The old town of Corfu offers a captivating journey through the island’s rich culinary and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant tapestry of flavors and traditions, from savoring regional delicacies like kumquat liqueur to exploring iconic landmarks steeped in history. This blend of Mediterranean influences and colonial charm creates an immersive experience, inviting travelers to uncover the stories that have shaped the island’s identity. With a host of tantalizing sights, sounds, and tastes, the old town promises to captivate the senses and leave one eager to dive deeper into Corfu’s enchanting narratives.

Key Points

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - Key Points

  • Explore the rich culinary heritage of Corfu’s Old Town, including sampling local specialties like kumquat liqueur, souvlaki, and homemade gelato.
  • Discover the colonial influences on the island’s architecture and learn about the significance of the Palace of St. Michael & St. George.
  • Visit the historic St. Spyridon Church to uncover the religious significance and relics that are central to Corfu’s cultural identity.
  • Gain insights into the daily life and commercial history of the Old Town, including the literary traditions of the Durrells.
  • Experience a personalized, small-group tour that blends Corfu’s food, architecture, and history for an immersive cultural understanding.

Tour Overview

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu," offers a comprehensive 3.5-hour exploration of the island’s rich heritage and culinary delights.

Priced from €90 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 participants and is conducted in English.

Wheelchair-accessible, it features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour starts at the Statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg, exploring key landmarks like the Liston, Old Town Hall, St. Spyridon Church, and the Palace of St. Michael & St. George, with tastings of local specialties and beverages.

Allowing flexibility, the tour’s booking process enables pay-later reservations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Itinerary Highlights

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the Statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg in Esplanade Square, where participants embark on an immersive exploration of Corfu’s Old Town. The itinerary highlights include guided tours of the Liston, Old Town Hall, St. Spyridon Church, and the Palace of St. Michael & St. George, offering glimpses into the city’s history and architecture. Interspersed are stops at local bars, cafés, and restaurants, where participants savor regional delicacies such as kumquat liqueur, souvlaki, and homemade gelato, complemented by local wines. Through these culinary and cultural experiences, the tour provides an authentic understanding of daily life in Corfu’s vibrant Old Town.

Starting Point Key Stops
Statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg, Esplanade Square Liston, Old Town Hall, St. Spyridon Church, Palace of St. Michael & St. George
Local Experiences
Local bar (Aperitif, local snacks)
Local café (Coffee, breakfast)
Local restaurant (Beer, wine, lunch)
Local café (Dessert)

Culinary Experience

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - Culinary Experience

During the tour, participants have the opportunity to savor a delightful array of Corfu’s culinary delights.

They’ll start by tasting the island’s signature kumquat liqueur and marmalade, showcasing the unique local produce.

Next, they’ll enjoy a high-quality Greek breakfast at a local café, followed by a taste of authentic Greek souvlaki and pita gyros.

The tour also includes homemade gelato from Corfu, providing a sweet and refreshing treat.

Throughout the experience, participants can sip on local wines, seeing the flavors that define the island’s rich food culture.

Cultural Insights

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - Cultural Insights

Beyond the culinary delights, the walking tour offers rich cultural insights that immerse participants in the history and heritage of Corfu.

Visitors explore the Durrells’ garden and learn about the family’s life on the island. They visit the British Palace of St George and St Michael, gaining an understanding of Corfu’s colonial past.

The tour also takes guests along the Liston, where they can appreciate the Parisian-inspired architecture. At the St. Spyridon Church, they discover the significance of its relics.

Throughout the experience, locals share their knowledge of the city’s commercial history and its first lyrical theatre, providing an authentic glimpse into daily life in Corfu.

Important Information

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - Important Information

Participants are encouraged to bring comfortable shoes to explore the walking tour comfortably.

Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are also recommended to protect from the Mediterranean sun.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility needs can fully participate.

Children ages 6-12 are welcome, while infants 5 and younger don’t require a ticket.

The tour allows flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later, providing convenience for their travel plans.

Customer Feedback

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - Customer Feedback

The tour consistently earns high praise from guests, with an impressive 5-out-of-5 rating based on 3 reviews.

Participants highlight the knowledgeable guides, delicious local food, and engaging cultural insights as standout features. Many recommend coming with an appetite to fully enjoy the culinary experience, which includes tastings of Corfu’s renowned kumquat liqueur and marmalade, traditional Greek breakfast, souvlaki, and homemade gelato.

The tour’s blend of historical context and local secrets provides an immersive exploration of Corfu’s food and culture, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the island’s unique character.

Getting There

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - Getting There

The tour starts at the Statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg in Esplanade Square, located right in the heart of Corfu’s Old Town.

The square is easily accessible, with public transportation options like buses and taxis available nearby. Guests can also walk to the starting point, as the Old Town is compact and walkable.

Depending on where you’re coming from, you might need to allow some extra time to find parking, as spaces can be limited in the historical center.

However, the tour’s central location makes it convenient to reach, whether you’re staying in the Old Town or elsewhere on the island.

What to Expect

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu - What to Expect

Guests embark on a delightful culinary and cultural journey through Corfu’s Old Town, seeing the island’s rich heritage. The experience includes:

  1. Exploring iconic landmarks like the Liston, Old Town Hall, and the Palace of St. Michael & St. George, each with its unique history and architectural charm.

  2. Savoring local specialties, from kumquat liqueur and marmalade to Greek souvlaki, pita gyros, and homemade gelato.

  3. Indulging in traditional Greek beverages, including local wines, during the tour.

  4. Discovering the cultural significance of St. Spyridon Church and learning about the Durrells’ legacy in Corfu.

The small-group tour, limited to 10 participants, ensures an intimate and personalized experience, ideal for those seeking an authentic taste of Corfu’s past and present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available on Weekends?

The tour is available on weekends, as it runs regularly throughout the week. The schedule is flexible, allowing visitors to book the tour on a day that suits their travel plans.

How Wheelchair-Friendly Is the Old Town?

The old town of Corfu is wheelchair-accessible, with guided tours designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. The tour’s itinerary includes visits to key landmarks and stops that are easily navigable for those using wheelchairs.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed. Participants are encouraged to fully experience the culinary highlights provided as part of the guided experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for the tour. Children aged 6-12 are welcome, and infants 5 and younger do not require a ticket. However, the tour may not be suitable for very young children due to its duration.

How Are the Tour Guides Selected and Trained?

The tour guides are carefully selected for their deep knowledge of Corfu’s history and culture. They undergo extensive training to ensure they provide engaging, informative, and personalized experiences for tour participants.

Recap

The Old Town of Corfu offers a captivating blend of Mediterranean flavors and colonial charm. Visitors can savor regional delicacies, explore iconic landmarks, and enjoy the island’s rich culinary heritage and cultural narratives. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a history buff, the Old Town promises an unforgettable experience that combines the best of Corfu’s vibrant tapestry of stories.