The heart of the Island is certainly Corfu Old Town, the “Palaiopolis”.

Palaiopolis vibes

Corfu Old Town is a mix of colours, perfumes, people and sounds.

It is the vibrant hearth of this magnetic tropical island and is full of history and culture. Fortunately, it has preserved its authentic unsurpassed charm and attracts every year millions of visitors.

Whit its narrow and picturesque streets which cross in a harmonious union.

Its rocks, flowers and hidden places.

Additionally, Bouganville, Blue Jacaranda and Judas trees are in every corner and adorn the ancient buildings rich of history and stories to tell.

One next to the other, these high stone houses will show you the path in a magical atmosphere. You just have to get lost downtown for few hours.

In this way, you can feel the vibes on the streets, enjoy Greek language and people, observe their habits.

 

 

Furthermore, a lot of souvenir and local shops can be found along the way, as well as taverns and Greek fast foods.

 

And if you want a full immersion in the Greek culture, the culinary aspect cannot be missed.

As you will see, the offer of tasty local dishes in Corfu is amazing and can meet every taste and budget.

 

Squares in Corfu Old Town

There are plenty of beautiful squares in the Old Town. Some of them are big, other instead are small and maybe a little hidden and you really have to look for them. But actually, this is exactly the best part: the fact that you have to discover them.

The heart of Corfu Old Town social life

The “Spianada” is one of the places to be if you want to become a real Corfiot. It is one of the biggest European squares, home to many local events.

Spianada, Corfu Old Town

This enchanting square separates the centre to the Old Fortress and the sea and many marvelous buildings overlook on it. As the Royal Palace and the Liston, to mention two of the most noteworthy of them.

This last one is a “jolie” gallery full of cafes and restaurants, built during the French occupation. There, you can take a break, seat for a drink and watch people. Today it is the heart of Corfu social life but in the past, only the “elite” of Corfu had the privilege to frequent the gallery. But, for the middle class the access to this place was forbidden.

Landmarks in Corfu Old Town 

Landmarks in Corfu Old Town are many and various. As you can notice from its culture, art and architecture, Corfu was influenced by different dominations and in particular by Byzantine and Venetian Periods. Its ancient history is combined with the most recent historical monuments.  See History and culture of Corfu and Museums article for more informations.

Promenade from the port to Corfu Old Town center

Finally, if you are looking for a calm place in town, where to relax and take a break,  the promenade along the sea may be a good proposal. Also, the port is not too far away from the centre and it is located at the northern end of the capital; a short distance walk from the Old town.

This beautiful seafront road is almost traffic-free and can be walked in complete tranquillity, admiring the elegant Italian-style buildings and their pastel colours as well as blue see matching.