Off the coast of Saranda lies the Greek island of Corfu. An island known for its beautiful greenery and its unique mix of cultures and architecture. Only a 30-minute boat ride from Saranda is required to reach this beautiful island.
Many of you will perhaps book the flight with final destination Corfu and then take the boat over to Saranda. It is usually the most common and easiest way to travel to Saranda. But why not spend a day in Corfu when you are still so close?
About Korfu
Corfu is the westernmost of all the Greek islands and is about 60 kilometers long and 30 kilometers wide. Corfu's geographical location means that the winters bring with them high humidity and a lot of rain, which results in a verdant nature. Corfu is considered the greenest of all Greek islands. With its beautiful beaches, Corfu has been a popular holiday destination since the late 1940s. The Old Town (in Corfu Town) has also been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there is no shortage of charming villages and beautiful beaches on this island.
Sights in Corfu
The city of Corfu
Corfu is the largest city on the island and is a lively city where you will find shopping, history, culture, great restaurants and great beach life. In the city, you can see clear influences from both England, Italy and France, and you can find e.g. plenty of italian restaurants here. Along the Esplanade in the middle of the city there are many cafes, restaurants and several parks. In Corfu town you can also find good shopping and there is everything from small local shops to large chain stores. There are also several discotheques and clubs here. Back on the UNESCO World Heritage List is the old town of Corfu and strolling around and getting lost among the old streets is really recommended. If you get hungry, it's a good opportunity to try local dishes from Corfu at one of the cozy restaurants that the old town offers. The Church of Saint Spiridon is one of several attractions in Corfu Town but also The monastery of Vlacherna located on a small island near Corfu airport is a popular place. Especially for photographers who want to photograph airplanes, because the airstrip is only a short distance from the monastery. The monastery is reached via a narrow walkway and here you get beautiful views of the sea.
Canal d´Amour
Or if you translate it to the English, Love Canal, is located at Sidari and is one of the most famous sights on Corfu. Here, a romantic atmosphere rests over the beach and its rocks, which were shaped by the sea over many 100 years. In the summer, the beach is well visited.
Achilleion
In the village of Achilleion, which is only a few kilometers from Corfu town and the airport, you will find something for the history buff. Here you can visit the palace that was built in the 19th century. From the grounds of the palace one can enjoy the view of the sea and admire the beautiful gardens. The interior of the palace is very spectacular and worth a look.
Kassiopi
Kassiopi, located just off the coast of Saranda, is a charming little village in northeast Corfu. Here you are invited to a historic and picturesque environment and you can stroll along the harbor and watch the fishing boats come in and the luxury yachts. Enjoy the quiet little village and why not stop for a bite to eat at one of the restaurants. There are also a couple of beaches near Kassiopi, including Agios Stephanos and Kalamaki Beach. Here you can go on diving trips or try various water sports.
Porto Timoni
Could it be one of the most beautiful places in Corfu? An absolutely incredible twin beach that can be found on the west coast of Corfu. You can only get here on foot (the last bit) or by boat. Porto Timoni is a bit of Corfu's hidden gem as not many tourists find it. The turquoise water, the steep cliffs and the verdant vegetation are topped by the untouched nature and make the place a fantastic excursion for those who want to go on a little adventure. If you want to get here by car, there is a parking lot nearby and from there a short hiking trail leads down to the beach.
For even more attractions in Corfu click on the link below (in swedish)
"A day in Corfu was a nice break in our 2 week holiday in Saranda."
Things to do in Corfu
For those who like an active holiday, Corfu is perfect. Its verdant hinterland is ideal for hiking and there are also horse riding opportunities here. Corfu is also one of the few places in Greece where sport diving is allowed. In addition, music concerts are often held in Corfu during the summer months. Take the opportunity to experience a classical concert or a rock concert during your holiday week. On Corfu you are always close to beautiful beaches - and here there is something for all tastes. If you prefer wide sandy beaches with crystal clear water, you should go to the west coast. Here you can find Glyfada Beach, Agios Gordis and Agios Georgis. For the adventurous, Paleokastritsa is an alternative, with sandbanks and rock formations. In Gouvia and Dassia on the east coast there is a two kilometer long pebble beach. In the north of Corfu is Issos Beach with sandbanks and small rock formations.
Tips
You can easily get to Corfu by boat from the port of Saranda and the ticket costs about 25 euro/adult traveler The lovely boat trip takes 30 minutes. Enter Direct Ferries on Google to get all shipping companies on the same booking portal and book online if you so wish. Otherwise, there are ticket sales in both ports.
2 countries in one trip
Since Corfu is so close, you can easily take a day trip over to the beautiful island. Does the holiday invite a rainy day? Why not take the boat over and shop or taste some traditional food from the island in Corfu's old town.
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