corfu greece travel blog

Corfu Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Corfu has been one of Greece’s most popular islands since the 1970s. Located in the Ionian island group in western Greece, Corfu has beautiful white sand beaches, easy connections to Italy and Albania , stunning mountains, and wild, crazy nightlife.

While it gets crowded during the summer (especially with young backpackers), there are still many quiet places to stay and see on the island as most of the action sticks to just a few hotspots.

I love the atmosphere here. It is a lot more relaxed than other islands in the Mediterranean, and there’s a great intersection of cultures here.

This travel guide to Corfu can help you plan your trip so you save money and have the best experience possible — no matter why or when you go!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Corfu

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Corfu

1. Explore Kassiopi

Kassiopi is a small fishing village on the northern side of Corfu that’s much quieter than the popular Corfu Town (the main town on the island). From here, you can walk among the ruins of the Byzantine Kassiopi castle, lounge on the beach, or relax in the town square. You can also take a boat trip along the surrounding coastline to go diving, snorkeling, swimming, or just have lunch on a more remote beach. At night, grab dinner and drinks at one of the traditional restaurants along the picturesque waterfront.

2. See the Church of Saint Spyridon

This 16th-century Greek Orthodox church in the middle of Corfu’s Old Town is full of frescoes and elaborate artwork. You can’t miss it as the bell tower is the highest in the Ionian Islands. The church holds the remains of the island’s patron saint, Spyridon, a shepherd from the 4th century who is said to protect the island from all ills, including the Ottomans and even the plague. The silver casket containing his remains is paraded through town during special events.

3. Hit the beaches

Great beaches abound all over the island, with each area offering something different. The western side of Corfu is home to a long stretch of sandy beaches, the eastern side has calmer waters, and the northern beaches are mainly pebble beaches. Sidari has the sandiest beaches, while the deep, calm waters around Paleokastritsa are ideal for water skiing, boating, and parasailing. Agios Georgios South is good for diving.

4. Spend time in Paleokastritsa

Located just 23 kilometers (14 miles) from Corfu Town, this relaxing seaside town has calm beaches and clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. You can visit nearby caves and hike up to the 13th-century Theotokos Monastery for views overlooking the town and the Mediterranean. End your day relaxing at the Greek tavernas serving fresh seafood on the waterfront.

5. Explore Achilleion

The Empress Elisabeth of Austria built this palace in 1890 as a place to seek summer refuge after the tragic death of her only son. It was designed in the style of an ancient palace of Phaeacia, a region in Greek mythology, and there are paintings and sculptures of Greek gods and goddesses throughout. The mythical hero Achilles is the central theme, and a sculpture of the Dying Achilles is the centerpiece of the gardens. The palace is located in Gastouri, a town only 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Corfu Town. Admission is 5 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Corfu

1. hang out in corfu town.

The origins of Corfu Town stretch all the way back to the 8th century BCE, when the town was an important commercial center for the Phoenicians. It used to be called Paleopolis, and you can see some of its original ruins opposite the Mon Repos Palace. Corfu was under Venetian rule between the 14th and 18th centuries, so there is a lot of Venetian architecture around town as well, such as pastel-colored buildings, iron fencing, cobblestone streets, and wooden shutters. It’s a nice place to stroll around and bask in the layers of history.

2. Check out Nymfes village

According to legend, Nymphs (nature deities from Greek folklore) used to bathe in 200-meter-high waterfalls near this village. Just north of town, you can visit the waterfalls and see the remains of nearby Askitario, a small, ancient monastery. A monk named Artemios Paissios lived here alone in the 5th century. He once had a premonition that his parents were coming to fetch him, so he dug a grave to lie down in it – at which point a boulder rolled on top of him. When his parents tried to dig him out, the boulder apparently ignited into flames. The village is 33 kilometers (20 miles) north of Corfu Town and takes just under an hour to get to by car.

3. Visit Aqualand

Aqualand is a fun, family-friendly waterpark with 15 different water-themed rides and attractions, including slides, pools, and rivers. It’s a little cheesy, but it gives you something different to do after you’ve spent a few days on the beach or browsing ruins (it’s especially fun if you’re with kids). Full-day access is 33 EUR (30 EUR if you book online), while two-day access is 55 EUR (50 EUR if you book online).

4. Hike the Corfu Trail

The Corfu Trail is an epic 150-kilometer (93-mile) trek starting from the south of the island and ending on the northern tip. It’s a fairly easy hike, with lots of signage as you weave your way through hills, mountains, lakes, lagoons, monasteries, and tiny towns. It’s a really unique way to experience Corfu away from the resorts, and there’s no shortage of accommodations along the way (or you can camp out). It’s broken up into 10 stages so most people do it over 10 days.

5. Go sailing

Thanks to the calm water and consistently warm weather, Corfu is an ideal place for sailing. Various companies offer charter trips, and many of them offer lunch packages and open bars. Some hostels run day-long party boats too. Day sails start from about 30 EUR per person.

6. Visit the Banknote Museum

Founded by the Ionian Bank, this coin museum in Corfu Town has exhibits showcasing coins, stamps, bank documents, post-Greek liberation banknotes, books, and foreign banknotes from the past two centuries. The highlight of the museum is a 100-billion-drachma note from 1944, the largest denomination note ever issued. Admission is free.

7. Take an olive oil tasting tour

Corfu covers a mere 585 square kilometers, yet it is home to over four million olive trees. Olive oil has always been a big part of Greek tradition and culture, and a tasting tour is a perfect way to learn about the production of this essential staple. Corfu Olive Tours offers an informative behind-the-scenes tour of olive tree groves and old mills where you can learn everything there is to know about olive oil. Plus, you get to try some samples too. A 1-hour tour is 15 EUR while the full 3-hour tour is 40 EUR.

8. Explore the Corfu Archaeological Museum

This museum is home to ancient artifacts from all over the island, including statues, funeral offerings, pottery, and golden jewelry. The most famous exhibit is the monumental pediment from the temple of Artemis, which depicts Gorgon, a monster of the underworld from Greek mythology. It’s the oldest stone pediment in Greece, dating to 590 BCE. Another highlight includes the stone lion of Menecrates and a limestone pediment from a temple to Dionysis. Admission is 6 EUR.

9. Visit Vlacherna Monastery

This picturesque, white-washed monastery on the eastern side of Corfu is set out on the water on its very own tiny island. You can only access it via a pedestrian bridge, which adds to its charm. As of 1980, it is no longer a monastery and functions today as a church for celebratory events, a tourist attraction, and even a filming location — most notably for the James Bond movie For Your Eyes Only . Being a former monastery, the interior is fairly simply decorated and the main draws here are the beautiful views of the building itself and the surrounding bay. Admission is free. You can also take a 5-minute (2.5 EUR) boat ride from the monastery to the nearby Mouse Island, a tiny, relaxed island with a 13th-century church and a cafe.

10. Admire the views from Angelokastro Castle

One of the most important Byzantine castles, Angelokastro is located high on steep cliffs along the water near Paleokastritsa. This 13th-century fortress successfully defended the island against its many invaders over the centuries, never falling despite many attacks and sieges. Today, the castle has deteriorated with the passage of time, and it’s mainly in ruins. However, the views from the top are absolutely spectacular. There are also other interesting features at the top, including an 18th-century hermitage, anthropomorphic graves carved out of the rock, and a tiny church dedicated to the Archangel Michael. Castle admission is 3 EUR.

  For more information on other destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Corfu Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 4-8 beds costs 18-25 EUR per night (dorms with ten beds or more cost about the same price). Expect prices to drop by 2-3 EUR per night in the off-season. Private rooms star t at 39 EUR per night and stay consistent throughout the year. Free Wi-Fi is standard, though self-catering facilities and free breakfast are not common.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic camping plot without electricity for one person starts at 12 EUR in the summer and 10.50 EUR in the off-season.

Budget hotel prices – A two-star hotel starts at 45 EUR per night anywhere on the island, although a beachfront property in Sidari costs 10-20 EUR more. In the off-season, you can find rooms for as little as 25 EUR per night.

Airbnb is available everywhere on Corfu, with private rooms costing at least 40 EUR per night. A full apartment averages about 130 EUR per night.

Food – Traditional Greek cuisine is very healthy, using a lot of fresh seasonal vegetables, olive oil, lamb, fish, pork, and cheeses (especially feta). Yogurts are also super common. Filo pastries stuffed with meat or spinach and cheese are a local favorite as are souvlaki and gyros.

You can find street food like gyros for under 5 EUR. A hearty pita or Greek salad costs around 7.5 EUR while a fast food combo costs around 8.50 EUR.

Pastitsada (slow-cooked rooster in a wine tomato sauce season with herbs and served over pasta) is Corfu’s signature dish. You can find it in most restaurants for around 10 EUR. Traditional veal dishes like psito and sofrito cost about 11 EUR. A beer to go with it costs 3 EUR.

At most restaurants, you can get an appetizer and an entrée for about 15 EUR. If you feel like splashing out, a meal at a higher-end restaurant can cost 40 EUR or more. A glass of local wine is another 4 EUR. If you’re looking to get fish, expect to spend between 20-30 EUR for your meal.

Most restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water is about 2 EUR, while a cappuccino or latter is 3 EUR.

If you cook for yourself, expect to spend around 45-50 EUR on groceries per week. This gets you basic staples like pasta, veggies, cheese, and some meat.

Backpacking Corfu Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Corfu, expect to spend around 55 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, eating lots of cheap food, cooking some meals, using the bus to get around, visiting a few cheap attractions (like a museum) and taking advantage of free activities like beaches and hiking, and limiting your drinking. If you’re going to party while you’re here, add another 10-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 115 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for all your meals, rent a bike to get around, visit more museums and take some tours, and enjoy a few drinks. You won’t live large but you’ll want for nothing.

On a “luxury” budget of 215 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, take taxis or rent a car, and do as many tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

One thing to keep in mind is that if you’re coming during peak summer, prices are about 10-20% higher for everything!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Corfu Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Despite Corfu being one of the most touristy islands in Greece, the island remains relatively budget-friendly. Accommodation and tours will be your biggest expenses here but, overall, the island isn’t as expensive as places like Santorini or Mykonos .

Here are some of my favorite ways to cut your costs in Corfu:

• Get the Corfu City Pass – The Corfu City Pass gives you access to many different attractions under one price, including Aqualand, a day sail, a walking tour, and more. It can’t be purchased online so you’ll need to buy it on arrival.
• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread fee is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. Use this rule to avoid expensive restaurants unless you want to splash out!
• Eat super cheap – Gyros and other street snacks only cost a few euros and can keep you full for less than 10 EUR per day if you’re on a tight budget.
• Have an ISIC Card – To save on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card if you’re a student. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Book in advance – Corfu gets a lot of tourism and things tend to fill up quickly in the summer. If you want to secure that ultra-cheap hostel room, book way in advance!
• Travel in the shoulder season – Accommodations and scooter/ATV rentals are cheaper in the shoulder season. It may not be as hot as the summer months, but the weather is still pleasant.
• Book overnight ferries – Greece’s inter-island ferries can get quite expensive if you are taking a lot of them. Booking overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price plus save you a night of accommodation.
• Get a ferry pass – Eurail has a ferry pass that has 4- and 6-trip options. The only caveat is that you can only take Blue Star and Hellenic Seaways ferries. Those tend to be the larger, slower ferries and, depending on the islands, might require you to connect somewhere. You’ll need to research routes in advance to see if the pass is worth it. I would search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you. You can purchase your pass on Eurail (non-EU residents) or Interrail (EU residents).
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find really nice Couchsurfing hosts all throughout Corfu. This way, you not only have a place to stay, but you get a local host that can share their insider tips and knowledge.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most of the museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a nice bottle of wine for around 4 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Corfu

Corfu has lots of hostels all over the islands, but keep in mind that some of them are big party hostels. The Pink Palace is a BIG party spot so don’t stay there if you’re looking for a quieter Corfu experience. Here are my suggested places to stay in Corfu to help you get started:

• The Pink Palace
• Sunrock Corfu
• Angelica’s Backpacker’s Hostel
• Corfu Backpackers

How to Get Around Corfu

Bus – Buses are really the only way to get around the island (outside renting your own vehicle). Depending on the length of your trip, bus fares cost between 1.10-4.40 EUR. You can purchase an unlimited day pass for 5 EUR on the blue-and-white bus around Corfu Town.

Be advised that service is reduced on weekends and, to some of the further afield places, virtually non-existent during the low season. If you’re going to be moving around the island, plan accordingly because bus times, even during peak season, are infrequent. It’s kind of a pain in the ass.

Scooter/ATV rental – A scooter rental is an excellent way to get around Corfu since the buses are a hassle. Scooter rentals start from 15 EUR per day while ATV rentals start from 35 EUR per day.

Bicycle – You can find daily rentals for as little as 10 EUR per day. While the island is bike-friendly with lots of routes, keep in mind there are lots and lots of hills!

Taxi – Expect to pay around 3.60 EUR as a base fare and then just over 1 EUR per kilometer. Since prices add up fast, skip the taxis as much as you can. It’s cheaper to just rent a car or scooter.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental when booked in advance. Expect manual transmissions. You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and drivers need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars

When to Go to Corfu

Summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit Corfu. The days are really hot and temperatures average 88°F (31°C). The Mediterranean is perfect for swimming and enjoying water sports during this time, but this is definitely when most people visit. Expect crowds and higher prices.

Personally, I think Corfu’s shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are the best times to visit the island. The Mediterranean is pleasant year-round so you still get warm temperatures in the shoulder seasons — but without the tourist hordes. Plus, prices are less inflated. The average daily high is 73°F (23°C).

Winters average 50°F (10°C), and you won’t have to compete with tourists for hotel rooms during this time. That said, many businesses and services shut down in the off-season. In short, I’d skip visiting in the winter if you can help it.

How to Stay Safe on Corfu

Corfu is a very safe place to travel, even for solo travelers. Violent crime is rare and petty crime like pick-pocketing is your only real concern but even that’s pretty rare here. Just keep your valuables close at tourist attractions and while at the beach. That’s pretty much the only crime you need to worry about.

If you’re an inexperienced driver, you may want to pass on the scooter rental. Locals zip around chaotically and the hairpin turns and hills sometimes make for dangerous driving. Accidents happen a lot so drive carefully.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

You won’t find a lot of travel scams here but you can read this post on common travel scams to avoid if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you go hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. The days can be sweltering!

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance,

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Corfu Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.

Corfu Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Greece and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Corfu – An Unspoilt Island Guide

With countless beaches and secret coves, stunning mountain scenery, the Venetian streets of its historic capital, it’s no wonder that Corfu is one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

I happen to love Corfu. It was the first place I ever visited in Greece, on a family holiday back in my teens. I think the landscape is dreamy. One of the most northerly and greenest Greek islands, Corfu has an established tourist infrastructure – it was one of the first islands to embrace package tourism in the 1960s.

There a wide variety of resorts all around the coast, so there’s something to suit everyone here. And despite the number of visitors and developments, it has retained a wild beauty thanks to the rugged coastline which has charmed visitors for centuries (just look at the literature produced by the Durrells).

This travel guide covers:

• What’s the vibe like?
• Where to Stay on Corfu
• Food and Drink
• Best Beaches on Corfu
• What to Do and See on Corfu
• Hidden Gems
• Getting There and Around

WHAT’S THE VIBE?

The colours on Corfu are something else – from the aquamarines and emeralds of its seas, the dense inland evergreens, to the soft pinks and ochres of its weathered buildings which are echoed in the sunsets.

The beauty of the island is not confined to one part, and resorts are spread out around the island. But broadly speaking, the north of the island is more hilly and craggy with lots of little bays. The pretty stretch between Nissaki and Kassiopi is popular with wealthy Brits and Russians who like to hide away in discrete villas in the hills.

Safe sandy beaches attract package holidaymakers and families, particularly in the cheap and cheerful resorts that spread out along the coast in either direction from Corfu Town.

Corfu’s key strategic position – close to the mainland but controlling access to the Adriatic Sea – has ensured a rich and colourful history. Its Byzantine fortresses and are evidence of centuries of struggle against attacks. It was a key touch point between the Venetians and the Ottoman Empire.

The island never fell to the Ottomans, though, unlike many of the islands in the Aegean Sea. Instead, the legacy you see here is many Venetian and British – with a touch of French and Russian thrown in for good measure. Nowhere else in Greece will you find a cricket lawn and ginger beer.

Knarly olive trees dominate the landscape – thanks to a Venetian policy that encouraged its cultivation.

Corfu Town is a historical gem but also an administrative hub and home to the Ionian University, which keeps it lively even in the low season (in comparison to other island destinations, at least). Acharavi and Lefkimmi are two alternative options for winter.

The downside of its popularity is that the coastal regions aren’t exactly undiscovered – head to the mountainous interior if you want to escape tourism altogether.

One thing to note – Corfu has an ongoing issue with trash collection. The main landfill site is overflowing and illegal sites are popping up around the island. This isn’t a problem everywhere (you’re most likely to notice it on the roads leading into Corfu Town, and in the Lefkimmi/Kavos area) and it doesn’t affect the beaches –  I suggest checking the Tripadvisor forums if you’re concerned. You can help by separating your waste whilst you’re there – recycling bins are available.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed streets of the Corfu Old Town ; a unique part of Greece. Formerly known as Kastropolis – city of castles – this historic city upon first glance appears to have more in common with the fortified towns of nearby Croatian and Italian coasts than with its fellow Greek islands.

Corfu Town has a cosmopolitan and upmarket vibe. The nexus of the Old Town is the area around the Venetian Old Fortress, the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George, and next to it the Spiniada (the bit with the cricket lawn) and the Liston (the French-influenced promenade).

For food and drinks try :

• To Dimarcho ,
• The Venetian Well .
• Rooftop drink at Cavalieri Hotel.

For evening vibes head to  Bristol Cafe , 54 Dreamy Nights , or Sessions Cafe .

Read More: Exploring Corfu Old Town

WHERE TO STAY

Corfu Town may seem like the obvious choice however accommodation is surprisingly hard to come by. It’s a popular (and easy) day trip from pretty much every resort on the island. As such, it hasn’t really developed an accommodation scene of its own – except the big resort hotels on the outskirts of town. The lack of budget accommodation is annoying if you have an early or late flight or ferry.

Top end choices in Corfu Town include classy boutique townhouses  Siora Vittoria and Bella Venezia . Otherwise, it’s best to try  Airbnb .

The best beach hotels on Corfu are MarBella , Ikos Dassia,  Corfu Imperial Grecotel at Kontokali, and Mayor La Grotta Verde Grande at Agios Gordios. The blissful little beachfront Bella Mare Hotel  is now an exclusive Simpson Travel property.

( read more – Corfu’s 10 Best Luxury Beach Hotel s)

The lush and rugged north of the island is where you’ll find upmarket little villages popular with the speedboat set, who stay in expensive villas up in the hills. This is also Durrells-country – Kalami and Koulouri.

And over on the west, Paleokastritsa is worthy of its popularity. The west is home to some dramatic coastal scenery, small resorts that are popular with independent travellers – Agios Gordios is the hostel epicentre with Pink Palace (for spring break vibes) and further up the coast is Sun Rock in Pelekas (for a more traditional family-run feel). Lovely Liapades around the corner is another good spot.

For good-value aparthotels and rooms check out the resort towns Kassiopi, Agios Gordios and Paleokastritsa, which haven’t lost their soul to development. Cheaper still are family favourites Acharavi, Sidari, Barbati, and Ipsos – the latter two are conveniently close to Corfu Town.

Check out Where to Stay on Corfu – The Ultimate Beach Resort Guide for a complete rundown on the coastal towns plus some accommodation picks in Corfu Town.

FOOD AND DRINK

There’s a strong Venetian element to the food on Corfu. You’ll find more Italian influences (and unique slow-cooked meat dishes) here than in other parts of Greece; pasta dishes, polenta, and tomato-based sauces are not uncommon.

A trio of traditional Corfiot dishes worth trying are pastitsada , bourdeto and sofrito .  Pastitsada is a pasta dish made with rooster and a bright red sauce. Bourdeto is fish cooked in a tomato. And sofrito a dish made with veal or beef braised with wine and herbs. I’m also a fan of tsigarelli , which is a side dish of wild greens in a spicy tomato sauce.

Of course, you’ll also find all of the usual Greek taverna classics.

Corfu has its own microbrewery producing naturally brewed real ales. The brewery in Arilla is open to the public on Saturdays. I particularly enjoyed the Red Special Ale. Along with specialist Chimarios, they also make traditional Corfiot ginger beer, another legacy of British rule (the recipe was brought over by the army in the 19th century) and very refreshing in hot weather.

Kumquat trees (a type of tiny citrus) are common on Corfu and you’ll see kumquat liqueur in all the souvenir shops. I also once tried a delicious olive oil liqueur from Corfu but haven’t managed to find anything out about it (send me an email if you find it!).

And fig puddings ( sykomaida ) are a treat unique to Corfu – look out for small round bundles wrapped in leaves.

Don’t miss the seafood tavernas at Agni Bay.

BEST BEACHES ON CORFU

Corfu has some of the best beaches in the Greek islands ; there’s a staggering variety – from white sandy beach to strange rock formations and idyllic coves. Here are the most beautiful worth checking out:

• Paleokastritsa . This popular resort town is built across a couple of bays and has a number of beaches; the sandiest is Agios Spyridon and the most Instagrammable is rocky La Grotta with its unique beach bar (be prepared for steps). Kastelli is cliff.
• Liapades and Rovinia . Two gorgeous pebbly beaches just around the coast from Paleokastritsa. This area of coast is full of hidden beaches and secret bays which are difficult to access.
• Agios Gordios . Perhaps the most versatile beach on the island, Agios Gordios has 2km of calm Blue Flag waters and soft sands surrounded by dramatic cliffs, excellent sunsets, and just enough watersports and entertainment without being overdeveloped. If it gets too crowded just head to Pelekas , Glyfada or the nudist beach at Mirtiotissa .
• Paradise Beach . Also known as Chomi, Paradise Beach has a small pebble beach at the bottom of steep white cliffs. It’s located south of Liapades and is only accessible by water taxi. To the south is the equally grand Stelari .
• Halikounas . If you prefer wide and wild unorganised natural beaches then head for Halikounas which edges Lake Korission in the south-west.
• Bataria and Pipitou are the key beaches at Kassiopi.
• Loggas . In the north, Loggas is another wild cliff-backed beached – this one accessible by steep steps.
• Porto Timoni . Also known as Afionas, this photogenic landmark is a narrow strip of land with a beach on either side. It’s hikeable from the wide sandy bay at Agios Georgios.
• Sidari . This beach resort is home to the famous rock formations of the Canal d’Amour (pictured above), which is now a popular selfie.
• Cape Drastis . Keep going north of Loggas to reach the white rock formations of Cape Drastis (or Drasti), the most northerly point of the island. You can visit by boat from Sidari, or hike here; there’s a small beach with a bar selling refreshments.

Looking to stay by the beach? Check out the  complete guide to Corfu’s beach resorts .

WHAT TO DO ON CORFU

It’s worth knowing that religious sites, museums and galleries often shut on a Monday in Greece.

Best things to do in Corfu Town:

• Old Fortress . The main attraction in Corfu Town is the Old Fortress (Paleokastro). St. George’s Church.
• Mon Repos is a historic villa (and birthplace of Prince Philip) on the outskirts of Corfu Town, next to the ancient ruins of Paleopolis. It houses an archaeological museum an is often included in tour itineraries along with the Achilleion – a palace in Gastouri built by the Empress of Austria.
• The Byzantine Museum  showcases religious artwork is tucked away in a tiny church in Corfu Town.
• The Serbian Museum memorialises 150, 000 Serbian troops and refugees who died here during the First World War – many from starvation or disease. Entrance is free. The tiny island of Vido opposite Corfu Town served as a hospital, quarantine and cemetery. You can catch a local ferry over to this peaceful island, known as the ‘Blue Tomb’, which now houses a mausoleum and a taverna (open summer only).
• The Corfu Museum of Asian Art is located in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George (near the Liston), one of the main British buildings in the town
• The Museum of Banknotes is a few blocks back from the Liston and provides a fascinating overview of Greek currency.
• Corfu Walking Tours offer themed walking tours around Corfu Town, including options for foodies.
• Don’t miss the little monastery of Vlacherna  and the tiny island Pontikonisi  (also known as ‘Mouse Island) nearby (pictured above). This romantic spot is a 45-minute walk from Corfu Town and is close to Corfu Airport. In fact, so close there are a couple of bars perfectly set up to watch the planes land and the sun go down.
• If you have kids in tow, there’s a waterpark called  Aqualand  in the middle of the island.

Best things to do outside Corfu Town:

• Angelokastro . is a hilltop Byzantine castle near Paleokastritsa with excellent views over the north-east coast.
• Nearby is the Monastery of Paleokastritsa, which has views over the village and houses the remains of a giant whale. It does get busy with tour buses in summer.
• Kassiopi Castle .
• Hire a speedboat  for exploring the north east coast; many of the area’s best tavernas and beaches have jetties. The fish tavernas at Agni Bay are well known.
• Scuba Diving . There are numerous dive centres in the north of the island. Colovri and the Hole of Ha are the standout site.
• Hike Mount Pantokrator .
• Boat trips . Arguably the best way to see the stunning scenery is from a boat. Mainland honeypot Parga is just X away. Also close by are Corfu’s nearest Ionian neighbours Paxi and Antipaxi. And day trips to Albania can take in the gorgeous beaches at Ksamil, it’s worth paying extra to include UNESCO World Heritage site Butrint in your itinerary if you’re into historic sites.

