Corfu Palace Hotel

Opened back in 1954, the Corfu Palace Hotel was one of the first big, high-end hotels built on the island. The grand, six-story building -- with its balustrade balcony facade and grand staircase leading to a gabled entrance -- is still imposing, albeit with dated signage and weather-worn facade that shows its age. The interiors are awash with Old World, antique-style furnishings -- think mirrored columns, polished brass trim, and patterned rugs -- that have lost their glamour and now just appear dated. The rest of the hotel continues in a similar vein of classical design. The gardens sit to the side of the property and are a well-tended combination of manicured lawns, pine and palm trees, and plenty of colorful flowers, some planted along the foot of a tall, ancient wall. Sea views from numerous vantage points is the clear drawcard. Clients here tend to be older, and there are plenty of long-time repeat clients. However, you'll also see the occasional family with kids splashing around the pool.

The hotel has a prime location overlooking Garitsa Bay on the southern edge of Corfu's historic Old Town. This means easy walking distance to many of the city's popular tourist attractions, including the Old Fortress and the huge central Spianada Square, lined with cafes and restaurants. Both can be reached in under 10 minutes on foot. Just opposite the hotel is a pleasant waterfront boardwalk. Corfu's Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport is under a five-minute drive away.

All of the hotel's 106 rooms have sea views -- the majority from balconies -- while "Garden Room" terraces also feature pairs of lounge chairs and direct garden access. Decor continues in the rather old-fashioned styling found elsewhere at the hotel, with coordinating floral fabrics, antique-style furniture, and textured magnolia walls, plus either carpeted or wood floors. Amenities include minibars, wide-screen TVs with some satellite channels (limited English-language options), and free Wi-Fi that can be inconsistent. Bathrooms are marble-clad, equipped with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and bidets; robes and slippers also come standard. Upgraded rooms are more spacious and located on higher floors with better views. Suites come in a variety of floor plans, with up to two bedrooms. 

The quality of the food certainly stands out at the Corfu Palace Hotel, starting with an excellent buffet breakfast (included in room rates) served in the semi-covered Bizantino Restaurant during warmer months; guests particular rave about the fresh orange juice machine. Lunch, dinner, and evening entertainment are also provided here, while the elegant main restaurant features a four-course set menu every evening. There's also an a la carte restaurant that opens to a sea-view terrace. Weekly barbecues are popular over the summer. 

The hotel's saltwater swimming pool is large enough to never feel crowded and surrounded by plenty of lounge chairs, plus it has views of the sea. There's also a splash pool for kids, but no other child-friendly facilities. A spa and casino are also available, though these are not managed by the hotel. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property but can be spotty.