Colorful Corfu is a Greek island with amazing culture, natural beauty and beaches. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I spent my time off here and learned how to make the most out of a day. So, read on to learn about a Corfu one day itinerary at Achelleion Palace, Corfu Old Town and Faliraki Beach.
In the Ionian Sea off of Greece’s northwest coast, Corfu is known for its majestic mountains and shorelines, filled with resorts. Also, it’s one of Greece’s greenest islands, with more than 2 million olive trees. Overall, its heritage is a blend of French, Venetian and British rule, before uniting with Greece in 1864. Its fantastic beaches are sequestered in sandy coves, among forests and rugged mountains. Known for having some of the best beaches in Greece, Corfu is an ideal getaway. For example, the beaches Glyfada, Kavos, Kontokali and Dassia are some of Corfu’s best.
Like many of the Ionian Islands, Corfu is known for its delicious traditional cuisines. Influenced by the Venetians with fresh local ingredients for spices and flavor, it serves unique dishes. For example, the iconic dish of the island is Pastitsada. It cooks meat with mouth-watering ingredients, such as, oil, spices, garlic, onion and red wine. Then, nutmeg, cinnamon, laurel and fresh tomato are added.
Corfu One Day Itinerary
As an Acupuncturist-at-sea, I spent a day off in Corfu. My ship docked in Corfu Town, a fabulous hub from which to explore the island. I planned to first go to the Achilleion Palace in the morning and come back to enjoy Corfu Old Town and Faliraki Beach for the afternoon.
Achilleion Palace:
We first took a taxi and drove 10 km south to the Achilleion Palace. This palace was built in Gastouri for the Empress, Elizabeth of Austria as a refuge. Now, it is a picturesque museum. Its design appears like an ancient palace of mythical Phaeacia. The central theme of the palace and gardens is Achilles of Greek mythology, and therefore, the name. The entire layout of exquisite sculpture, architecture and landscaping expresses Greek culture and mythology. In 1981 the casino scene from the James Bond movie For Your Eyes Only was filmed at Achilleion.
I want a palace with pillared colonnades and hanging gardens, protected from prying glances – a palace worthy of Achilles, who despised all mortals and did not fear even the gods. -Elisabeth of Austria
My favorite part of the palace is the gardens and Courtyard of the Muses. The immaculate gardens showcase palm and cypress trees, with purple bougainvillea and a panoramic view of the valley and vast blue Ionian Sea. Overall, the palace and gardens highlight Achilles sculptures. The palace architecture is a Pompeian style with numerous artifacts and painting with themes of Achilles and the Trojan War. In the end, much of the interior was moved back to Vienna and sadly, Elisabeth was assassinated in 1898.
Corfu Town:
Corfu Town (cruise port) is an ideal hub from which to explore the island. Its charming and medieval layout includes 2 Venetian fortresses, cobblestone alleyways, charming squares and a Grand Palace. The Esplanade is a large green space and Corfu’s main public gathering place connecting the Old Town to the Old Fortress. Also, this spectacular fortress sits on a small rocky peninsula. Be sure to walk to its highest point with a lighthouse for amazing views across the sea. Additionally, the Royal Palace houses the Museum of Asian Art with a courtyard café and wonderful views. This is one of the top things to do in Corfu. So don’t miss it.
Faliraki Beach:
This gorgeous beach is located below the Old Town among beautiful landscapes with a view of the Old Fortress. The beach is small and sandy with a platform for laying in the sun. Also, alongside the beach are bars, cafes and shops where you can have a meal and enjoy the view. At one time, this was the beach for the nobles, descended by old iron stairs still there today.
Overall, Corfu One Day Itinerary
Because there is so much to see in close proximity to Corfu Town, you can do a lot in a day. Take it from me, I enjoyed the Achilleion Palace, Old Town and Faliraki Beach in 8 hours. Although I wished for more time in Corfu, this luxurious day stayed with me years later, like a dream not forgotten.
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