Getting around Corfu Town and its surroundings

Corfu Town panorama

Corfu has for centuries been  under the strategic and commercial influence of Venice. In some way, strictly in cruise terms, it still is. Most of the cruise ships that stop in at Corfu embark at Venice, the cruise capital of the Eastern Mediterranean. A very large portion of cruise travelers speak Italian. Some of its monuments recall the passage of Italians and Venetians of the past.

The cruise port of Corfu offers enough convenience to travelers as they can walk in only 20-30 minutes to the Town. They can alternatively take a shuttle bus and then another one to the old part of the city, or get there by taxi, paying 8-10 euros per ride.

Having reached the town, you soon realize that you can easily spend your whole day there. Within short radius you can reach many sights, shopping and souvenir streets, cafes and restaurants. The 16th century fortress that dominates the city consists of many narrow streets. Around every corner you may find churches, old mansions and secret little squares.

The Spianada Square with Liston

The Spianada Square is the largest square in Greece. At its length you will see some of the most important monuments of the town such as the monument of the Ionian Islands union  with Greece. Liston is situated at the northern part of the western side of the square. The Town Hall Square, the Square of the Saints, the Ionian Academy and the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George are some interesting buildings situated within short distance.

Shore excursions: There is a vast variety of shore excursions on offer by all major cruise companies. However, for those who are first-timers in Corfu, excursions with short travel time are preferable. Trips to Paleokastritsa, Perama and Acchilleion Palace are always a must for sightseeing.

Achilleion Palace

However, groups of 3 or 4 people may find it cheaper and more convenient to reach these destinations by rented cars. There are plenty of beautiful beaches along the coast so nobody can guarantee that your appetite for swimming won't open.

Glyfada beach: Glyfada beach is situated 16 km away from Corfu Town, on the west coast of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches on Corfu due to its green surroundings and its long sandy terrain.Swimmers can find there every kind of shop, sun beds, umbrellas, water sports facilities etc. A taxi ride to Glyfada beach from the cruise port will cost you no more than 25 euros. As always on Greek islands, better arrange your return pick up time with the taxi driver.

Glyfada beach

Before you head back to your ship don't forget to taste two of the island's well known specialties: Pastitsada (beef cooked in a rich tomato sauce and served with spaghetti) and Sofrito (veal or beef escalopes sauted in a skillet and served with an accompanying sauce).