Things to do in Corfu

Corfu has a modest selection of attractions, the majority of which have historical or cultural themes and are not really suited to those looking for big thrills or excitement. For a day of genuine fun, there’s the Aqualand water park, with its variety of water-based attractions. Aside from this, the beach is Corfu’s biggest attraction, offering opportunities for relaxation as well as swimming, playing Frisbee or beach volleyball and a variety of water sports.

Aqualand

When the weather hots up in the height of summer, where better to go and cool off than Corfu’s Aqualand waterpark. Children and adults will love the park’s extensive selection of water-based attractions, which include 15 interactive adventure pools, a giant Jacuzzi and the third largest wave pool in the world as well as slides and rides such as the Black Hole, Free Fall and the Double Twister. With restaurants and shops also on-site, Aqualand offers everything you need for a fun day out.

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum in Corfu Town offers visitors a chance to gain an insight into the island’s past through a variety of historical artefacts. While only a small facility, the museum has various objects of interest, including a collection of sculptures and statues among which is a stone lion dating from around 575 BC. The museum’s centrepiece, however, is the pediment from the Temple of Artemis, which features a Medusa figure and dates back to 590 BC.

Museum of Asian Art

Located at the north end of the Esplanade in Corfu Town, this beautiful neo-classical building, constructed in the 19th century by the British, houses a fine collection of eastern artwork, with pieces originating from China and Japan. Chinese porcelain and paintings from many of the country’s most significant dynasties are on display as well as ceramics, prints and sculpture from Japan.

Achilleion

Falling into the category of historical buildings, the villa of Achilleion dates back to 1890, when it was constructed as a memorial to the son of Empress Elizabeth of Austria following his death by suicide. Interesting features of this neo-classical structure include a collection of carved emblems and statues associated with the famous Greek warrior, Achilles. Within the villa’s garden are more statues, some of which were commissioned by Empress Elizabeth and include the famous work by German sculptor Herter known as 'Dying Achilles'. A museum is also housed inside the villa.

Daytrip to Albania

Local tour companies in Corfu Town offer daily boats trips to Albania, departing early morning from Kerkyra, with the journey taking 2 to 3 hours to reach Sarande, on the southwest coast of the country. Sightseeing opportunities are good once you arrive and include the chance to see the well preserved remains of a Roman village at Buthrint. The magnificent Venetian castle is also a must-see and offers fantastic views from the top.

Old Fort (Paleo Frourio)

Otherwise known as Paleo Frourio, construction on Corfu’s Old Fort began in the 8th century, and this structure has served to protect Corfu Town throughout various historically significant conflicts. Much has been contributed to the fort over the years, with the Venetian’s adding a moat in the 16th century and the British adding various buildings inside the fort such as the church during the 19th century. Magnificent views over the city are available from the top of the fort, which is one of the island’s most popular historical attractions.

Museums

Corfu has three museums worth mentioning; the Museum of Asian Art, Archaeological Museum and the Municipal Gallery of Corfu, the latter of which is located in Kerkyra (Corfu Town). The gallery has been around since 1978 and features a collection of works of 19th century Corfiot painters such as Angelos Giallinas, Vicentios Boccaciampis, Haralambos Pachis, Skarvelis and Pavlos Prossalendis the younger. Highlights of the collection include the ‘Sphinx’ by Skarvelis, ‘The Herd’ by Angelos Giallinas and ‘The assassination of Capodistria’ by Haralambos Pachis.