However, that’s not so strange, as the two countries often come together in history. In fact, from medieval times to the 17th century, the island formed a barrier for the Venetians in their defense against the Ottoman Empire. So, instead of the typical white streets and blue domes, you’re met with orange-roofed, colorful buildings — something that truly surprised us!
1. Explore Corfu Town (Kerkyra)
Kerkyra is the capital of Corfu, located on the east side of the island. Known for its cobblestone streets and pastel-colored Venetian architecture, it’s one of the best places to discover.
Simply stroll through the streets, soaking up all the lovely details on the warm buildings. You’ll notice many arches, beautiful facades, and lovely (souvenir) shops selling everything from beautiful wooden kitchen tools to linen clothing.
In the evening, everyone dresses up and makes their way to restaurants adorned with flowers. Listen to the street artists singing while you enjoy your saganaki (baked cheese — our favorite!) and refreshing drink on the terrace. Finish up the day by grabbing a delicious gelato after (a must).
2. Faliraki Beach (must-do in Corfu, Greece)
One of Hannah’s favorite memories was going for a swim at Faliraki Beach. Located on the edge of Kerkyra (Corfu Town), you couldn’t ask for a more Mediterranean atmosphere. This swimming spot had the ultimate European summer vibes, with everyone basking in the sun along the water.
There’s no real beach, but you can access the water from the stone stairs beside it. Chill in the open square with your own drinks and snacks, or head over to Imabari Corfu, a lovely restaurant where you can relax for the day. However, if you want a daybed with an umbrella, it’s a good idea to book those via their website (here’s the link).
The clear water is perfectly refreshing on hot summer days, making this a popular spot. We’ve gone here many times, even for a night swim after dinner! It was pitch black then, but there was just enough light to see where you were swimming. Plus, the lit-up Old Fortress is right in the background — truly something magical!
Within the walls are two fortified peaks, a Venetian prison, a large building housing barracks from during the English Rule, and the church of St. George (Agios Georgios). This is an incredible spot to witness during sunset, with panoramic views across the Ionian Sea and UNESCO Corfu Town.
4. Garden of the People
Alongside Faliraki Beach lies a picturesque garden that offers some of the most stunning views across the sea and fortress. Back in the day, it was only the nobles who could savor its peaceful beauty. However, many years after it was built, access became free to everybody, giving it the name ‘the Garden of the People’.
The garden is free to visit, and at its edge, you’ll find ‘the Queen Ladder’, another original remnant: a spiral staircase built against the walls of the cliff. Though it’s not accessible, it’s still impressive to look at.
5. Afionas Village (Top Thing to Do in Corfu, Greece)
One of the oldest villages in Corfu is Afionas, with charming, well-kept houses that are overgrown with beautiful Bougainvillea flowers. It’s located atop a high rocky peninsula on the island’s northwest side and is a must-see when exploring Corfu, Greece.
We also found a couple of incredible restaurants and cafes at the top of the village; some of them are amazing to watch the sunset! Here are a few of our favorites:
- Anafoufou
- Luuma Afionas
- The Night Owl
6. Porto Timoni Beach + Viewpoint
Porto Timoni, famed for its twin beaches, each with a different shade of bright blue water, is one of the best things to do in Corfu, Greece. When we first caught a glimpse of this site, we honestly thought we found ourselves in Thailand. Lush, rocky hills line the turquoise bays here, giving the area an almost tropical feel.
On either side of a narrow strip of land, you’ll find an undeveloped, sandy beach. And, although they’re close to one another, they’re very different, both in color and temperature. Both make an incredible place to relax or snorkel, with plenty of marine life to see! There are no facilities here, so make sure to bring water and snacks.
Tip: Other incredible small beaches on the island’s northern side are Canal d’amour and Cape Drastis.
From Afionas Village
Start your hike at Canteen Afionas Corfu, where you can grab a sandwich and take it to the beach. Go straight and walk for about 5 minutes until you see a wooden sign pointing to the beach (left) or towards the viewpoint (right).
Tips:
- Wear proper shoes, not flip-flops. The gravel path can be pretty steep down to the beach! Hannah told me to wear proper shoes for this hike but ended up forgetting to do that herself, having to do the whole hike on flip-flops :’). She was not amused, to say the least, but the view made up for it, haha.
- The beach has no facilities, so bring enough water and snacks.
- It can get really hot during the day (38 degrees in summer), so it is best to do this hike in the early morning or late afternoon.
From Agios Georgios Beach
If you don’t want to hike to the beach, you can get a little taxi boat from Agios Georgios Beach for about 15 EUR per person. Alternatively, you can rent a private boat (you don’t need a license) and make your way there yourself. Note: If you want to see the viewpoint, you still have to hike all the way up.
But, although finding a random beach is an incredible experience, it’s also really nice to spend a day relaxing at a buzzing beach bar. Corfu has many dotted along its beaches, but our favorites were:
Akron Beach Bar
It’s a super relaxed beach bar with comfortable daybeds and umbrellas in a stunning turquoise bay. We recommend booking your beds in advance through their website (here’s the link).
