Things to do in
Esplanade Square

Esplanade Square: Our most recommended tours and activities

Saranda: Corfu Town and Palaiokastritsa Day Trip with Cruise

Saranda: Corfu Town and Palaiokastritsa Day Trip with Cruise

After departing from the port of Saranda, we travel along the Albanian coast until we approach the Port of Corfu. The day begins with a visit to the Old Town of Corfu- one of Greece's most attractive old towns, where you can feel the influence of the great civilizations remains keenly felt. Enjoy a guided tour around the Old Town centre, including Corfu's biggest square, Spianada (known as 'Liston'), Saint Spiridon's church (Spiridon is the island's patron saint) houses the relics of Saint Spyridon, the Royal Palace, which houses the Museum of Asian Art, and both New and Old Fortresses. You will also have time to stroll around the narrow streets and exploring the souvenir shops. The next stop is the picturesque village of Palaiokastritsa. The name means old fortress and referred to the castle that once stood on top of the hill which is now the Monastery of the Virgin Mary. A Byzantine Monastery dating back to 1228, and houses a collection of rare icons, books, and other holy relics. Enjoy the plethora of local tavernas, bars and hotles all offering beautiful views across the blue bay and harbour. From here you can hire a boat (optional) to explore the nearby caves and enjoy the crystal clear waters or to reach some of the islands more isolated beaches and relax in paradise. Considered to be one of the best beaches of Corfu, Paleokastritsa Beach is unquestionably the most photographed. With its beautiful harbour and clear waters set against a dramatic backdrop of cliffs covered in olive and cypress trees, you will certainly understand why. When the time comes to board the ship and head back, we hope that Corfu will have won a place in your heart!

Corfu: Paleokastritsa Beach and Old Town Bus Shore Excursion

Corfu: Paleokastritsa Beach and Old Town Bus Shore Excursion

Embark on a modern air-conditioned bus from the Corfu Cruise Port and head to our first stop the world-famous coastline of Paleokastritsa with scenic hillside and waterside views. Relax on the sunbed of the organized beach and marvel at the amazing cliffs & mountains filled with olive trees! On the hilltop you can find the famous Monastery of Virgin Mary & take some breathtaking photos of the surrounding area. Hop back on our air-conditioned bus and travel to your next stop, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Corfu Town. Following a panoramic sightseeing tour around the city the bus will drop you off at the entrance of the old town where no vehicles can drive. Now you have the chance to explore on your own pace the amazing old town. Get lost in the scenic alleyways, admire magnificent buildings of Venetian architecture, and discover local shops, restaurants, grocery stores with amazing local produce, picturesque cafes. Purchase a local ginger beer, or wine, beer, olive oil, or other local products. See the the most significant landmarks of the city including the aristocratic Liston, the imposing Palace of St. Michael and St. George, the Town Hall, and the beautifully decorated St. Spyridon church. Filled with experiences, colors, smells ,history & culture we get you back to your cruise ship with safety & comfort.

