Diagram by Greece Trips. Free to reuse with credit - CC BY 4.0.
“New” is relative: it was begun in the sixteenth century, after the old one had already been standing for centuries.
What is there
- Bastions and curtain walls stepping up the hill above the port, with the Venetian winged lion carved on the gates.
- Vaulted tunnels and casemates cut through the hill, cool and echoing, used for storage and movement under fire.
- A wide view from the top over the old town roofs, the port, the strait and the mainland mountains.
- Exhibition space in some of the upper buildings, used for temporary shows.
The fortress was worked on by the Venetians, then the British, then the Greek navy, and the layers show in the masonry.
Visiting it
It is a short steep walk up from the old port or from the market streets, and the site is largely open ground and stairs. Allow an hour.
Interpretation is thin and lighting in the tunnels is limited, which is part of the character. Wear shoes with grip; the stone is worn smooth in places.
Where it fits
The natural morning: the old town lanes first, the market and the port, then up into the New Fortress before the heat, with the Old Fortress and the Spianada saved for late afternoon.
Last checked August 2026. Opening hours and exhibition access change - see our editorial policy.
Common questions
What is the New Fortress in Corfu?
A Venetian fortress begun in the sixteenth century above the old port of Corfu Town, later used by British and Greek forces.
How is it different from the Old Fortress?
The Old Fortress stands on a promontory east of the town behind a sea moat and draws most visitors; the New Fortress is west above the port, quieter, with tunnels and bastions.
Is the New Fortress worth visiting?
Yes if you want the same period and views with far fewer people, and if you like walking through fortifications rather than reading about them.
How long does it take?
About an hour, including the climb and the walk round the walls.
Is it a hard walk?
A short steep climb from the port or the market streets, then stairs and open ground inside, with worn stone underfoot.
Next
Read things to do in Corfu, the Old Fortress, or Corfu Old Town.