La Grotta Bar
Built into the cliff, this isn’t your typical beach bar but a cool hangout spot if you’re looking for a bit more of an upbeat location. With music playing, you’ll see many people jumping off a diving board or the cliffs.
Imabari Corfu
For the ultimate Mediterranean vibes, this is the place to be! Located on the edge of Corfu Town, this relaxed spot has a view of the impressive fortress and directly aligns with the refreshing sea. There’s no beach here, but you can access the water via a little staircase. Tip: It’s also a lovely place to visit in the evening!
8. Monastery of Paleokastritsa
The Paleokastritsa Monastery is one of the oldest in Corfu, dating all the way back to 1225. This stunning, soft-yellow complex is one of the best things to do in Corfu because of both its views and history. Built on the island’s western side, along the bay of Paleokastritsa, you’ll drive upwards through lush green groves of tall Cypress and olive trees to access it.
Once you get to the monastery, you’ll be met with beautiful, frescoed alleys, lots of flowers, and incredible views over the Ionian Sea. Inside, there’s a church, a museum that houses Byzantine relics and holy books, an original oil press, and a few shops selling local products like wine and kumquat jam.
The monastery is an active religious site, so the dress code is modest. Women’s shoulders and legs need to be covered; a free shawl is provided at the entrance. Please note that there’s also a monastic code of silence, so keep your voice down. It’s open daily from 7 AM till 1 PM and again from 3 – 8 PM. Entrance is free, but donations are always welcome.
Book this day trip to Paleokastritsa, including a visit to the monastery, beaches, and sea caves.
9. Rovinia Beach: a Must-Visit in Corfu, Greece
This stunning white pebble beach lies tucked in a little cove and is by far one of the best things to do in Corfu, Greece. It was Hannah’s favorite beach: stunning, with no facilities other than a small, wooden canteen boat where you can buy cold drinks and snacks.
It’s a popular place, but it’s easy to see why when you walk down from the parking lot. Up ahead lies nothing but beautiful blue water, cliffs covered in green, and a peaceful little beach. Many bring their own picnic, towel, and umbrella to enjoy the day together. This is also a great place to go cliff-jumping and explore the sea cave on the left.
Route: It’s about a 15-minute walk to get to the beach from the parking lot. You’ll come past a stunning viewpoint of neighboring Liapedes Beach and the lush green cliffsides. Parking costs 4 EUR for a car and 2 EUR for a motorbike. Tip: Try to get there before 9.30 AM during high season if you come by car.
It’s a prime spot to visit, with lots of good restaurants and beach bars along the water. Many offer comfortable day beds with umbrellas for a good price, sometimes even for free if you order something. Alongside the beach, a Jurrasic-like mountain emerges from the sea, with lush green trees sprawling over the rock. This was Nick’s favorite beach, and it’s a great place to relax fully.
Must-read: best things to do in Kefalonia, Greece.
11. Explore the Island by ATV
From Agios Gordios, on the west side of Corfu, Greece, explore the island with a local guide by ATV. This is one of the best ways to see Corfu, zooming past incredible shores, historic towns, and lush shrubs.
Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch and a swim on a quiet beach before continuing inland to visit a few hilltop villages. Follow steep roads that lead between remote vineyards and beautiful tree orchards toward historic churches. You have some of the best views of the island and sea from here! This is a great way to discover some of Corfu’s hidden gems.
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The Boua Family reconstructed the area back to a traditional Corfiot village from the 1930s after an earthquake almost destroyed it in the 50s. They turned it into a picturesque set with two grand squares, a cafe, a few restaurants, a museum full of Corfu’s history, and souvenir shops. The museum is open from 10 AM – 10 PM.
However, the best experience here is from 7 – 10 PM (Tuesday – Sunday), when you can experience a shared Greek dinner in the village square. Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine with fresh, organic produce and a lovely glass of wine while the moon slowly rises.
13. Rent a Boat
One of our favorite moments from our time in Corfu, Greece, was when we had the chance to explore the sea’s crystal-clear waters by ourselves. We simply rented a self-drive boat along the coast of Paleokastrista, packed some drinks, snacks, swimwear, and sunscreen, and headed out for the day.
Renting a boat in Corfu allows you to explore incredible beaches away from the crowds. Some amazing spots to go to are Limni Beach Glyko, IIliodoros Beach, Chomu Beach, Stelari Beach, and incredible caves in between. Many of these aren’t accessible by foot, making it likely you’re the only one there!
Although we didn’t book in advance, during the summer, it’s definitely wise to do so as it’s common they’re all rented out. We drove along the main road of Paleokastrista and stopped to ask every boat rental company till we finally had one. A 5-person boat, including a cooler, cost us 140 EUR for 4 hours.
