Corfu, Greece Travel Community

Visiting the Castles on Corfu

1 - 2 of 2 Posts
paharo45

paharo45

Active member
I’m planning a trip to Corfu and am particularly excited about exploring the island’s castles and fortresses. I’ve heard there are some incredible historical sites like the Old Fortress and the New Fortress in Corfu Town, but I’d love to hear more about them and any other castles that are worth visiting.

Does anyone have recommendations on the best way to explore these sites? Are there guided tours that provide a lot of historical context, or is it better to explore on your own? I’m also curious about any hidden spots or lesser-known castles around the island that I shouldn’t miss. Thank you!
 
paharo45 said:
I’m planning a trip to Corfu and am particularly excited about exploring the island’s castles and fortresses. I’ve heard there are some incredible historical sites like the Old Fortress and the New Fortress in Corfu Town, but I’d love to hear more about them and any other castles that are worth visiting.

Does anyone have recommendations on the best way to explore these sites? Are there guided tours that provide a lot of historical context, or is it better to explore on your own? I’m also curious about any hidden spots or lesser-known castles around the island that I shouldn’t miss. Thank you!
Click to expand...

That sounds like an amazing trip! Corfu’s Old and New Fortresses in Corfu Town are definitely must-sees. The Old Fortress dates back to the Byzantine era and offers stunning views of the town and sea. The New Fortress, built by the Venetians, has a more rugged feel and provides a fascinating contrast. I’d recommend guided tours for both, as they offer rich historical context and some hidden details you might miss exploring solo.

Beyond Corfu Town, don’t miss Angelokastro on the northwest coast. This dramatic cliffside castle offers panoramic views and is often less crowded. Another gem is Kassiopi Castle in the northeast, which has Byzantine origins and overlooks the charming seaside village. These spots can often be quieter, offering a more intimate experience. Enjoy your trip!
 
1 - 2 of 2 Posts
You must log in or register to reply here.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION AND READ OTHER GREEK INFO:

What are the most interesting hidden streets in Corfu's Old Town?

I might be visiting Corfu next year, and one of the things I'm most excited about is exploring the Old Town. I've seen pictures of the narrow streets, colorful buildings, little squares, and Venetian architecture, and it looks like the kind of place where I could happily spend hours wandering around.

I'm especially interested in finding some of the quieter streets and hidden corners that aren't necessarily on the usual tourist routes. I love discovering little shops, traditional cafes, interesting architecture, and places that give you a sense of everyday life on the island.

For those who have spent time exploring Corfu's Old Town, are there any particular streets, neighborhoods, or tucked-away spots you would recommend? I'm not necessarily looking for major attractions, although I wouldn't mind stumbling across a few!

I'd love to hear about any favorite discoveries or places worth seeking out!

Is the New Fortress Worth the Climb?

I’m planning a trip to Corfu and trying to decide which sights in Corfu Town are really worth making time for. The New Fortress keeps coming up, but I’m wondering how much of a climb it actually is and whether the views at the top make it worthwhile.

For anyone who has visited, how strenuous did you find it? I don’t mind walking, but if it’s a long uphill climb in the heat, I’d probably want to plan it for earlier in the day.

I’m especially interested in the views over Corfu Town, the harbor, and the surrounding area. Is there much to see inside the fortress itself, or is the main appeal the scenery and history?

Would you recommend visiting the New Fortress if I only have limited time in Corfu Town, or are there other sights you would prioritize first?

First Impression of Corfu?

I was talking with a friend recently who’s been to Corfu many times, and it sparked an interesting question. It’s been over 30 years since his first visit, and he realized he can’t quite remember what his initial impression of the island was anymore. Not what he thinks of Corfu now, but how it landed the very first time.

That made me curious about other people’s experiences. Do you remember how Corfu felt to you on your first visit? Was it the landscape, the Old Town, the food, the pace of life, or something less tangible? Did it meet your expectations, or surprise you in some way?

When a place becomes familiar over time, those first reactions tend to blur or get overwritten by later memories. I’d love to hear from anyone who can still recall that first moment of arrival — what stood out, what confused you, or what made you want to come back.

Corfu beaches locals actually go to?

I’m starting to think seriously about a trip to Corfu, and I’d love some local insight before I get too deep into planning.

When I travel, I’m much more drawn to places that feel lived-in rather than curated for visitors. I’m not really looking for beach clubs, rows of umbrellas, or spots chosen mainly because they photograph well. What I love most are beaches where locals actually spend time, like places you might stop at after work, go with family on a Sunday, or return to year after year without much fuss.

Are there beaches in Corfu that still feel like that? Maybe quieter coves, less obvious stretches of sand, or spots that don’t show up on every “top ten” list? I’m happy to trade amenities for atmosphere. I’d really appreciate hearing which beaches locals gravitate toward.

Do you need a car in Corfu?

I'm thinking about visiting Corfu next spring, and I'm trying to decide whether it's worth renting a car or if it's easy enough to get around without one. I usually don't mind using public transportation, but I also don't want to miss out on some of the island's beautiful beaches, villages, and viewpoints if they're difficult to reach.

My plan is to spend a few days exploring Corfu Town, but I'd also like to visit places like Paleokastritsa and maybe a few smaller villages if time allows. Are the buses reliable in the spring, or does having a car make the trip much more enjoyable?

For those of you who have been to Corfu, what did you do? Would you rent a car again, or did you find other transportation options worked just fine? I'd love to hear your experiences before I start planning.
Share and discuss your Corfu photos, questions and experiences!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top