DURRELL-MANIA

• Exteriors for The Durrells’ villa were filmed at Villa Annemoyani north of Gouvia
• Lawrence and Nancy lived in Kalami, and today you can stay in their former residence The White House
• Many street scenes were filmed in Danilia, a curious remodelled village up in the hills behind Gouvia. It was also used as a set in For Your Eyes Only . It’s owned by Grecotel Hotels who run The Corfu Imperial Hotel in Kommeno Bay (which is also where the cast stay during filming). You can book a special package which includes accommodation at the Imperial, and tours of Danilia and The White House.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Done the above and looking to discover a side of Corfu unspoilt by the masses? If you’re looking for quieter, off-beat attractions for culture vultures, authentic Corfiot villages with traditional life, or nature without the crowds, here are a few pointers to get you started

• Hike the Corfu Trail . Spanning nearly the length of the island at 220km, the Corfu Trail will take you deep into the island. It’s not the easiest – some parts are poorly waymarked and there’s a lack of accommodation. The sections near Paleokastritsa or Koulouri are ideal for a short hike. Check out the Trail website for more info.
• Korission Lagoon . You can sail, horse ride (from nearby Issos) and birdwatch at this nature lover’s paradise.
• Traditional Villages . If you’re driving around the south of the island, stop by the inland town of Lefkimmi for a slice of traditional Greek life (and lunch). Argyrades, Lakones, Chlomas, Vatos, Pelekas village (up in the hills above the beach) and Afionas village are also charming.
• Venetian Shipyard . Located near Gouvia, these 18th-century remains are worth a visit if you’re in the area, with cute little Ipapanti Church across the water.
• Corfu’s Secret Islands . Paxi and Antipaxi aren’t the only islands you can visit from Corfu. Less well known are the tiny idylls of  Diapondia  off the north coast – consisting of Erikoussa, Othoni and Mathraki islands (plus several uninhabited islets). In the summer you can find boats from Corfu Town as well as Sidari and Agios Stefanos.
• Corfu Donkey Sanctuary . You can visit the Sanctuary  which is open year-round. To donate go to Friends of Corfu Donkey Rescue .

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

Corfu International Airport (or  Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport ) is served by both domestic and international airlines. The airport is 3km south of Corfu Town. The view as you come in to land is quite spectacular so book a window seat. There are a few overpriced cafes and not much else, so don’t plan on spending too much time there if you can help it.

Line 15 connects the airport to the city’s bus terminal and the main city stop at San Rocco Square. From these stops, you can catch city buses around Corfu Town. For destinations around the island,  Green Buses spread outwards from Corfu Town as a hub.

Car hire is ideal for exploring the island although roads can be steep and winding, with occasional potholes and plenty of giant tour buses coming the opposite way.

During the summer there are occasional routes linking beach resorts. CorfuPlus is well regarded for scooter and quad hire; get in touch with Sandy to discuss your needs.

FERRY CONNECTIONS 

Corfu has a large ferry/cruise ship port.

International crossings are available to: Bari, Brindisi (Italy) and Sarande in Albania. Occasionally there are also routes to Ancona and Venice in Italy, Durres in Albania.

The main domestic connections are to Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland, and the islands Paxos and Antipaxos. From Lefkimmi there are also boats to Igoumenitsa. The most frequent ferries to the Diapondia islands are from Agios Stefanos (NW).

Infrequent/nonexistent direct ferry connections to the rest of the Ionian islands (with the exception of Paxos and Antipaxos) make it tricky to include Corfu in an island hopping itinerary. Instead, you must go via the mainland.

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Image credits: Paleokastritsa © CCat82 / Adobe Stock, Vido Island © The Mediterranean Traveller, Old Fort © The Mediterranean Traveller, Barbati © whitewizzard / Adobe Stock, Sweet Treats ©  The Mediterranean Traveller, Sidari © Netfalls / Adobe Stock, Liapades   © Lucian Bolca / Adobe Stock, Vlacherna Monastery © The Mediterranean Traveller, Pink Walls © The Mediterranean Traveller, Cape Drastis by etherial via Pixabay. 

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The complete travel guide to corfu, greece in 2024.

January 1, 2024

Last updated on March 7th, 2024 at 08:28 pm

Thinking of visiting a place that has unforgettable beaches, lush green mountains, insanely fresh seafood, and has less crowds than Santorini? Then it sounds like Corfu, Greece is the perfect place for you to visit! Corfu is easily one of the most beautiful and romantic islands of the Ionian Sea. Here you’ll find a complete travel guide to visiting this beautiful island in the Mediterranean!

K eep in mind that this site contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. However, this does not impact my honest reviews and comparisons. I only make recommendations based on personal experience(s), in order to help you make the best decisions while traveling!

Best Time to visit Corfu

There is no bad time to visit Corfu, as the island has something to offer visitors all year round. However, the best time to visit depends on what you are looking for. If you want to enjoy the beaches, then the best time to go is from May to September. I really enjoyed my visit during the first week of June where the weather was pleasant and it was still relatively quiet. If you decide to go, just be aware that from June to August, the weather is HOT and the island becomes extremely crowded. If you want to enjoy the outdoors and experience a quieter side to Corfu, visiting during the offseason would be a great choice. There’s still plenty to do and see outside of the summer months.

Things to Do and See in Corfu

One of the top things to do while visiting Corfu is to explore one of the many beautiful beaches on the island. Liapades beac h and Rovinia beach are two must-see beaches on the island. Liapades is known for its crystal-clear waters and a picturesque village, while Rovinia beach is a secluded spot with a stunning view of the sea. To get to these beaches, you can rent a car or take a bus from the main town of Corfu. To get to Rovinia, make sure to wear closed toed shoes as there is a 10-15min dirt path down to the beach. I promise it’s worth the trek!

Some other popular beaches include Paleokastritsa, Sidari, and Canal d’Amour. Paleokastritsa is a picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and a beautiful view of the surrounding cliffs. Sidari is a lively beach with a variety of water sports available and Canal d’Amour is a unique beach with a narrow channel that connects two bays. All three are known for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. There are many things to do and see around these beaches like restaurants, bars, and nearby activities, like boat trips and water sports.

Another fantastic thing to do is to rent a sun lounger from Anemomylos , located near the Windmill on the northwest coast of the island. This is a great spot for visitors who want to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the beautiful view of the sea. The restaurant is famous for delicious Mediterranean cuisine, fresh fish, and cold drinks like aperol spritz!

The best part? You can take a dip directly into the ocean here!

For hiking enthusiasts, make sure to check out Porto Timoni. The trailhead is located just a short drive from the village of Agios Georgios and offers stunning views of the rugged coastline. The hike itself is considered moderate in difficulty, with rocky terrain and steep inclines, but the reward at the top is a breathtaking panorama of the Ionian Sea. To get there, the best option is to rent a car and drive to Agios Georgios, from where you can follow signs to the trailhead. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Agios Georgios and then a taxi to the trailhead. Whichever way you choose to get there, make sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear for the rocky terrain.

The Old Town of Corfu is another great area to explore! The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its Venetian and French architectural influences. Visitors can expect to find charming narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, quaint cafes and restaurants, and beautiful squares such as the famous Liston. The Old Town also boasts several historical landmarks, including the Old Fortress and the Church of Saint Spyridon. Overall, the Old Town is a top-rated destination for its unique blend of history, culture, and picturesque beauty.

Where to Eat & Drink in Corfu

Avli Restaurant – A must-visit destination for foodies visiting the island, Avli is a restaurant situated near the water that offers beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. It’s the perfect spot for a weekend lunch of romantic dinner. (I was traveling by myself and it was also the perfect place to read a book and enjoy a glass of wine outside).

The restaurant is known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and its menu features traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist. The menu includes a variety of appetizers, such as tzatziki, dolmades, and keftedes, as well as a selection of seafood, meats, and vegetarian dishes. The menu changes seasonally, depending on the availability of local ingredients. The restaurant is also famous for its homemade bread and pastries.

La Grotta Bar and Restaurant – Located right on the beach in Paleokastritsas, this seafront bar and restaurant offers spectacular views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. The atmosphere at La Grotta is lively and fun, with a mix of locals and tourists. The location is also great for swimming and diving, as the waters are crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling and diving. The rocks also provide a great spot to jump into the water, and the bar has a diving board for those who want to take the plunge.

La Grotta is also known for its cocktail menu, which features a wide variety of classic and signature cocktails, as well as a selection of beers, wines, and spirits. The bartenders are skilled and creative, and they can make any cocktail to your liking. The bar also serves a variety of light snacks, including seafood, sandwiches, and salads.

Skyview Restaurant – Situated south of Old Town, Skyview is a unique dining experience that offers fantastic views of the island along with multiple areas for plane-spotting. This restaurant is located near the airport and has an outdoor terrace, providing diners with an exhilarating perspective of the airplanes taking off and landing. Visiting the restaurant at sunset is the best time to go as it offers an unforgettable experience.

The restaurant offers a wide range of dishes, including traditional Greek cuisine and international favorites. The menu includes a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, and main courses. The restaurant is also known for its grilled meats and seafood dishes. The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.

Where to Stay in Corfu

When it comes to accommodations, Corfu has a wide range of options, from budget-friendly apartments to luxurious resorts. For first-time visitors, the best neighborhood to stay in is probably the town of Corfu, as it’s a convenient base for exploring the island and it’s also close to many restaurants, shops, and bars.

Here are some popular options with extremely high guest ratings that cost anywhere from $100-$200 a night:

• Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel – Located in the heart of Old Town Corfu, The Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel is a charming and intimate option for travelers looking for a unique and upscale stay on the island. The rooms are beautifully decorated, with a mix of traditional and modern design and offer all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. The hotel also has a terrace with a pool and the staff is friendly, knowledgeable and always willing to help.
• Fotini Studios – With only 12 spacious rooms, Fotini Studios in Paleokastritsa is the perfect place for those looking to stay in a quiet neighborhood, just a short drive from the main town and the beaches. The studios are well-equipped and offer a comfortable and convenient place to stay, perfect for solo travelers or couples. The studios are clean, modern and spacious, featuring a kitchenette, air conditioning, and wifi. The studios also have a balcony with a view of the surrounding area and the sea. The Fotini Studios are a great value for money, and a great option for those looking for a more independent stay in Corfu, where you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of self-catering.
• Sirocco Hotel – Situated in Kavos, The Sirocco Hotel in Corfu is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and convenient stay on the island. The hotel is located in a prime spot, with easy access to the main town, beaches and other popular tourist spots. The rooms are well-appointed and offer modern amenities such as air conditioning and wifi. The hotel also has a pool and a terrace with great views. The staff is friendly and helpful and will assist you with any needs you may have. Overall, the Sirocco Hotel offers a great value for your money and is a great base for exploring all that Corfu has to offer.

If you’re willing to splurge, Angsana Resort and Spa in Corfu is a luxurious 5-star hotel that offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. This exclusive resort is located on a hillside above the town of Corfu, providing guests with a secluded and peaceful retreat.

The hotel offers a wide range of accommodation options, from deluxe rooms to villas , all of which are beautifully designed and equipped with modern amenities. The rooms feature private balconies or terraces, offering panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.

The hotel also has two restaurants, which serve delicious Mediterranean and international cuisine. The restaurants offer indoor and outdoor seating, and they both have panoramic views of the sea. The hotel also has a bar which serves a variety of cocktails, wines, and beers.

How to easily get around in Corfu

One of the most important things to consider when planning a trip to Corfu is how to get around the island.

Renting a car (which is what I did) is a popular option for tourists visiting Corfu. The island has a good road network and it’s relatively easy to drive around. The main roads are well-maintained and well-signed, and there are also many small roads that lead to hidden gems on the island. If you decide to rent a car, you can pick it up at the airport and drop it off at the end of your trip. Car rental companies usually have a desk at the airport, and you can reserve a car in advance or rent one upon arrival. The cost of renting a car for a week can be anywhere from $150 to $300, depending on the type of car and the rental company.

For those who prefer not to drive or do not have a driver’s license, Corfu also has a public transportation system that covers the entire island. Bus service is frequent, with buses running every 20-30 minutes, and they connect the main towns and villages on the island. The fare is very reasonable, usually less than $5 for a one-way ticket. However, keep in mind that the buses may not always run on schedule, and the bus stops may be difficult to find.

Another option for transportation is the use of a taxi. Taxis are widely available throughout the island, and they are a good option if you need to get somewhere quickly or if you have a lot of luggage. The cost of a taxi ride can vary depending on the distance, but it’s usually around $50 for a one-way trip.

In summary, Corfu is an easy island to get around and offers a variety of transportation options. Renting a car is a popular option, and it’s relatively easy to drive around the island. Public transportation is also available, with buses connecting the main towns and villages, and it’s a budget-friendly option. I don’t recommend taxis or uber as they can get pretty expensive, but they are available if budget is not an issue.

Have I convinced you to add Corfu to your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!

Visiting other parts of Europe?

Check out my other travel guides on Europe here .

Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?

Check out all my international travel guides here!

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Corfu Travel Guide

One of the largest and greenest of the Ionian Islands, Corfu is far more than its trademark blue-hued seas and sandy coastline. Boasting UNESCO World Heritage status and unbeatable strolling opportunities, there’s no better place to start exploring than the main town and its historic old quarter. However, ancient churches, scattered ruins and a handful of museums mean Corfu’s layers of history can be found just about everywhere. Looking for a base to explore it all? Check out our  villas in Corfu  and then get to reading our handy Corfu travel guide to start planning your Grecian getaway.

Hidden Gems | For families | Things to do | For foodies

Foodies will be smitten with the emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and lovingly prepared dishes, while the natural beauty of the island – think blankets of olive groves, postcard seascapes and rugged mountain vistas – lends itself to scenic walks, hikes and bike rides. This is a place saturated in rustic, traditional character, yet packed with enough stylish bars, restaurants and attractions to make it a thoroughly cosmopolitan holiday destination.

Best time to visit Corfu

Temperatures average a toasty 32 degrees Celsius during Corfu’s peak months of July and August. The summer season boasts around 12 hours of sunshine a day, but it’s also when you can expect to be joined by the largest number of visitors. And although bars, restaurants and transport services taper off a bit outside of the summer seasons, there’s enough going on to make Corfu a viable destination from March right up until October. Late May, June and September are all comfortable months to visit. September is also when the sea is at its warmest.

Pontikonisi

• Old Town – Wander the ancient streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site. • Corfu Trail – Tackle a stretch of the track that runs the length of the island. • Peroulades – Watch the sunset on a beach backed by striking cliff faces. • Paleokastritsa – Visit this lively village and its idyllic caves and coves. • Old Fortress – Discover the historic and magnificent seafront citadel. • New Fortress – Gaze out over the old town from this lofty hilltop castle. • Pontikonisi – Take a day trip to this tiny island for a peek at its striking Byzantine chapel.

Corfu travel: How to get there, and around

• Airports: Flights to the island from UK shores take around three and a half hours and land at Corfu International Airport, which is just a couple of kilometres south of the city centre.
• By boat: Ferries and hydrofoils bob back and forth between Corfu and its neighbouring Ionian Islands on a pretty regular basis. They also put the rest of the Greek isles in island-hopping distance.
• By public transport: Local buses cover most areas within a half-hour drive of Corfu’s old town, while a second, long-distance network connects the town centre to destinations all over the island. Both are economical ways to get around, but watch out for reduced weekend services.
• By bike: Cycling is huge in Corfu. The island is crisscrossed with bike-friendly networks of road and dirt tracks. Bike rental is readily available and hiring two wheels will put secluded beaches and hidden corners of the countryside at your fingertips.
• Hiring a car: Dozens of car rental companies operate in Corfu and most will deliver your wheels to the airport or straight to your hotel. If you don’t arrange car hire before you go, the likes of Hertz and Avis have desks at the airport.

Hidden gems

Old abandoned stone-built house in Old Perithia

• Travel high into the hills on the north slope of Mount Pantokrator for a real glimpse into the past at Old Perithia . This medieval ghost town dates back to the 1400’s but has been uninhabited since the 1960’s. Today, you can wander its cobbled streets and rustic stone houses. When it’s time to refuel, there are a handful of tavernas worth visiting in the main village square.
• While you won’t find too much to explore inside Angelokastro castle , short of an underground chapel and a handful of ruins, it’s a must-visit for the views alone. This Byzantine castle was built on the highest peak of Corfu’s shoreline and on a good day you can see out to the Old Fortress – the two used to signal to each other in times of danger. It can take 30 minutes to amble up to the summit, but it’s well worth the climb.
• Corfu’s beaches are known for being easy on the eye, but for the best of the bunch head to the village of Sidari . Erosion has shaped the cliffs along the village’s coastline into striking, otherworldly shapes, tiny coves, and a channel that has the power to help its swimmers become lucky in love, or so the legend goes.
• The small but perfectly formed Mon Repos Palace , the birthplace of Prince Phillip, was built in the 1820’s and served as a residence for British governors, a school of fine arts and later, a summer residence for the Greek royal family. A number of royal births took place here, including the Duke of Edinburgh in 1921. After a long court battle over ownership, the hilltop palace was declared property of the Greek state and is now open to the public as a museum.

What to do in Corfu with kids

While Corfu’s sea, sand and sunny skies all score top marks with young travellers, children will be equally impressed with the island’s line-up of kid-friendly days out. There’s everything from classic family attractions, such as waterparks and aquariums, to slices of local Corfiot life courtesy of interactive museums and local-led walking tours. 

• The Greeks consume more olive oil than any other nation in the world and their diet is among the healthiest on the planet. Coincidence? The experts don’t seem to think so. Get your fill of this liquid gold at one of the many olive oil factories in Corfu, where you’ll have the chance to explore production set-ups that range from old school to thoroughly modern. The family-run Mavroudis company has been crafting olive oil for generations, so its production site offers more than just an insight into modern techniques. They’ve tracked down lots of old olive oil making machinery from as far back as the mid-1800’s and set up a small but perfectly formed museum to showcase them.
• Just because Corfu is best known for sun and sand doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of art and culture to sink your teeth into. Away from the beaches, there are some excellent art galleries and museums that tell the story of the island and the role it’s played in Greece’s history. While the majority of children won’t be able to stomach long stints in historical museums, they’ll enjoy an afternoon at Casa Parlante . This one-off heritage site in Corfu’s old town gives a glimpse into the life of the island’s 19th-century nobility with realistic household scenes from the era. The treasures and artefacts on display are slotted into settings brought to life by noises, smells, animated figures and robotics.
• When travelling with kids of pretty much any age, waterparks are always a hit and Corfu just so happens to be the home of one of our favourite ones! Surrounded by 75,000 square metres of woodlands, Aqualand  has loads of activities and other facilities that make for a fabulous day or half-day out with the whole family. There are free sunbeds for lounging parents, great family-friendly restaurants and a great selection of fun shops. The attractions are separated into a children’s area for kids age 4-8, a family area for kids age 8+ and finally an extreme games area for kids older than 12.  

Best family tours

• From knockout mountain scenery to colourful marine life, there’s so much to explore away from Corfu’s famous beaches. A guided tour on foot, boat or horseback will showcase the best of the island’s natural beauty and really help you get to grips with its history and culture. For a relaxed trek through sun-dappled olive groves and idyllic local villages, sign up for a guided horse ride with Trailriders , who offer treks on gentle horses for ages six to 70-plus.
• Get under the skin of Corfu’s atmospheric old town with Corfu Walking Tours , which will lead you down ancient alleyways and into pretty old squares, revealing the secrets of the city as you go.

For more kid-friendly holiday inspiration, read our blog post on Corfu’s top family attractions .

Our Corfu guide of things to do

Group holidays to Corfu can be of the laid-back, wine tasting, moseying-around-the-old-town variety, or chock-full of exciting adventures such as sailing, mountain biking and scuba diving. The natural beauty of the island together with its captivating history provide an endless list of potential days out, some relaxing and others more high-energy. And with a coastline of sandy beaches and quiet coves, plus 12 daily hours of sunshine in the summer, there’s always the option of spending the day on a lounger.

Cape Drastis

•  If you’ve got plenty of energy, hiking and cycling tours are the best ways to discover Corfu’s gorgeous scenery. Idyllic rural countryside, time-worn villages and panoramic views are among the sights you’ll be rewarded with for tearing yourself away from the beach. You’ll need a fairly good level of fitness to tackle the guided Corfu Mountain Bike Tour as it includes a stint on the slopes of Mount Pandokrator, but the views are worth the effort. You’ll cycle through pretty olive groves and the rural village of Old Perithia, too.
• If you can’t spoil yourself on holiday, when can you? For an indulgent dose of R&R, head to one of Corfu’s luxury spa and wellness centres. Everything from hot stone massages to fish pedicures can be found on treatment menus in private spas across the island. One of Corfu’s top-rated spas is the Asian Spa Ayurvedic & City Retreat , which mixes traditional treatments with ancient Ayurveda techniques from southern India. Whether your skin needs pampering after too many hours in the sun or your body’s natural energies need to be rebalanced, you’ll find the perfect antidote here.
• Corfu is packed with heritage sites celebrating its history and its people. So when you’re looking for a break from the heat of the midday sun, seek out a slice of culture at one of the island’s excellent museums and galleries. From grand ceiling frescoes to enormous garden sculptures, every extravagant inch of the Achilleion Museum celebrates Greek culture. Built in 1890 by the then Empress of Austria, the former royal palace is a treasure trove of art and heritage.
• Only the savviest UK wine buffs are likely to be clued up on Greece’s wine scene, but anyone can go home an expert thanks to Corfu’s vineyard tours and wine tasting sessions. The country has the perfect grape-growing climate and hundreds of grape varieties, so there are plenty of local labels to try.  Corfu Walking Tours host relaxed but informative tasting evenings, during which participants get to sample half a dozen of Greece’s finest vinos, each matched with a Greek dish from their award-winning chef.
• Explore Corfu’s epic coastline the way it was meant to be seen: from the water. Hire a private boat with Filippos Boat Hire at Kassiopi Harbour and spend your day discovering the best beaches and hidden coves on the north side of the island. Fillipos even have some great suggestions for stops to make on your way, and our personal recommendation is stopping at Agni Bay for lunch. The food at Taverna Agni  is just what all the foodies came to Corfu for.

Get the full lowdown on the best of Corfu’s activities and attractions on our blog.

The Corfu food scene

Corfu’s food scene is defined by fresh, seasonal ingredients and hearty meals shared with friends and family. Family-run tavernas are your best bet for getting authentic local specialities, whether it’s plates of meze, hearty game stews or spinach pies. If you want to go one step further and learn a little about the preparation of Corfiot dishes and food products, you can take part in cooking classes or even tour one of the olive oil production sites. The best part? You can feast on the island’s cuisine completely guilt-free as it’s part of the famous longevity-boosting Mediterranean diet.

Best restaurants 

• For a romantic dining spot, try the beachfront Trilogia Restaurant Corfu , which is located beneath the ancient castle walls. The kitchen here is run by a master chef with close to three decades’ experience, and you’ll be hard pushed to find a better setting for a cosy meal for two.
• With sea views and its very own private stretch of beach, top-rated restaurant Pyramid enjoys an enviable location. The menu is classic Greek, with dishes featuring fresh ingredients from the restaurant’s own gardens. Plus, there’s a stylish beach bar attached that is perfect for pre or post-dinner cocktails.
• Vegans and vegetarians don’t always find it easy to dine out away from home, but both diets are well catered for at Vitamins Taverna . Run by the same family for 30 years, the restaurant specialises in nourishing Med cuisine. And while meat-free diners can feast here, carnivores and pescatarians will also have plenty of choices.
• Featuring everything from baked feta to grilled pork sausage, the menu at Avli  is traditional Greek through and through. The setting is also pretty special, with a homely indoor dining room that spills out onto a eucalyptus-shaded terrace.
• Positioned inside the historic old fortress in Corfu Town, Corfu Sailing Restaurant is surrounded by history. The dining room is right on the water’s edge and serves a menu of fresh fish, seafood and classic Mediterranean dishes.

Must-try dishes/drinks

Pastitsada with bucatini pasta and vegetarian salad.

• One of Corfu’s signature plates is sofrito , a hearty dish of veal or beef cooked in white wine. Sofrito is usually served with potatoes or beans.
• Another dish to look out for on Corfu’s menus is pastitsada . A traditional celebration meal, pastitsada features veal or chicken cooked with fresh tomatoes, seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg and other spices, and served with chunky pasta.
• Corfu’s local firewater is Greece’s famous aniseed-flavoured ouzo . But if you want something less fiery, try one of the island’s locally made real ales at the Corfu Beer microbrewery.

For more mouth-watering inspiration, read our blog post on Corfu’s best foodie experiences .

We hope our Corfu travel guide has inspired you to choose this sun-baked island as your next holiday destination! If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Corfu, then look no further than our villa collection – from beach side wonders to rural retreats… you’ll be able to find somewhere perfect for you and your loved ones! If you need a hand or have any questions, our concierge team are always happy to help. 

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Thank you for the article! We visited Corfu last year for the first time and are going back this fall, and I can’t wait! Trying to get some extra inspiration before we go 😉 Your highlights were very helpful, and I put some things on my to-do-list already! Also, just to add another highlight – we loved the visit to Blue Lagoon! We did this boat tour https://www.seabookings.com/experience/full-day-bbq-cruise-in-corfu-to-blue-lagoon-and-syvota , but I’m sure there’s other ways to visit it too!

Oh amazing – such a good place you’re visiting twice! Glad our travel guide helped you out. Hope you have a great trip second time around 🙂

As a repeat visitor to Corfu for many years I have to say congratulations on the Very nice article and presentation of Corfu. Just a tip for anyone reading and want to get around Corfu: we use http://www.corfucars4hire.com every year as they have the best value for money car hire in corfu. Hope to be back on 2022 if Covid permits…

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The Perfect 2, 3, or 4 Days in Corfu Itinerary

Last Updated on January 17, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

If you’re looking for a relaxed and unique Greek island getaway, you cannot go wrong with mapping out a Corfu itinerary. Spending 2, 3 or 4 days in Corfu is never a bad idea and you’re sure to fall in love with this picturesque Ionian island.

Make your way directly east of southern Italy and just off the coast of Albania and you’ll find yourself on the lush island of Corfu in the heart of the Ionian Sea. While the Cycladic Islands tend to boast the highest popularity among Greek island visitors , the Ionian islands are completely different with beautiful beaches and scenery that are sure to impress.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Corfu?

When planning a trip, many visitors how long to spend in Corfu in order to do the island justice. Of the 7 Ionian islands, Corfu is the 2nd largest. Although it’s quite big in comparison to the other 5, it’s still a medium-sized island that’s quite easy to get around.

If you’d like to spend your time at the beach and wandering through the Old Town of Corfu for a few hours, 1 or 2 days in Corfu will suffice.

But if you’re someone who prefers to take your time, see more beaches, maybe go on a day trip and enjoy an island getaway, I’d recommend spending at least 3 or 4 days to maximize your time on the island. 

Getting To & Around Corfu

Fortunately, due to its size, Corfu is one of the most easily accessible islands of the Greek islands. 

Many islands are only reachable by ferry and others only have small airports connecting Greece and other islands (with high flight costs.)

Whereas the island of Corfu has an international airport with seasonal bases for many European and low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet. 

Getting to Corfu

If you fly into Corfu, you’ll be flying into the “Ioannis Kapodistrias” Corfu International Airport. The Corfu Airport is conveniently located just under 2 miles from the Corfu Old Town and is easily accessible by public transport or by taxi. 

If you prefer to reach the Old Town by public transport, you’ll want to take the number 15 bus from outside the terminal. The bus goes directly into the center of the old town with other stops along the way, with a journey of around 15 minutes. 

From here you will reach many other bus stops which will connect you to other areas of the island.

If you prefer to take a taxi, it costs just between €10-15 depending on the time of day. It’s also possible to organise a private transfer here.

If you don’t have any luggage on you, walking is another option, as it only takes around 25-30 minutes to reach the center of the Old Town on foot.

There are numerous ferry routes to the island of Corfu from other nearby Greek islands such as Kefalonia , the mainland , and also from Italy , and Albania . You can view schedules here.

The port in Corfu is located about a 10-minute drive from the Old Town, and here you can also find local buses to take you to numerous points across the island.

Getting Around Corfu 

You have a few different options to help you get from place to place during your time in Corfu. The option that I’d personally recommend is to rent a car.

If you’re a driver and have an adequate amount of money to put toward your trip, this will be your best option. You can browse options on Rentalcars.com which aggregates prices for a number of companies.

If you want to keep costs lower while in Greece and don’t want to spend a large amount of money to rent a car, here is the quintessential way to get around a Greek island; a motorcycle.

Motorcycles are a lot cheaper to rent than cars and offer speedy and fun ways to get around. You’ll also see so many views that otherwise would’ve been blocked by the top of the car!

Booking a rental car or motorcycle a fair amount of time in advance will give you the best deal and a lot more flexibility for your trip. From the southernmost point of Corfu to the northernmost point, it takes around 2 hours by car.

You never know where you may end up wanting to explore – from Paleokastritsa Monastery to Porto Timoni Beach to the Achilleion Palace, which was built for Austrian Empress Sisi in the 19th Century.

If renting a car isn’t an option for you, don’t worry. There are two main bus systems within the island; blue buses and green buses. The blue buses are for connecting the central part of the island such as the airport, the old town, the port, and surrounding areas. 

The green buses reach the rest of the island which is a great option if you want to get out and explore further than your hotel or the Old Town.

The main bus station of the green buses is located near the port and connects to most of the main villages on the island which are worth the visit. 

2, 3 or 4-Day Corfu Itinerary

Corfu (Kerkyra in Greek) truly looks like a scene from a Mamma Mia movie. From the aquamarine waters, uniquely rich history, abundant lush greenery throughout the island, and dreamy sunset nights with a delicious meal or drink in hand, you’re bound to fall in love. 

Corfu is an ideal island to visit if you’re looking for a Greek island getaway unlike anywhere else.

Day 1 – Old Town of Corfu

The ideal place to begin any trip to Corfu is in the Old Town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the history of the Old Town of Corfu goes back to the 8th century BCE as well as the Byzantine period. Over time Corfu has been under rule by many countries and empires, including the French, the British, the Byzantines, and the Venetians. 

Undoubtedly, today you can still see an immense amount of influence on the island, its culture, food and, mainly the Old Town from these periods. 

The Esplanade (Spianada)

Located beside the sea and next to the dreamy streets of Corfu’s Old Town, you’ll find the largest square in Greece and the Balkans. Just looking around you’ll already be able to notice the strong Venetian influence on the island. 

The Esplanade is a relaxing and green area to take in your surroundings and prepare for your day.

Don’t be thrown off if you see cricket players having their hand at a match in the Esplanade, this goes back to when Corfu was under British rule and is still the only spot in Greece where you’ll find cricket! 

Old Fortress of Corfu

From the Esplanade, one of the most defining points you’ll likely notice is the Old Fortress sitting looking out into the Ionian sea and taking watch over Corfu.

Known as one of the most astonishing and impressive fortifications in Europe, the Old Fortress of Corfu was built by the Venetians during the period of their rule in the 15th century.

The Old Fortress is a brilliant site to spend time at on your Corfu itinerary, not just for the impressive features of the fortress itself but also for the breathtaking views from the top.

There are regular exhibitions at the fortress as well as concerts at different points of the year if that’s something that you’re interested in.

Wander the Streets of the Old Town

The Old Town of Corfu is truly stunning and even has a royal feel to it. The Old Town itself is quite small and wandering through its Venetian-influenced streets is truly a joy. 

From the colorful buildings, cobblestoned streets and friendly locals, you’ll find it hard to leave! You’ll find boutiques, speciality food stores, ice cream shops, restaurants, cafes, and pretty much everything else you’d expect. If you want to learn more about the history of the town, you can organise a walking tour here.

If you’re visiting on a hot summer day and want a cool treat (or you’re visiting in winter!), I’d recommend heading to Papagiorgis Patiserie-Gelateria to enjoy an artisanal gelato. 

Church of St. Spyridon 

Just a 2-minute walk away from the Papagiorgis Gelateria is the most monumental church on the island of Corfu, the Church of St. Spyridon. 

Built in the 1580s and still located in the Old Town of Corfu, the Church of Spyridon is home to the relics of St. Spyridon and also has the highest bell tower in all of the Ionian islands! 

The outside of the church is quite typical, but the baroque and Orthodox art inside the church is quite beautiful and worth popping in to see. Visits to the church are free. 

Dinner at Veranda Taverna

At the end of day 1, you’ll make your way to the harbor at sunset to enjoy a sunset meal at the wonderful tavern Veranda Taverna. Here you’ll find classic Greek and Corfu-specific dishes. 

The dishes of Corfu are unique due to the many occupations throughout history and I recommend the Pastitsada or Stoufada to experience the unique foods of Corfu! 

The sunsets and the views that overlook the coast of Corfu are breathtaking and because of this, I recommend making reservations in advance to secure a table.

Day 2 – Wine Tasting & Beach Day 

When people think of wine and wine production countries, France, Italy and Spain are typically what come to mind, not Greece. But Greece – and Corfu in particular – has some incredible varieties of wine grapes and unique wines to get to know. 

If you’re spending 2 days, you’ll have the opportunity to get to taste some of these wines, explore the vineyards, and sit back, relax and enjoy the sun and time at the beach. 

Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tour

The vineyards on the Island of Corfu are all located in small villages and more rural areas of the island. Reaching these parts of the island can pose a challenge especially if you’re not with a car on the island. But with the right planning, you’re on your way to Corfiot wine country. 

My recommended option for a vineyard visit is to take part in a guided tour. Many guided tours that will transport you from the Old Town and possibly your accommodation, as well as arrange vineyard visits and wine tastings. 

A lot of these tours also combine tours with local olive oil tastings which make for a perfect day to get a literal taste of the island of Corfu. Some options include this wine-tasting tour or this private full-day tour.

If you don’t have a car, there are bus routes from the Old Town that will take you to many of the villages where you will find local wineries. 

If you do have a car during your stay in Corfu, your options do open up quite a bit. For those with the flexibility of location, my recommendations for vineyard visits Pontiglio Winery – a lovely family-run vineyard in the southern Corfu village of Lefkimmi – and Nicoluzo Winery – a winery in the northern part of the island with unique wine varieties.

Glyfada Beach

The best place to head to after wine tasting is to go relax under the Greek sun at the beach. 

Corfu is full of wonderful beaches, and you can find different beaches to suit your needs. One of my favorites is Glyfada Beach. 

The water is clean, the sea is vast, there are a few different restaurants at different budgets on the beach, and you can either pay to rent a chair at one of the beach clubs or just lay your blanket down and get to it. If you decide to rent a chair and umbrella, be prepared to pay between €15-20.

Glyfada is located on the other side of the island from Corfu’s old town and can be reached by bus transport quite conveniently. If you’ve been doing a wine tasting, you’re already in the nearby vicinity. 

Another nearby sandy beach that’s located just a bit further south is in the village of Agios Gordios which is also within easy reach. Regardless of where you end up, lounging on one of the island’s many lovely beaches is one of the best things to do in Corfu.

Day 3 – Western Corfu Beaches

Gialli beach.

If you’re lucky enough to spend 3 days in Corfu, today will bring you to what is arguably the most beautiful beach in the Ionian sea. Located on the west side of Corfu, Gialli Beach is a tranquil wonder unspoiled by tourists and infrastructure. 

From the clearest glasslike, bluest water, to the few people you’ll likely find on the beach, Gialli Beach is what I would consider to be the hidden gem of Corfu. 

The only caveat is the means of reaching Gialli Bbeach. If you have a car, it’s easy to access the nearby areas, and if not, the local villages are accessible by bus transport. 

The beach isn’t accessible by road or short walk so the only ways to reach it are by about an hour-long hike down the mountain (mainly holding onto rope due to the descent and loose rocks), or by boat.

If you decide to take the hike down, plug “Chapel of Prophet Elias” into your GPS, and once you arrive you’ll want to follow the trail down toward the coast. It is extremely dangerous to commit to this hike if you don’t have the correct footwear or fitness level, or are bringing tons of beach gear. 

Only do the hike if you just have a backpack on your back, and closed-toe shoes with a good grip. There are no options for food or drink once you reach the beach as it is very secluded, so bring a light lunch and water if you plan on spending the day or more than an hour at the beach (it’s hard to leave!)

Otherwise, you have the option to take a boat trip. You can either rent your own boat and transport yourself there (which is a bit costly), or hire a boat taxi from one of the nearby village ports. 

Liapades is the closest port nearby and there you can arrange boat transportation to Gialli beach as well as plan a time to be picked up. It’s about a 10-minute boat ride each way and costs €10 per person. 

Afterwards enjoy a lovely, local dinner at one of the nearby villages such as Giannades, Marmaro, or Ermones. 

Day 4 – Day Trip to Paxos & Antipaxos

One of the biggest benefits of a Corfu itinerary is the close proximity of other Ionian islands to Corfu. 

For those spending 4 days on the island, one of the best ways to get the most out of your trip after exploring the island of Corfu is to get out to one of the nearby islands. 

The closest islands nearby that make for a great day trip and are known to be some of the most beautiful islands in the world, are Paxos and Antipaxos.

To spend a day in Paxos and Antipaxos islands you have a few options; you can either take part in a guided tour taking you from Corfu, then around the other islands and back to Corfu. 

These will cost you a lot more than visiting independently but it also takes a lot of stress away from planning your day trip. Some options include this full-day boat cruise or this similar tour.

And the other option is to take the ferry from Corfu and explore Paxos and/or Antipaxos independently.

If you decide to visit the islands independently, make your way to the New Port of Corfu to then prepare to board your ferry to Paxos.

“Kamelia Lines” is the passenger ferry line transporting passengers to Paxos and the journey takes around an hour. “ Kerkyra Lines” also has routes to Paxos from Corfu via Igoumenitsa for both foot passengers and vehicles.

Once reaching Paxos, it’s important to know that Paxos is the smallest of all the Ionian islands. There aren’t too many “touristy” things to do or sites to see but the best thing to do when visiting Paxos is just to wander the island, enjoy the crystalline beaches, and eat good Greek food. 

Gaios, the island’s capital is where most of the action is happening and the town itself is beautiful, getting lost in the colorful streets and observing locals while sipping coffee is a delight. Mambo located in Gaios, is a delicious Greek tavern to enjoy a meal during your time on the island.

If you’d like to visit the sister island of Paxos, Antipaxos, you can either rent your own boat to visit or take a boat taxi as it’s only 3 nautical miles away. Expect costs for the water taxi to be around €20 per person for a return trip.

When on Antipaxos, head to Votoumi Beach to catch some sun and sea, try some local Antipaxon food and maybe even try your hand at snorkeling or scuba diving.

Alternatively, head north to the port village of Sidari and hop on a ferry or boat tour to the small island of Erikousa for a very off-the-beaten-path day trip option.

Where to Stay on Corfu

Eros Beach Hotel – This lovey beahcfront hotel in the village of Benitses is an excellent option for mid-range visitors. They have several bright and modern rooms available (some with sea views), an excellent location for exploring the island and rooms suitable for both couples and families.

Art Hotel Debono – Those looking for a luxury escape will love this beautiful 4-star hotel. They have a number of plush rooms on offer, a swanky swimming pool to enjoy and plenty of other amenities to ensure your stay is an excellent one.

Brentanos Apartments – Travelers who want the convenience of their own apartment but don’t want to sacrifice the amenities of a hotel will love this centrally-located aparthotel on Corfu. They have a range of flats available, an on-site swimming pool and beautiful views of the Ionian Sea.

Angelica’s Backpacker’s Hostel – If you’re visiting Corfu on a tight budget or as a solo traveler, you are sure to love this hostel. They have a range of both shared dorms and private rooms on offer, great common areas and a good atmosphere for meeting others.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Corfu hotels!

While Corfu may not be the main island that you think of when planning a Greek island itinerary, it’s certainly one that should be on the top of your list.

From incredibly friendly people to historically unique fusion food and idyllic beaches, Corfu has many things that set it apart from the other Greek islands and make for a wonderful island getaway.

Are you planning to visit Corfu? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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EUROPE , GREECE , ISLAND GUIDES · July 24, 2023 Last Updated on March 15, 2024

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO CORFU, GREECE

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

Corfu, an island off Greece’s northwest coast in the Ionian Sea, with rugged mountains and ample beach resorts. During the summer of 2022, I was fortunate enough to get the chance to work on the island of Corfu in Greece. I lived there for six and a half months while working in the tourism industry.

While in Corfu, I lived near the beach, ate my way through the island, explored every nook and cranny I could, got acquainted with the people and culture, and fell in love. Azure water, friendly people, good food, a strong Venetian influence, gorgeous cliffs and a constant view of the Albanian mountains in the North – Corfu is paradise on Earth.  

In this article, I’m imparting everything I know about Corfu to inspire you to visit and fall in love with this magical island, just like I did.

Things To Know About Corfu

Corfu is a green island: its climate is hot and humid in Spring and Summer and temperate but rainy in Autumn and Winter, which means nature gets to flourish. Because of the climate, I strongly recommend visiting during Spring when all the flowers bloom. Temperatures are high enough to enjoy the beach and the island isn’t quite as crowded as during the Summer months.  

Also good to know: tap water is not potable; during high season, you should expect low water pressure at certain times of day, never throw toilet paper in the toilet, and the internet is not always guaranteed. Between October and May, most of the island is closed for tourism.

Getting Around Corfu

Although Corfu looks like paradise, it also has a couple of shortcomings. Public buses, for instance, though present, are not always very reliable. Especially outside of high season (July-mid September).

Renting A Car In Corfu

Renting a car is the best way to travel around the island easily since some places are more remote and less accessible by other means. Renting quads and scooters is also very popular, but it’s more dangerous, especially since the roads are not in the best of states.

Driving a car in Corfu might seem a bit daunting if you’re unfamiliar, but Greek drivers are used to the tourists and if you go at a relaxed pace, you will find it very comfortable. Google Maps is also very reliable to get you from town to town, though it is best to compare the routes it takes to a map to stay on the main roads. The scenic route might be beautiful, but not necessarily easy to drive.

Corfu might not be a big island, but because of the mountains, getting around might take some time, so consider this when booking accommodation. For example, driving from Roda to Corfu Town can take between 50 to 70 minutes. It is, however, possible to visit everything Corfu has to offer in 3 to 4 days, leaving ample time to relax at one of its many idyllic beaches.

Taxis In Corfu

There are also affordable taxis on the island, but if it is busy, you might have to wait to find one. Outside of the capital, taxis should always be ordered in advance.

Where To Stay In Corfu

There are so many great hotels and places to stay in Corfu to choose from and a handful that seriously cater to groups with pools and beach access. Here are 10 of the best hotels in Corfu .

• Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel
• Cavalieri Hotel
• Corfu Palace
• Acanthus Blue
• Corfu Mare Hotel
• Divani Corfu
• Kerkyra Blue Hotel
• Corfu Imperial, Grecotel Beach Luxe Resort
• Angsana Corfu Resort and Spa
• Domes of Corfu Autograph Collection

Places To Visit In Corfu

Corfu town and the achilleion.

Meander through the narrow streets of Corfu Town and you will immediately note the strong Venetian influence, with laundry hanging up between houses, warm-toned façades and shops all around. You can walk through the old town, look at and visit the Old Fortress, go to Spaniada Square and stroll along Garitsa or grab a bite at one of the many establishments.

For a better understanding of the Venetian influence, visit Casa Parlante Museum , where you’ll get acquainted with the family that used to live there and their habits.  

Take the more reliable blue busses that run between Perama and Ipsos or drive and park in one of three parking (5€ per day).

A 20-minute drive from Corfu Town, you will find the Achilleion , also known as Sissi’s Palace. I recommend visiting it on the same day as Corfu Town, as this will make for a nice full day of leisurely visits. The palace is currently under renovation, but once open, you can visit the palace and its gardens with statues and panoramic views.  

Recommendations:

• PapaGiorgis for the best ice cream on Corfu
• Starenio Bakery is an award-winning bakery that sells delicious vegan sweet and savory pies
• Pane e Souvlaki is a quaint little restaurant that serves traditional Greek food near the town hall
• Sway Bar and Kitchen for a swanky drink
• White Pearl for some original jewelry and clothing

Kassiopi is my all-time favorite place in Corfu. It is a charming fishermen’s village in the North of the island. There is a cute port which offers uninterrupted views of the mountains of Albania since it is its nearest point. It has several beautiful pebble beaches north of the port and if you follow the port to the right, you will find a small, hidden pathway that ends on a tiny secluded beach.  

• Limani is a cocktail bar that not only offers a wide variety of alcoholic and virgin cocktails but also serves delicious and original dishes for breakfast through dinner.

Paleokastritsa

Located on the West Coast of the island, Paleokastritsa is simply incomparable. During Spring, you must not miss out on the charming monastery at the top of a hill, with all the plants in bloom; its garden is a sanctuary with a sweeping view of the ocean.  

Paleokastritsa consists of numerous beautiful bays with sandy beaches and a lively village. You can also rent a speedboat (no license needed) and explore the bays of Paleokastritsa and Liapades.  

• La Grotta Lounge & Pub is somewhat of a climb to get to this bar located on the side of a cliff, but it’s worth it. Perfect for tasty cocktails and a dive.

Agios Georgios Pagon and Porto Timoni

Agios Georgios Pagon in the North (not to be confused with Agios Georgios in the South) has one of the largest sandy beaches in Corfu. It is conveniently close to Afionas and Porto Timoni. Porto Timoni consists of 2 bays that nearly touch which is accessible through a steep hike that starts at the small village of Afionas.

About halfway down the hike, there is a lookout point. If you are not a fan of walking or are traveling with kids, I don’t recommend starting at the top of the hill but rather taking a taxi boat at the beach of Agios Georgios. If you do decide to hike: don’t wear flip-flops and don’t forget your bottle of water and a snack.

Sidari, Logas Beach and Cape Drastis

The Canal d’Amour (canal of love) is a must-see in Sidari. It is rumored that couples who swim through the natural canal will have eternal love. The clay cliffs are also worth the trip for those who do not wish to take a swim.  

Logas Beach on the West Coast is also called sunset beach. For absolutely stunning sunsets, I recommend Logas. The clay mountainsides look simply cinematic during the golden hour.

Cape Drastis is perfect if you like a hike and a swim. Park up the hill and walk down to the beaches there. Enjoy the view on your way down.  

• Micrososmoses in Sidari sells iridescent glass jewelry handmade by a female artist who lives in Corfu. They also sell a wide variety of stainless steel jewelry.
• 7th Heaven is a bar and restaurant at Logas Beach. It has a panoramic view of the sunset, but beware: the view is better than the food and while the bar is accessible to all, you must call ahead for a table if you want to have dinner there. It is closed during the day.

Pantokrator

Pantokrator is the tallest mountain in Corfu, standing at 906m tall. At the top of the mountain, you will find a monastery as well as the ghost town of Old Perithia. You can hike up the mountain, do a jeep safari, or drive on the only paved way up the mountain. If you opt for the latter option, don’t forget to research in advance to avoid dangerous dirt roads.

Other Things To Know About Corfu

While researching Corfu, you might stumble upon the waterfalls of Nymfes. If you wish to go and visit them, ask the locals about it first since the lack of rain during the Summer season means the waterfalls are sometimes more of a ‘waterdribble’.  

Corfu has plenty to choose from if you wish to lay at the beach with hotels, bars and restaurants owning most of the sunbeds at the beach. You can use them but are expected to buy something. Some places also ask for payment for the beds, but it is always stated in this case.

If you wish to visit calmer beaches, you can almost always find one by driving along the coast and looking down the cliffs. For a large but calm beach, try Almyros outside of Acharavi.

More Recommendations

Since 6.5 months is ample time to get familiar with the island, I also have recommendations if you find yourself outside the places above.

You will find traditional Greek dishes (such as Sofrito, Gyros and Souvlaki) in virtually every restaurant on the island, but don’t forget about coffee. Coffee is a vital part of the Greek culture and they have found inventive ways to serve it. Ice coffee is especially popular; try out a freddo espresso, freddo cappuccino, or a frappe with or without ice cream.

Acharavi might not be the most charming town, but its restaurants certainly pack a tasty punch.

• Maistro is one of the best restaurants in town, especially known for its fish
• Faros Restaurant has delicious food a stone’s throw away from the water
• Fuego is a calm beach bar. If you want to go out, you can go on Wednesday after midnight for Greek Night when the locals are off work. Otherwise, they serve all-day breakfast and fiery cocktails
• Cafe Amarena Patisserie try out their bite-sized traditional pastries
• Microcosmoses are the second location of the store is handmade glass jewelry

Roda is next to Acharavi and has plenty of restaurants to pick from and livelier nightlife, but my heart goes out to:  

• Ammos Grill Room is great for traditional meats among the locals

On the East Coast in Barbati:  

• Starlight Restaurant is great for dinner with a view

And lastly, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, you will find:  

• Melisito is located near the small village of Dafni, Melisito is a reputable bakery with a view of the valley

Paxos Boat Trip

If you have time, a lot of different offices offer boat trips to Paxos, the tiny island to the South of Corfu. Paxos is known for its blue caves and most trips offer you the chance to swim in the bluer-than-blue waters of Antipaxos. It is a full-day trip, but it is worth it. If you can, visit Paxos’ capital Gaios, a quaint little village.

Recommendations:  

• Fanalino is a little restaurant on Gaios

Best Tours In Corfu

Corfu offers a variety of enjoyable tours. Here are four great options:

• Take a trip off the island to the islands of Antipaxos and Paxos Blue Caves on a boat trip
• Watch the sunset on a Sunset Cruise on a classic boat with cocktails and snacks
• Enjoy some time out on the water on a Corfu Island Sailing Trip with lunch
• Go sightseeing to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches on a full-day cruise from Corfu Town

Corfu Ultimate Guide Wrap Up

Overall, Corfu is the place to be for beautiful views of nature, a relaxing dip in the sea and enough restaurants to hold you over until Christmas. Whether you want to hike through nature or lay at the beach all day, Corfu has something to offer everyone. You’ll surely fall head over heels for this little gem in the Ionian Sea.

