Use the downloadable map from Corfu Design Route to discover contemporary art and craft workshops scattered across the island. Start at Myrto Zirini’s ceramics studio, on the ground floor of a 17th-century mansion, where irregular stoneware vessels, bowls, and lamps are made entirely by hand — no two alike. Then browse Salty Bag, which creates durable, stylish totes and pouches from upcycled sails; look for them at Barbara Anti-Kairoi, a tiny trove of jewelry, textiles, and accessories from Greek designers. For head-turning sunglasses and colorful fedoras, pop into Après Ski.

Escape to a royal park with a secret swim spot

A gentle, half-hour walk along Garitsa Bay takes you from the Old Fortress to the Kanoni peninsula — site of ancient Palaiopolis, Corfu’s earliest major settlement. Here you’ll find Mon Repos, a Regency-style villa once used as the summer residence of Greece’s former royal family. Today, the house is home to the Museum of Palaiopolis, with a small but intriguing collection of ancient artifacts and archival materials. Footpaths through the surrounding woods lead to overgrown ruins, including the Doric Temple of Kardaki. When the sun gets high, detour to Kardaki beach, a hidden cove where you can swim straight off a stone jetty into clear, emerald water. Pack a picnic and mosquito repellent.

Take the high road to Old Perithia

It’s a winding, 90-minute drive along Corfu’s northeast coast and up into the foothills of Mount Pantokrator, the island’s highest peak — but it’s worth the effort to reach Old Perithia, a partially restored 14th-century stone village. Scenic hiking trails lead out in every direction: a challenging 1.5-hour trek climbs to the monastery at Pantokrator’s summit, with exhilarating vistas that stretch as far as Albania. A gentler 20-minute path leads to the apiary of Vassilis Syriotis, where the wildflower honey is exceptional. When hunger strikes, grab a table on the vine-covered terrace at The Old Perithia, the best of the village’s five tavernas (with O Foros a close second). Refuel with briam (caramelized, slow-roasted vegetables), zucchini fritters, and tzatziki before heading back down to the coast.