Corfu Island Travel Guide: Complete Tips and Highlights

Corfu Island Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Look into Greece's Emerald Isle

Located off Greece's northwest coast in the Ionian Sea, Corfu, or Kerkyra, is a place where the old-world charm of Venetian, French, and British influence seamlessly blends in with the natural allure of crystal-clear waters and verdant hills. Our comprehensive guide is crafted to ensure you experience the best that this magnificent island has to offer, from historical insights to cultural affairs, local festivals, and more.

A Glance Into Corfu's Rich History

Journey into Corfu's colorful past is a trip through fascinating epochs, each leaving its distinctive mark on the island's culture and landscape. The island's history dates back to the 8th Century BC when it was colonized by the Corinthians. Over the centuries, Corfu witnessed numerous conquerors: Romans, Goths, Normans, Venetians, French, and British, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry and architectural splendor.

Cultural Practices and Traditions

The people of Corfu remain deeply rooted to their traditions and customs. The island is known for its vibrant, intangible heritage including music, dance and crafts. An integral part of Corfu's culture is the "kantádhes", a form of serenading folksongs featuring mandolins and guitars.

• Easter in Corfu: Spearheading Corfu's rich cultural practices is the grand celebration of the Greek Easter, characterized by unique customs that animate the island's streets with processions, marching bands, and the "Pot Throwing" event on Holy Saturday.
• Local Craftsmanship: Corfu's rich craft tradition reflects its cultural dexterity. Visit the artisanal workshops in the old town to marvel at the intricate art of soap-making, olive oil production, and leather crafting.

Festivals and Feasts

Corfu's social calendar is peppered with vibrant festivals, religious feasts, and cultural events. The Carnival of Corfu, the Feast of Agios Spiridon, the Wine festival, and the Corfu Beer Festival are few of the key events that bring the island's effervescent spirit to life.

Undiscovered Anecdotes and Fun Facts

Did you know that Corfu is popularly referred to as the 'Emerald Isle'? The name can be attributed to its lush green landscapes. Here's another fun fact: Corfu's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning Venetian architecture.

Make Your Way Around Corfu

Corfu offers a host of picturesque sights, from the bustling Corfu Town and the verdant landscapes of Ropa Valley, to the azure waters of Paleokastritsa. Don't forget to taste the island's culinary delights such as Pastitsada and Sofrito, which reflect Corfu's diverse cultural influences.

Final Words

We hope this comprehensive guide helps you explore and appreciate the distinct flavor that Corfu presents, full of historical richness, captivating cultural traditions, and the welcoming warmth of its people.

Click here for the location of Corfu on Google Maps