Corfu, one of the most charming Greek islands, is a hidden cultural treasure for history and architecture enthusiasts. With its magnificent blend of Venetian, French, British, and Greek influences, Corfu offers a diverse cultural landscape that captivates every visitor. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, admiring grand palaces, or wandering through narrow streets lined with impressive architecture, this island has something for everyone.
Corfu is famous for its stunning beaches and views, but its cultural side is equally fascinating. Museums, palaces, Venetian architecture, and historical landmarks make Corfu a perfect destination for culture lovers. This guide highlights Corfu’s must-see cultural attractions, offering a roadmap through its rich history. Rent a car in Greece to explore Corfu’s cultural wonders more easily. It will allow you to explore at your own pace and access more remote sites that aren’t easily reachable by public transport.
Corfu’s culture is a beautiful blend of influences from various powers that ruled the island throughout history. The Venetians, French, and British shaped Corfu’s architecture, art, and traditions, creating a unique blend not found elsewhere in Greece.
Corfu boasts architectural influences and a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Corfu has played an important role in Mediterranean history from the ancient Greek period to the Venetian era and beyond. Its position at the crossroads of East and West allowed it to absorb various cultural influences, which is reflected in its diverse cultural landscape today.
One of the most impressive aspects of Corfu is its Old Town, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town’s winding streets, squares, and impressive buildings showcase the island’s vibrant history.
Corfu is rich in cultural landmarks, from ancient ruins to grand palaces, making it a history lover’s paradise. Here are some of the top cultural attractions you shouldn’t miss:
The Old Town of Corfu is undoubtedly the most iconic area of the island. Its narrow, winding streets, charming squares, and beautifully restored buildings offer visitors a glimpse into the past. What makes the Old Town unique is the blend of Venetian, French, and British architectural influences, giving it a captivating character.
You can begin your journey in the Old Town by exploring Spianada Square, the largest square in Greece. Surrounded by grand buildings and open-air cafes, Spianada Square is a lively gathering place for locals and tourists. From there, head to Liston Promenade, a grand colonnaded street lined with cafes and restaurants that echo the elegance of Parisian architecture.
One of the highlights of the Old Town is Saint Spyridon Church, the most important religious site on the island. The church houses the relics of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu, and its beautiful interior is filled with intricate artwork and gold accents.
In addition to its beautiful architecture, the Old Town is also home to charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it the perfect place to explore on foot. If you're short on time, rent a car in Greece to explore the island and still have time to enjoy the Old Town.
Achilleion Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Corfu. The palace was built in the late 19th century by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sisi. She was a passionate admirer of Greek culture, and the palace reflects her love for the ancient Greek hero Achilles, whose story is depicted in many of the palace’s statues and artworks.
The palace is located in Gastouri, just a short drive from the Old Town, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens offering breathtaking views of the island. The most famous feature of the palace is the statue of Achilles, which stands tall in the garden, symbolising strength and bravery.
Inside the palace, you’ll find a fascinating collection of artwork, including paintings and sculptures. The neoclassical design of the palace is stunning, and the rooms are elegantly furnished, giving you a glimpse into the life of the Austrian empress. For those interested in Greek mythology and royal history, Achilleion Palace is a must-see. Renting a car in Greece allows you to travel to this stunning palace at your own pace and enjoy the surrounding area.
If you’re a fan of ancient history, the Corfu Archaeological Museum is a must-visit. The museum is located near the Old Town and houses a wealth of artefacts from Corfu’s ancient past. The museum’s collection includes sculptures, pottery, and jewellery from the ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods.
One of the most important collections in the museum is the series of Gorgons from the ancient city of Palaeopolis, an important archaeological site on the island. These stone carvings of mythical creatures are among the finest examples of ancient Greek art.
The museum also has collections from the Roman and Byzantine eras, showcasing Corfu’s role in these periods of history. For history buffs, the Corfu Archaeological Museum offers an insightful journey through the island’s ancient past.
The Palace of St. Michael and St. George is another iconic cultural landmark in Corfu. Built by the British during their rule over the island in the 19th century, the palace was originally used as the residence of the British High Commissioner. It’s located near the Old Town and is an excellent example of British colonial architecture.
Today, the palace houses two museums: the Museum of Asian Art and the Corfu Museum of Archaeology. The Museum of Asian Art is Greece’s only museum dedicated to Asian art. The collection includes artefacts from China, Japan, and India, offering visitors a fascinating insight into Eastern cultures. The palace is an architectural masterpiece, and the surrounding gardens provide a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Corfu’s Venetian Fortresses, the Old and New Fortresses were built in the 16th century to defend the island from invaders. They are among the island's most impressive historical sites. Both fortresses are open to the public and offer stunning views of Corfu Town and the surrounding area.
The Old Fortress is at the eastern tip of the Old Town, and its massive walls and towers still stand as a testament to Venetian military engineering. Visitors can explore the fortress’s narrow passages, enjoy the views from the top, and learn about the history of the fortress through informative exhibits.
The New Fortress, located on the western side of the town, is a more modern structure but no less impressive. It’s less crowded than the Old Fortress, making it a great place to visit if you want to avoid the crowds.
For those interested in Corfu’s medieval history, the Byzantine Museum of Corfu is a must-see. Near the Old Town, the museum displays Byzantine-era artefacts, including religious icons, frescoes, and mosaics.
The museum’s pieces offer a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic life of the island during the Byzantine period. The Byzantine Museum is housed in a historic building that was once a Venetian church, adding to the charm of the place. If you enjoy religious art and history, this museum is a must-visit.
Corfu’s Venetian heritage is one of the most striking features of the island’s architecture. The Venetians ruled Corfu for over 400 years, leaving a lasting impact visible in its grand buildings, arched windows, and defensive fortifications.
The Liston Promenade is one of Corfu's best examples of Venetian architecture. This elegant colonnaded street was built during the 19th century by the French but was inspired by Venetian architectural stle. It’s lined with cafes and restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists.
The Venetian Fortresses, which we mentioned earlier, are another key feature of Venetian architecture on the island. These fortresses were built to defend the island from pirates and other threats, showcasing the Venetians' military expertise.
If you plan to explore Corfu’s cultural attractions, renting a car is an excellent way to make the most of your trip. Public transport on the island is limited, and many of Corfu’s cultural landmarks are spread across the island, making it difficult to see everything without a car.
By renting a car in Greece, you can:
If you’re ready to explore Corfu’s rich history and stunning architecture, consider renting a car in Greece with Finalrentals. With affordable rates, flexible rental options, and a range of vehicles, you can explore Corfu on your own terms.
Corfu is a cultural haven, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the island’s diverse history and architectural heritage. From the grandeur of Achilleion Palace to the charming streets of the Old Town, there is no shortage of cultural experiences to enjoy. To truly make the most of your visit, renting a car in Greece allows you to explore the island’s cultural landmarks and enjoy the beauty of Corfu at your own pace. Start planning your cultural adventure in Corfu today!
