The island of Corfu has a rich history to discover, from tiny hilltop monasteries to imposing Venetian fortresses, there are plenty of indoor activities for families. Corfu’s capital, Kerkyra, is a UNESCO world heritage site, so walking around here is like visiting an open air museum. You could get lost in the complex of narrow cobbled streets, where grand palaces sit side by side with locals’ modest houses. Aside from historic buildings and museums, there are also several child-friendly attractions on the island like a classic aquarium, which is sure to please the kids. Are you looking to spend some family holidays in Corfu?
So if you’re wondering what to do in Corfu with your kids, read on for our top attractions.
Family Hotels & Holiday Homes in Corfu
Family Friendly Restaurants & Cafes in Corfu
1. Old & New Fortress of Corfu Town
Corfu’s capital is dominated by its two imposing fortresses, which in the past were joined together so the locals could live safely inside.
The impressive 15th century Old Fortress, on the east of town, offers amazing views from the top of its ramparts, as well as reconstructed old weapons, a small museum and a church.
The kids will love to hear the stories of past invasions and battles at this iconic site.
The Corfu Music School is based within the Old Fortress, so you may be lucky and catch one of their performances when you visit.
On the other hand, The New Fortress of Corfu, on the west of town, has underground galleries, vaulted passageways and imposing bastions to explore. You can also admire amazing views of the Old City from its highest points.
Opening Hours: Open daily 10am-4pm
2. Vlacherna Monastery
One of the most iconic Corfiot landmarks, Vlacherna monastery was built in the 17th century on a tiny rocky island at the tip of the Kanoni peninsula.
Reached via a small stone pathway linking it to the mainland, once inside the monastery you can admire beautiful frescos and ornate wooden carvings.
Now only used as a monastery on special occasions, it is open to the public to visit all year round.
There are two cafes on the mainland which offer amazing views of the monastery. As it’s very close to Corfu’s airport, this is a great place for the kids to spot planes taking off and landing too.
You can combine the monastery visit with a boat trip to neighbouring lush green Pоntiкοnissi Islаnd, nicknamed Mouse Island due to its tiny size.
3. Aquarium
This small, friendly aquarium in Paleokastritsa receives great reviews on Trip Advisor and consequently is one of the best things to do in Corfu with kids.
The knowledgeable and friendly tour guides are really welcoming to children. And will let them touch and hold reptiles like snakes and iguanas, if they want to.
Paleokastritsa’s beach is also one of the prettiest in the island, so you could head there afterwards if the weather has brightened up.
Opening Hours: Open daily 10am – 5pm
4. Casa Parlante
This unique museum in Corfu Town brings history to life with recreated scenes using animated figures and robotic technology.
Set up as a 19th century nobleman’s mansion, the lifelike scenes of everyday life will fascinate the kids. Listen to the children of the family practising violin, smell the aromas wafting from the cook’s pot in the kitchen and read the headlines of the Count’s newspaper.
Opening Hours: Open daily 10am – 6pm
5. Asian Art Museum
Finally, this top rated museum is housed in the impressive Palace of Saint Michael and George –the beautiful, luxury residence of the former British Lord High Commissioner.
The Asian Art Museum offers an impressive collection of extraordinary artifacts from the Far East. And he full set of Samurai armor is bound to be a highlight for the kids.
Opening Hours: Open daily 8am-8pm
6. Aqualand Water Park
Are you looking for the perfect place to cool off in the summer? Aqualand is one of the best water parks in Europe, according to visitors. Located in the centre of Corfu, it’s easily accessible from all the main coastal resorts. In addition, the park is separated into three areas, with age-appropriate rides, games and pools in each space. Firstly the children’s area for 4-8 year old, secondly, the family area for 8 years plus, and then the extreme games area for those aged 12 and over.
Surrounded by lush forest, you will find plenty of shady areas to relax. Moreover, there are free sunbeds and umbrellas, restaurants, cafes and even a massage service, if you feel like treating yourself while the kids play.
Address: Agios Ioannis Corfu Agios Ioannis, Parelioi 491 00, Greece
Opening Hours: Open daily 10am – 6pm
7. Glass bottomed boat
Kalypso Star is a custom made glass bottomed boat, whose large windows in its central hull offer a panoramic view of the ocean floor. What a great place to enjoy your family holidays. That is to say the kids will love spotting fish, octopus, lobsters and starfish from this unique perspective. The 1.5 hour cruise departs from the Old Port of Corfu Town, and circumvents beautiful Vidos Island. There’s plenty of views to admire above the waves too. For instance, if you are a diver you will be able to disembark halfway through, to see even more marine life up close.
Address: 41 Xen. Stratigou str N. Port , Corfu 49100
Opening Hours: Cruises operate daily, every 1.5 hours,
8. Vidos Island
This beautifully unspoiled island just 10 minutes offshore is a must visit if you’re staying near Corfu Town. Hourly boats depart from the Old Port to this tiny slice of paradise. You’ll find thick pine forest, stunning sandy beaches and free roaming wildlife. However the best beaches are on the island’s north shore, around 600 metres from the main jetty. We recommend you take a picnic and find a quiet spot by the sea to eat.
More Info: Information for ferry times is scant, but they generally run every hour, every day during peak holiday season.
9. Beaches
There’s a beach to suit every family on this island. From tiny pebbled coves with crystal clear waters to large swathes of sand. Some of the island’s best beaches are on the upmarket yet relatively unspoiled north eastern coast. However many families enjoy the west coast too where large beaches are surrounded by plenty of tavernas, hotels and activities like watersports.
Our top beaches in Corfu for families are:
* Barbati Beach (North East Coast)– this striking, long narrow strip of white pebbles at the foot of Corfu’s tallest mountain. There are lots of sunloungers available and a couple of tavernas too, however it can get busy, so get there early to nab the best spot.
* Glyfada’s beach (West Coast) is long, wide and sandy, with lots of surrounding accommodation and restaurants. No wonder it’s one of Corfu’s top family beach resorts. The shallow waters are perfect for little ones’ paddling and swimming.
* Agios Stefanos (North West Coast) offers a long stretch of sand and calm shallow waters, whilst neighbouring Agios Georgios is a very chilled out, quiet and relaxing spot.
10. Trailriders Horse Trekking
Finally, admire Corfu’s lush interiors, peppered with olive groves and vineyards on a relaxing pony trek. Suitable for children aged 6 and over.
This riding school run by a British expat and former US cattle ranch owner caters to all abilities, therefore even complete beginners can experience this wonderful day out. The scenic 60 – 90 minute hour trek through the historic village of Ano Korakiana and the foothills of Mount Pantokrator offers a real slice of rural Corfian life, which makes a lovely change from the bustling beach resorts.
Address: Epar.Od. Dasias-Korakianas, Feakes 490 83, Greece
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-12pm and 4pm-6pm during summer. Open for hour long treks on Thurs & Sat in Winter.
This beautiful Ionian island offers beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, Venetian architecture. Corfu is certainly an ideal destination for your family holidays. Whether you’re after a sleepy, unspoiled hideaway or a well-equipped resort, you’re sure to find it here.The mild climate and calm waters are certainly perfect for beach days, whilst the historic towns are full of intrigue for history buffs.
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