"Medieval atmosphere which is unique in... " a Kerkyra Travel Page by Jerelis

The narrow stone-paved streets with tall buildings, frequent archways, often hidden by the clothes that have been hung out to dry, picturesque squares, churches with elegant bell towers and mansions with elaborate balconies and hanging lanterns create a medieval atmosphere which is unique in Greece.

"The architecture of the town is Venetian; the houses above the old port are built up elegantly into slim tiers with narrow alleys and colonnades running between them; red, yellow, pink, umber ­ a jumble of pastel shades which the moonlight transforms into a dazzling white city built for a wedding cake."

[Lawrence Durrel]

We have visited quite some Greek islands over the years, but maybe there is nothing like the island of Corfu and especially Kerkyra (city of Corfu). Kerkyra is Greece, and yet it is a culture unto itself. Shaped by successive waves of foreign invasions, Kerkyra retains a cosmopolian European feel. Teams play cricket on the Spianada (Esplanade), young couples twine hands over a cup of latte along the distinctly French Liston and the centuries old Venetian fortress flanks the town. Time to explore it!

We can honestly state that the best way to explore Kerkyra is by foot and the second best way is also by foot! Besides giving you the opportunity to roam the narrow streets and the cosy squares, it is the quickest way too. If you really want to, you can cross the city in approximately half a hour. Remember that sometimes it might be quicker (and nicer!) to take a few short-cuts into picturesque alleys instead of following the masses of tourists.

Most people try to rush Kerkyra on a budget so they end up missing some of the highlights in a whirlwind. The key to seeing Kerkyra properly is a game plan, you must know what you want to see before setting out. Do read our pages, hope you enjoy them and can gain a game plan for yourselves!

Don't forget to visit our Corfu Island site here at VT!

The island of Corfu in the northwestern corner of Greece is the greenest. With more rainfall than any other island there is a variety and abundance of plant life that makes this Ionian island in combination with its charming architecture and hospitable people a great place to visit.