Corfu, or Kerkyra as it is known in Greek, is located in the Ionian Sea and possesses a unique mixture of cultures. Heavily influenced by its proximity to Italy, modern day Corfu is an amalgamation of Greek and Italian culture and customs, combining the best of both worlds. The island's strong ties to Ancient Greece are felt today in Palaiopolis (old town), were ancient temples dedicated to Artemis and Hera, as well as the mysterious Kardaki Temple, whose worshiped deity is still unknown to this day. Centuries later, the Venetians left their mark in Corfu by building various forts and castles, with the the most prominent being a fortress known as the old citadel (situated on an artificial islet) and the new citadel, a huge complex of fortifications on the northeast part of the city, with walls extending as far as the port. Deservedly so, the old town joined the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2007.
With such deep historical roots, Corfu offers its visitors plenty of opportunities for sightseeing. The are also numerous Byzantine monasteries one can visit, like Paleokastritsa and Vlacherna, which can also be combined with beautiful beaches nearby. These are usually rocky and steeped in local vegetation, which gives the island's coast a wild natural beauty. 

Arts and sciences have always flourished on the island, with Corfu being the origin of the Ionian Academy, the first university of the modern Greek state, and home to the Nobile Teatro di San Giacomo di Corfù, the first Greek theater and opera house of modern Greece. Today the island houses the Ionian University, an establishment that combines studies in history, science and music.

The best time to visit is in late spring, when the sea has warmed up to feasible swimming temperatures and locals outnumber tourists, as well as early autumn, when most of the tourists have departed and the sea is at its warmest. Getting to the island won't be an issue, as daily flights from Athens can get you to Corfu within an hour.