Top 5 of Corfu - Half/Full-Day Tour

Top 5 of Corfu - Half/Full-Day Tour

Make the most of your stay and holidays on Corfu with this tour and according to your time available visit the highlights of the island that interest you most. Once your guide picks you up from port, airport or hotel, you' ll head to Paleokastritsa, onе оf thе most popular highlights on Corfu island. On your way to Paleokastritsa, you'll visit a local shop with handmade products, where you'll have the chance to taste local products, such as olive oil, olives, koum-kouat, marmalade, mandolato etc. After this pleasant tasting experience, you’ll reach Paleokastritsa. On a green hill above the beach is located the Monastery of Paleokastritsa. Rocky landscape, dense vegetation, sea caves, thin white sand, crystal clear waters compose an idyllic, breathtaking scenery full of contrasts that awaits you to visit. And if you'd like to explore the caves into the sea, you can optionally make a boat trip to the sea caves. We' ll continue our tour by visiting Pelekas. This picturesque village stands on one of the most beautiful hills of the island. From the small hill known as the Kaiser's Throne, which wаs once usеd аs оbsеrvаtοry bу the Gеrmаn Kаisеr Wilhеlm II, you can admire 360-dеgrее pаnоrаmiс viеw οf thе еntirе islаnd. Alternatively, we' ll visit thе village of Lаkonеs, also known аs Bеllа Vistа - оnе of thе tоp viеws in the island. There you’ll have time to enjoy the view. Afterwards, we’ ll visit Achillion Palace. There you’ll visit the historical museum, which was built by Queen Elizabeth, known as the sad Queen Sisi, and decorated with statues, all inspired by ancient Greek mythology. The gardens on top of the hill provide a scenic view of the surrounding green hills and valleys, with the Ionian sea in the background. Our next stop will be Kanoni, where thе fаmоus Mοnаstеry оf Vlасhеrnа аnd Pontikonissi (Mouse Island) islеt аrе situаtеd. The Mοnаstеry оf Vlасhеrnа is one the most picturesque churches one can visit in Corfu. Here you'll have time to look around and capture amazing photos. The tour ends with a walk through Corfu Old Town, the place where the ”heart” of Corfu is. The Old Town and its two forts are listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Monuments. Learn the history and visit the highlights of Corfu Old town through the eyes of our local guide. Lose yourself in the narrow alleyways of Corfu, the so-called Cantounia, and see by yourself the Venetian, English, French and Russian influences, all flourishing here and leaving their mark on the island. Your transfers from place to place are done in a spacious, air-conditioned minivan. A private licensed tour guide in the language of your preference is also available with an additional fee, however is highly recommended for a better travel experience. Don’t forget that all of our tours can be customised. So upon your arrival, you' ll have the opportunity to discuss again with your private driver/guide for any changes to your route and the places you are going to visit.

Corfu Highlights Shore Excursion: Paleokastritsa & Town

Corfu Highlights Shore Excursion: Paleokastritsa & Town

The world-famous coastline of Paleokastritsa is your first stop in this Corfu Shore Excursion. Paleokastritsa is renowned across the Mediterranean for its stunning, rocky-formed bay as well as its picturesque hillside and waterside vistas. At the hilltop, you will find the charming 13th-century monastery of the Virgin Mary, set amid colorful gardens and offering breathtaking views of the wider region. Prepare your cameras and capture once-in-a-lifetime scenery. Next, visit the beach where you will take a boat ride to the well-known caves which “rise" out of the crystal clear seas (extra cost: 15 euros per person). Simply soak in the enchanting natural beauty of this breathtaking shoreline; it will leave you speechless. Embark your cozy, air-conditioned vehicle and drive to Corfu Town, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your professional tour guide will share with you every little detail that you need to know regarding this cultural Corfu Shore Excursion. Meander through the maze of the narrow pavements, also known in Corfiot dialect as “Kantounia”, and explore the top landmarks of Corfu Old Town, such as the Old Fortress, the Liston Promenade, the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, or the St. Spyridon church, which houses the relics of the island's patron saint. Get astonished by the Venetian architecture depicted in the old building, tiny churches and secret gardens, and enjoy a fresh gelato while wandering in Spianada Square; the biggest one in Balkan Peninsula. Choose your favorite Corfu specialties from the many souvenir shops, or simply rest, unwind, and savor the traditional delights!

Best of Corfu: Customized Private Excursion

Best of Corfu: Customized Private Excursion

This activity is the perfect way to absorb everything Corfu has to offer without being bound by a fixed itinerary. Choose from a flexible starting time and pre-book a hassle-free pick-up from Corfu Airport, Corfu Port/Cruise-ship or your hotel. According to which option you’ve selected, a 4-hour or 6-hour tour, you can discover the best of Corfu according to your own interests and spend as much time as you wish at your preferred location. Enjoy full flexibility, whether you want to visit major sightseeing attractions, such as Paleokastritsa, Achilleion Palace, Mon Repos, Mouse Island (Kanoni), Old Fortress, relax on the beach and enjoy your cocktail, eat great seafood or shop in the narrow alleyways of Corfu Old Town. Feel free to ask for recommendations while booking, or ask your local driver for suggestions on how to maximize your day. Optional, a private guide (add as extra) can accompany you to explain the heritage and history, or give you tips on the hidden gems of the city. At the end of your tour, you’ ll be dropped-off at the airport, port/cruise-ship or your hotel.

