Old fortress and Corfu Old Town: History and culture

Exploring Corfu’s Old Fortress and Old Town: A Guided Journey into History and Culture

Corfu, a jewel in Greece’s western waters, offers visitors a fascinating mix of history, architecture, and lively street life. For those looking to get under the skin of this island’s past, the Old Fortress and Old Town tour is a fantastic choice. Priced at $85 per person and lasting around three hours, this guided experience takes you through some of Corfu’s most iconic sights, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the stories of the island to life.

What we love about this tour is how it balances impressive architecture with authentic local experiences. You’ll marvel at the advanced Venetian fortifications designed to withstand Ottoman sieges and then stroll through neighborhoods that have kept their character for centuries. Plus, visiting the Jewish quarter offers a poignant glimpse into Corfu’s multicultural past. One thing to keep in mind is that an entrance fee to the Old Fortress isn’t included, so be prepared for that additional cost. This tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone interested in experiencing Corfu’s vibrant culture in a manageable, well-organized way.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights with a focus on history and authentic settings, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good if you want a detailed walkthrough that includes both major landmarks and hidden stories, all within a relaxed 3-hour window.

This experience made our article of We Rank Greece’s 5 Top Historical Tours.

Key Points

• Comprehensive exploration of Corfu’s two UNESCO-listed fortresses and Old Town.
• Authentic insights from knowledgeable guides who highlight architectural and historical details.
• Cultural immersion through visits to the Jewish quarter and iconic churches.
• Stunning panoramic views from the Fortress’s top if weather permits.
• Cost-effective at $85, considering the depth of historical context and guided commentary.
• Limited group size (up to 10 participants), ensuring a more personal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Stands Out

Corfuting’s Old Fortress and Old Town tour offers a vivid snapshot of the island’s layered history, all brought to life by enthusiastic local guides. We loved the way the guides explain the ingenious Venetian fortifications—imposing bastions, battlements, and secret chambers—that highlight the island’s strategic importance. These structures aren’t just old stones; they’re engineering marvels designed to thwart the fiercest Ottoman attacks, and learning about this science of defense is both fascinating and inspiring.

Another highlight is the walk through the Jewish quarter, where traces of World War II can still be seen. As one reviewer noted, “The site of the Jewish Holocaust Memorial was particularly moving, and it was eye-opening to see the remnants of buildings still waiting for their owners to return.” This authentic glimpse into Corfu’s multicultural past adds depth to the experience and reminds us that history isn’t just about stones and battles but also about people and resilience.

The tour also includes visits to prominent landmarks like the St. Spyridon Church—home to the relic of the island’s patron saint—and the Palace of St. Michael & St. George. The combination of architecture, history, and local color makes this tour stand out, especially for travelers wanting a well-rounded introduction to Corfu.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Point at Count Von Der Schulenburg Statue

Your adventure begins at this central statue, a convenient meeting point in front of the Old Fortress. From here, the tour sets out to explore Corfu’s historic heart.

The Old Venetian Fortress

This is the crown jewel of the tour—an imposing defensive structure built by the Venetians to withstand Ottoman sieges. As we wandered through its bastions, battlements, and labyrinthine chambers, our guide explained how these fortifications were marvels of military engineering for their time. We loved the chance to walk along the ramparts and, weather permitting, climb to the top for panoramic views of the city, Vido Island, and the surrounding waters. The fortress’s advanced science of defense remains impressive; it’s no wonder these were considered some of the most powerful in the Mediterranean.

More Great Tours Nearby

Bosketo Garden and Palace of St. Michael & St. George

Next, we visited the lush Bosketo Garden, which offers a peaceful respite and great photo opportunities. The Palace, with its neoclassical architecture, is a stunning backdrop to the gardens and provides insight into the island’s colonial history. We appreciated the guide’s commentary on how these landmarks played roles in Corfu’s political and social history.

Liston Square and St. Spyridon Church

Strolling through the Liston Square, we experienced a lively atmosphere reminiscent of Paris’s Palais Royal—an elegant setting full of cafes and street life. The tour then took us inside the Orthodox Church of St. Spyridon, where the relic of Corfu’s patron saint is kept. The church’s interior is both ornate and reverent, a key religious site that adds a spiritual layer to the history.

The Old Town Hall and Jewish Holocaust Memorial

We then visited the Old Town Hall (also home to the San Giacomo Theatre), appreciating the architecture and local history embedded there. The Jewish quarter’s memorials serve as stark reminders of Corfu’s multicultural past and the darker chapters of its history. The remnants of buildings still waiting for owners evoke a somber but important story—a real-world testament to resilience.

The New Venetian Fortress and Return

Your walk concludes at the New Fortress, which once marked the boundary of Corfu’s walled city. From here, you’ll return to your starting point, having gained a thorough understanding of Corfu’s defensive ingenuity, multicultural layers, and vibrant neighborhoods.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, noting how their storytelling makes history come alive. One shared, “Our guide was very articulate, and the stories about the fortifications really made me appreciate the engineering behind them.” Others appreciate the small group size, which allows for personalized attention and lively questions.

Many mention the view from the fortress’s top as a highlight—”The panoramic scenery was worth the climb,” one said. A few noted that the entrance fee for the fortress isn’t included, so budget accordingly. The consensus is that this tour offers value for money, especially given the depth of historical insight and authentic settings.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour costs $85 and lasts about three hours, making it an efficient way to see many key sights without feeling rushed.
• The meeting point at Count Von Der Schulenburg Statue is central and easy to find.
• Expect some walking—comfortable shoes are recommended.
• The tour is limited to 10 participants, providing an intimate experience but also meaning you should book ahead.
• While the tour doesn’t include fortress entry, guides often provide context that enhances your visit, making the extra fee worthwhile.
• The tour is conducted in English, and the guides are licensed, ensuring reliable information.
• Note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with low fitness levels due to the walking involved and uneven terrain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those curious about Corfu’s multicultural past. If you enjoy guided stories that connect old stones to human stories, you’ll find this tour both engaging and educational. It’s also well-suited for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized overview of the city’s highlights without overloading a single day with too many stops.

Final Thoughts

The Old Fortress and Corfu Old Town tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the island’s layered past. It combines impressive Venetian fortifications, charming neighborhoods, and meaningful cultural sites, all presented by enthusiastic guides who bring history to life. The experience balances architectural admiration with stories of resilience, making it a meaningful addition to any Corfu itinerary.

While it does require some walking and the fortress entrance fee is separate, the overall value is excellent given the depth of knowledge and authentic sights involved. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, this tour provides a compact yet rich glimpse into Corfu’s unique character.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the fortress entrance fee included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fee for the Old Fortress is not included. You should budget extra for this if you wish to explore the fortress independently after the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable and informative experience without taking up your entire day.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is in English, led by licensed guides who are skilled at making the history engaging and understandable.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users and may be challenging for those with low fitness levels due to walking and uneven terrain.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Bringing some water and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is also wise, especially if the weather is warm.

Does the tour include visits to other sites beyond the fortifications?
Yes, the tour also includes stops at key landmarks such as St. Spyridon Church, Liston Square, and the Jewish quarter, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

This guided walk through Corfu’s historic defenses and vibrant neighborhoods offers a meaningful way to connect with the island’s past and present—an enriching addition to any trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: