Tourist Attractions & Monuments Ionian Islands

Paxos is best explored from the coast. The excursions, without going very far, are quickly spectacular, with magnificent blue caves and stops in places you'll never forget, and of course swimming breaks at every stop. Ask for the program before you go up. Some of the trips include a nice package with a real barbecue on the water (some grilled meats and salads). Captain Giannis is very friendly and welcoming. You'll need: mask, snorkel and flippers (not supplied).

It's well known that German Emperor Wilhelm II was very fond of Corfu and bought the Achilleion Palace in 1907. Carl Ludwig Sprenger was appointed the palace's botanical architect and was responsible for building the bridge leading to the beach, so as to avoid crossing the island's main road. Naturally, the bridge takes its name from the Kaiser, and was named in homage to its owner. There's nothing extraordinary on site to justify driving miles on purpose. But if you're in the area, the view is beautiful and can extend your visit to the Achilleion.

A cute little chapel, built in 1910, which makes for a nice walk (with a 100-metre gradient). Although the chapel is often closed, the site is pleasant, with a lovely view over the bay. Nearby, there's also a spring with cold water and benches and a table where you can sit in the shade of century-old trees and take a break from the heat. The chapel is particularly lively on its feast day, July 25, with a procession.

The best beaches around Argostoli are Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos, which has an excellent hotel. Further afield you will not be disappointed by the beaches of Avithos and Lourdas. On the road to Fiskardo, Myrtos is THE postcard beach with turquoise water against a background of white sand. You will see this beautiful white crescent as you come from the road. Be careful, the sea is very deep and the currents are dangerous. At 16 km from Argostoli, in Lourdata, long beach with a nice hotel lined with lemon and orange trees.

Not far from the beach, the village of Lefkimmi is crossed by a river where fishermen moor their boats. This charming spot is also marked by a bridge linking the two banks. It's a place that still preserves the customs and traditions of yesteryear. You'll often see women on donkeys, for example. It's a pleasant walk. Following the scenic riverside road, you'll find the sandy beach of Boukas, 1.5 km away. Its shallow, clear, warm waters make it ideal for children.

The port village of Lefkimmi is also great for swimming. The village center is about two kilometers from the sea. Fishing boats are moored along a canal that can be followed to Bouka beach. Close to the mouth of the river, it's a nice little beach, especially before taking a boat. Accessible by car, it is equipped with showers, changing rooms and deckchairs for a fee. But the water is transparent and very warm in season. And it's much less crowded than other beaches on the island.

On the west coast of the island of Corfu, Agios Gordios is a seaside resort with a large beach, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful on the island. It's a charming place, with a large stretch of sand, transparent water and nature. Some restaurants let you use their umbrellas and deckchairs free of charge if you buy something from them. Otherwise, you'll have to pay 10 to 15 euros for two. This beach is well worth a visit. There's parking nearby and water sports in the bay.

Messongi beach itself is not particularly interesting compared with the other stretches accessible on the west coast. Nonetheless, it offers crystal-clear waters and good swimming. The beach is also well organized, with numerous restaurants, tavernas and beach bars along the waterfront. It is close to a particularly rich hotel offer. It will appeal to families in particular, but also to holidaymakers based here who stop off at the end of the day after exploring the island.

This beautiful little fishing village, located between Messonghi and Nostos, is truly charming. With its safe, shallow waters, Boukari beach is popular with families with young children. When it comes to gastronomy, you'll be spoilt for choice with numerous seafood tavernas along the waterfront, such as Kalami Taverna, on the small jetty, open even in winter, or Spiros Karidis. The location is perfect for watching the sun set over the sparkling sea, while enjoying a glass of wine or ouzo.

French soldiers are buried in this small cemetery. A narrow alley leads visitors to the cemetery entrance. At the far right, a small staircase leads to a calvary. 209 French soldiers are buried here. A total of 8,663 French graves are listed in Greece, in six military cemeteries. The soldiers who fell in Greece were killed in the Crimean War (1853-56), the Cretan War of Independence (1886) and the First World War.

Benitses beach is vast, stretching from the marina to the south of the resort. If it's not crowded, the water is clear. In season, it's easy to walk around and get away from the crowds. There's hardly any sand, but the pebbles are really small and you can walk on them comfortably. The beach is pleasant, quiet and well equipped. Not as spectacular or charming as the west coast beaches, it's still perfect for a relaxing moment, especially with children.

A small observation deck on the road to the beach. And here is perhaps one of the most beautiful views on the island, and certainly the most dazzling view of Agios Gordios, the coast and one of Corfu's most beautiful sandy beaches. Parking is not easy, but it's a great place to stop off on your way to or from the village. It's also possible to walk from the village to this viewpoint. It's a fairly strenuous walk, but well worth it! In that case, allow 45 minutes to an hour's walk from the middle of the village.

Magnificent. Soft sand and greenery in the dunes. This beach is ideal for a stroll or a lazy day. It's a pleasant beach for families, especially with young children: sandy beach, clear water, ample parking. For the rest of you, rest assured, there's plenty of space, even in season. There are a few deckchairs and umbrellas, but not many. Be sure to bring water, snacks and food, as there aren't many options. There's a small bar close to the beach entrance from the parking lot.