We hope that this article has inspired you to want to visit Corfu. If you have any questions or advice to share with our readers, please leave these in the comments below.

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The Ultimate Corfu Travel Guide

Corfu – is it the perfect Greek island escape? When looking for a Greek island vacation, Corfu is not the first island that comes to mind for me. I always think of Santorini or Mykonos and Corfu often slips to the bottom of the list. That was until we discovered that one of the best luxury all-inclusive hotels in Europe is located in Corfu. Let me tell you, finding a luxury all-inclusive hotel in Europe that not only has superb decor, amenities and reviews BUT exquisite food to match is not an easy feat. You either get one or the other but never the full package. It wasn’t until we started to research Corfu properly as a Greek island destination we might want to visit that we realised what amazing things Corfu had to offer. This Corfu travel guide will share all our favourite sights, places to eat delicious authentic food and where to stay in style.

Table of Contents

Why visit corfu, where to stay in corfu, things to do in corfu, where to eat in corfu, how to get to corfu, how to get around corfu.

Corfu is different to most other Greek islands, mainly because it is covered in lush green vegetation and mountainous terrain. With over 217km of coastline and plentiful sandy beaches with turquoise water, a beautiful romantic old town and a rich cultural heritage, Corfu is a surprisingly fantastic island to visit for your vacation.

Due to its location off the northwest coast of Greece, Corfu is the most northern of the Greek islands. It is also one of 7 islands that make up the Ionian Islands. Rain falls in winter creating a lush green landscape of olive trees and cypresses followed by warm, sunny and dry summers.

The island of Corfu in Greece also has a town of Corfu, Kerkyra  in Greek. Also known as Corfu Old Town, you can see Venetian influences due to the four centuries that it was under Venetian rule from 1386 until 1797. Corfu’s Old Town features Renaissance, baroque and classical architecture, old fortresses and a 19th-century Liston, a promenade on the central square, with arcades and cafes. If you are looking for a culturally rich and relaxing island to visit in Greece, then why not visit Corfu?

IKOS Dassia 5* All Inclusive Hotel

I can’t talk about the best luxury all-inclusive hotel in Europe without telling you what it’s called or why it is so fantastic. Read on to discover why you will be adding this hotel to your bucket list and why we included it in our Corfu travel guide.

The Ikos Dassia Experience

We stayed at the Ikos Dassia all-inclusive hotel for the first 5 nights of our trip to Corfu. Our plan was to find a modern luxury oceanfront hotel that offered an unparalleled all-inclusive experience. It did not disappoint . We wanted to simply have a luxuriously relaxing stay, and drink cocktails all day by the pool whilst gorging on delicious food. From the moment we arrived in our taxi, we were personally greeted by the concierge outside the hotel and taken to check-in in the most beautiful lobby which instantly made us gasp “wow” out loud. Champagne and gin and tonic (our drinks of choice) were served as our personal concierge showed us maps of the resort on an iPad and then walked us to our hotel room. Instantly, we knew this holiday was going to be amazing.

The Rooms at Ikos Dassia

Our room was booked as an inland view room, one of the cheapest categories on offer. Before we travelled, I emailed reservations and requested to have a room that was not facing the main road. (Tripadvisor reviews really do give the best tips). To our surprise, this meant we had a room with a partial ocean view for no extra cost.

The rooms are bright and modernly decorated with a simple luxurious feel. They include a fully stocked mini-bar (beer, wine, local spirits and soft drinks) that is included in the rate. It can be refilled with your favourite drinks on a daily basis. They also serve 24-hour room service which is quite handy if you fancy breakfast in bed or a late-night dessert snack.

The Ikos Dassia hotel has 2 buildings – Sea and Sky. Each has its own rooms and buffet restaurant. The Sea building is more appropriate for families and the Sky building is perfect for couples. I would request which building you would like before visiting as the vibes are quite different. The property really does cater for all types of travellers.

Dining at Ikos Dassia

There are 5 main restaurants at Ikos Dassia offering Michelin star chef-created menus. Our favourites were Anaya, for mouth-watering Asian cuisine and Provence for the delicious French fare. We didn’t particularly like the Flavors buffet and would recommend eating in the a la carte restaurants. You can pre-book these before you arrive at the resort to ensure you get a table at a reasonable time and can experience each one. Luckily the concierge is there to help with all your needs prior to visiting. And yes, before you ask – you can order as many dishes as you want. This was perfect for Anaya and being able to experience a variety of Japanese dishes.

Experiences at Ikos Dassia

Book a Mini Drive Adventure ! Ikos Dassia offers the complimentary opportunity to drive a Mini Cooper for the day to explore the island of Corfu. This was such a great unique touch and we really enjoyed adventuring around Corfu on our own.

The wine tasting experience at Ergon . As part of the all-inclusive experience at Ikos Dassia, you are able to enjoy wine tasting. One might think, why would you do this when all the wine is included anyway? Well, let me tell you this, the wealth of knowledge we gained from the sommelier, along with the delicious food pairings made this a very educational and fun experience.

Sunset boat cruise around the island. A not very well-advertised perk of staying at Ikos Dassia is the opportunity to go on a complimentary sunset cruise. Unfortunately, the night that we had pre-booked (ensure you do this before arriving) was raining so it didn’t sail. However, we did watch the boat leave on previous evenings and it looked absolutely fantastic sailing into the sunset.

Dine out on authentic greek food in the renowned local restaurants with the Dine Out Culinary Experience all included in your stay.

Overall Score 10/10

All of these wonderful amenities are on top of the multiple beautiful pools including waiter service, all-day access to ice cream, insanely beautiful bars and views. Ikos Dassia was hands down one of the best hotel experiences we have ever had. We highly recommend staying here if you want the luxury all-inclusive experience at a reasonable price.

Bella Venezia 3* Boutique Hotel

On this trip, we wanted to experience Corfu Old Town and booked this hotel extremely last minute. We had planned on staying at another accommodation, however, they let us down whilst we were actually on our holiday in Corfu. So a last-minute search led us to Bella Venezia and we couldn’t have been happier that they had availability.

This traditional boutique hotel is ideally located close to the centre of Corfu Old Town and is a restored neoclassical mansion. Enjoy alfresco dining in their glorious courtyard garden with a gazebo sunroom and wisteria-adorned trellis. The breakfast is a traditional Greek breakfast and the rooms are classically designed. We highly recommend staying at Bella Venezia when you visit Corfu Old Town.

Corfu is one of those islands with little in the way of tourist attractions. You come here to relax on the beach, enjoy the culturally rich old town and explore the island’s wonderful natural beauty.

Inspired by a stunning photo on Instagram, we visited La Grotta in Corfu on our day trip from Ikos Dassia in the Mini Cooper. On the way to Paleokastritsa, imagine a secret cove located down 142 winding steps. Set at the base of the cliff with a sparkling turquoise lagoon below. The waves gently splash on the rocks that make up part of the beach bar that is built into the cliff. People jump off the turquoise blue diving board and snorkelers gather to swim around the rocky shore. We arrived before the beach cafe had opened and so had the lagoon to ourselves for a while before visitors started to appear. As we visited in the offseason it was a lot quieter than what we had heard it can be in peak season. We didn’t need to purchase anything from the bar in order to swim there, however the bar was closed when we arrived. When the bar did open we wanted to stop for a drink however no one served us for quite some time so we left.

Corfu Old Town

Corfu Old Town was named by UNESCO a world heritage site and is beautifully preserved with stunning Venetian architecture. Set on the East coast of Corfu island, the old town faces the border of mainland Greece and Albania. With a rich and abundant history, Corfu Old town is an absolute must-visit for your trip to Corfu island.

Historic monuments are nestled in between the charming cobbled streets and romantic, colourful buildings. The Venetian influences rose from the middle ages when Corfu was under Venetian rule for over 4 centuries. You would be forgiven for thinking that you were strolling through the streets of Venice due to how large the influences are here. It is quite honestly, a magnificent and unique old town.

There is no set itinerary recommendation for visiting the old town as you simply want to just wander the cobbled streets and get “lost”. Discover quaint cafes nestled into hidden cosy corners and admire the characteristic facades of the buildings.

A few points of interest for visiting Corfu Old Town are listed below to help you navigate a few of the must-sees:

Taking a page out of Venice’s book replicating St Marks’s Square vibe. With charming arcades forming a romantic background for the aristocrats in yonder years, this is the perfect place to come for an evening promenade, eat dinner or stop for coffee under the shade of the umbrellas.

Saint Spyridon Church

A Greek Orthodox church that was built in the 1500s with the highest bell tower in the Ionian islands. You can see the church peeking out from the cobbled lanes and it makes a truly fantastic photo. Watch out for traditional Greek weddings that happen here, it is wonderfully romantic.

The Old Fortress

Sitting on a peninsula on the East coast of Corfu’s Old Town, with 360-degree panoramic views of the Ionian sea and UNESCO World Heritage old town, the Old Fortress is a sight to behold. The Venetian-built fortress was erected to protect Corfu town from invaders in the Byzantine era. Access to the fortress is via the Contrafrossa , a moat that enabled the fortress to withstand three major sieges. Tickets are just 6 Euros to enter and are well worth purchasing.

The New Venetian Fortress

Built on the hill of St Mark on the west side of Corfu town is the fortress of Agios Markos. This magnificent fortress can be seen from the old port and is built over two levels. The New Fortress was built to fortify the defence of Corfu as the Old Fortress was no longer enough. This fortress is a great addition to visiting the Old Fortress and only costs a few Euros to enter, sometimes even free.

Plakada t’ Agioú Square

We stumbled upon Plakada t’ Agioú Square as we were wandering the old town streets. Located near Saint Spyridon church, this colourful square is one of the most central and historic points in the old town of Corfu. The beautifully colourful buildings adorned with white shutters make you feel like you have stepped into a bygone era.

Kapodistrias Statue

To get incredible views of the Old Fortress, head to the Kapodistrias Statue. Located only a few minutes stroll through a park from the centre of the old town, you will find sweeping coastal views here including the magnificent Old Fortress.

Porto Timoni

On our list of places to visit in Corfu was Port Timoni, for obvious beautiful reasons. However, we did not get to visit it whilst we were there and felt I had to add it to the list of places to visit as it simply looks amazing. Access involves a little hiking and you need a car to access the car park, there are no facilities and so coming here isn’t for the faint-hearted. The views just look simply breathtaking.

Paleokastritsa

We visited Paleokastritsa due to its close proximity to La Grotta. It is quite a pleasant area with a monastery on top of a hill, olive tree forests and clear blue ocean views. It is a very small rural resort, with quite pretty views, however, we only stayed for a very short time (probably less than an hour) as we felt it didn’t quite offer what the internet had described. Worth checking out if you are in the area.

All of the restaurants I am recommending in this post are located in Corfu Old Town as we spent part of our trip eating in the all-inclusive restaurants at Ikos Dassia. Since most visitors will be spending some time in the old town these are our must-visit restaurants for your visit.

We found Abakas the usual way that we find our favourite places to eat – via Trip Advisor. It gets 5/5 and is No.4 of all the restaurants in Corfu Town. We were not disappointed by the delicious local Mediterranean food served for a very reasonable price. Think large portions of succulent grilled meats, fresh salads for 10-15 Euros and wine for only 5 Euros for half a carafe! Set a little away from the usual tourist traps, Abakas is a must-visit and worth arriving early or booking a table as it’s very popular with locals and tourists. We went twice we loved it so much in the short time we were in the old town.

Pane E Souvlaki

Pane E Souvlaki is located in the centre of Corfu Old Town in a beautiful building overlooking the Old Town Hall of Corfu and a bustling picturesque courtyard. There’s alfresco seating and cute, albeit small balconies with wonderful views. They serve delicious traditional Greek food with their main special being the Souvlaki, which is mouth-wateringly good. We hadn’t planned on coming here, but as we were sitting in a restaurant opposite that was serving up mediocre food, we popped over and are very glad we did so.

To Mikavziko

If you are looking for a traditional Greek dish to take away whilst wandering the cobbled streets of Corfu Old Town, then pop into To Mikavziko. This little hole-in-the-wall establishment serves Gyros (pronounced yee-rro) for just a couple of Euros and makes the perfect takeaway lunch.

Flying to Corfu

You will fly into Corfu International Airport (airport code CFU), also known as Ioannis Kapodistrias, located only a short 5-minute drive from the old town. There are direct flights to Corfu from most airports in the UK with the flight only taking around 3 hours.

We flew from Bristol with Easyjet and for a week’s trip, with just hand luggage that fits underneath the seat in front of you (you will be surprised how much this fits), it cost us £156 for 2 people return. We travelled during the low season (October) and prices can peak higher during the Summer.

You can also fly from mainland Greece with flights from Athens taking only an hour.

Ferry to Corfu

If you are in Greece living out your Mamma Mia dreams and island hopping, you can also catch the ferry to Corfu. The closest ferry departs from mainland Greece from Igoumenitsa and takes 1 hour. Bear in mind that Corfu is located in the Northernmost part of Greece on the West Coast and is the furthest Greek island to travel to.

Corfu is a large island, about 585km² and if you compare this to another Greek island like Santorini for example which is only 76km², you will need some sort of transport if you want to see different sights.

Hiring a Car in Corfu

Hiring a car is the most ideal situation as many places you would want to visit are off the beaten path. However, if you are planning a trip to spend a week on the beach in an all-inclusive hotel, you could easily get away with taking a taxi or the local bus for the odd trip.

Taxis in Corfu

Taxis are available easily in Corfu and are handy to use if you need a late-night transfer or want a private alternative to a shared shuttle. To give you an idea of taxi prices in Corfu, we pre-booked a taxi from Corfu International Airport to our hotel, Ikos Dassia, and the total cost for 2 people was approximately £28. The journey was 13km and takes 20 minutes.

Top Tip: We did notice that the prices of taxis from Corfu Old Town to Corfu International Airport were quite expensive given the distance. They cost up to 20 Euros for a 4-5 minute journey (around a 2km distance) and there are cheaper alternatives. You can walk which takes about 20 minutes or catch the local bus number 15 for 1,10 Euro in advance or 1,70 Euro on board.

Local Buses in Corfu

There are local buses in Corfu that you can easily use to travel around the island on a budget. The Blue buses are used for short distances and the Green buses travel further around the island. Fares are only a few euros and make travelling without a car in Corfu a breeze. Also handy if you want to have a few cocktails at lunch and don’t want to worry about driving. Some of the bus journey durations are also similar to taking a car.

Looking for European destinations to visit, why not check out our most popular post – The ultimate Southern France Road Trip Itinerary

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Rachel Hughes

Hey there! I'm Rachel Hughes aka Ever The Wanderer. I am a Digital Media Creator and long term travel expert. I help people realise their worth and what they can achieve.

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Greek Ferry Travel

Island Hopping In Greece Made Easy

Corfu Travel Guide

Prepare for your holiday in Corfu with our Corfu Travel Guide. Whether you are going to Corfu by ferry or flight, here’s everything about Corfu you need to know.

Visit Corfu Island

Yiasas, travelers! Welcome to your indispensable guide to Corfu, an island so rich in history and beauty that it’ll take your breath away. Nestling in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a verdant oasis wrapped in the bluest of waters, where Venetian architecture meets Greek hospitality.

Whether you’re a history buff, a beach connoisseur, or simply longing for a slice of Mediterranean tranquility, Corfu is the place to be. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your first (and surely not your last) trip to Corfu as enchanting as a Greek mythology tale.

Getting to Corfu

As one of the Ionian islands of Greece , a medley of ferries darting to and from the Greek mainland and Italy. The main ferry route to Corfu is from Igoumenitsa to the main ferry port in Corfu Town .

Don’t miss the romance of approaching Corfu from the deck of a ferry – it’s a sight for the gods!

Check the latest ferry timetables and book tickets online at: Ferryscanner

Corfu International Airport (Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport) welcomes flights from across Europe. During the summer months there are countless connections with UK cities as well as cities all over Europe.

Upon leaving the ferry port or airport, taxis and buses stand ready to whisk you to your accommodation. If you’re a planner, schedule a pick-up in advance for a smooth start to your Greek adventure.

Arriving in Corfu Greece

Stepping onto Corfu soil, you’ll be greeted by a warm sea breeze and an even warmer welcome. Greek is the local language, but in this tourist haven, English is widely spoken. A smile and a ‘kalimera’ (good morning) will go a long way, though!

Euros are the currency in Corfu , and credit cards sail through most transactions. Make sure to carry some cash for those quaint tavernas off the beaten track.

Where to Stay in Corfu

Like all Greek islands, there are accommodation options to suit all styles and budgets. From five-star seafront hotels to charming Airbnb apartments tucked in old palazzos, Corfu’s got it all.

Corfu Old Town, the island’s heartbeat, is the perfect location for island hoppers, culture vultures and night owls. Prefer to be rocked to sleep by the waves? Then resorts like Dassia and Agios Gordios await.

Getting Around Corfu

Corfu may not be the largest Greek island, but its landscapes are epically diverse. Public local buses serve popular routes, but to really embrace freedom, rent a car or a scooter. Just remember – island driving is an art!

Corfu old Town is a maze of history and culture. Two imposing fortresses guard the picturesque old town streets, while the Liston promenade invites for elegant strolls. Don’t miss the Saint Spyridon Church or a twirl around the Archaeological Museum for a touch of the past.

Your walk will uncover hidden gems of eateries, too. From bustling cafes town streets to secluded gardens, culinary delights are matched by enchanting settings.

Eating and Drinking in Corfu

Ah, the food! Greek cuisine is a love letter to the senses. Sample Corfu’s unique ‘sofrito’ or the delectable ‘pastitsada’. Hit the local taverna to taste the ‘real deal’ – just be ready for a feast, as Corfu’s hospitality here shines in generous portions.

As with other islands and coastal town in Greece, Corfu has more than its fair share of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and a rich wine tradition. Try a wine tasting tour if you can! Koum Kouat, the local spirit, is a must-try. And of course, no classic Greek adventure is complete with a Greek salad or two.

Exploring Beyond Corfu Town

Once you’ve soaked in the history and charm of Corfu Town (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site), it’s time to wander where the Wi-Fi is weak.

Rent a boat, join a tour, or take a drive over to Paleokastritsa, where mythic crystal waters meet emerald coves. Don’t skip a visit to the imposing Angelokastro castle, an old fortress standing tall with stories of Byzantine grandeur.

Then, find your way to the Achilleion palace, where the tragic Empress Sisi sought solace amidst the statues of ancient gods.

A must-do is a pilgrimage to the romantic Canal D’Amour in Sidari, where legend whispers that couples who swim its channel will marry soon after. Whether you believe the myth or not, the sculpted sandstone formations will leave you spellbound.

Best Beaches In Corfu

Corfu is packed full of picturesque sandy beaches where you can soak up the sun:

• Paleokastritsa Beach : Known for its crystal clear water and is considered one of the best beaches in Corfu. It’s surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic cliffs. There are six bays to choose from, and it’s also a great spot for snorkeling.
• Glyfada Beach : This is one of the most popular beaches on the island, with soft sand and blue waters. It’s well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, and there are water sports available.
• Myrtiotissa Beach : Described as the most beautiful beach by Lawrence Durrell, Myrtiotissa is nudist-friendly and less organized than other beaches. It offers a mix of sand and pebbles and is surrounded by steep cliffs and forest.
• Agios Gordios Beach : This beach is known for its impressive rock formation, the Ortholithi. It has a mix of sand and pebbles and offers stunning sunset views.
• Sidari Beach : Famous for the Canal d’Amour, Sidari Beach has unique sandstone formations. The beach is family-friendly with shallow waters.
• Issos Beach : With golden sand dunes, clear waters, and a view of the Lake Korission, Issos Beach is perfect for those looking for a less crowded spot. It’s also a good place for windsurfing.
• Barbati Beach : Offering a pebbly shore and clear waters, Barbati Beach is at the foot of the highest mountain in Corfu, Pantokrator. It’s well-organized with plenty of facilities.
• Agios Georgios Beach : This is a long sandy beach with calm waters, making it ideal for families. There are plenty of tavernas and cafes nearby.
• Kontogialos Beach : A less crowded beach with golden sand and green surroundings. It’s a good spot for relaxation.
• Dassia Beach : This beach is easily accessible and offers a variety of water sports. It has clear waters and is lined with olive groves.
• Kerasia Beach : A quiet and secluded spot perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. It has clear water and is surrounded by cypress and olive trees.
• Roda Beach : A family-friendly beach with lots of amenities, including restaurants and water sports.
• Agios Stefanos Beach : A long sandy beach with clear waters, located in a beautiful bay.
• Ermones Beach : A small and secluded beach surrounded by green hills and cliffs.
• Agios Ioannis Beach : Known for its kite and windsurfing conditions due to the favorable winds.

Tips and Tricks for an Effortless Corfu Holiday

When’s the best time to go island hopping to Corfu? Late spring and early autumn are the shoulder seasons, and great for avoiding big crowds and harsh weather. Since the Mediterranean sun can be quite relentless, don’t forget to pack some sunblock and hats. The peak summer season months of July and Augusut can make the island feel quite crowded.

Safety is generally not a pressing concern, but travel insurance is always a wise bet. The island is a trove of robust Health Centers, and in case of any ‘Opa!’ moments, care is at hand.

Wrapping up Your Corfu Getaway

As your Corfu tale comes to a close, take with you not just souvenirs and photographs, but a piece of the island’s soul. Dance with the locals at a village festa, learn a few Greek phrases, and relish the slow pace of island time.

Corfu’s magic is in its unhurried rhythm and spirited spontaneity. Revel in it, and like many before you, you’ll be planning your next trip before the first has even ended.

Additional Resources and Next Steps

Still thirsty for more Corfiot knowledge? Dive into local blogs, tourist attractions and information websites, and don’t shy away from connecting with fellow travelers online.

Before you set sail for this island paradise, prepare. Book your tours, pin your must-visit sites, and get ready for a journey to the westernmost edge of Greece — to Corfu, an island where legends are just another part of the landscape.

And there you have it, an in-depth travel article fit for any first-timer keen to discover the gem that is Corfu. From the winding streets of its historic town to the idyllic shores of its many beaches, Corfu promises an affair to remember. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and leave a little room in your heart — because Corfu will surely fill it. Safe travels, or as we say in Greek, ‘kalo taxidi’!

Day Trips from Corfu

For those looking to explore beyond the charming confines of Corfu, there are several day trips that promise exciting adventures.

• Paxos and Antipaxos Islands: A boat trip to the breathtakingly beautiful islands of Paxos and Antipaxos is highly recommended. These islands are renowned for their sparkling turquoise waters and secluded beaches, providing a perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity.
• Albania: For the more adventurous, a day trip to Albania can provide an exciting cultural contrast. Visit the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a rich tapestry of archaeological history and stunningly well-preserved ruins.
• Metéora: This is a longer trip, but well worth the effort. Metéora, with its monasteries perched stunningly atop sandstone pillars, offers a surreal landscape and a journey back in time to a place where spirituality meets natural beauty.
• Mainland Greece: Take a ferry to the mainland and explore the historic city of Igoumenitsa , or venture further to visit the mystical Oracle of Delphi or the dramatic vistas of Vikos Gorge.

Remember, each of these trips comes with its own unique requirements and considerations, so be sure to plan accordingly. These day trips will undoubtedly enrich your Corfu adventure, introducing you to a wider slice of what this beautiful region has to offer.

• Travel guides & E-maps
• Accommodations
• Find & book ferries
• Custom travel advice

The complete travel guide (blog) for the Greek island of Corfu by a 40-time visitor 

After at least 40 visits since I was 1 year old (1994), I can confirm that Corfu is one of the best and most diverse Greek islands to visit. In this Corfu travel blog you will find a complete mini-guide to the most wonderful island.

If you want a full, 150-page Corfu Travel Guide (e-book) with ALL my expertise in it, click here .

Corfu Island, Greece – E-map (Google Maps Locations)

Corfu Island, Greece – Travel Guide (e-book)

Corfu Island, Greece – Travel Guide (e-book) & Corfu e-map

Looking for more tailor-made corfu travel advice check out the options for custom travel advice , such as a 45-minute video call with me., this guide contains info on:.

• What is Corfu like

When to visit Corfu

• How many days you need on Corfu

How to get to Corfu

Where to stay in corfu.

• Hotels and other accommodations
• Things to do: the highlights
• Where to eat and drink in Corfu (town)

About Corfu: what is the island like?

Corfu is one of the largest and most diverse Greek islands . There are tons of beaches of any kind (long and sandy, pebble bays with turquoise water), there is a large and lively town that probably is the most picturesque city of Greece. There’s nature, culture, party… something for everyone!

Corfu is located in the North-West part of Greece. The island stands out because it is completely green, full of cypress trees, and in many other ways heavily influenced by the Venetians. Corfu town looks like a very picturesque Italian settlement.

