Belonging to the Ionian chain of islands, Corfu, or Kerkyra is the most popular Greek island for British holidaymakers. The fact that Corfu is the nearest Greek island to the UK - just a three-hour flight - may go some way to explaining its popularity, but its appeal goes far beyond this. Holidays to Corfu are especially popular with the package tourist due to its winning combination of clean safe beaches, all-night entertainment, and abundance of reasonably priced hotels and restaurants.
While it's true that Corfu is one of the most developed Greek islands, the majority of holiday resorts are based along the north and east coasts of the island - leaving large areas relatively untouched. Just a short drive from the popular coastal resorts, visitors can escape to the southwest of the island to explore idyllic beaches, picturesque bays and romantic Greek villages.
Corfu is also set apart from its neighbouring islands due to its dramatically diverse landscape; mountains dominate the north of the island, while the south enjoys lush green farmland. Holidays in Corfu also unveil an island rich in history. The Venetians originally designed the island's capital, Corfu Town, in the 14th century. The old quarter is a maze of cobbled streets and colourful houses. Other historic and cultural sights include: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Asian Art, the neoclassical villa of Achilleion, and the 13th-century chapel on Mouse Island.