The Spianada is one of the largest town squares in Europe, a broad green space that separates the old town from the Old Fortress. Its edges hold some of the town's most photographed buildings. On one side runs the Liston, an arcade of tall arches lined with cafes, built in the early nineteenth century in imitation of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, and on the north side stands the Palace of St Michael and St George, a British-era building that now houses the Museum of Asian Art. There is a bandstand, a rotunda monument and a cricket ground, a legacy of British rule which makes Corfu the one place in Greece where the sport is played. Paths and trees give shade in summer, and the Liston terrace is the traditional spot for a slow coffee or an evening drink. It is free, always open and impossible to miss, so it makes a natural starting point or finish for any walk in the old town.
How it works
There is nothing to book. The Spianada and the Liston are public spaces open at any time, and the cafes along the arcade set their own hours. Prices on the Liston are higher than in the back lanes, which is the price of the setting, so one coffee or glass of wine is usually enough to enjoy it. The regional tourism site for Corfu has a page for Corfu Town with practical information, and the nearby Museum of Asian Art keeps its own opening times.
What to expect
On a winter day the arcade is quiet in the morning and lively around midday and early evening, when locals gather for coffee. Carnival, Easter and summer events bring bands, processions and crowds to the Spianada, and at those times the square is the centre of the island's social life. The paths are flat, with benches and a few small playgrounds, so the area is easy for families and for anyone with limited mobility.
Making the most of it
Arrive mid-morning, take a table under the arches and watch the town go by. Walk the length of the Spianada to see the palace and the bandstand, then cross to the fortress side for the view back to the arcade. In the evening the lit arches make a good place to begin dinner plans. If cricket is being played, stop to watch; matches are a charming surprise.
What to expect
The experience
A free stroll across the Spianada green and under the arches of the Liston, with a stop for coffee or an aperitif.
Best time
Mid-morning for coffee or around sunset for the evening promenade.
How long
One to two hours, including a coffee stop.
Tips
Choose a table on the Liston side of the arcade for the best people-watching, and walk the square to see the palace.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone arriving in Corfu Town who wants to feel the rhythm of local life.
- Families
- Plenty of room to run, and children enjoy the bandstand and any cricket in progress.
- Couples
- Evening coffee or a glass of wine under the lit arches.
- Pair with
- The Old Fortress, the Museum of Asian Art and Corfu Old Town.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
What is the Liston in Corfu?+
The Liston is an arcaded promenade lined with cafes on the edge of the Spianada, built in the early nineteenth century in the style of a Parisian street. It is the social heart of Corfu Town.
Is there an entry fee for the Spianada?+
No, the square and the arcade are free and open at all hours. You only pay for what you order in the cafes.
Is cricket really played on the Spianada?+
Yes, cricket arrived with the British in the nineteenth century and is still played on the Spianada, which is unusual in Greece. Matches are usually held in the warmer months.
What is the building at the north end of the Spianada?+
It is the Palace of St Michael and St George, built under British rule and now home to the Museum of Asian Art. Check its opening times locally before visiting.
Is the Liston expensive?+
Cafes on the arcade charge a premium for the setting, so many visitors order one drink and linger. Side streets nearby are cheaper if you want a full meal.
