Port of Corfu Overview
Corfu’s cruise port is close to Corfu Town (Kerkyra). You can walk or take a quick bus or taxi to the old town. Most visitors explore forts, lanes, and seaside promenades or head to beaches.
A Little History
Corfu shows layers of Venetian, French, and British rule. The forts, arcades, and pastel houses reflect this. The old town is a UNESCO site with narrow lanes and elegant squares.
Museums
The Archaeological Museum, Museum of Asian Art (in the Palace of St Michael and St George), and small churches with icons are the main indoor stops. Hours vary; many museums close Monday or Tuesday.
- Tip: If time is short, do one fort and a slow old-town wander instead of stacking museums.
Major Parks and Attractions
The Old Fortress overlooks the harbor; the New Fortress sits above the town. The Liston promenade and Spianada Square are central. Alleys around Campiello offer classic Corfu scenes. Beaches like Paleokastritsa require a drive and usually an organized tour.
Nearby Places (Easy Day Trips)
Paleokastritsa (half day), Achilleion Palace (half day), Kanoni and Mouse Island viewpoint (2–3 hours), and simple beach breaks closer to town.
Shopping
Expect olive-wood products, soaps, kumquat liqueur, and local food. Old-town lanes carry clothes, jewelry, and crafts.
- Note: Tourist shops stay open most of the day; others may close mid-afternoon.
Food and Drink
Corfiot dishes include pastitsada, sofrito, and fresh seafood. Taverns in the old town serve simple meze. Tipping around 5–10 percent is normal.
Practical eating tips:
- Eat slightly off the main Liston area for better value.
- Try meze if you want a quick, flexible lunch.
- Bring cash for small taverns.
- Afternoon heat in summer is strong; aim for shaded patios.
Currency, Payments, ATMs
Euro. Cards widely accepted. ATMs in and around the old town; avoid high-fee machines.
Opening Hours and Holidays
Shops often run 10:00–21:00 in tourist season. Museums close one weekday. Sunday trading varies.
Holidays that may affect hours or services:
- Jan 1
- Mar 25 (Independence Day)
- Easter weekend
- Aug 15
- Dec 25–26
Practical City Notes
Streets are uneven and busy. Buses and taxis link port and town; walking takes about 20–30 minutes. English widely spoken. Watch for scooters in narrow alleys.
Quick Plans
- 3–4 hours: Old Fortress, Liston promenade, and a short alley wander.
- 6–8 hours: Old Fortress, Asian Art Museum or Achilleion Palace, then a harbor walk.
- Full day: Paleokastritsa plus a brief old-town stroll.
