Paleokastritsa: Corfu’s Crown Jewel

Stunning scenery, hilltop monsterary, and sandy beaches, beautiful Paleokastritsa is one of Corfu’s crown jewels. 

After a lovely day exploring Corfu’s northeast coastline by boat, the next day we visited Paleokastritsa on the northwest coast. This is another pretty area consisting of six clover-like bays with a rocky coastline, beautiful scenery, and emerald green water. Like the rest of Corfu, it is hilly surrounded by cypress and olive trees. 

Getting to Paleokastritsa is easy on the air-conditioned ‘green bus’ (A9) which picks up at Saroko Square outside of Old Town every half hour. It takes about 40 minutes and costs €2.30 one-way (under 6 are free). It’s a great way to get around if you are staying in Old Town and don’t want to rent a car due to the tricky parking situation. 

There is plenty to do in Paleokastritsa, as visiting each of the six beaches, view points, and coastal pathways will keep you busy enough.

Beaches of Paleokastritsa

There are six beaches around Paleokastritsa including Ambelaki, Agios Petro, Agios Spyridon, Alipa, Platakia & Verderosa, and Agia Triada. 

Agios Spyridon, the largest of the six bay, is the most popular as it is a protected sandy beach. There are restaurants and snack kiosks along the beach. Be sure to arrive early to grab a sunbed or bring your own umbrella as there is little shade on Agios Spyridon. This is a great sandy beach for young children as the water is calm and shallow. Shingle beaches can be found at Agios Petros or Ambelaki, both are walking distance from the main car park. 

Paleokastritsa Monastery

High above Agios Spyridon via a steep narrow road passing through cypress and olive trees is  Paleokastritsa Monastery, one of the oldest in Corfu dating back to 1225. Inside the main building there are Byzantine icons and memorabilia. The views from various observation points are incredible. Well worth the 10 minute steep hike up the hill! 

Corfu Aquarium

Looking for a break from the beach or an escape from the heat, Corfu Aquarium is a great option. Small but well-organised, this aquarium has over 70 species of local marine life, reptiles and amphibians. For a full day-out, there is a combo-ticket which includes a glass-bottom boat excursion departing from the marina.

Cave Excursions and Water Taxis

There are numerous boat excursions to see the nearby caves and secluded coves departing from Agios Spyridon water jetty. The most famous are the sea caves of Nafsika, Saint Nikolas, and the Blue Eye. It is a lovely little excursion before hitting the beach. Otherwise, water taxis can be hired to reach remote nearby beaches accessible only by boat.