The best time to visit Corfu is from May to October. Corfu is located in the North-West part of Greece and is so green because it relatively gets a lot of rain in winter. I personally prefer the second half of May and the first half of June , as well as the second half of September. Why? The weather is relatively stable, with temperatures of 25C. You might encounter a cloudy day or a short shower in May or September, but it rarely lasts. In May the countless flowers on Corfu are blossoming.

The second half of July and first half of September are relatively busy, whereas August is an extremely busy month in Corfu. Don’t let it put you off if August is the only month you can go, the island is large. But if you can, try to avoid going to Corfu mid-July till mid-September.

The season in Corfu ends mid to end of October, although some places will already close down at the end of September.

How many days do you need on Corfu?

How many days do you need on Corfu if you want to get a good impression on it? Corfu is one of the largest Greek islands and you need at least 5 days to even see some of the highlights and Corfu town. If you’re only stopping by to see Corfu town, you need as many as 1 to 2 days on Corfu.

How to get to Corfu? As Corfu is an island, you can reach it by boat plane and boat.

By plane : via Athens or directly from numerous European airports. The airport of Corfu is called Ioannis Kapodistrias airport, after the first head of state of the independent country of Greece.

By boat: Depeding on where you are coming from, you can s earch one of the following routes on the search engine of Ferryhopper and easily find a date and time of your convenience.

• From Igoumenitsa to Corfu town
• From Igoumenitsa to Lefkimmi
• From Paxos to Lefkimmi and Corfu town
• From Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Meganisi, Lefkada, Paxos to Corfu town
• From Sarande, Albania

CLICK HERE TO FIND FERRY DATES AND TIMES FOR THESE ROUTES TO AND FROM CORFU

For more in-depth info on the ferry companies that are operating these routes to be able to book directly through them, check out my complete 150-page Corfu Travel Guide (e-book).

How to get around on Corfu

Renting a vehicle.

The best, easiest and fastest way to get around on Corfu is to rent a vehicle. Preferably a car, or otherwise a scooter. If you are able to do that, I would even say it is a necessity to make the most out of your stay and to get to some of the real spectacular places you don’t want to miss out on. It is not necessary to rent a 4×4. I’ve never done so. Although the roads in Corfu are windy and sometimes filled with holes, 99% of the roads are asphalt roads.

You can find the rental companies I prefer, as well as information about legal requirements to be able to rent a vehicle, and information on parking on the island in my complete Corfu Travel Guide (e-book) . There is also a discount included on scooter rental.

I would never recommended renting a scooter and certainly not an ATV if you have no experience driving them.

Public transport

Corfu has 2 bus systems. The blue Corfu City Bus operates in and around Corfu town. The Green Buses are the long distance buses that can take you from Corfu town around the island and vice versa. Tickets are maximum a couple of euros and therefore this system is vert cheap. Although there are quite a lot of resorts and villages these buses are going to, it takes more time than renting a vehicle. Some routes only offer 1 or 2 buses per dat. Also, you might have to change buses in Corfu town to go from one place to another, which is really inconvenient.

Which area(s) should you stay in when visiting Corfu?

If you are visiting Corfu for just 1 or 2 nights, in late fall, winter or early spring, Corfu town is the place to stay at! Summer is less ideal due to the heat. Also, Corfu town does not have a real ‘beach’ within walking distance. It has some swim spots (you can read all about them in my complete Corfu Travel Guide ) but it is not te place to be for an ideal beach holiday.

Gouvia  / Kontokali, Dassia, Ipsos, Benitses

These are all fine bases for ALL types of first time visitors to Corfu, as well as youngsters without a driving license and looking for nightlife. They are located very close to Corfu town, and they are the only tourist resorts that are operated by the Blue Bus system. This means there is a very frequent bus to Corfu town all day long. They offer every type of accommodation, from self-catering apartments to all-inclusive 5* resorts. Gouvia, Dassia, Ipsos and Benitses are all vibrant and offer some nightlife and countless restaurants and bars for you to eat and drink at. Everything about nightlife in Corfu is included in my complete Corfu Travel Guide (e-book) . These places do NOT have the most spectacular beaches on the island, but Corfu is also not an island where you should stay at one place. You have go around and discover it, and choose another spectacular beach every day.

Agios Gordios

This one is perfect for the lovers of sandy beaches. Agios Giordis has a very long, sandy beach full of beach bars / restaurants that offer free sunbeds for customers. That is quite unique in Corfu. Behind the beach you can find plenty of hotels and apartments (with swimming pools) on walking distance of the beach. You don’t have to leave Agios Gordios if you don’t want, but then again it is so centrally located that you can easily go and see Corfu town and all the highlights of the islands. A typical family destination!

Liapades & Palaiokastritsa

Did you see pictures of turquoise waters and spectacular little bays on Corfu island? They were most likely taken in the area of Liapades and Palaiokastritsa. Palaiokastritsa is the bigger, busier and more touristic option. It also has more accommodations to choose from. Liapades is smaller, and more traditional as it has a traditional, old upper village that locals still live at. To me, Liapades is the perfect mix between touristic facilities, stunning views and the authentic Greek experience. The ideal place for couples to reside at.

More tourist resorts are thoroughly discussed in my blog ‘ Where to stay on Corfu’ ?

Kassiopi is located in the North-East of the island. This area is a little more ‘chique’. There are lots of gorgeous villa’s located everywhere in the green hills. Kassiopi itself is a former fisherman’s village with a cute boulevard with lots of taverna’s. In the surrounding area there are quiet bays with big pebbles and emerald waters. It is more relaxed than central Corfu.

Roda, Acharavi, Sidari

In the far north of Corfu you can find budget friendly and decent accommodation of all sorts in Roda, Acharavi and Sidari. Sidari is the ‘party place’ of the 3, whereas Roda and Archaravi are very suitable for families. All with long, sandy beaches. The North of Corfu is also rich of beautiful places to visit, such as Cape Drastis, Peroulades and Mount Pantokrator. So you won’t be bored, even though it is a 1-hour drive from Corfu town.

Hotels, resorts and other accommodation on Corfu

I’ve written separate articles featuring

The best resorts on Corfu island

• Amazing hotels, villa’s and apartments on Corfu island

Check them out in case you’re still looking for accommodation in Corfu.

Things to see and do on Corfu: the highlights

These are some of the highlights of corfu, things one should include in the places to visit or have to see and do list., in my 150-page complete corfu travel guide there are tens of pages with places to visit in corfu and activities and experiences to do., 1. corfu old town.

Number one on the list can only be the crown jewel of Corfu: its Venetian and Neoclassical style old town. It is utterly romantic, with many picturesque squares, traditional and fine-dining restaurants and small alleys full of souvenir shops. The top 3 highlights you can’t miss out on are the Old Venetian Fortress, the Liston and the Church of Agios Spiridon. In my Corfu Travel Guide I included a walking route (including link to the route in Google Maps) with all highlights! As well as places to swim at, places to have a drink at, et cetera.

2. Plane spotting and Vlacherna Monastery at Kanoni

Kanoni is kind of attached to Corfu town and has some nice attractions you should visit. One of my favorite things to do in Corfu (even after 28 years) is watching the planes land in Kanoni. You have the feeling you can almost touch them if you are standing on the concrete ‘dam’ that lies in the water just in front of the runway! Next to it is Vlacherna Monastery, the poster image of Corfu. It is a small white church (monastery) on a tiny peninsula, which makes for a picturesque scene. The monastery is a Byzantine one, dating back to the 17th or 18th century. It is great for taking pictures and there is also a little souvenir shop inside.

3. Porto Timoni

In recent years, Porto Timoni became one of the most photographed beaches of Corfu. So it is definitely not secret anymore, and full of people in summer. All because of the amazing view that this double beach presents from above. It is however still secluded. You can only reach it by boat from Agios Georgios, or by hiking from the village of Afionas. The small path leading down to the beach is doable for everyone (wear closed shoes for safety). There is however little shade, so bring water, sunscreen and a hat. It should take you maximum 30 minutes. If you are a fan of hiking, especially to secret beaches, you have to check out my complete Corfu Travel Guide as I included multiple other hikes to secluded beaches.

4. Renting a boat to discover the hidden beaches of Liapades and Palaiokastritsa:

The most beautiful area of Corfu to discover by boat is the area of Palaiokastritsa and Liapades. It has tens of small bays, caves and rocky cliffs all within a 30 minute sailing distance. Points of interest are: Paradise beach, Stelari beach, Rovinia beach, Limni beach, La Grotta, Liniodoros cave and more. If you buy my complete, Corfu Travel Guide , you will get a discount code for a 10% discount on boat rental at my preferred rental company in Liapades. Therefore you will kind of have the travel guide for free 😊

5. Boat tour to Paxos, Votoumi beach Antipaxos and the Blue Caves

This full day cruise takes you to the amazing Blue Caves, lets you swim in the Maldives-like waters of Antipaxos island , one of the cute villages on Paxos island. I would definitely recommend this tour. Although it has to be said that on some of the boats there can be as much as 240 people. Book it here .

6. Pantokrator

Mount Pantokrator with 906m is the highest point of Corfu. There is a small monastery on top of the mountain, which is no longer inhabited but worth a visit. If you are not afraid of some windy roads, you must drive (or hike) up to enjoy coffee in the ‘Pantokrator Cafe’. And to check out the spectacular 360° views of the island .

7. Aqualand

Aqualand Corfu is one of the biggest water parks in Europe and the world! It has 51 slides and pools for people of every age. From small children to thrill seeking adults, everybody that loves water slides will enjoy their day here.

8. Achilleon

The stunning, neoclassical Achilleon Palace was built by Empress Sissi of Austria in 1889. It was later bought by Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany, who also built the Kaiser’s Throne viewpoint in Pelekas (see ‘other activities’ further on in the guide). It has also been used as a military hospital and as a casino. You might have seen it in the James Bond movie ‘For Your Eyes Only’! Nowadays it functions as a museum. You can go inside and walk in the beautiful gardens. The palace is close to Corfu town (10 km), and reachable by public bus.

9. Visit one of the long, sandy beaches in the south

The South of Corfu has a big number of long, sandy beaches. With amazing dunes, or sometimes impressive cliffs behind them. This part of Corfu is the least touristic and least developed. Especially in August it is great to find such marvelous beaches a little bit less busy than in Central and North Corfu. My personal favorites are Gardeno (because of the cliffs behind it) Halikournas (because of the lake behind it that has flamingo’s a couple of times a year) and Issos (because of the picturesque and unique sandy dunes).

10. Cape Drastis & Peroulades

The North of Corfu is postcard worthy at almost every corner. Peroulades offers 2 of the highlights! One of the most famous views is Cape Drastis , an incredible rock formation surrounded by almost baby blue waters. There is not really a beach but there are a few places from which the sea is easily accessible so you can enjoy a swim. Keep in mind: no facilities whatsoever. After your visit of Cape Drastis you can go to the 7th Heaven cafe in Peroulades to watch the cliffs of Logas beach and the heavenly blue waters, or the amazing sunset while enjoying a cocktail. You can also can combine a visit of Peroulades with a visit of Canal d’Amour in Sidari. Canal d’Amour is as beautiful as it is busy. On one hand the rock formations with tiny beaches with blue water between them are something you must see while visiting Corfu. On the other hand this natural phenomenon has been completely kidnapped by tons of hotels, bars, pools and other touristy stuff right on the cliffs. So you got two choices here: go early morning and enjoy the view before everyone wakes up. Or just ignore the crowds.

Where to eat and drink in Corfu

I included some of my top suggestions for food (restaurants) for breakfast, lunch and dinner and drinks in my TikTok video below! For a full list of recommended restaurants and bars in Corfu, check out my Corfu Travel Guide (e-book) .

@tzatchickie Where to eat 🍽 and drink 🍹 in Corfu town? 😁 here are some suggestions for food and drinks in the beautiful town of this Greek 🇬🇷 island! For a full list of recommendations, check out the 88-page Corfu Travel Guide on my website! #corfuisland #corfugreece #corfutown #corfu #corfutips #kerkyra #korfoe #griekenlandtips #korfu #reistips #greecetips #greecetravel #corfuholidays #tzatchickie #travelguide #corfutravelguide #greekfood #traveltiktok #foodgreece #greekislands #ionianislands #islandtips #traveltips #travelitinerary #greeceitinerary #greece #korfu ♬ Love You So - The King Khan & BBQ Show

Thank you very much for reading this Corfu travel blog with a full guide to Corfu island. I hope it helped and you will enjoy your holidays in Corfu.

If you want a full,150-page Corfu Travel Guide (e-book) with ALL my expertise in it, click here .

Or read one of my other corfu blogs:.

Boat rental in Corfu without a license: all you need to know

How does renting a boat in Corfu without a license work, where to best rent it and which beaches to see?

Filming locations of ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3’ in Greece – Where exactly was the movie filmed?

These are the most important filming locations of My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 in Corfu, Greece

The best local tours & experiences on Corfu island, Greece

Explore the authentic Greece. From olive grove tours to painting lessons, discover the best local tours & experiences on Corfu island.

Where to stay on Corfu, Greece

The best areas to stay at on Corfu island

Filming locations of the Greek Netflix series ‘Maestro in Blue’

Visiting Mon Repos, Corfu

Information on visiting the Mon Repos estate museum & park in Corfu

Filming locations of ‘The Durrells in Corfu’ & how to get there

Amazing hotels, villa’s and apartments on Corfu island

Some amazing hotels, villa’s & apartments on Corfu island

Disclosure: some of the above may be affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. However, I only recommend companies, activities, hotels or products that I use, would use or know very well myself. Thank you for the support to my travel tips service for Greece!

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Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 15 Best Things to Do in Corfu (Greece)

15 Best Things to Do in Corfu (Greece)

The second-largest Ionian Island has seen the Byzantines, Venetians, French and British come and go over the last 1,000 years, and all these cultures have left something behind.

If you need a place to begin, try the World Heritage Old Town of Corfu City, which is guarded by two mighty Venetian fortresses that withstood everything that the Ottoman Empire could throw at them.

Corfu’s coast is sprinkled with resorts, some more appealing than others.

But if you’re a free spirit you can get behind the wheel and set a course for secluded coves, sweeping sandy beaches and castles and monasteries stranded on rocky pedestals.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Corfu :

1. Corfu Old Town

A city packed tight between two fortresses, Corfu’s Old Town is a knot of walkable streets and alleys between Venetian and Neoclassical houses painted pale yellow and orange.

Allow plenty of time to see every corner and little square, and check out the Archaeological Museum and Casa Parlante, a quirky 19th-century mansion with period interiors and animatronic figures.

Defended by insurmountable ramparts, both the New Fortress to the west and Old Fortress to the east deserve your time.

The latter goes back to the 6th century and is separated from the city by a ditch and canal crossed by a bridge.

In the complex you can see the temple-like Church of St George and the 19th-century British barracks housing Corfu’s library.

From the highest walls you’ll be wowed by vistas of the city, coastline, Straits of Corfu and mainland Greece.

Recommended tour : Corfu History and Culture Walking Tour

2. The Esplanade and Liston

Between the Old Town and the old fortress is the esplanade, a long green square that is a remnant of the Venetian fortifications in the 17th century.

During the French occupation of Corfu at the turn of the 19th century the esplanade was planted with trees, while the cricket pitch is a holdover from the British period that followed.

Also dating to that time is the Maitland Monument, a Neoclassical peristyle, with 20 Ionic columns around a rotunda, commemorating the Lord High Commissioner Thomas Maitland.

The Liston, on the Esplanade’s western boundary is an elegant arcade, also from the French period and designed in the style of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

3. St Spyridon Church

Corfu’s foremost church is from 1580 and its Renaissance bell tower is the highest in the Ionian Islands.

Hosting the relics of St Spyridon, brought to Corfu City from Constantinople in the 15th century, the church moved to this location after its predecessor was demolished to make way for the citadel.

The marble iconostasis catches the eye for its classical lines, with a pediment and Corinthian columns bordering the paintings.

The ceiling is also stunning, with gilded stuccowork around paintings that were first composed by Panagiotis Doxaras in the 18th century, but had to be repainted after deterioration.

To the side of the iconostasis is the entrance to the crypt to where the saint’s remains are kept in a double sarcophagus plated with silver leaf.

4. Achilleion

In 1888 Elisabeth of Bavaria, Empress of Austria, commissioned a summer residence at this elevated setting about 10 kilometres south of Corfu City.

This Neoclassical palace was designed by the Italian architect Raffaele Caritto with the hero Achilles as its central theme.

The illustrious German sculptor Ernst Herter produced statues inspired by Greek mythology for the grounds (the most famous shows Achilles in his death throes). You can tour the gardens, enriched with balustrades, a colonnade, fountains and Herter’s statues amid palms and trimmed cypress trees.

The interior is a museum full of memorabilia relating to Elisabeth of Bavaria, Franz Joseph II, as well as the next occupant, Kaiser Wilhelm II. Upstairs there’s a massive painting of Achilles dragging the body of Hector from his chariot by the Austrian artist Franz Matsch, and the dining hall is decorated with stucco cherubs on blue walls.

5. Mount Pantokrator

Corfu’s highest peak is in the north of the island, cresting at 906 metres and accessible by road.

At the summit is a cafe, telecommunications station and a monastery dating from the end of the 17th century.

You get up here on mini-bus tours from many of the coastal resorts on Corfu, or drive yourself.

Now, the road and its drop-offs and countless hairpin turns is not for the faint hearted, but the views are incredible if you can relax for long enough to enjoy them.

When you do arrive at the mountaintop you can see the Ionian Islands, the Greek Mainland, Albania, but also Puglia at the heel of Italy’s boot 130 kilometres to the west.

Suggested tour : West Route Day Expedition

6. Paleokastritsa Monastery

Topping a rugged headland on the northwest coast, Paleokastritsa Monastery dates to the 13th century and is on the site of a Medieval castle that has long since disappeared.

The monastery has a small brotherhood of eight monks who give masses and offer tours of the buildings and lush gardens.

Almost every surface of the building is cloaked with bougainvillea and geraniums, and if you’d like to enter the chapel there’s a dress code, and shoulders and legs have to be covered up.

The monastery has a small museum with vestments, icons and, strangely, the skeleton of a whale.

The monks also cultivate olives and press their own oil, which is sold at the shop.

Recommended tour : North Corfu: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

7. Paleokastritsa Beach

Nestling just east of the monastery is the exquisite Paleokastritsa Beach.

Labelled on some maps as Agios Syridon Beach, this lies at the end of a long inlet with high walls of rock on both sides.

The water could hardly be calmer or clearer and is a snorkeller’s dream and just right for families with smaller children.

The beach, though narrow, has soft golden sand as opposed to the shingle coves nearby.

The limestone coastline around Paleokastritsa is perforated with sea caves, and there’s a jetty on the beach where you can catch boats for a tour.

8. Angelokastro

On a narrow rocky spur more than 300 metres above the sea, this castle was built in the 13th century as a far-reaching lookout over the sea, mainland Greece and inland across big swathes of Corfu.

The approach to Angelokastro is very dramatic, winding up through scrub and cypress trees to this unconquerable fortification which filling its small rocky podium.

Under the Venetians from the 14th century, Angelokastro was Corfu’s official capital and held strong against three sieges between the 16th and 18th century.

Beyond the walls, not a great deal of the fortress survives, save for the tiny Church of Archangel Michael, which has frescoes from the 1700s.

You can view seven sarcophagi hewn from the rock, peer into the castle’s vaulted cistern and gaze in awe at the sea, coast and mountains.

9. Vlacherna Monastery

One of Corfu’s signature images, the Vlacherna Monastery is on an islet at the end of a narrow jetty off the southern end of the Kanoni Peninsula.

The chapel, which you enter beneath a typical campanile, dates to 1685 and has tomb monuments going back to the middle of the 18th century.

You can combine a visit with a boat trip to nearby Mouse Island, which we’ll talk about below.

Vlacherna and Mouse Island make up a scene to behold from afar, and there’s a pair of hilltop cafeterias on high ground at end of Kanoni where you can take it all in.

10. Pontikonisi (Mouse Island)

For €2.5 you can catch a boat to this small island where a 12th-century Byzantine monastery is crowded by pine and cypress trees.

According to legend Pontokonisi is Ulysses’ ship after it was turned to stone by Poseidon.

The island is protected but you can disembark, climb the stairway to visit the bite-sized monastery, which has a cafe and a souvenir shop.

You may detect a strong similarity to the Swiss Symbolist Arnold Böcklin’s famous painting, Isle of the Dead, which could have been inspired by Pontokinisi.

11. Kassiopi

In the northeast of the island, looking across the straits of Corfu to Albania, Kassiopi is a traditional fishing village that has grown into a low-key resort.

The built-up area sits at the base of a small peninsula which is etched with little pebble coves and has a charming fishing harbour on its east side.

Rising at the centre of the peninsula is Kassiopi Castle, which has Byzantine origins and could be as old as the 6th century.

It was one of three strongholds that defended Corfu before the Venetians arrived in the 14th century.

A partial ruin, the castle is still an imposing presence, with more than a kilometre of walls and 19 towers around a rectangular plan.

12. Canal d’Amour Beach

The party resort of Sidari may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but what does make it unique is its otherworldly rock formations.

At Canal d’Amour there’s a long, almost rectangular creek with layered, sand-coloured walls.

The sea has weathered the rock, and near the entrance to the creek is a tunnel.

Pick a day when the sea is calm (which is most days in summer) and you can swim through the tunnel.

The local custom says that any couples who swim through together will soon get married, so swim at your own risk.

Further out the water is a little deeper, and you can watch brave divers jumping off the cliffs.

13. Old Perithia

A “Designated Area of Natural Beauty” to the northeast of Corfu, Old Perithia is a mostly abandoned upland village under Mount Pantokrator.

Once home to as many as 1,200 people the village sits at an elevation of 650 metres and dates back at least as far as the 1300s.

Most of the 130 remaining houses are in various picturesque states of disrepair though some have been turned into accommodation.

You could give yourself a while to amble around Old Perithea’s stone paths, tracking down its eight churches and basking in the distant views to the sea over oaks, vines and cypress trees.

14. Mirtiotissa Beach

At the bottom of the green cliffs beneath the Mirtiotissa Monastery is a heavenly little beach.

Mirtiotissa has a small ribbon of fine sand with perfectly clear waters, protected by a sequence of rocks a few metres from the shore.

Partly down to its isolated and secluded location, Mirtiotissa Beach has become the choice of naturists on Corfu, although everyone else is free to use the beach as well.

The unspoken rule is that naturists will bathe at the more private ends of the beach, screened by rocks, while non-nude bathers can stick to the middle.

15. Issos Beach

In contrast to Corfu’s rocky coves, the Blue Flag Issos Beach is an open bay bordering Lake Korission to the south of the island.

Traced by dunes, the golden sand at Issos seems to go on forever.

If you want a bit more life and amenities close at hand you can stay close to the resort village of Agios Georgios on the east end.

But you can also walk west and within a few minutes you’ll have broken away from the crowds.

Further from civilisation, Issos Beach is also popular with naturists, while the reliable winds attract windsurfers and kite-surfers.

15 Best Things to Do in Corfu (Greece):

• Corfu Old Town
• The Esplanade and Liston
• St Spyridon Church
• Mount Pantokrator
• Paleokastritsa Monastery
• Paleokastritsa Beach
• Angelokastro
• Vlacherna Monastery
• Pontikonisi (Mouse Island)
• Canal d'Amour Beach
• Old Perithia
• Mirtiotissa Beach
• Issos Beach

Mouse island, the landmark of Corfu

The stunning beach of Paleokastritsa

Achillion, the Palace of Empress Sissy of Austria

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TRAVEL GUIDE TO CORFU

On the northern side of the Ionian Sea, the charming island of Corfu carries a rich historical past, with influences from the Venetian, French, and English cultures that shaped the island's unique architecture. Its picturesque town, mansions, palaces, and gorgeous beaches make Corfu a top destination in western Greece.

Our travel guide will help you plan your trip to Corfu. We have included information about sights , the best things to do , the island's best beaches , top hotels & restaurants , as well as a collection of amazing photos from all around the island!

Corfu has an international airport that receives flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, and other European cities. It is connected also by ferry to a few islands, the mainland, and Italy.

Things To Do (18)

Where to swim?

Top Tours & Activities

Where to Eat & Drink?

OUR TRAVEL SERVICES IN CORFU

Book your trip to Corfu with Greeka, the Greek islands specialists! We help thousands of people every year to plan beautiful and trouble-free holidays. From tours to hotels and from car rentals to ferry tickets, we provide all the essential services to make your travel to Santorini the most epic and smooth one. Our travel services are rated . Our guide and services won the Silver Award (2020) at the annual Tourism Awards in Greece . Read reviews about our services.

ABOUT CORFU GREECE

Corfu is one of the most beautiful and romantic islands of the Ionian Sea. From lush green hills to noble mansions and from idyllic beaches to impressive museums, this island has everything it takes to please any type of traveler. Strongly influenced by the Venetians, the French and the English, Corfu Town , the capital, is a brilliant base for exploration. Get lost in the narrow cobblestone alleys , the so-called "kandounia", visit museums , such as the Museum of Asian Art, walk down the famous Liston promenade , stroll around the huge Spianada square … The whole Corfu town squeezes out a nostalgic charm! You’ll see the glorious past of the island reflected in its imposing palaces, noble mansions, beautiful museums, and charming squares.

Moving away from Corfu Town, you’ll discover picturesque seaside villages , tiny verdant islets, luxurious resorts , and wild natural landscapes . It’s amazing how the different sides of this idyllic island coexist in harmony!

If you manage to peel yourself away from the enchanting Corfu Town, move to the coasts of Corfu, where beautiful beaches are nestled! Its sandy coves, surrounded by green forests and mountains, are some of the best beaches in Greece! Dassia, Paleokastritsa , Glyfada, Kontokali and Kavos are all worthy of a visit! As for sightseeing , numerous places of historical and cultural interest are always ready to welcome visitors! The top places to visit are Achillion Palace , the former retreat of Princess Sissi of Austria, Mon Repos Palace , where Phillip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II was born, the lovely Panagia Vlacherna and Pontikonisi (Mouse) Island . They will make you fall even deeper in love with Corfu!

The island is also famous for one thing in particular: its food ! Based on meat, fish, pasta, and herbs, the island’s gastronomy will excite those who love good food. The excellent restaurants and traditional taverns are the best places to taste the local delicacies!

Corfu is waiting for you!

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HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

Concerning accommodation, Corfu combines different types of facilities, including all-inclusive resorts, villas, studios and apartments located in the Town, the countryside, or near the beach. Most hotels offer at least a few kinds of accommodation facilities, swimming pools and other convenient features. Dassia and Benitses are among the most preferred locations.

Some of the most popular hotels are: • Ikos Dassia • Grecotel Eva Palace • Delfino Blu • Angsana Resort • Dreams Resort

HOW TO GET THERE & MOVE AROUND?

Corfu can be reached by plane (Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport). It is connected by ferry with the mainland ports of Patra and Igoumenitsa but also with ports in Italy. Book your ferry tickets with us !

Discover the different ways to get to Corfu:

HIGHLIGHTS: BEST OF CORFU

Discover the highlights of Corfu! From sightseeing to activities and from tours to restaurants, we present you the best recommendations for the ultimate holiday experience! You can also view the best things to do .

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Continue your trip to the best destinations in Greece! The most popular destinations within close distance are Mathraki, Ereikoussa and Othoni (Diapontian Islands), which are connected to Corfu via a ferry.

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Corfu Travel Guide: The Emerald Greek Island

My name’s Anna Pernice. Welcome to my travel guide on the best things to do in Corfu, Greece. I’ve been a professional travel blogger ever since 2013. I was born in the city of Naples and graduated university with a degree in Communication Science. I’ve always had a strong passion for travelling.

My father was a captain of a ship and I think he transmitted this wanderlust to me. I have fond memories of our first overseas trip together as a family. We visited the USA when I was 12. I was hooked from that point onwards.

I remember taking more than 300 photos on this trip to America. It was the perfect opportunity to practice my photography skills. In 2013, I started a travel blog called www.travelfashiontips.com as something of a side hobby. Two years later this travel and lifestyle blog became my full time job.

Now, I write my travel experiences on my blog and on my Instagram profile @anna_pernice .

Inspiration to Visit the Beautiful Corfu

I was inspired to visit Corfu recently because of a deal with EasyJet. I had already been to Kefalonia , many Cyclades Islands and Athens but never to Corfu. Many people told me that this island in the Ionian Sea was a marvellous place to visit. Now that I’ve travelled here, I can’t help but agree.

Corfu is incredible and it’s quite different to many other Greek Islands . The island is green with a shimmering blue sea and wonderful hidden beaches and coves. When I arrived I was surprised to see so much nature and greenery. I immediately fell in love with the atmosphere of Corfu.

Six Wonderful Days Exploring Corfu

I visited Corfu for six days and spent most of my time in the north of the island. I spent one day at the beautiful Old Town of Corfu which used to be a Venetian colony. In fact, this town is similar to Venice in many ways.

Then I moved around the north of Corfu to discover the island’s best beaches and coves. I was surprised by the beauty of Canal d’Amour – one of the most famous beaches in Corfu home to sandy shores and epic caves.

Next, I checked out the abandoned city of Old Perithia. It was one of the first villages of Corfu to defend against pirates. Now it’s only inhabited by three shepherds. Another awesome spot was the ancient castle of Angelokastro. This Byzantine castle offers spectacular views of the sea.

Capping off my trip was a visit to the beach of Afionas Porto Timoni and a boat tour of hidden caves. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment in Corfu, especially meeting the local people of this island. They are super kind. I had the pleasure of talking with many restaurant owners and tourist operators.

My Favourite Place: Afionas Porto Timoni

It’s hard for me to choose a favourite place in Corfu because I loved every destination. One of my favourite photos was captured at the top of the rock of Afionas Porto Timoni. I think this spot sums up everything that makes Corfu great: a lot of greenery and incredible beaches!

10 Best Things To Do in Corfu

Corfu is situated between the heel of Italy and the west coast of Greece. The island is rich in history and natural beauty is everywhere. There’s always something new to discover here whether it be lush green hills, sandy coves or hidden villages. Below you can find my top ten things to do in Corfu.

1. Swim at Canal d’Amour with your Partner

Not only is Canal d’Amour one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in Corfu but there is also a legend here that states if couples go swimming together at this beach they will be married forever. So take your partner and go swimming! Who knows – it might bless your relationship forever.

2. Relax at the Beautiful Afionas Porto Timoni

Afionas Porto Timoni is arguably the best beach in Corfu. Once you arrive it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this place. There are actually two beaches here which form two different bays – one facing the village of Agios Georgios and the other looking towards Mathraki Island.

3. Explore the UNESCO-Listed Old Town of Corfu

The Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre located at the entrance of the Adriatic Sea. Explore the town’s old and new fortresses, visit the Palace of St Michael and St George, wander around the Campiello and marvel at the architecture of churches, museums and more!

4. Admire the Sunset on the West Coast

Western Corfu is where you will find the best sunsets. This side of the island is home to spectacular landscapes, pretty villages and beautiful beaches. Places such as Paleokastritsa with its monastery, Pelekas with its hilltop village and Agios Gordios with its sandy beach are the best spots to see.

5. Watch Planes Fly over the Kanoni Area

The Kanoni area of Corfu is iconic for several reasons. Firstly, the Vlacherna Monastery is absolutely stunning and the view of Mouse Island is just awesome. Then you get the chance to see planes land and take off from Corfu Airport which fly close to the monastery. It’s a sight to behold!

6. Visit the Mountain Village of Old Perithia

Old Perithia was built in the 14th century. The village is located on the northern flanks of Mount Pantokrator and is a protected site with over 130 houses (many abandoned) built in a Venetian style. However, this village is no ghost town. Here you can find a few B&B’s and a handful of tavernas.

7. Discover Epic Beaches and Hikes at Erimitis

Erimitis is an unspoiled and naturalistic area home to marvellous beaches and amazing mountain walks. These beaches/coves are characterised by white sand, pebbly shores and stunning clear waters. Each beach is isolated and can only be accessed by sea – so a boat tour is the best option.

8. Snorkel and Find Caves at Paleokastritsa Beach

Paleokastritsa is situated 25km from the Old Town of Corfu. The main attraction here is the shape of the coast which creates six unique bays. You can go on a boat tour around the caves and beaches of Paleokastritsa. There’s also a fantastic lookout from the hills of Lakones village.

9. Marvel at the Seaside Views of Angelokastro Castle

Angelokastro Castle is perched precariously on a hillside cliff/rock overlooking the vast sea. You can visit this Byzantine castle and marvel at the jaw-dropping views of the ocean. Stand 305 metres above sea level and lookout over the bays of Paleokastritsa and the northern part of Corfu.

10. Eat Fresh Fish at Kassiopi Port

Kassiopi Port is the ideal place in Corfu to eat fresh fish and seafood at the many restaurants/tavernas. There are plenty of fantastic Greek tavernas located on the beach and near the port. Many sailors dock at Kassiopi Port to stroll around the village, eat seafood at the tavernas and go shopping.

Incredible Local Greek Food of Corfu

The food in Corfu is gorgeous. I ate some superb food during my six day visit. Delicious dishes like Pastitsada, Greek Salad, Moussaka and Bourdeto. My advice would be to eat at the traditional tavernas directly on the beach.

Some of my favourite places included: Eucalyptus Restaurant at Agios Stefanos Beach, Nikolas Taverna at Agni Bay, The White House Restaurant (Durrell’s House) in Kalami Bay, Flisvos Bar & Restaurant in the Kanoni area and La Pergola Restaurant/Taverna in the Old Town of Corfu.

What you Need to Know Before you Go

I stayed at the Mareblue Beach Resort in the north of Corfu which is a 4-star hotel. This resort is large and is perfect for groups of friends or family. I recommend this spot as well as guesthouses in the Old Town of Corfu.

Transportation can be tricky on the island without a car. So my advice is to rent a car as soon as you arrive in Corfu. This way you can explore every corner of the island and go to and from your hotel with ease. You can’t beat a road trip across Corfu too with music playing and the sun shining. Check out Corfu Cars 4 Hire  for a good value for money way to get around Corfu.

One important thing to remember now, after COVID-19 and from the 1st of July 2020, is that in order to enter Greece you should have a QR code. You can get more information about a QR Code here: https://travel.gov.gr/#/

There is no doubt that you will fall in love with Corfu just as I did on my six day holiday. One fond memory I have is watching a marvellous sunset at 7th Heaven Bar on the beach at Peroulades. Here you can watch the sunset while drinking a cocktail on a swing right in front of the sea!

For more advice check out my photos and stories on Instagram and read my blog for Corfu articles. Thank you very much and enjoy your trip!

BY ANNA PERNICE IG: @ANNA_PERNICE WWW.TRAVELFASHIONTIPS.COM

Author:  Anna Pernice

Anna Pernice is the founder of Travel Fashion Tips - a travel and lifestyle blog that she has been running since 2013. Anna is a blogger, social media strategist, photographer and more!

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The Best things to do in Corfu Greece – 7 Day Itinerary

Whether you like active holidays or just a relaxing week at the beach, a 7-day itinerary on the island of Corfu, Greece can offer you both. 

Corfu is called the Emerald island due to its green forests. It has sandy and pebble beaches, picturesque villages, breathtaking views and a capital with a history behind. It was the favorite island Sissi, the Empress of Austria and after a week here you will understand why.

Best way to explore the island

Visitors arrive here by plane or by bus/car taking the ferry from Igoumenitsa. If you plan to visit it by plane please have in mind, that at the moment there are a lot of flights delayed or canceled around Europe. This is due to the collapse of a big global travel group called Thomas Cook.

In case you suffer from such bad luck there are ways to get some money back for delayed flights. Platforms like Flightright take care of the compensation process for delayed flights around Europe. They save you a lot of time and nerves when it comes to claiming compensation.

You can also get to Corfu directly from Italy taking the Brindisi-Corfu ferry. But once you are on the island you will definitely need a car to discover it and to reach all the isolated places on it. You can rent one in Kerkyra (the capital of Corfu) or in the bigger resorts (Moraitika, Paleokastritsa, etc).

The island has one circular main road and because of that, it is very crowded, especially in high season. Both locals and tourists locals are using it, the first to go to work and the second to explore the island. That is why the number of cars on it is higher in rush hours (9 am and 5 pm).       

Where to stay in Corfu?

You will find the sandy beaches on the West side of the island, but here the water is colder. If you want to stay close to the beach, you can book a hotel in one of the main resorts on Westside (Agios Giorgios South, Paleokastritsa or Agios Giorgios North). Also, the best views are in this part.

The eastern sector of the island has usually pebble beaches, with warmer water and here you will find the popular attractions: Corfu town and Princess Sissi’s palace. Big resorts or small, boutique hotels are the options for accommodation on this site.

The northern part of Corfu has the most interesting beaches. You won’t find two the same, but the resorts are not so numerous here, so it is not as easy to find an option for accommodation.  

A 7 day trip to Corfu

But no matter what hotel you choose to stay in, it is a pity not to explore the whole island. It has so many things to offer to its visitors that you won’t get bored. The combination of beaches, towns, and other attractions will charm you! 

Here is an itinerary to get the most out of Corfu in a week.

Day 1: Enjoy the sun on Dassia beach & explore Kerkyra

Start your holiday in Corfu with a morning at the beach called Dassia, a nice choice near the capital. It has sand and pebble and the water entrance is smooth. The great thing about this beach is the view: it is surrounded by green hills and small villas, a movie view!

The afternoon can be all assigned to Corfu town or Kerkira as the Greeks call it. A lovely port town with a rich history, Kerkira captivates its visitors with:

• The old town with its narrow streets, colorful boutiques, and delicious restaurants
• The Esplanade. A promenade area with pubs,  modern stores, and a gallery)
• St Spiridon church, the best-known church in the city due to its high bell tower with red roof
• Its old citadel, a fortress that protected the city from its sea invaders. Today people can still admire here the Saint George church, the old Venetian Prison, the Clock tower and the lighthouse.
• Its new citadel, a fortress near the port with fortified walls.
• The port with its big ships and small fishermen boats

I couldn’t get enough of Corfu town and every time we passed by, on the way to a new beach to explore, we stopped here for a short walk or an exquisite meal.

Day 2: Would you like snorkeling on Koulura beach and Kassiopi beach?

Not very good to lay on the sand and read a book because they are covered in pebble and small little rocks, Koulura beach, and Kassiopi beach are perfect for snorkeling. Around 10 kilometers apart from each other, they can be visited on the same day. 

Their clear, blue water and the big rocks make them a good place for those who like to explore the underwater mysteries and admire the sea life. Koulura beach is not very crowded, being a little isolated. 

The two beaches in the northern part of Kassiopi, due to their proximity to resorts, are usually full of sun umbrellas and tourists.   

Day 3: Enjoy the views from Sidari and Logas beach

The Sidari resort is the host of Corfu’s famous attraction: Canal d’amour. The legend says that if two lovers are bathing together, their love will last forever. But the canal is so narrow and crowded that few have the chance to test this legend. The beach here is enough only for several sunbeds. People who come here either lay on rocks or just take some pictures, admire the view and leave.

A great place that not many know about is Logas beach or Sunset beach. This narrow beach, bordered by the steep stone wall can be accessed only descending the stairs to it. It can also be admired from the glass balcony built on top of it. 

The perfect moment to do that is the sunset. Being on the western part of the island, Logas offers an astonishing perspective.  

Day 4: Discover Paleokastritsa

You can spend a whole day in Paleokastritsa. Surrounded by green hills, Paleokastritsa has a great beach with emerald green waters, an aquarium and many activities to choose from. To see the isolated beaches nearby and the caves formed in stone by the waves you can book a boat trip.

Another option is a submarine-boat that can show you also the underwater world, colorful fish, giant jellyfish, and other creatures.

And for a nice view over Paleokastritsa bay,  you can go by car to Lakones, a mountain village north from Paleokastritsa. Delicious coffee with such a landscape is not something to oversee.

Day 5: Have some rest on Glyfada beach and see the Mouse island

A nice place for families with children is Glyfada beach. Golden, soft sand, clear, blue waters and some big rocks that give it an exotic look, Glyfada can be your host for a morning. Lay down on a sunbed, read a book and listen to the sound of waves. There is nothing more relaxing than that! 

When it gets too hot to stay in the sun you can go on the other side of Corfu and see Mouse Island, a green small island that has a Byzantine chapel built on it. 

The legend says the island was Ullyse’s ship that Poseidon transformed it into this green rock.

Next to Mouse island is the islet Panagia Vlacherna linked to Corfu. Explore the pier that connects the islet and the shore. From there you can spot all the airplanes that land on the airport nearby passing just a few meters above!

Day 6:  Visit Achilleion, princess Sissi’s palace and relax on Agios Gordios beach

Achilleion, the palace erected on top of a hill for prince Sissi of Austria is open for visits. Princess Elisabeth (Sissi how it’s known in history) decided to build a palace in her favorite holiday spot, Corfu, after her son killed himself, hoping to cure her depression. 

The palace is dedicated to Achilles, a Greek hero, and it is decorated with elements from the Greek mythology. The chambers still have the original furniture and paintings and the audio guide takes the visitors to admire each one of them, discovering the tumultuous life of princess Elisabeth.

But the main attraction is the gardens full of exotic plants and statues. They offer an extensive landscape of the island. 

Read more: What’s   The   Prettiest Island   On The   Aegean Sea?

Day 7: Enter the Blue caves and visit Paxos and Antipaxos islands

The first six days show you the main point of interest and beaches on Corfu island, so you can use the 7th day for a day trip. 

The most popular day trip is the one to the Blue Caves and Paxos and Antipaxos island. The huge boats loaded with tourists enter the caves carved in stone by the force of water. A big part of the western side of Paxos is decorated with these gigantic caves. The next stop after the caves is the Antipaxos island, on Voutumi beach that has one of the clearest water you will ever see. The ships seem to fly on that splendid blue bay. 

After you had enough diving in that magic sea it’s time for some Greek authentic experience back on Paxos island. A long walk on the narrow, colorful streets of Gaios and a tasty Gyros in one of the local tavernas are the best way to end this Corfu day trip.

Your Corfu 7-day itinerary is ended. Now, if you take the map of Corfu you will see that this itinerary doesn’t cover the whole island. One week is not enough to do that, and Corfu is a place you should enjoy, not just go from one attraction to another and check them. It has so many beaches and things to see that it is better to stay longer if you want to really get to know it or to choose the outstanding ones and savor them.

Contributing members are responsible for the accuracy of content contributed to A World to Travel.

Keep reading:

• The Ultimate 2-Week Greece Road Trip Itinerary
• Corfu attractions and experiences you cannot miss

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Where To Stay In Corfu in 2024

Eleni Gimouki Last Updated: February 21, 2024

Planning a trip to Corfu next summer? This stunning island destination in the Ionian Sea has something for every type of visitor. From the Old Town’s Venetian architecture to dreamy village beaches, the only thing left to decide is where to stay in Corfu. In this guide, find out from a local all the best areas to stay with hotel and restaurant recommendations.

Pro Tip:  Planning to visit Corfu? It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a “Corfu” browser folder and bookmark this post so you can easily circle back to it. Also, check out the best things to do in Corfu .

Where To Stay in Corfu

Corfu is an island in the Ionian Sea and it is unlike any other in the region. You’ll discover buildings with Venetian architecture and large squares in town and picturesque villages. It’s a destination with a lot to offer visitors from historical monuments to interesting attractions, traditional cuisine, amazing beaches, a stunning natural landscape, and vibrant nightlife.

The island is fairly large with different areas to suit different travelers. In the list below, we’ll cover some of the most attractive places to stay in Corfu. Alongside the best hotels in each area, we’ll also include some must-visit attractions and restaurant recommendations where you can explore delicious traditional Greek dishes. All you have to do is pick the best place to stay for you and book your holidays.

Corfu Town—The Center of Corfu

Benitses—a beautiful seaside village.

• Messonghi—With the Long Sandy Beach

Agios Georgios—A Beautiful Village in the North

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Corfu Town is one of the most stunning towns in the whole of Greece. The beautifully preserved Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site. With striking Venetian architecture and numerous attractions to discover, you’ll enjoy walks through its narrow cobblestone streets soaking up the unique atmosphere.

Why I Love Corfu Town:

• Venetian Architecture
• Walks in the Old Town
• Shopping Center

Attractions in Corfu Town:

• Liston Pedestrian Street
• Casa Parlante
• Old and New Fortress
• Corfu’s Mon Repos Archaeological Museum

Best Restaurants in Corfu Town:

• Aegli Restaurant : €€ | Outdoor Seating | Central Location — Traditional Corfiot cuisine with great service. Come here for the lamb dish.
• Avli Restaurant : €€ | Terrace | Sea Views — Delicious regional dishes in a lovely location.
• Venetian Well : €€ €€ | Terrace | Good Wine Selection — Come to this chic restaurant for a fine-dining experience.
• Terramia Restaurant : €€ € | Outdoor Seating | Italian Cuisine — If you’re in the mood for delicious Italian food, this is the place.

Best Hotels in Corfu Town:

Corfu palace hotel.

€€€€ | 5 Star | Familly Rooms | Sea View

Corfu Palace Hotel is certainly a great hotel choice. Just a short 10-minute walk from Corfu Town, you’ll easily be able to visit the town’s attractions.

Apart from all the luxury facilities this hotel provides, it also has a casino where you can try your luck. With a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool and fine dining, you’ll have a relaxing and decadent stay.

Location, photos, and booking

Corfu Holiday Palace

€€€ | 5 Star | Family Friendly | Multiple Restaurants | Beachfront

What’s amazing about the Corfu Holiday Palace is that you can explore several different cuisines in the hotel’s six different restaurants.

With gorgeous views of the Ionian Sea and the famous Pontikonisi island, two pools, and private access to the beach by cableway, this beautiful hotel and its location tick all the boxes.

Divani Corfu Palace

€€€ | 4 Star | Disabled Friendly | Family Friendly

Divani Corfu Palace is a great choice if you’re traveling with your family. Apart from the spacious rooms, the hotel provides a playground for kids. It also has a lovely pool area set in lush gardens with lagoon views.

Finally, the hotel is located next to popular attractions. So, you’ll easily be able to get out and explore some of them.

Benitses is one of the most beautiful villages in Corfu. Located about 14 kilometers from Corfu Town, it’s close enough to be able to head into town to see the sights but far enough away to enjoy the calm of a seaside village. In Benitses, you’ll love its beach with its lush greenery and crystal clear turquoise-green sea. However, keep in mind that you won’t find many attractions here and the nightlife is limited. There are several restaurants, bars, and pubs. So, you can certainly enjoy a drink or cocktail and relax.

Why I Love Benitses:

• Beautiful Seaside Village
• Amazing Beach with Crystal Clear Seawater
• Peace and Tranquility
• Picturesque Greek Village

Attractions in Benitses:

• Benitses Beach
• Shell Museum
• Roman Baths
• Benitses Marina

Best Restaurants in Benitses:

• Oraies Benitses : €€ | Casual — Taverna-style restaurant serving traditional Greek food. Try the moussaka or fresh fish dishes.
• Avra On The Beach Tavern : €€ | Beachfront | Terrace — Delicious Greek food right on the beachfront. Try the fish.
• La Pergola Restaurant : €€ | Sea View | Kid Friendly — Come to this Italian restaurant for the best pizza and relaxed atmosphere.
• Ristorante La Dolce Vita : €€ | On The Water — An Italian restaurant right on the water with a lovely terrace. Come for seafood, pasta, and pizza.

Best Hotels In Benitses:

Corfu beachfront villa elektra.

€€€€+ | Villa | Multiple Rooms | Sea View

Beachfront Villa Elektra is the ideal choice if you’re traveling with your family and friends. The villa provides four different rooms, so it’s perfect if you want something different from the classic hotel choices.

The villa has a kitchen where you can whip up meals to enjoy out on the terrace with beautiful views. There’s also a swimming pool, garden, and private beach area.

Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa

€€€€+ | 5 Star | Sea View | Multiple Pools

At Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa, the view from the pool is breathtaking and the luxury amenities are exactly what you need during your summer holidays. The resort has an onsite restaurant and bar. Some of the rooms come with a kitchen.

Also, the hotel is close enough to significant attractions like the Kaiser’s Bridge, which is a beautiful spot to visit.

Lido Corfu Sun Hotel

€€€ | 4 Star | Playground | Beachfront

Lido Corfu Sun Hotel is a big and beautiful hotel. It provides spacious rooms, a playground, and a shallow spot in the pool for the kids. So, this hotel is a good option for families.

You can expect a lovely buffet breakfast served out on the terrace in summer. Best of all, the hotel is located on the beachfront. You have the Ionian Sea practically on your doorstep.

Messonghi—With a Long Sandy Beach

Messonghi is another beautiful village but what’s really amazing about it is its long sandy beach. Located on the eastern side of the island, it’s the ideal place if you’re dreaming of spending your summer holidays by the beach. The sea, here, is shallow. So, it’s the ideal beach for children and anyone wanting to relax in the Ionian Sea. Thanks to tourism development, you’ll find several restaurants, cafés, and bars to enjoy local cuisine and have fun.

Why I Love Messonghi:

• Long Sandy Beach
• Shallow Seawater
• Picturesque Village

Attractions in Messonghi:

• Messonghi Beach
• Messonghi River
• Catholic Church of St. Pius

Best Restaurants in Messonghi:

• Bacchus Tavern : €€ | Casual | Beachfront — People love the delicious home-cooked style food, especially the seafood, and relaxed atmosphere.
• Taverna Meraki : €€ | Beachfront — Family-run restaurant on the beachfront with authentic and delicious dishes.
• Kostas Traditional Taverna : €€ | Outdoor Seating — Authentic Greek taverna with quality meals and cheerful decor. You’ll eat here more than once.
• Taverna Dionysos : €€ | Beachfront | Lively — Come for a drink overlooking Messonghi beach and stay for a delicious meal.

Best Hotels In Messonghi:

Domes miramare.

€€€€+ | 5 Star | Adults Only | Disabled Friendly

Domes Miramare is an amazing hotel where you can enjoy different luxury facilities. The hotel provides a 24-hour front desk and car hire. It has a lovely sun terrace and swimming pool with breathtaking sea views.

Located in Moraitika village next to Messonghi, there’s a beautiful beach nearby. An adults-only hotel, it’s perfect for a private getaway.

SENTIDO Apollo Palace

€€€ | 5 Star | Family Friendly | Multiple Pools

SENTIDO Apollo Palace is an ideal option for families. Two of the three pools are suitable for children to swim and play in. When the kids get tired of the pool, there’s a playground.

The hotel is on the Messonghi beachfront. So, you have easy access to one of the best beaches in Corfu.

KAIRABA Mythos Palace

€€€ | 5 Star | Adults Only | Multiple Pools

In KAIRABA Mythos Palace, you can expect numerous amenities. Apart from the three different pools, there is also a tennis court, a gym, and a spa center.

The rooms are beautifully decorated with the option of mountain or sea views and a plunge pool. It’s also located right next to Boukari beach where you can spend your days relaxing.

In Corfu, some of the most beautiful villages are in the North. In particular, Agios Georgios village is one of the greatest places you can stay on the island. Here, you’ll discover a wonderful beach either with soft sand or small white pebbles surrounded by greenery. This is one of the best places to come for great beaches, fresh air, and a stunning natural landscape.

Why I Love Agios Georgios:

• Several Beaches
• Amazing Beach with Turquoise Seawater
• Green Environment
• Calm Village

Attractions in Agios Georgios:

• Agios Georgios Beach
• Agios Stefanos Beach
• Loggas Beach
• Cap Drastis

Best Restaurants in Agios Georgios:

• Dixtia Taverna : €€ | Greek Cuisine | Sea View — Come to this Greek taverna for fresh fish dishes and a lovely view.
• San George Food Bar : €€€ | Beachfront — A great spot to come for drinks and really good burgers in a cool setting.
• Anemos : €€ | Incredible Views | Leafy Terrace — Come for some of the best views on the island from its elevated location and the delicious moussaka.
• The Night Owl : €€ | Family Run | Beautiful Views — Come for a change of pace and killer sunsets. Enjoy a delicious meal in a beautiful setting up high.

Best Hotels in Agios Georgios:

Kairaba sandy villas.

€€€€+ | 5 Star | Adults Only | Timeless Decoration

If you dream of a luxurious vacation, KAIRABA Sandy Villas is the spot. The adults-only villas enjoy numerous amenities and some even have swim-up access. There’s an amazing pool and several dining options.

Finally, the hotel is located fairly close to the Agios Georgios beach. So, you can easily visit one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

LABRANDA Sandy Beach

€€€€ | 5 Star | Multiple Bars and Restaurants | Beachfront

LABRANDA Sandy Beach is a luxury hotel where you will certainly enjoy your summer holidays. They serve a breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet on the terrace and you’ll have the chance to try different traditional and international dishes at the hotel’s restaurants.

Located on the Beachfront, you’ll easily be able to spend your time enjoying the Greek sea and sun.

Porto Demo Hotel

€€€ | 4 Star | Night Entertainment | Sea View | Beachfront

Porto Demo Hotel is a good enough option if you want to stay in Agios Georgios village and are looking for a more affordable hotel. You’ll find a lovely pool, a bar, and garden at the hotel.

Best of all, the hotel is located just 250 meters from the Agios Georgios beach—perfect for anyone who wants to be right next to the beach.

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11 Best Things To Do In Corfu, Greece

There are some places across Europe that just seem under-rated, not because of how popular/unpopular they are or even because of how beautiful (or otherwise) they are but instead because of how familiar they’ve become. Corfu is one of those! This is especially with all the best things to do in Corfu that are dotted all across the island.  

Honestly, it’s a stunning Greek island you have to visit. 

I’d been to Corfu several times as a kid with my family and (as you do when you’re a kid), I didn’t really spend much time thinking about the island… I think I was more concerned with ice-cream and making the most epic of sandcastles.

Looking back as an adult, I’ve really come to appreciate the beauty that is in this amazing Greek island. It’s definitely one of those places that need to be added to your travel list! Here’s why… and what to do when you get there!

Anyway, as you might know, Greece has hundreds of gorgeous little islands scattered across the Aegean and the Ionian Sea, with places like Santorini , Mykonos and Samos being total gems.

This in itself is amazing for us travellers but how the heck can you choose just one island to visit?

Now, I don’t have the answer to this (the struggle is real when it comes to just choosing one island to visit) but hopefully, I can share a little snippet of why you should head over to Corfu.

Take a look at some of the best things to do in Corfu on your next trip. Have the best time. 

1.) Gorge at Agni Bay

Perched on the north-east coast of the island, Agni Bay is one little gem to visit. This historic fishing village is one gorgeous place to experience island life. Enjoy the coastline, take a dip in the warm waters and relax at one of the seafront tavernas that conjures up delicious Corfiot dishes. If you love seafood, you’ll love this little bay.

For a tasty bite, head over to Nikolas’ Taverna. You won’t be disappointed. Honestly, it’s one of the best things to do in Corfu if you fancy a more relaxed day. 

Also, if you fancy seeing more of the nearby islands, book these tickets for an incredible day cruise from Corfu to Paxos, Antipaxos and the beautiful Blue Caves. It’s a full-day tour with a qualified guide on board. You’ll love it. 

Read more: Best Greek islands to visit

2.) See the dramatic Cape Drastis

Cape Drastis is one of the most northerly points of Corfu Island (and one that should not be missed).

Now, there always seems to be inconsistencies on when Cape Drastis is open but it’s a sure bet that the summer months are easiest to gain access.

Near the top of the road, there is a gate which is ‘sometimes’ manned to charge for entry. This isn’t always the case and you can be lucky to just drive straight through.

The road down to Cape Drastis can also be a little steep, so drive with care. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll appreciate how beautiful this spot is. My favourite time to visit is later in the day when the sun hits the cliffs – it really is a dramatic spot.

Don’t forget to take a few bottles of water with you too. There’s very little in terms of amenities at this little spot. Even so, it’s still one of the best things to do in Corfu. 

Want to explore further? Then book these tickets for a day trip to the nearby country of Albania. You’ll get to explore Saranda and Butrint National Park and see the ancient city of Butrint – all with a qualified guide.

Just be sure to book tickets in advance , they can sell out during peak times. 

3.) Explore the old town of Corfu (Kerkyra)

No visit to Corfu is complete without a wander around Corfu City (even though it’s more like a pretty small town).

Make sure you wander around the UNESCO World Heritage protect the old town and see if you can spot any of the historic Venetian houses that are still standing.

Also, keep your eyes peeled for the Statue of Georgios Theotokis, the Liston, the Old Fortress, Spilias Square and Saint Spyridon Church (the patron saint of the town).

With all that exploring, head over to The Venetian Well for yummy food in an idyllic setting (the lamb is delicious). 

It’s pretty historic and easily one of the best things to do in Corfu if you want a more city-style trip.

4.) Wander around Vlacherna Monastery

Possibly one of the most iconic sites of Corfu, Vlacherna Monastery juts out into the sea on its very own island. Nowadays, the monastery is reached by a small track over the water, which makes for a lovely place to visit.

The monastery is open all year round and welcomes all visitors.

Keep your eyes peeled for Mouse Island that’s just a little further out to sea.

5.) See St. George’s Church, Kerkyra

Although this Church looks like a Doric temple, it was actually built by the British in the 19th Century.

Perched within the Old Fortress of Kerkyra (Corfu City), it’s a great place to see. During certain times of the year, concerts are held inside, so make sure you check once you arrive on the island. Honestly, it’s one of the best things to do in Corfu! 

6.) Secure a proposal at canal d’Amour

Possibly one of the busier areas of Corfu Island, Sidari has a little gem that you should definitely see. Just shy of the town itself (to the west) is Canal d’Amour, one of Corfu’s most unique spots.

Local folklore says that couples that swim through the channel will get married very soon., making it a perfect spot if you’re waiting for someone to pop the question.

7.) Gorge on local food

Greece is well-known for its freshly, yummy and downright gorge-worthy dishes … with Corfu being no exception!

There is a hearty amount of Corfiot dishes you should definitely try, with lamb being the meat of choice on the island.

You’ll also get an impossible mix of fresh seafood and shellfish too, the benefits of being an island, eh?

Make sure to try Sykomaïtha too, it’s a fig-based cake that’s so good.

Read more: The tastiest dishes to try in Greece

8.) Watch the sunset at Loggas Beach

Considered to be one of the best sunsets on the island, Logars Beach is a great place to chill out and relax whilst watching the sunset over the sea.

Either make your way down to the beach or stay on top of the cliffs and perch yourself in the clifftop restaurant with a frappe or ouzo (for the non-drivers). 

It’s a great spot and well worth it after a long day of exploring the best things to do in Corfu.

9) Find Corfu’s best beach at Porto Timoni

If there’s only one spot you visit in Corfu, make sure it’s Porto Timoni, which is my favourite beach and coastline on the island. 

If you’re arriving by car, park up in the village (or just outside) and take the 20-minute stroll down to the beach itself.

The beach itself is amazing for swimming and snorkelling, just make sure you take a picnic for lunch, plenty of water and sunblock. No one likes to leave a beach hungry and as red as a lobster (in my case).

10.) Discover the Royal Achilleion Palace

Situated within Gastouri, Achilleion Palace. Built as a home for Austrian Royalty, it’s now open to us ‘commoners’ to explore and wonder at this beautiful building.

Make sure to head inside and take a tour of this gorgeous place, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Corfu if you love history. 

11.) Palaiokastritsa

Nestled in the northwest of Corfu, Palaiokastritsa is an intimate little village that is said to be the Greek mythological site of Scheria and the last spot Odysseus visited before returning home.

Make sure to visit the monastery that goes all the way back to the 1200s and take a dip on the main beach. It’s a great spot to spend a chilled morning in the sun.

Love Greek islands? Check out our guides on visiting:

Santorini  | Mykonos | Samos  | Rhodes | Crete | Kefalonia | Kos | Zakynthos

20 Very Best Greek Islands To Visit

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• Best Beaches In Greece
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Map with Corfu Beaches by Type

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• Ancient Corfu – Paleopolis
• Ruins of Roman Villa
• The Bell Tower of Annunziata
• All Resorts in Corfu Island
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Last updated on May 31st, 2024 at 05:40 pm

Corfu Travel Guide

Embark on an Enlightened Odyssey: Uncover the allure of Corfu, an island steeped in history and cultural richness.

Are you ready to dive into the wonders of Corfu? Our Corfu travel guide is packed with all the juicy details to make your Greek vacation truly unforgettable.

Corfu has quite the history. It’s been passed around like a hot potato among empires – Venetians, Romans, Byzantines, French, Brits.

And all that heritage? It’s like a living museum in the architecture and traditions you’ll find here.

Ever heard of Jerald Durrell? Yeah, he was smitten with Corfu back in the day. Couldn’t get enough of its breathtaking beauty in the 1930s. Talk about leaving a mark, right?

Now, here’s the best part – getting there’s a breeze! Tucked away in the north Ionian Sea, just a stone’s throw from Italy, Corfu is a hop, skip, and a jump away from European airports. Three-hour flights and boom, you’re in paradise!

So, what’s your jam? Exploring ancient ruins or soaking up the island’s laid-back vibes? Either way, Corfu’s got you covered. Get ready for a journey filled with discovery and enchantment – it’s gonna be epic!

All Travel Information to Corfu

For your voyage in the Ionian islands, anticipate meticulously detailed tourist information , such as weather forecasts spanning a 5-day horizon, covering both the island and the broader expanse of Greece.

The primary gateway linking the island with the world is the Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport , nestled merely three miles from the heart of Corfu town.

This airport, coupled with the bustling Port, forms the island’s vital connection to the global realm. Additionally, the enchanting island embraces another entrance, the Lefkimi Port in the southern expanse.

From here, ferry routes span towards the mainland of Greece and the alluring islands of Paxos , extending Corfu’s embrace beyond its shores.

Corfu offers, and always offered, a vivid nightlife , after all, it has always been one of the most cosmopolitan islands in Greece.

There are many lively bars scattered around the town and many more in the tourist areas of the island.

And if you need something really exciting, for instance, to reach the dawn dancing, meeting people, and enjoying yourself, visit one of the many large nightclubs of Corfu .

More Travel Info

Secrets of Corfu and Hidden Gems for Curious Travelers

Corfu is a wonder of an island. If you’ve never explored it, it’s high time you did. Its golden beaches along with its salty seas make Corfu one of the most explored islands in Greece.… Read More

What is Corfu known for? Reasons to Visit Corfu

Corfu boasts a collection of unique features that you won’t discover anywhere else in Greece. Among the most significant are:… Read More

The Best 10 Traditional Old Villages in Corfu

Corfu has over 200 villages and settlements, Exploring Corfu’s old villages is the perfect way to discover the unique charm of this Greek island.… Read More

Corfu Golf Club Course Review

If you’re going to be in the paradise that is Corfu, Greece, any time soon, why not take a few hours to play some golf? Here’s our Corfu Golf Course review.… Read More

5 Essential Items To Pack When Travelling To Corfu

You will need to pack your luggage for the vacation. So, here are the five essential items that you cannot miss while going to Corfu.… Read More

Things to Do in Corfu: Gems for Travelers Like You

Corfu is a wonder of an island. Its golden beaches along with its salty seas make Corfu one of the most explored islands in Greece… Read More

10 Great Movies That Were Filmed In Corfu Island

What better way to film a movie is on Corfu Island in Greece. With the picturesque natural vistas of Corfu, many film producers have seen the potential in this beautiful island… Read More

Corfu Blue Bus Routes and Timetable 2024

Blue Bus Timetables for all lines – The Corfu Blue Bus company has very frequent routes with 12 areas and villages around Corfu town.… Read More

Corfu at Night: Is Corfu a Party Island? – Clubs & Bars

Corfu nightlife offers, and always offered, some vivid nightclubs. There are many bars and large Clubs in the town and the other resorts on the island.… Read More

Corfu Accommodation

Authored by knowledgeable locals who hold the key to Corfu’s best accommodation resorts, this travel guide is a beacon of wisdom that can truly enhance the joy and memorability of your holiday.

Our Hotels and Apartments section – is a portal that affords you the ease and swiftness of securing your spot, accompanied by the convenience of cancellations at your discretion.

More Hotels

Aeolos Beach Hotel Resort in Perama Corfu Greece

Located 10 kilometers from Corfu Town in Perama, Aeolos Beach Hotel Resort is nestled in the quiet resort of Perama.… Read More

Angsana Corfu Hotel: A Luxury Resort in Benitses

Angsana Corfu Hotel in Benitses is the new luxury 5-star hotel of Angsana Hotels and Resorts chain belonging to the Banyan Tree Group.… Read More

San Stefano Estate: Venetian Manor in Benitses

The house of San Stefano was built on the hill just north of Benitses, in 1782, by a member of the great Venetian Giustiniani family, on the site of an older house destroyed by an earthquake- so the new one was built on a rock! The house was the center of a large estate and took its name from the private chapel of San Stefano, which is built on the same rock as the house.… Read More

Blue Flowers: Apartments and Rooms in Benitses

Blue flowers are studios and two bedrooms apartments, Ideal for families and couples. In the picturesque and beautiful village of Benitses 400 meters from downtown and 12 km from the town of Corfu.… Read More

Alexis Apartments in Benitses

Set amidst lush greenery in Benitses village of Corfu, Alexis Apartments is located 250 meters from the beach, restaurants and mini markets. It offers self-catered accommodation opening to a balcony or patio with mountain views.… Read More

Roza Studios Benitses

Situated in the picturesque centre of Benitses village, Roza Studios is surrounded by lush greenery and offers accommodation with a sea-view balcony. The nearest beach is just 5 minutes walk.… Read More

Panos Apartments in Benitses

The Benitses Panos apartments welcome you to the beautiful island of Corfu. It’s a very good choice for those looking for a quiet, comfortable and affordable accommodation just steps away from.… Read More

Kontos Mansion in Benitses

Set in the green-covered area of Benitses, the Ionian-style Kontos Mansion offers tastefully furnished studios and apartments with balconies overlooking the sea. The nearest beach is 400 metres away.… Read More

Villa Martha in Benitses

Family-run Villa Martha provides self-catering studios and apartments with free Wi-Fi, 50 meters from Benitses Beach. It is less than 5 minutes’ walk to the town center’s bars, restaurants, and tavernas.… Read More

History – A Glimpse into Corfu’s Past

For over three millennia, Corfu has etched its name upon the annals of Greek culture, a living testament to its rich historical tapestry.

Today, it shines as a beacon of splendor, beckoning travelers with its opulent resorts, steeped in heritage and culture, and adorned with architectural marvels that remain unrivaled throughout Greece.

In Corfu, history intertwines with beauty, forging a realm where memories are etched in the most resplendent hues.

As you traverse our travel guide, a captivating historical odyssey unfurls, recounting the island’s tumultuous past.

From antiquity to the present day, the exciting history of Corfu comes alive, bedecked with intricate details that chart the island’s trajectory through time.

More about History

Corfu Historical Milestones in a Nutshell

Explore the condensed timeline of significant events that have shaped the history of Corfu:… Read More

History of Corfu – Union with Greece and Modern Times

On the 21st of May 1864, the British ruled Corfu and together with all the Ionian Islands, following the London Agreement and the Ionian Parliament’s resolution, united with Greece… Read More

Corfu of the Middle Ages on a Map of 1575

This map of Corfu of 1575 was designed like all medieval maps. According to the sources of that time and lots of imagination… Read More

Corfu at Prehistoric and Ancient Times

Corfu has been inhabited since the Stone Age. At that time it was part of the mainland and the sea that today separates it from the mainland was only a small lake… Read More

Roman Era and Early Byzantine Period

At the time of emperor Theodosius (339 AD), the Roman empire was re-divided into east and west, Corfu then belonged to the east empire… Read More

Corfu Middle Ages and Byzantine Period

During this period the whole island was exposed to frequent barbarian raids and pirate invasions… Read More

Venetian Domination in Corfu

The Council of Corfu and especially the overwhelming majority of nobility were friendly with the Venetians… Read More

Ionian State – United States of Ionian Islands

The Venetian period was followed by the first French occupation in 1797, It was the end of the feudal system… Read More

Destinations in Corfu

Today, Corfu reigns as an alluring haven for all family members, beckoning resorts for families, couples, and discerning travelers of all ages.

Our resplendent resorts are cocooned in unparalleled natural beauty, entwined with an opulent historical and cultural legacy.

More Resorts

Kassiopi: A Corfu Haven Blending History and Port Life

Kassiopi is an ancient village on the northeastern tip of Corfu, 36km from Corfu town and today one of the Best Tourist resorts on the island.… Read More

Messonghi: The Sandy Beach and Resort in Corfu

Messonghi is a very large beach located on the east coast of Corfu, next to the large tourist resort of Moraitika.… Read More

Agios Georgios (Saint George South) Beach at Argyrades

St George south in Argyrades, 33 km from Corfu town, It is a tourist resort with a vast sandy beach also known as Saint George south.… Read More

Agios Stefanos and Arillas Beach in Corfu

Saint Stefanos and Arillas, these two bays are great favorites with visitors who return year after year and really feel ‘local’.… Read More

Agios Georgios Pagon Beach in Corfu

Saint George is a resort in northwest Corfu, a spectacular huge horseshoe-shaped sandy bay, fringed with small hotels, bars, and tavernas.… Read More

Sidari Corfu and the Beach of Canal D’amour

Sidari is on the northwest end of Corfu. A large tourist resort with a golden sandy beach up to the famous Canal d`Amour.… Read More

Roda Corfu: Beach and Holiday Resort at North

Roda beach is one of the older villages on the north Corfu coast where tourism has been well established for many years.… Read More

Paleokastritsa: Coastal Caves and Tranquil Nights in Corfu

Slightly north of the enchanting west coast center, about 25 kilometers from the bustling town of Corfu, lies a paradise called Paleokastritsa.… Read More

Moraitika Beach Resort in Southeast Corfu

The old village of Moraitika sits on a hill at the base of which the modern resort is found stretching down to the shore.… Read More

Corfu is a Beach Paradise – Beaches in Corfu

Corfu Travel guide proudly showcases some of Europe’s most exquisite Corfu beaches , their crystal-clear waters, and panoramic vistas, especially during summer months bewitching visitors.

Embark on a coastal voyage, revealing hidden coves, snorkeling amidst rare marine life, or indulging in leisurely swims along secluded shores.

From aquatic thrill-seekers to sun-soaked aficionados, Corfu caters to every watersports enthusiast.

More Beaches

The Beaches in Benitses, Corfu

Get ready to be wowed by the transformation of Benitses’ beaches – they’ve blossomed over the years, stretching wider and longer than ever before.… Read More

Agios Ioannis Peristeron Beach in Corfu, Greece

Agios Ioannis Peristeron Beach is positioned along the eastern coast of Corfu, to the south of the island’s capital, Kerkyra, and approximately 3 km from Benitses.… Read More

Stelari Beach: How to Get to This Hidden Gem of Corfu

Stelari Beach is a beautiful, secluded paradise nestled along the west coastline of Corfu. It belongs to the beautiful hidden beaches of west Corfu.… Read More

Porto Timoni: Getting to The Most Scenic Beach in Corfu

If you’re looking for a perfect and beautiful beach getaway, then look no further than Porto Timoni beach in Corfu, Greece. How to Get there.… Read More

How to Cycle on the Sandy Beaches of Corfu: 9 Pro-Backed Tips

Biking on a sandy surface like that of the sandy beaches in Corfu, is totally different from cycling on peachy roads… Read More

Bataria and Pipitos Beaches in Kassiopi Corfu

Bataria and Pipitos are the most famous beaches at the Northeastern tip of Corfu island, with beautiful pebble beaches in small isolated coves scattered all around the area.… Read More

Erimitis Beaches: Hidden Jewels at North Corfu

Erimitis area is the Northeastern tip of Corfu island, From the Agios Stefanos area in the East and stretches up to Kassiopi borders.… Read More

Rovinia Corfu: How To Visit This Emerald Beach

Rovinia beach is a small, remote, beautiful, and unspoiled beach in west Corfu. It is considered the most beautiful beach in Corfu.… Read More

Paleokastritsa Beaches & 7 Nearby Secluded Paradises

Under Paleokastritsa, there are some high cliffs that end abruptly on the coast to create beautiful hidden beaches in Corfu.… Read More

Monuments, Sights, and Things to Do

Corfu is the essence of an ideal holiday, inviting those who seek outdoor pursuits, cultural enchantments, or simply the art of relaxation, to revel in its embrace.

This Travel Guide envelops you in a treasure trove of Corfu sights for your splendid island sojourn, Delve into a comprehensive compendium, revealing an array of enchanting experiences awaiting every visitor to Corfu.

Beyond its shores, Corfu unfurls an array of activities as diverse as its landscapes, Swim in its crystalline waters, sail upon its undulating waves, paddle through its hidden coves, or even embark on a horseback adventure to explore its hidden corners.

Nestled nearby are old quaint villages , many of which are unveiled in the blog.

It’s a compass to unearthing nearly all of Corfu’s best-kept secrets, ensuring your journey is a tapestry woven with discovery and delight.

The array of things to do in Corfu is boundless. Whether you’re delving into ancient realms like the Old Fortress or unwinding on the stunning expanse of Rovinia Beach , Corfu offers a wealth of experiences catering to all preferences.

If adrenaline courses through your veins dive into thrilling watersports like jet skiing and windsurfing at Paleokastritsa Beach .

Alternatively, venture to Aqualand Water Park for a splash of aquatic excitement. Corfu Greece beckons as the ultimate playground for an exuberant vacation.

More Sights

Mon Repos Palace in Paleopolis of Corfu

Mon Repos palace lays in Corfu ancient city Paleopolis at Kanoni. Built in 1828 by the British Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam. Birthplace for Duke of Edinburgh Phillip.… Read More

Angelokastro: The Castle Next to Paleokastritsa

Angelokastro was the westernmost outpost of the Byzantine Empire and the Despotate of Epirus to which Corfu belonged until 1267 AD, it is near the village of Krini north of Paleokastritsa.… Read More

Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) – The Top Scenery of Corfu

Everybody knows the picturesque Mouse island or Pontikonisi as the locals call it, at the entrance of Gulf of Halikiopoulos… Read More

Achilleion Palace in Corfu Greece

The beautiful Achilleion Palace was built 10 km from Corfu city, on the top of Gastouri village by Empress Elizabeth of Austria known as sad queen Sisi.… Read More

Paleopolis: We Discover the Ancient City of Corfu

Step into the world of ancient wonders as you embark on an imaginative journey to the heart of Corfu’s past, known as Paleopolis, or the Old City.… Read More

17 Of The Best Museums in Corfu

Due to rich historical and cultural heritage, the museums in Corfu are many and offer a wide variety of exhibits from Neolithic times to the present, there are also cultural museums dedicated to the rich intellectual life of the Ionian Islands, a bright example is Corfu Reading Society.… Read More

Corfu – Aqueduct of Commissioner Frederick Adam in Benitses

On an island like Corfu, with huge rainfall and rich and inexhaustible water table, one would expect that the water supply of the city of Corfu with plenty of good quality water would be an easy task, but this is not the case.… Read More

Ruins of Roman Villa with Baths in Benitses

Roman remains are not something many visitors associate with Corfu, but traveling around you can get glimpses which show you that their occupation was definitely not a quick holiday stop! Many conquerors have left their marks on the island.… Read More

Dive into Corfiot Culture – Year-Round Festivals

The Corfu travel guide offers comprehensive insights into the captivating Corfiot culture.

