A Cultural tour in the Historical center of Corfu Old Town

A pleasant walk through the historic center of Corfu, where three nations meet, connecting the East and the West.
The old town center of Corfu, belonging to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, constitutes a unique, world-famous site that never fails to captivate visitors.

The old town of Corfu boasts numerous impressive and world-famous sites, each having its own unique historical development: tall fortresses, considered to be unapproachable, which contributed to the defense of the island against potential conquerors and magnificent palaces, still maintaining their power and magnificence; museums of historic significance and great architecture, old mansions and colorful houses constructed with the Venetian style, famous cosmopolitan squares and magnificent churches, indicating the strong religious beliefs of Corfiot’s.

During the walking tour we will meet and observe from the outside the main Corfu attractions.

Old Fortress

The Old Fortress, constructed in the 6th century on a small island, is the first landmark visible when approaching Corfu by sea. It was built by the Corfiots using ruins from ancient town invasions. Named after the Greek word for hilltops, “koryfes,” reflecting its structure on two hills, it gave Corfu its name. The fortress is linked to the mainland by an iron bridge, leading to an archway entrance into its interior.

The Palace of Saint Michael & Saint George 

The Palace of Sts Michael and George in Corfu, a standout structure in the Esplanade Square, was built in 1819 by Sir George Whitmore for the British Lord High Commissioner, Sir Thomas Maitland. Initially the Royal Family’s residence after the reunification of the Ionian Islands with Greece, it now houses the Museum of Asian Art. Constructed with Maltese stones and featuring two grand entrance gates, this neoclassical palace is a prominent symbol of the English rule’s architectural legacy in Corfu.

Saint Jacob (Catholic Cathedral)

Saint Jacob Catholic Cathedral constitutes one of the most magnificent structures of great architectural significance on Corfu.  It boasts a curved Baroque façade, a pediment, a tower of Gothic art and an extremely tall bell tower, resembling those of the churches in Venice. It was built during the 16th century and houses numerous Byzantine relics, such as Jesus Crucified and an icon of Virgin Mary.

Saint Spyridon

Saint Spyridon’s Church, one of Corfu’s key Byzantine monuments and a major Christian pilgrimage site, was built in 1589. This simple, narrow church features a single-aisle basilica design with a striking marble-framed entrance. Its distinctive bell tower, built in 1620, stands out in Corfu’s narrow alleys. Saint Spyridon, revered as the patron saint and savior of Corfu, is historically credited with protecting the island from invasions and deadly diseases in past centuries.

During our short walk in Kampielo, you will realise that the sense of smell is distracted by the smells emanating from the kitchens of the houses, but also the hearing is very often delighted by the melodies that are projected behind a half-open window. It is not at all unusual in many of the small squares of the area, which give the district its name (Campiello = square in Italian), to meet improvised choirs that entertain passers-by with their songs.

In the short time we have available before our lunch, you can buy authentic local products, herbs and Corfiot herbs, handmade decorative items from olive wood or any other souvenir, from the varied market of Corfu town.