Spianada Square
Corfu's grandest square, a historical heart with Venetian arcades and gateway to the Old Fortress.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Spianada Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Corfu's grandest square, a historical heart with Venetian arcades and gateway to the Old Fortress.
"A beautiful place that combines a beautiful beach, restaurants, archaeology, and a 360-degree view of the island."
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking near Spianada Square is tough! Plan ahead or use nearby lots.
☕ Coffee & People-Watching
Grab a coffee at Liston and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Liston Promenade
Along the western edge of Spianada Square
Elegant arcades offering shade, cafes, and a prime spot for people-watching.

Old Fortress Views
Adjacent to Spianada Square
Climb for panoramic views of the square, town, and the sparkling Ionian Sea.

Botides Tradition
Spianada Square (Holy Saturday)
Witness the unique Holy Saturday tradition of throwing clay pots from balconies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Spianada Square Crowds
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking near Spianada Square is tough! Plan ahead or use nearby lots.
☕ Coffee & People-Watching
Grab a coffee at Liston and soak in the lively atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Explore the Streets
Wander the narrow, charming streets surrounding the square for hidden gems.
🏛️ History Buff's Paradise
Don't miss the historical significance and nearby fortresses.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Woes
Parking near Spianada Square is tough! Plan ahead or use nearby lots.
☕ Coffee & People-Watching
Grab a coffee at Liston and soak in the lively atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Explore the Streets
Wander the narrow, charming streets surrounding the square for hidden gems.
🏛️ History Buff's Paradise
Don't miss the historical significance and nearby fortresses.
📸 Capture the Moment
The square and its surroundings offer fantastic photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Spianada Square's historical charm and vibrant atmosphere, calling it the heart of Corfu Town. The Liston Promenade is a highlight for people-watching and enjoying a coffee. While parking is a common complaint, the beauty and lively energy of the square make it a highly recommended spot for history buffs and those seeking a quintessential Greek island experience.
"A beautiful place that combines a beautiful beach, restaurants, archaeology, and a 360-degree view of the island. Highly recommended."
שגית גלברט
"First time to grease, and Corfu was great. Lots of local shops and a nice park. We even took a dip in the sea."
Will Neal
"If you enjoy historical visits I highly recommend Spianada Square.
There's a walk up to the lighthouse with spectacular views!"
Dan Shelley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Spianada Square is centrally located in Corfu Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot if you're staying nearby. If driving, be aware that parking can be very difficult. Several public parking lots are available, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Taxis are also an option.
Yes, there are parking lots near Spianada Square, but they are often crowded and can be challenging to find a spot in. It's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
Yes, Spianada Square is a pleasant walk from the Corfu port, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. It's a great way to start experiencing the town.
If you're coming from further afield on the island, consider taking a local bus to Corfu Town and then walking to the square. Taxis are also readily available.
While not explicitly designated 'park and ride,' utilizing public parking lots on the outskirts of the immediate old town area and walking in is a common strategy to avoid the most congested central parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Spianada Square itself is a public space and is free to enter and explore.
Spianada Square is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor public area. However, the surrounding shops and cafes have their own operating hours.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to visit the Old Fortress, which is located adjacent to Spianada Square. It's well worth the cost for the historical insights and views.
Absolutely! Spianada Square is beautifully lit at night and offers a different, vibrant atmosphere with many tavernas and cafes open.
The main areas of Spianada Square are generally flat and accessible. However, some of the older surrounding streets and the Old Fortress may present challenges.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Spianada Square is perfect for strolling, people-watching from the Liston Promenade cafes, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. It's also a gateway to the Old Fortress and the charming streets of Corfu Old Town.
The Liston Promenade is an elegant, arcaded street bordering Spianada Square, inspired by Parisian architecture. It's lined with cafes and is a popular spot for leisurely walks and people-watching.
Spianada Square is the largest square in Greece and one of the largest in the Balkans, steeped in history and serving as the vibrant heart of Corfu Town.
Yes, the entire square, the Liston arcades, the Old Fortress, and the surrounding Venetian architecture offer numerous excellent photo opportunities.
The 'Botides' is a unique Holy Saturday tradition in Corfu where locals throw red-dyed clay pots from their balconies, symbolizing a fresh start.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Spianada Square itself is more about the open space, the adjacent Liston Promenade and surrounding streets are packed with restaurants, cafes, and tavernas offering local and international cuisine.
Near Spianada Square, try local specialties like Sofrito, Pastitsada, and fresh seafood. Don't forget to sample the local kumquat liqueur and sweets.
The cafes on the Liston Promenade can be a bit pricier due to their prime location, but many visitors find the experience and ambiance worth it for a coffee or drink.
Venture a few streets away from the main promenade to find more traditional tavernas offering authentic Corfiot dishes at better prices.
Yes, you'll find plenty of bakeries, gyros shops, and cafes offering quick and delicious snacks like pita gyros and loukoumades.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers soft, golden light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the square's grandeur. Sunset also provides beautiful lighting.
The arcades of the Liston Promenade, the views from the Old Fortress overlooking the square, and the architectural details of the surrounding buildings are all highly photogenic.
Drone usage is often restricted in historic city centers and near fortifications. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide shots of the square and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens is useful for the expansive views.
While specific Spianada Square photography tours might be rare, many Corfu Old Town walking tours will include ample opportunities for photography with guidance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Spianada Square
Today, Spianada Square continues to be a focal point for both locals and tourists. It serves as a gateway to the imposing Old Fortress, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and imagine the lives of those who walked its grounds centuries ago. The square is also a place where traditions are kept alive, such as the unique 'Botides' ceremony on Holy Saturday, where locals throw clay pots from their balconies. This blend of historical depth and ongoing cultural relevance makes Spianada Square a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the soul of Corfu.
Experiencing the Liston Promenade
Enjoying a coffee or a refreshing drink at one of the Liston cafes is a quintessential Corfu experience. It’s an ideal vantage point for people-watching, observing the daily rhythm of the town, and capturing beautiful photographs of the square and its surroundings. While the prices at these prime cafes can be higher, many find the experience and the prime location well worth the indulgence. The Liston is not just a place to eat or drink; it's a social hub, a historical monument, and a perfect introduction to the charm of Corfu Old Town.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit