Introduction:
Corfu was one of the first islands in Greece to attract tourists back in the 1960s. North of Corfu Town is filled with resorts, making it the busiest area on the island. If you are looking for a quieter holiday steer clear of the Corfu town area and head northeast to towns like Nisaki or Agni.
History:
Corfu has been ruled by many foreign powers. Most noticeably the Roman Empire in the 3rd Century BC, which later developed into the Byzantine Empire. Venice ruled for 400 years and used the island for its resources of wine, fruit, silk and cotton. The Venetian influence can still be seen in the landscape, with olive trees populating Corfu, and in the beautiful architecture.
When Venice fell to Napoleon, France controlled the Island. In 1815 the Island was ruled by the British who built infrastructure such as roads, hospitals and schools. In 1864 Corfu was returned to the Greeks.
In World War II Corfu was invaded by the Italians, and after they surrendered to the Allied forces in 1943, Hitler's government sent 5000 Jewish people from Corfu to Auschwitz.
Things to See:
The Greek Islands are all about relaxing and soaking in the culture, and Corfu is no different. If you want an action packed holiday with loads of site seeing then you have come to the wrong place. Not that Corfu is boring, far from it, but here it's all about eating and drinking, swimming, lying on the beach, walking and just taking it all in.
Corfu Town is filled with narrow streets, beautiful architecture and awash with culture. The Venetian, French and British influences have blended to create a striking town.
The New Fort dates back to the 13th Century is quite remarkable, and is more impressive than the Old Fort (6th Century). The Spianada is the town square and park where the city comes alive. This is a great area to soak in some culture and people watch.
Nissaki is located North of Corfu on the East coast. Although part of the area, Krouzari beach in particular, is now dominated by a large beach hotel, Nissaki beach itself is quite pleasant. This is a good beach for snorkelling, and if you follow the coast path you will find some deserted coves to explore.
Agni bay is a quiet area with a few tavernas, and is a nice place to relax.
There are many beaches and resorts to explore, each with their own character.
Weather:
Corfu gets quite hot in summer, with temperatures soaring as high as 40 in July and August.
December and January can be cool, with high rainfall. April to mid-June and September to October
are the more comfortable periods.
Getting There:
There are direct flights from Athens, other mainland cities and also charter flights from major
European cities. Corfu is well linked to the Peloponnese and the Italian ports of Ancona, Bari,
Brindisi, Trieste and Venice.
There are also buses from Athens and Thessaloniki to Corfu.