa

Our day begins with a visit of the famous Achilleion Palace, which was built for Empress Sissi and later belonged to Emperor Wilhelm II – an example of the romantic excitement for ancient culture in the 19^th century. If you are lucky enough to find the upper level of the main floor open to the public, do not forget to see the painting of Franz von Matsch “The Triumph of Achilles”. It is said, that the painter committed suicide, after he realized that the wheel of Achilles’ s chariot seemed to have no movement. However, the palace as a building is not the only thing to see and admire at the site of Achilleion; the subtropical gardens of the palace with the two grand sculptures of the ancient Iliad’s warrior Achilles and the amazing view of the sea will impress you.

Later on you will drive to Paleokastritsa through the amazing landscapes painted with numerous shades of green and blue. In Paleokastritsa, one of the most old and famous fishing sites in Corfu with the numerous hidden bays, you will visit the men’s monastery of Panagia (Virgin Mary) which was founded in the 13^th century. After exploring the bays and narrow streets of the village you will finally drive to Lakones, where you will admire the wonderful view of Paleokastritsa, and then to Makrades taking thus the way back to your hotel. Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 6: Free Time Or you could optionally visit Paxos & Antipaxos

Enjoy your free day at your hotel, take a swim in the crystal clear waters of the island or do whatever else you want in order to feel relaxed.

 

Follow us to a mini cruise and get to know the two brother islands near Corfu: Paxos and Antipaxos.

Your starting point will be the port of Corfu Town near the old fortress; you can enjoy the view of the east coast of Corfu till departure. The first highlights of Paxos are Laca Bay and the two breathtaking caves you will visit.

Take a swim in the turquoise waters of Antipaxos, the next stop of your mini cruise and little brother of Paxos Island. On the east side of Paxos, you will visit the idyllic harbor of Agios Gaios, where you will have the time to take a walk in peace and quiet. When the sun begins to set, you will sail back to the Town of Corfu. Return to your booked hotel. Dinner and overnight stay.