16 Top Corfu Attractions You Can’t Miss in 2026
Corfu packs an extraordinary range of landmarks into one island – a Venetian fortress town, an empress's palace, Byzantine castles, monasteries on the sea and viewpoints that stop you in your tracks. This is a focused, no-filler rundown of the 16 best Corfu attractions, what makes each one worth your time, and exactly how to get there. For the wider picture, start with our pillar guide to the best things to do in Corfu.
1. Achilleion Palace
Empress Elisabeth of Austria ("Sisi") built this neoclassical palace at Gastouri, about 10 km south of Corfu Town, as a romantic escape. The Achilles-themed statues, frescoed staircase and terraced gardens overlooking the sea are the highlight. Full details – history, tickets and how to get there – are in our Achilleion Palace guide. DIY visitors can take the Achilleion bus line 10.
2. Corfu Old Town & the Liston
The UNESCO-listed capital is itself the island's greatest attraction: the arcaded Liston (modelled on Paris), the vast Spianada Square, and a warren of Venetian alleys. Our Corfu Old Town walking guide maps out a route.
3. The Old Fortress
The Venetian sea-fort on the eastern point of town offers the best views back over the rooftops. Climb to the lighthouse at the top.
4. The New Fortress
Built later by the Venetians on the hill above the old port, with atmospheric tunnels and ramparts and far fewer crowds.
5. Church of Agios Spyridon
Home to the relics of Corfu's patron saint, behind the tallest bell tower in town. Free to enter; dress respectfully.
6. Palace of St Michael & St George / Museum of Asian Art
A grand British-era palace housing the only Museum of Asian Art in Greece – a surprising, world-class collection.
7. Paleokastritsa Monastery
A 13th-century monastery perched on a headland above the bays of Paleokastritsa, with a small museum and dazzling sea views. Open mornings and late afternoons; modest dress required. See our Paleokastritsa guide.
8. Angelokastro
A ruined Byzantine castle on a sheer cliff above the northwest coast – one of the most important fortresses in the Ionian and an unforgettable viewpoint over Paleokastritsa.
9. Kanoni, Mouse Island & Vlacherna Monastery
Corfu's most photographed scene: the tiny white Vlacherna Monastery on its causeway, with Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) and its cypress trees just offshore. Reachable on the airport/port bus line 15 area and a short walk.
10. Mon Repos
A leafy estate just south of town with a neoclassical villa, archaeological remains and shaded woodland paths – a cool escape on a hot afternoon.
11. Mount Pantokrator
The island's highest peak (906 m), crowned by a monastery and a panorama that reaches mainland Greece, Albania and – on the clearest days – Italy.
12. Kaiser's Throne (Pelekas)
A hilltop viewpoint above Pelekas where Kaiser Wilhelm II watched the sunset. Still one of the best sunset spots on the island.
13. Cape Drastis
Dramatic white cliffs and sea stacks at the island's northwest tip, near Peroulades – wild, photogenic and far quieter than the resorts.
14. Old Perithia
The oldest village on Corfu, a heritage-protected settlement on the slopes of Pantokrator, now revived by a few excellent tavernas. More in our Corfu villages guide.
15. Achilleion's rival viewpoints: Bella Vista at Lakones
The "beautiful view" balcony above Paleokastritsa – a classic coach-tour photo stop that genuinely earns its name.
16. Aqualand
For families, the island's giant water park near Agios Ioannis is an attraction in its own right; see our Corfu with kids guide and the Aqualand listing.
How to visit the attractions
Several of these – Angelokastro, Pantokrator, Cape Drastis, Old Perithia – really need a car or an organised tour to reach comfortably. The town sights are all walkable. To plan your transport, see our getting around Corfu guide, browse car hire and transfers, or book a guided tour or excursion that bundles several landmarks into one day. Many of these spots also feature among the island's best beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one attraction in Corfu?
Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the headline attraction, closely followed by the Achilleion Palace and the bays of Paleokastritsa. Most visitors see all three.
How much does it cost to enter the Achilleion Palace?
The Achilleion charges a modest entrance fee that changes seasonally, with reduced rates for students and seniors. Opening hours and ticket prices vary through the year and during renovation works, so check the official site before you go. Full guidance is in our dedicated Achilleion Palace article.
Can you see Corfu's main attractions without a car?
Yes for the town sights and major resorts, which are well served by the blue and green buses. But remote landmarks like Angelokastro, Mount Pantokrator and Cape Drastis are far easier with a hire car or an organised tour.
Is Mouse Island worth visiting?
Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) is more of an iconic view than a destination – the classic photo is taken from the Kanoni viewpoint, with the Vlacherna Monastery in the foreground. In summer small boats run across to the islet itself.
How many attractions can you see in one day in Corfu?
Comfortably, three to four if they're close together – for example Corfu Old Town's fortresses, Agios Spyridon and the Museum of Asian Art in a single day, or the Achilleion plus Kanoni. Spreading remote sights across separate days with a car works best.