Corfu: Old Town Cycle Tour-History,Flavours & Narrow Alleys!

Corfu: Old Town Cycle Tour-History,Flavours & Narrow Alleys!

Our cycling tour at the historical centre and the suburbs is probably the ideal way for families or individual guests to get to know some of the most traditional neighborhoods of the town and admire lots of the hidden gems on this fantastic out of the beaten path, route. We will start by cycling in the open fruit and fish market, see the vendors trying to sell their freshly cut products and even try some of them. We will then continue cycling around the ”labyrinth” of the narrow alleys of the old town formed between the multi storey 16th century venetian buildings with photo stops at the most historical highlights at a time that the city is still quiet and the temperature still pleasant. Depending on the mood and physical condition of our group we can ride to Kanoni in order to admire and make photos of the 17th century Vlacherna monastery located at the beginning of the airport lagoon as well as of the planes landing while flying at the same level with us. A few km further we will cycle in the exotic gardens of the famous Mon Repos, the summer resort of the ex royal Greek family, that prince Philip of Great Britain was born at. After visiting the oldest church in Corfu built in 1005 we will cycle through Garitsa bay admiring plenty of mega yachts as docked haughty and shiny under the morning sun. As the town is getting busy and the temperature is rising, a last stop at one of the most beautiful and most photographed cafes of the town for a refreshment is the best way to end our tour.For guests who wish to have transportation,it can be arranged with pick up time and cost provided upon request.

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu

Stories of Food and Culture of the Old Town of Corfu

In this tour we reveal the secrets of the city! Starting in the Durrells’ lush green garden, you’ll hear stories of the famous family in the place where they lived. Then join us on a walk around the exterior of the impressive British Palace of St George and St Michael. This is where the British Commissioner of the Ionian Islands lived and where the Senate met. Walk with us along the French street of Liston, the popular pedestrian street where the heart of the city beats. Admire the architecture, so reminiscent of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris. Smile at the island’s socialites enjoying their daily gossip. Come with us through what has been the city’s most central street for 600 years. Climb the steps of the Orthodox church of St. Spyridon and enter the silent interior. The venerable relic of Corfu’s patron saint and miracle-worker lies in its luxurious urn, which is still opened today from time to time. Walk up the city’s most commercial street for at least 400 years, since the bourgeoisie started to do business in the city. See the building of the first lyrical theatre in Greece. See in your minds eye the prima donna being transported to the stage on the portantine and travel mentally to the sound of the great composers of Europe through the heart of Corfu. During the tour, you will discover local secrets through the tastes and smells of the city. Taste the products, dishes, desserts that the locals eat every day. Drink a toast with local wine. Listen to the sounds of the city, the bells, the birds, the speeches and maybe a trombone through a window playing its tune.

Leisurely Tour of Corfu

Leisurely Tour of Corfu

Admire the beauty of Corfu and try Greek meze (appetizer) on this minivan day trip. Choose from pickup in from the Old Town, Port, or your accommodation in Corfu. See top sights in the area like the Liston promenade, St. Spyridon Church, and Esplanade Square. Enjoy the convenience of being picked up in a spacious and airconditioned minivan. Sit back and relax on the drive to the turquoise waters of Paleokastritsa Bay. Have free time to enjoy a swim in the waters that once welcomed the legendary Ulysses after his shipwreck. Spend your free time taking in views of the Kolovri Rock which according to the myth is Ulysses’ boat which was turned to stone by Poseidon. Purchase a boat tour to the caves or head up to the Christian Orthodox Monastery of the Virgin Mary. Continue on to Bella Vista Hill, and stop in Lakones village. This location features spectacular views across the bay and is also known as 'The Balcony of the Gods.' Gaze out at the breathtaking landscape and try a taste of Greek Ouzo or wine accompanied by a snack or meze. Head to the north of the island to a panoramic spot to taste some of the island’s most famous sweets and liqueurs that are produced with kumquat fruit. Try local honey, candies, and olive oil with fresh bread from a small shop. Drive along the mountain ridge, enjoying the views of the nearby northern islands, before descending into the valley and continuing to the South. Reach Corfu's Old Town. Stroll through the streets and admire the majesty of Venetian, French, and British architecture. Pass by the 14th century Venetian Old Fortress, the Durrell Gardens and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George. Stand in Esplanade Square, one of the largest in Europe, and visit St. Spyridon Church, where the remains of the patron saint of the island are venerated. Walk down the Liston promenade with its cafes and arcaded terraces that once were the exclusive domain of aristocrats. Check out souvenir shops, local handicrafts, and boutiques before heading back to your pickup point.