Immerse yourself in Corfu’s cultural tapestry, uncovering a treasure trove of reports and insights that celebrate the island’s vibrant heritage.

Don’t overlook the wealth of cultural wonders in Corfu . Enrich your experience by attending captivating events like the renowned Corfu Carnival, ensuring your stay is marked by a profound appreciation for its multifaceted allure.

Don’t miss to explore the legacy of Saint Spyridon, the beloved patron saint of Corfu, through historical sites and cultural landmarks dedicated to his memory.

Additionally, our guide offers an abundance of information about the Corfu dialect , replete with a catalog of characteristic Corfiot words that lend a unique charm to the island’s linguistic landscape.

As the sun sets, Corfu’s nightlife unfurls with a contagious vivacity. From spirited bars to pulsating clubs and delectable restaurants, the offerings are as diverse as they are delightful.

You can find info to explore a wealth of knowledge, including detailed accounts of cultural events and celebrations, and an exclusive page dedicated to the famous Corfu Easter .

The guide to Corfu provides a panoramic vista into the island’s culture, peeling back layers of heritage to provide a comprehensive understanding and a presentation of the island’s cultural panorama, a glimpse into the tapestry of events and festivities that color Corfu’s calendar.

More events

Melodic Corfu: A Symphony of Culture, Music, and Beauty

Corfu, the musical heart of Greece, where the very air seems to harmonize with the soulful sounds of music when musical charm doesn’t stop at instruments and performances only.… Read More

Corfu Musical Tradition, Literature, and Intellectuals

There is a long-lasting musical tradition in Corfu called the Ionian School of music, influenced mostly by Italian music and artists.… Read More

Corfu Easter 2020: All Events Canceled Due to Coronavirus Pandemic

For Easter 2020 it would be funny to think about events and celebrations and even more for visitors. After all, to limit the COVID-19 disaster as much as we can, we have no other way than isolation.… Read More

Sagrado – What does this word finally mean?

Have you ever heard of Sagrado? No, not the restaurant in Corfu town, but a term that harkens back to Medieval and Venetian times.… Read More

Corfu Dialect: Interesting Typical Words

This process created the Corfiot dialect, a Greek language with Italian-Greek words that follow Greek grammar and syntax… Read More

Easter in Corfu 2019

Spring Corfu once again awaits this year’s loyal friends of Greece’s top Easter celebrations… Read More

Corfu Easter 2017

Easter for the Orthodox church this year is a little early, on April 16th, so the Sunday of Thomas is on April 9th and the other holidays are on Friday 14th and the second day of Easter on the 17th, the other related to Easter celebrations will continue until the Sunday after Easter on April 23.… Read More

Corfu Easter: Biggest Religious Event

Corfu Easter is the biggest event of the year, held each year in Corfu with glory and splendor … Read More

Holy Week Photos and Events

Celebrations and events in Corfu for Easter are unique, and attract visitors from other parts of Greece who mingle with local people and foreign tourists watching the processions, taking part in the services, and enjoying all the festivities.… Read More

Maps of Corfu and the surrounding places

Our cartographic treasures include expansive maps of Corfu , the town, the venerable old Corfu town, and a selection of bustling tourist havens.

Maps of Corfu Areas and Nearby Islands

Maps of Corfu areas and close to Corfu islands. Paxos – Antipaxos, Diapontia, Sidari, Messonghi and Moraitika, Petriti-Boukari and Kavos.… Read More

Petriti and Boukari map

Map for Petriti and Boukari. These are two small fishing villages on the East coast of Corfu, about 20 miles from the town.… Read More

Sidari map: All the Area Up to Peroulades With Details

This is a large detailed map of the Sidari wide tourist area, from an area near Roda up to Peroulades.… Read More

A map of the Kavos area. The most popular tourist destination on the island among the young British tourists because of its rich and notorious nightlife… Read More

Moraitika and Messonghi map

A map for the tourist area of Messonghi and Moraitika on the southeast side of Corfu. Some of the most touristic development villages of Corfu, with the only sandy beach of Corfu’s East seaside.… Read More

Diapontia Islands Map: Othonoi, Ereikoussa, and Mathraki

A map of Diapontia islands, Othonoi, Ereikoussa and Mathraki, along with some smaller as Diakopo, Diaplo, Karavi, Lipso, etc.… Read More

Benitses Map: Maps of Benitses Wide Area

Benitses maps in large size showing in such detail all small roads, paths, and landscape, this map of Benitses is the only one that exists in such a size.… Read More

Bilingual Corfu Greece Map with English Names

This is a new Map of Corfu island in Greece, all names in Greek and English language.… Read More

A new useful map that shows the type of beaches in Corfu, large sandy, organized sandy, pebbles, sand and pebble, small and isolated sandy or pebble e.t.c.… Read More

Restaurants and Bars

Dabble in Corfu cuisine , a tantalizing journey best savored through the authentic recipes we share.

Indulge in a culinary exploration that reveals the essence of Corfiot flavors, perhaps by savoring the culinary artistry at the island’s finest dining establishments .

More Restaurants

Captain Octopus: Seafood Restaurant in Benitses Corfu

When tradition meets quality we have an amazing result in the restaurant – taverna of Captain Octopus.… Read More

Pizza House Kavouras: Simply the Best Pizza in Corfu

The Pizzeria Kavouras is located on the main street of Benitses, across the north side of the harbor and right next to the pharmacy in Benitses.… Read More

Restaurant – Fish Taverna Klimataria Benitses

The restaurant – fish taverna Klimataria is a small family business of Nikos and Lily Bellos. The Arbor opened in February 1997 and is open from February to November… Read More

Lotza Lounge Cafe in Benitses

Enjoy your coffee or drink in the center of Benitses Square, An unforgettable experience… Read More

Sunshine Cafe Bar, Creperie

A quiet bar during the day time where you can relax and enjoy your coffee by the sea turns into a lively bar at night, enjoy a unique cocktail with unique music that differs… Read More

Stratos Taverna – Restaurant – Grill Room in Benitses Corfu

In Benitses, 50 meters from the entrance to the marina, on the highway, With a nice interior room and a comfortable summer flower-filled courtyard… Read More

Paxinos Restaurant, Grill Room in Benitses

One of the best restaurants in Corfu, restaurant, and grill specializing in the delicacies of local Corfiot cuisine and fresh fish… Read More

The Old Town of Corfu

The adventure begins in Corfu Old Town , This is the main town on the island and is a picturesque blend of Byzantine and Venetian-style buildings adorned in amber and rose hues.

Vibrant and eclectic, the town boasts influences from French, Venetian, and British cultures, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Here you can explore the labyrinthine streets on a guided walking tour, immersing yourself in its array of churches, museums, and quaint shops.

Among the highlights is the revered Church of Saint Spyridon, where the air is perfumed with incense and the relics of the esteemed saint are revered.

Wander the cobblestone streets to immerse yourself in the enduring Venetian essence preserved in the old town’s fabric.

In its midst lies a medieval town, a time capsule that resonates with the past, while the bustling villages and vibrant tourist hotspots exude a unique allure, crowned with Greece’s most vibrant nightlife.

Tip: Be sure not to overlook a day spent in Kerkyra’s old town, where the historic Esplanade square exudes charm, accompanied by a lineup of inviting bars and taverns along Liston.

More about Corfu town

Beaches in Corfu Town

Although Corfu Town is not the best place for swimming, there are a few smaller “city beaches” in the city, they are a bit cramped and not the most kid-friendly but good enough for you to swim while in Corfu town.… Read More

Corfu Old Town: A Journey Through Time and Culture

Corfu old town is a beautiful city influenced by the 411 years of Venetian rule, is the only city and the capital of Corfu island, and it is called Kerkyra.… Read More

Corfu Town Hall: The San Giacomo Theatre

Nestled at the vibrant crossroads of Eugeniou Voulgareos and M. Theotoki streets, Corfu Town Hall stands as an architectural masterpiece with an intriguing history.… Read More

Esplanade (Spianada) Square and Liston in Corfu

The Esplanade or Spianada is the central square of Corfu and a meeting place for residents and visitors, it is the largest square in the Balkans and one of the largest in Europe… Read More

The Palace of St. Michael and St. George

During the era of the British rule in Corfu, High Commissioner Sir Frederick Adams in 1819 decided to build the Palace of Saint Michael and George… Read More

Corfu New Fortress: A Venetian Fortification Masterpiece

Another example of the high capacity of Venetians in fortification, and an architectural marvel of art built by the Venetians and with the physical labor of the inhabitants from 1576 until 1645… Read More

Corfu Old Fortress And The Old British Hospital

This was originally a natural promontory offering in its rocks protection for the residents of the 5th century AD when the ancient city of Corfu was moved here after the destruction of the ancient city by the Visigoths.… Read More

The Bell Tower of Annunziata in Corfu

Annunziata, a monument of pan-European significance. At the intersection of Evgeniou Voulgareos and Vrahliotis streets in Corfu, is the Annunziata, a church devoted to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary as well as to Santa Luccia, it was the Catholic Church of Lontsiada as the Corfiots knew it.… Read More

Corfu Town in the Winter

A stroll through the old part of town in the evening once the visitors have departed reveals a completely different place to the thriving metropolis seen on a summer’s morning. Leave the Esplanade and walk along St Spyridon’s street… Read More

Corfu Journey through Photos & Videos

Behold an extensive gallery, Corfu travel guide boasts thousands of fresh Corfu photographs that capture the island’s contemporary allure.

Delve into history as you browse through hundreds of historical black-and-white images from Corfu, along with iconic snapshots from Greece ‘s early 20th-century milieu.

Engage with our cornucopia of images, where both old and new harmonize, granting you a glimpse into Corfu’s past  at the dawn of the 20th century.

More Photos

Featured Photos from Corfu Island

Unique large size Photos of Corfu… Read More

Corfu Photos – Pictures of Corfu Town, Beaches and Landscapes

Here there are dozens of Corfu photos of a great variety of places in Corfu, there are pictures of Corfu Town, and of major beaches… Read More

Corfu Photos – Pictures of Corfu Landscapes (2nd Group)

The second group of full-size pictures from various places in Corfu, there are pictures of the major beaches, aerial photos etc… Read More

Corfu Photos and Landscapes (3rd Group)

The third group with dozens of full-size pictures from various places of Corfu, pictures of Esplanade square, of the buildings inside the old fortress and more… Read More

50+ Old Corfu Photos of 20th Century – Group B

60 more old black and white photos from Corfu island taken 100 years ago at the beginning of 20th century… Read More

50+ Old Corfu Photos of 20th Century – Group A

More old photos mainly from Corfu town of the first quarter of the 20th century are following… Read More

Corfu Old Photos – Corfu of 1900 Through Unique Photos

Rulers and especially important people may write history, but ordinary people are the ones who actually make it… Read More

A section dedicated to Benitses

Corfu Travel guide keeps this special section with posts about everything in Benitses, a charming village in Corfu , that played a pivotal role in the island’s tourism history.

Benitses was the first to welcome tourists in the mid-20th century, setting the stage for Corfu’s emergence as a popular travel destination, this village’s historic appeal, natural beauty, and proximity to Corfu town and the airport made it an ideal starting point for exploring the island.

In the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, Benitses attracted the rich and famous searching for a traditional and beautiful retreat.

More about Benitses

6 Reasons To Visit The Village of Benitses Corfu

Benitses was the first tourist destination on Corfu since the 1960s. But why you should visit Benitses now? We give you at least 6 good reasons to do it!… Read More

Corfu Sea Shell Museum in Benitses

In Benitses there was the Corfu shell museum with one of Europe’s largest collections of shells and other marine species.… Read More

This is How Benitses Port Looked Back in 1981

This Benitses picture of 1981 shows the entire area of Benitses almost from Koutsomaroula bay up to Laopetra, seems to been pulled from the base of the then old pier in the harbor… Read More

The Old Historic Buildings of Benitses

Benitses has some very old and beautiful buildings, some of them more than 5 centuries old. We tried to collect as many information we could about the most important of them… Read More

Property Sales and Rentals in Benitses

Here are adverts for property sales and rentals in Benitses, mainly apartments, rooms, and stores… Read More

See How Benitses Square Should Look After a Reshaping

We see below some pictures – maquettes from the square in Benitses. It is about the complete rehabilitation of the existing internal road with a pedestrian square… Read More

Benitses Nightlife: Clubs and Bars

Benitses Nightlife, Corfu nightlife, what are the nightclubs, pubs, bars and how lively is the night out in Benitses today, is it intense or low profile?… Read More

Benitses Corfu of The 60s to 80s and The Legendary ‘Spiros on the Beach’

Many were wealthy and famous and were looking for beautiful traditional places such as Benitses… Read More

Get to know the rest of Greece.

AtCorfu is also a Corfu Greece Travel Guide that offers a Blog for a comprehensive exploration of Greece , Providing insights into the country’s beauty, history, and culture, along with travel tips and practical information for travelers.

You can learn about Greece’s captivating landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

The guide covers gateways to the habits, accommodations, and activities. It also immerses you in Greek culture, offers a glimpse into its heritage, and provides a wealth of images, both old and new, to enhance your understanding of the land’s history and charm.

Whether you seek historical sites, watersports, or local gems, We promise you an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered.

More about Greece

The Best of Western Crete in One Week

This road trip itinerary is designed for people who want to explore the best of Western Crete in just one week.… Read More

Ultimate Hopping Guide to the Greek Ionian Islands

Ready to dive into the stunning world of the Greek Ionian Islands? Get ready for a journey that blends emerald crystal-clear waters, ancient history, and heartwarming culture.… Read More

Ultimate Aegean Islands Hopping Guide: Discovering Greek Paradise

Can you feel the excitement in the air? We’re about to embark on a journey through crystal-clear waters and visit 6 of the best Greek islands.… Read More

Unique Things to Do in Rhodes Island

As one of the largest islands in the country, Rhodes Island is renowned all over the world for its out-of-this-world wonders of nature, ancient archaeological sites, and lovely beaches.… Read More

Guide to Santorini: The Most Iconic Greek Island

Let’s talk about a Greek island that’s like a dream dipped in reality – Santorini. If you believe in magic, well, you’re in for a treat.… Read More

Why Do Greeks Use To Eat Late At Night?

Many people who come to Greece for vacation wonder why they see that all the restaurants are full late at night.… Read More

Greece’s Most Beautiful Beaches in 2023

The beaches of Greece are a paradise for beach lovers. So, we’ve put together a list of our favorite Greek beaches to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful country.… Read More

Visitor’s Guide to the Acropolis of Athens

No visit to Greece is complete without a trip to the Acropolis of Athens. Read our guide for insider tips and handy information to get the most out of your trip and see ancient history come alive.… Read More

Athens Greece: The Best Free Things to Do in the Greek Capital

Athens is a vibrant and dynamic city where you can find and enjoy free tourist spots in this Greek capital.… Read More

The 13 best things to do in Corfu

T here’s more to Corfu than its comely beaches. Dig deeper and you will uncover many centuries of history in and around the cobblestoned old town capital, dating from antiquity to the present day. One of Greece’s most lush islands, this Ionian jewel is made for hiking enthusiasts and there are marked trails everywhere you look. On the western and northern coasts strikingly sculpted cliffs, some bare and others verdant, plunge down to cerulean seas. Visit a functioning hilltop monastery that enjoys eye-wateringly beautiful sea views. In an isolated inland village see age-old olive groves and learn how to identify high quality extra virgin olive oil.

For further Corfu inspiration, see our guides to the island's best  hotels ,  restaurants ,  beaches  and  nightlife . 

Find things to do by area

Corfu old town, north-east corfu, north-west corfu, northern corfu, southern corfu, nearby islands, peel back the layers of time.

Four centuries of Venetian rule mostly shaped the Old Town of Corfu into the Unesco World Heritage-listed stunner it is today. Lose yourself in the alleyways of the atmospheric Campiello neighbourhood, where laundry hangs between pastel-coloured dwellings; pay your respects to the isle’s patron saint at Agios Spyridon church; and linger in the shade of trees at a café in the elegant Liston Arcade.

Insider’s tip:  Go for a sunset stroll along the coastal road from the old port past the Mouragia area and see neoclassical buildings bathed in golden light. Conclude your walk at sprawling Spianada Square, which comes alive with youthful laughter every evening.

Scale a fortress for unrivalled views

Built by the Venetians in the 14th century and expanded by the British, the Old Fortress is strategically situated on a peninsula with twin craggy peaks at the mouth of the Adriatic Sea. Not only does it represent notable military engineering, but the views of the surrounding sea and Old Town from the taller of its two towers are spectacular.

Insider’s tip: When the weather is warm, join locals taking a dip at tiny Limanaki beach at the foot of the monument. Afterwards, enjoy a cool beer or juice at the nearby Corfu Sailing Club and admire the sailboats moored at Mandraki port.  

Contact:   odysseus.culture.gr

Unearth a rich culinary heritage

For an in-depth exploration of Corfu’s Venetian-influenced culinary heritage, look to island-born and -raised siblings Ariti and Nausica Katsarou, who run engaging small group and private food tours of the Old Town. Down tiny backstreets you’ll meet gastronomic vanguards who explain how delicacies like cold cut nouboulo, a nod to Italian prosciutto, are produced. Reserve room for tasty meze and sweet delights from an old-school dairy.

Insider’s tip: If you visit during Easter, the Katsarou sisters will go into detail on the traditions involved in the island’s colourful celebrations, such as pot-smashing. While you’re there, pick up fogatsa or kolombina, two types of local brioche made for the annual holiday.  

Contact: corfuwalkingtours.com

Visit a palace built atop an ancient city

British Lord High Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam built a palace, later named Mon Repos, in 1831 as a summer residence for his Corfiot wife, Diamantina Palatianou. Today, the neoclassical villa functions as a museum comprising 14 halls, whose key attraction is a bounty of rare finds from the 8th century BC city of Paleopolis, the remnants of which are evident throughout the densely-vegetated estate.

Insider’s tip: With tall trees for shade, this is the perfect spot for a picnic on a hot summer’s day. Don’t miss the Doric temple of Kardaki, one of Corfu’s best preserved ancient sites, and seek out the eponymous hidden beach nearby.

Contact: odysseus.culture.gr

Drop anchor in a secluded bay

No visit to Corfu is complete without hiring a motorboat to explore the coastline at your own speed – San Stefano Boats is one pick amongst many. The northeastern coast in particular is blessed with endless sheltered beaches, bays and coves, some of which are – gloriously – only accessible by sea. Find a tranquil location where you can dive into emerald waters before heading for lunch at a waterfront taverna.

Insider’s tip: Head north to the little-visited, thickly-forested Erimitis headland, an area of outstanding natural beauty. There you’ll come across a sextet of serene beaches and three small lakes. Keep an eye out for the Kaparelli lighthouse, built on a rocky islet.

Contact:   sanstefanoboats.com

Hike the Corfu Trail

Hilary Paipeti is something of a local legend. In 2001, she established the Corfu Trail, the island’s 137-mile (220km) waymarked route, after years spent exploring and discovering the diversity of the island's countryside and coastline. The trail, painstakingly documented in a book , extends from Arkoudilas in the south to Cape Agia Ekaterini in the north. Spring is ideal hiking season in Corfu.

Insider’s tip: Expert guides Alexandros Gogas and Dimitris Ionas, of Corfu Sea Land Activities, offer varied hiking experiences for all fitness levels. They’ll lead you through olive groves, past chapels, beneath mighty Mount Pantokrator and along cobbled footpaths.

Contact:   corfuactivities.com

Prices: The Companion Guide to the Corfu Trail, £; Corfu Sea Land Activities, £

Take in heavenly views from a monastery

Wherever you stay in Corfu, the leafy resort town of Paleokastritsa is a must-see. Visit its hilltop monastery, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which was built in the 13th century. From there, take in jaw-dropping views of sweeping bays, coves and fertile bluffs that rise up from a turquoise Ionian Sea. There is a museum displaying rare Byzantine icons and relics, and a shop on-site too.

Insider’s tip: Morning mass, open to the public, is held 7am-8.30am and offers a moment for quiet contemplation before the cruise crowds show up. Wait until the monastery closes at 1pm to access the two main viewpoints, reached by a dirt path.

Contact:  imcorfu.gr

Prices: Free

Uncover a hidden lake

Take a break from driving the island’s winding roads and let Yiannis and Sakis, the guides behind X Adventure Club, show you around the Corfu they know and love on a six-hour jeep tour. Pick the northwest option, which takes in the villages of Lakones and Afionas, views of Paleokastritsa and Porto Timoni’s twin beaches, along with the dramatic spires of Cape Drastis.

Insider’s tip: You’ll make a brief stop at Kavourolimni (Crab Lake), little known even among Corfiots. Surrounded by tall oak trees, this watering hole for local wildlife is home to freshwater crabs. In Spring the lake’s shores are ablaze with wildflowers.

Contact:   jeepsafaricorfu.com

Prices: £££

Dive into living colour

Corfu offers some of Greece’s most spectacular scuba diving. Newbie and experienced divers will enjoy inspecting various dive sites with operatators such as Achilleon Diving, particularly on the western coast, offering visibility of up to 30 metres. Expect vibrant reefs, soft corals, caverns, caves, canyons, arches, steep drops, shipwrecks and narrow passages. You’re likely to encounter barracuda, moray eels, octopus, shrimp, grouper, crayfish and sea bream.

Insider’s tip: Don’t miss out on Colovri islet with its two remarkable outer reefs teeming with marine life such as tuna, jacks, anthia and nudibranch. There is a precipitous drop, a swim-through and a coral-covered plateau at a depth of 40m.

Contact:   diving-corfu.com

Prices: Varies between dive centres

Witness the beauty of a natural sculpture

A 12-minute drive west of Sidari is Cape Drastis, a striking, untouched landscape of sheer sandstone cliffs shaped by the wind and aquamarine waters. It’s more impressive than the tourist-clogged Canal d’Amour and fewer people know of it or make the trek. Park your car and walk down a rough road to capture this incredible location, which is particularly worth viewing at sunset.

Insider’s tip: At the end of the road is minuscule Grava Cove, from where you can dive into cool, translucent waters from flat rocks. Alternatively, book a private boat tour with Sidari-based Fortuna Sea Tours , involving swim stops at Cape Drastis and Grava.

Contact: fortunaseatours.com

Ride a horse on mountain trails and beaches

When it comes to horse riding in Greece, Corfu ticks all the boxes. Routes wind through olive groves, cypress, oak and pine forests and traditional villages down to beaches with sapphire waters. Choose from trail and beach rides, lessons and even swimming with horses. Whether you’re a novice or experienced, Arena Horse Riding has a trusty steed at the ready, with names like Hermes and Dias (Zeus). Based near Perithia village, Katerina Maliaki and Ilias Siriotis lovingly maintain a herd of 21 horses, many of them rescues. The couple offers rides of between 10 minutes for young children and a full day. 

Insider’s tip:  Five-day horse riding holidays encompass natural horsemanship seminars and, for the advanced, show jumping and cross-country jumping.

Contact: horseridingcorfu.com

Prices: £-££

Learn the secrets of olive oil

Brothers Spyros and George Dafnis have single-handedly put Corfu and its Lianolia olive variety on the extra virgin olive oil map. Book a tasting tour of their estate, The Governor, and see how the third-generation olive oil producers have married tradition and technology to create premium EVOO. You’ll visit olive groves, see a 15th-century mill and sample the exquisite golden elixir.  

Insider’s tip:  After learning how to recognise great olive oil, you can buy a limited edition early harvest oil, also available from The Olive House in Corfu Town, certified for its health-enhancing properties.

Contact: thegovernor.gr

Follow in the footsteps of the Durrells

The Durrells devotees shouldn’t miss the opportunity to take in the illustrious filming locations of the much-loved series on a cinematic tour offered on private-basis only by The Corfu Experience. From the Kanoni peninsula, you’ll see the 17th-century Vlacherna Monastery and Mouse Island. Visualise Countess Mavrodaki strolling around Mon Repos Palace and a young Gerry examining the plant and bird species of Antiniotissa Lake.

Insider’s tip: Lunch is on the water at the White House in Kalami, where Lawrence Durrell and his wife Nancy resided in the 1930s. Peruse the faded photographs and treasured memorabilia gracing the elegant restaurant’s indoor section.

Contact:   thecorfuexperience.com

Sail off into the sunset

With its protected anchorages and calm waters, the Ionian Sea has long been a magnet for sailing enthusiasts. Schedule a day charter or week-long skippered sailing trip aboard 50-foot Icarus with Celebration Charters, run by Scottish couple Robert and Veronica Queen, and see what it’s like to cast across the big blue, powered by Aeolus.

Insider’s tip:  The diminutive, lesser-known Diapontia islets of Erikoussa, Othoni and Mathraki, which lie north of Corfu, are a dream sailing destination. Sandy umbrella-free beaches, sleepy villages, herb-scented hills and an exotic aquamarine playground await.

Contact:   celebrationcharters.co.uk

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