Corfu is probably the best known of the seven Ionian Islands that lie off the north-west coast of Greece. It differs markedly from the other popular Greek islands because it is green and lush and very developed with tourist resorts and hotels. Therefore it is not surprising that the summer time is hectic.

It has a lot to offer. Modern Corfu Town is upbeat and cosmopolitan whilst the old town features narrow alleys lined with multi-storeyed pastel-coloured buildings with red tiled roofs.

The hub of activity in the town centre is the Liston, an arcaded row of cafes and restaurants, copied from the Rue de Rivoli in Paris. But if you want to escape the hustle and bustle you can always take in the spectacular scenery and greenery with its wild orchids, countless olive groves and stunning beaches and Ionian Sea. Inland, a network of twisting roads service local villages that appear untouched by tourism so you can get a true flavour of Corfu. 

The island boasts a rich history, both from Greek mythology, with its connections to Poseidon, God of the Sea, and Homer’s Odyssey, and from its history of upheaval and conquest due to its strategic position. The legacy of the latter can be seen in the form of two castles that protected the city of Corfu.

The centre of Corfu is dominated by Mount Pantocrator. The North East coast is made up of sheltered rocky coves and shingle beaches offering secluded bays and traditional fishing villages. But the main commercial area is to the North and South with its long sweeping sandy bays including resorts such as Paleokastritsa, Kavos and Sidari.