The island of Corfu, best known of the seven Ionian islands that lie off the north-west coast of Greece, differs markedly from the other popular Greek islands because not only is it green and lush, but also very developed with tourist resorts and hotels. Summer time is hectic on Corfu, with charter flights arriving daily from European cities, ferries disgorging travellers from Italy, and cruise ships docking.

There is plenty to draw visitors to this magical island, also known as Kerkyra. Modern Corfu Town is upbeat and cosmopolitan, offering an exciting conglomeration of Greek, Italian, French and British influences. The old town was laid out by the Venetians in the 14th century and features narrow alleys lined with multi-storied pastel-coloured buildings with red tiled roofs, creating a scene reminiscent of Italy. The hub of activity in the town centre is the Liston, an arcaded row of cafes and restaurants, copied from the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

Those wishing to escape from the melee in the town can head for the interior to enjoy some spectacular scenery and greenery. Corfu has, for instance, 43 different kinds of orchids growing wild in the countryside, and there are countless olive groves. Finally there are, of course, the beautiful beaches washed by the sparkling Ionian Sea, and it is still possible to search out a secluded cove or two even in the busy season when the over-developed resorts on the east coast are awash with package tourists.

Corfu Archaeological Museum

Address: 1 Armeni Vraila Corfu

Admission: EUR3 (adults), EUR2 for students from countries outside EU. Special ticketing package for the Archaeological Museum, the Old Fortress, the Church of Antivouniotissa and the Museum of Asian Art: EUR8 (reduced EUR4) Tuesday to Sunday 8.30am to 3pm

Telephone: (0661) 30680

Museum of Asian Art

Address: Palea Anactora, Spianada Corfu

Admission: EUR3 (Concessions EUR2) Tuesday to Sunday 8:30am to 3pm

Telephone: 266 103 0443

Kanoni

Address: Corfu

Achilleion

Address: 6 miles (10km) from Corfu Town, in Gastouri village. Corfu

Admission: Monday to Friday, 8am to 7pm; Saturday and Sunday, 8am to 2.30pm

Telephone: 266 105 6245

Aqualand Water Park

Address: Aqualand Village, 49100 Agios Ioannis Corfu

Admission: EUR25 (adults); EUR17 (children 5-12) Open May to October daily. May, June, September and October from 10am – 6pm; July and August from 10am – 7pm

Telephone: +30(26610)58583

Corfu Horse Riding

Address: Corfu

Admission: Open all year round. Summer: Daily from 10am – 12pm and 5pm – 7pm. Closed Sundays. Winter: Fridays and Saturdays

Telephone: +30 26630 23090

Kalypso Star

Address: Old port, Corfu town Corfu

Admission: EUR14 (adults); EUR8 (children) In high season, trips leave daily on the hour 10am-6pm, plus they make a 10pm night trip. Call for the off-season schedule

Telephone: +30 26710 46525

Star Beach Water Park

Address: Hersonissos Corfu

Admission: Free

Nymphes

Address: Corfu