Kassiopi

Kassiopi is a village and resort sitting on a small peninsula on the northeast side of the island of Corfu. Historically a small fishing village, it is less than 40 kilometers from Corfu town and is a very popular tourist destination in the summer. Allegedly founded in the 3rd century B.C., it sits in the shadows of Mount Pantokrator. Though small, Kassiopi boasts a lively nightlife with a good mix of bars, restaurants and dance clubs around the harbor and town square.
One sight to see in Kassiopi is the former Temple of Kassios Zeus, which was converted to a church in the 5th century. Burned to the ground by the Turks and restored in late 16th century, the new church has altars to accommodate both Christian and Orthodox religions and inscriptions date from 1590, 1670 and 1832. Kassiopi Castle sits up above the village and was one of three Byzantine era castles that defended the island before the Venetian era. Though it is in a state of ruin today, it was once one of the most impressive castles in the Ionian islands.

Practical Info

Kassiopi is a 40 minute drive from Corfu airport and can be reached by taxi or bus. A taxi should cost 50 to 60 Euros, while the bus is only ten Euros. To take the bus, look for the blue bus station in Corfu town; they run regularly between 5:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily. Buses will take you as far as the village square, but not as far as the harbor. Excursions all over the island can be organized from Kassiopi and taxis can be found in the car park at the top of the town.