An open air museum

A pleasant evening’s walk in Campiello, the oldest and most picturesque of Old Town’s districts in Corfu, is like sailing through an Italian film. You’ll want to lose yourself in the labyrinth of quaint alleyways (kantounia) lined with old homes, their doors and windows adorned with Venetian designs. In fact, that’s the point. While strolling beneath the washings hung fresh overhead, their soapy scent perfuming the air, you will hear soft singing from open windows. You’ll want to join them in song, though you don’t know the words. Your pace will be leisurely, though you’ve lost all sense of direction. You will pause to admire hidden town squares, churches, and impressive arches as you pass beneath them.

This is Corfu! It’s a place where time has stood still. It’s a place where you feel like you’re walking in a dream, in a fantasy of the great director, Giuseppe Tornatore. It’s one big open-air museum, if you like. Make a stop at San Nicolo dei Vecchi, a 16th century cathedral, then visit any one of the small lilac covered shops on your way to the Holy Church of the Almighty. Mark the occasion with a photo posing under he angel overlooking the church. Start and end your day with a leisurely walk: all the way from Spianada Square, to Porta Remounda, and from the old fortress, finally back to your hotel. Υou will never feel alone. There will always be someone with a flower for you, to have a chat with, or share a local dessert of mandola or kumquat. Both will give you a boost. When you’ve taken your leave, at some point you are destined to return – just like those in fairytales who fall under an enchantment.