Corfu Town: Express Cultural Walking Tour

Corfu Town: Express Cultural Walking Tour

Follow us on a journey through time, via gardens, monuments and buildings in the Old Town of Corfu! First stop is the beautiful garden of the Durrells (Bosketo Garden). Here there will be a storytelling session recounting many tales of the Durrell’s exploits and adventures on the island. Then admire the British Palace of St Michael and St George, relax in the flowering gardens and maybe even fall in love…it is the ultimate meeting place for lovers. Walk with us along the French street of Liston, the most popular pedestrian street of Corfu. Admire the imposing square with its many cafes and see the socialites enjoying their daily gossip. Admire the richly decorated Orthodox church of Agios Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu and reportedly a miracle worker. If you are lucky, you may see his holy relic, which is worshipped by Corfiots on many occasions throughout the year. Walk with us through the city’s mysterious and romantic sidestreets and alleyways but be careful not to get lost. It is quite easy to lose your bearings and go around in circles in the warren of little streets. Don’t worry though, wherever you end up, the Corfuting team will be nearby. Last stop is the Town Hall Square, the main square of the city during the 400 years as a Venetian protectorate. Admire Corfu’s unique baroque building, the San Giacomo, built in 1669 as a meeting hall for Venetian officials, and converted in 1720 into a lyrical theatre. All the great opera performances of Europe were presented here until 1903 when a larger theatre was built as the San Giacomo was not sufficient for the ever-increasing number of spectators. You have just enjoyed a small but concentrated taste of the city and culture of Corfu. Thank you!

Corfu: Durrels half day mini van tour

Corfu: Durrels half day mini van tour

We start our tour by exploring the iconic Durrell family home in Kalami, where the enchanting tales of Gerald, Lawrence, Margo, and Leslie came to life. We will explore the charming surroundings and gain insight into the adventures of the Durrel family. Our next stop is Danillia Village a picturesque setting that served as the backdrop for many memorable moments in The Durrells series. You will have the chance to stroll through its winding streets adorned with traditional houses, and immerse yourself in the authentic ambiance of rural Corfu. On our way back to Corfu town we will take the chance to visit Kanoni and marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery. We will conclude our adventure with a visit to Corfu town where the Durrell family often ventured for leisure and exploration and explore the town’s historic landmarks, including the imposing Old Fortress, the elegant Liston promenade, and the vibrant Spianada Square.

All activities

22 activities found
Sort by:

Immersive experiences

Go beyond Esplanade Square

Explore all

Top Attractions in Corfu Town

Experiences in Esplanade Square

Tours in Greece

Things to do in Greece

Other Sightseeing Options in Esplanade Square

Want to discover all there is to do in Esplanade Square? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Esplanade Square

Overall rating

1
(1 reviews)

Beautiful beach & old town. Both are must dos. I couldn't find the tour guide at the GPS location, but 10 mins late I found the location of the bus at the end or pier to left of port building. Guide was very friendly and thoughtful. Driver had to steer off road to avoid a collision, but thankfully no injuries or damage. All 3 beach options are stunning, see them all. Bring goggles and beach stuff (example ball to throw, or floatie), they do sell them there. Shopping in old town is really good - wish I bought more souvenirs, was kicking myself later in cruise.

Excursion organized in every detail, excellent for a hit and run visit to Corfu, we independently combined the 3-hour boat excursion. We left early in the morning but it is worth it to avoid long waits at passport control, which actually occurred on the way back.

We had a wonderful day in Corfu, the guide showed us many beautiful places and it was stress-free.

Great experience! Good value for money and great tour operator! Thank you

Well looked after lots of information great day had by all