Gouvia and Kontokoli are possibly the oldest tourist resorts on the island. They are close to Corfu Town to enjoy all the associated benefits, but have the advantage of a long sandy beach and very clean water. Both villages have excellent facilities for visitors; good tavernas, watersports, shops, bars and clubs.
Gouvia is now more popular with the yacht owners as it has one of the largest and most well equipped marinas in Western Greece. The Venetians also built a dock yard there on Govino Bay, for the maintenance of their naval fleet. The remains are in good condition but are entirely roofless.
The bus service to and from Corfu Town is good and a taxi ride is quick.
Mon Repo Palace is on Analipsis Hill on the edge of the ancient city of Corfu. Built by the British Commissioner Frederic Adams as a gift for his Corfiot wife in 1826. It is a small but very beautiful building with stunning gardens. In 1864 after the Unification of Greece it became the summer residence of the Greek Royal family and was the birth place of Prince Philip.
Started in 1577 and completed in 1588, the New Fortress was built on the Hill of St. Mark and is on two levels. The lower was to protect the port and the upper to protect the city. As a Naval look out point and protected by a deep moat, the New Fortress was instrumental in protecting Western Europe from Turkish invasion. There are tunnels that link the Old and New Fortresses, but are not open to the public.
Corfu Town has much to offer even the most well travelled visitor. The art galleries and museums, of which there are more than a dozen, hold regular exhibitions. The town’s three brass bands, symphony orchestra, opera company, choir, contemporary and traditional dance groups and drama societies guarantee a full programme of musical and theatrical events.