Vlacherna Monastery
A tiny 17th-century monastery on an islet, famous for its iconic views and thrilling plane spotting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Vlacherna Monastery
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tiny 17th-century monastery on an islet, famous for its iconic views and thrilling plane spotting.
"One of the most picturesque points of Corfu, known for its monastery, island views, and plane landings."
📸 Capture the iconic view
The view of Vlacherna Monastery with Pontikonisi is a must-photograph spot!
✈️ Plane spotting thrill
Get ready for amazing plane landings right overhead!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vlacherna Monastery
Kanoni Peninsula
A picturesque 17th-century monastery perched on a tiny islet, connected by a narrow causeway.
Pontikonisi (Mouse Island)
View from Vlacherna Monastery
The iconic green islet, often seen in Greek films and photographs, with a small Byzantine chapel.
Plane Spotting
Near Corfu Airport
Witness planes landing and taking off at Corfu Airport, a thrilling spectacle right next to the monastery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Views & Plane Spotting
Getting to Vlacherna
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the iconic view
The view of Vlacherna Monastery with Pontikonisi is a must-photograph spot!
✈️ Plane spotting thrill
Get ready for amazing plane landings right overhead!
🚶♀️ Walk to Mouse Island
Take the causeway to Vlacherna, then hop on a small boat to Mouse Island for a small fee.
🌅 Sunset magic
This spot is famous for its breathtaking sunsets.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the iconic view
The view of Vlacherna Monastery with Pontikonisi is a must-photograph spot!
✈️ Plane spotting thrill
Get ready for amazing plane landings right overhead!
🚶♀️ Walk to Mouse Island
Take the causeway to Vlacherna, then hop on a small boat to Mouse Island for a small fee.
🌅 Sunset magic
This spot is famous for its breathtaking sunsets.
☕️ Enjoy the view from above
Climb the nearby hill for a restaurant with a fantastic panoramic view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the picturesque beauty of Vlacherna Monastery and its iconic setting with Pontikonisi. The unique thrill of plane spotting nearby adds an exciting dimension, making it a memorable stop for many. While generally serene, it can get busy during peak sunset hours.
"Great place, very beautiful monastery. You can climb the nearby mountain, where there is a restaurant with a great view. Next to it is the famous pier, where you can enjoy the landing of planes and capture it in beautiful shots."
Alvis Gaps
"Very serene and not too busy in early high season. Lovely location and interesting surroundings. Close by is the airport so if you are into plane watching it’s not a bad spot. Plenty of restaurants around also."
Luke Beaston
"Very nice small monastery in very characteristic place in Cofru, next to airport ."
Mihael Gushev
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Vlacherna Monastery by car, taxi, or local bus (e.g., bus route 2 from Corfu Town). The journey is relatively short and scenic.
Yes, there is usually parking available near the monastery, though it can get busy during peak times.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Kanoni area, and the monastery is connected to the mainland by a causeway.
The best views of Pontikonisi are from Vlacherna Monastery itself, or from the Kanoni viewpoint.
Yes, local buses from Corfu Town frequently stop near the Kanoni area, which is a short walk from the monastery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance to the monastery grounds is typically free. There might be a small fee for boat trips to Mouse Island.
The monastery is generally open during daylight hours, but it's advisable to check locally as hours can vary.
Yes, Vlacherna Monastery is a year-round attraction, though visitor numbers are higher during the summer season.
No, advance booking is not usually required for visiting the monastery itself as entry is free.
Visitors should dress respectfully when entering the monastery, covering shoulders and knees.
🎫 ✈️ Plane Spotting & Views
The area right next to the monastery offers incredible views of planes landing at Corfu Airport.
Plane activity is generally higher during daytime hours, especially mid-morning and late afternoon.
Yes, there are restaurants on the nearby hill in Kanoni that offer excellent views of both the monastery and the airport.
Its unique proximity to the runway makes it a famous spot for aviation enthusiasts and photographers.
Absolutely! It's a very popular spot for photography, especially for capturing planes against the scenic backdrop.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The classic shot is the monastery with Pontikonisi in the background, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun.
Experiment with shots from the causeway, the monastery itself, and the elevated viewpoints in Kanoni.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for plane spotting.
Drone usage may be restricted due to proximity to the airport. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a relatively safe and easy place to explore, with the causeway providing a clear path to the monastery. The gift shop offers small souvenirs, and there are restaurants nearby with views that can keep children entertained. Pack snacks and water, and be mindful of the sun, especially during warmer months.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
Bring your cameras and telephoto lenses to capture stunning shots of planes against the iconic backdrop of the monastery and the Ionian Sea. The close proximity offers a thrilling perspective that's hard to find elsewhere. Check flight schedules for busier times, though activity is generally consistent throughout the day.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the planes landing and taking off – it adds a dynamic element to your shots. Consider visiting at different times of the day to capture varied lighting conditions and moods. The elevated viewpoints in Kanoni also provide excellent panoramic compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Vlacherna Monastery
Many visitors describe the atmosphere as serene and not too busy, especially outside of peak hours. The simple beauty of the monastery, combined with its unique location, makes it a memorable stop. It's a place that has captured the hearts of many, often appearing in Greek films, photographs, and songs, solidifying its status as an emblem of Corfu.
Pro-tip: While the monastery itself is free to enter, consider taking a short boat ride from the monastery's pier to the nearby Pontikonisi (Mouse Island) for an even more iconic view and a closer look at its tiny Byzantine chapel.
Plane Spotting Paradise
Visitors often describe the experience as exhilarating, with planes seeming to fly just feet above. It's a fantastic opportunity for photography, capturing dramatic shots of aircraft against the backdrop of the monastery and the sea. The sound and sight of the planes add an unexpected, modern twist to the historical charm of the location.
For the best experience, position yourself on the causeway or the nearby elevated viewpoints. While the monastery itself is a peaceful retreat, the adjacent airport provides a constant buzz of activity. Many reviewers highlight this dual appeal, offering both tranquility and excitement in one location.
Capturing the Perfect Sunset
Many visitors recommend climbing the nearby hill to the restaurants in Kanoni for an elevated perspective. From these vantage points, you can enjoy a meal or a drink while witnessing the breathtaking sunset unfold. The combination of the serene monastery, the iconic island, and the dramatic sky creates an unforgettable visual experience.
To make the most of your sunset visit, arrive a bit earlier to explore the monastery and find your perfect viewing spot. The atmosphere becomes particularly enchanting as dusk settles, making it a truly special time to be at Vlacherna.
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