14. Day Trip to Butrint National Park, Albania
Nestled in the forest on the southern border of neighboring country Albania lies one of the most impressive locations to visit: Butrint National Park. This protected UNESCO park is a time portal, offering a glimpse into various ages of history. It’s a popular day trip from Corfu and holds many Greek remains, making it a fun location to add to your itinerary.
Unlike any other historical site in the Mediterranean, Butrint has been able to preserve both its archaeology and nature. Because of this, you’ll find beautiful remains tucked between luscious greenery that’s been there for centuries. From buildings dating back to the Iron Age until the last influences of the Ottoman Empire, there’s much to see in this green corner.
15. Day Trip to Paxos and Anti Paxos
Escape to the neighboring islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, a perfect day trip from Corfu for those looking to see more of the Ionian beauty. Start your adventure with a scenic boat ride from Corfu, winding through the waves until you reach the lush, green island of Paxos. Here, stroll through the charming streets of Gaios, the island’s main port, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.
Grab a coffee at a local café and explore hidden gems like the ancient olive groves or the sea caves that hug the coastline. Paxos is known for its vibrant underwater world, making it also a great destination for snorkeling.
After Paxos, set sail to the smaller but equally beautiful island of Antipaxos. This paradise is known for its pristine beaches, where turquoise water meets soft, white sand. Spend your time lounging on Voutomi Beach or cool off in the crystal-clear waters. The island is small enough to explore by foot and, therefore, one of the best things to do on a day trip from Corfu, Greece.
16. Olive Oil Tasting
Immerse yourself in Corfu’s rich history by joining an olive oil-tasting experience. Wander among the olive groves, many of which are over 500 years old, and learn about the traditional methods used to produce the celebrated Greek olive oil. This is one of the best things to do in Corfu, Greece.
At the tasting, you get to dive into the distinct flavors of Corfiot olives, from robust and peppery to smoother buttery oils. Each tells their own story of the island’s sun-drenched landscape and rich soil. During the tasting, you get to pair the olive oils with fresh bread, local cheese (feta!), and wine while a knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights into the cultivation process. A must-do!
Where to Stay
With so many beautiful locations on the island, there’s no wrong area to stay in. Especially if you’re traveling Corfu by car, it’s easy to get from place to place. We stayed in a hotel in Corfu Town and Paleokastritsa, but there are many other incredible options on the island.
Tip: During summer, it’s worth having a property that either has a pool or a beach nearby, as it can get very hot during the day!
Choose Kerkyra (Corfu Town) if you’re looking for history, culture, and nightlife all in one place. This is the island’s capital city and is perfect if you want to explore its museums, Old Fortress, and Venetian architecture. It’s also the best place to go shopping, dining, and clubbing.
Paleokastritsa is a perfect option because of its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and lush hills. It’s ideal for beach lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or boat trips.
For nightlife and budget travel, choose to stay in Kavos instead. This is a great spot for younger travelers and party-goers (more budget-friendly, too!). Alternatively, for more of a laid-back atmosphere in the hills, a hotel in Agios Gordios is a fantastic option. Great for couples looking for a bit more quiet!
How Many Days in Corfu?
Corfu, Greece, is a beautiful island to explore. We believe that 5-7 days is the perfect amount of time to see it all. Unfortunately, we couldn’t see all of it due to the heat and feeling a bit under the weather. However, seven days give you plenty of time to see all the main sights and properly relax as well.
How to Visit Corfu, Greece
This is one of Greece’s more popular islands, so Corfu Town has an international airport with many connections during the summer months. From there, it’s only a 10-minute drive into town by bus, taxi, uber, or rental car.
Getting Around
By Car
If you want to explore places around the whole island, we recommend renting a car. A car gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel at your own pace. You can also rent a quad or motorbike, but remember that the sun is very strong, especially in the summer.
We recommend to rent a car in Greece through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Parking (4-10 EUR) can be an issue during the summer months, especially around the popular spots. For that reason, alternative transportation might be better depending on where you’re traveling to. Taxi, Uber, or organized tours are other great options to get around the island.
Tip: Island-hopping in Greece? Make sure to add the nearby beautiful islands of Kefalonia and Zakynthos to your trip after exploring Corfu!
By Bus
Alternatively, you can get around by bus for a more budget-friendly option. There are two kinds of buses in Corfu: the city buses (blue colored) and the intercity buses (green). Buses go to most areas of the island, including tourist beaches, villages, the airport, and ports. You can grab a timetable sheet at the central bus station (San Rocco Square).
Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines, kiosks, or on the bus (only in remote areas). It’s also possible to get a day ticket for 5 EUR.
Budget
Compared to popular Greek destinations like Santorini or Mykonos, Corfu offers a much more affordable experience. However, you can make it as luxurious or budget-friendly as you like. Your biggest expense will be accommodation, but outside the summer season, this is a lot cheaper as well.
All across the island, you’ll find lovely tavernas with beautiful views and good vibes that are iconic to Greece. Like Tavernaki Green Stone on Saint Gordios Beach (Hannah’s favorite!), which has delicious local food and an amazing water view. Tip: In summer, you might need to book a table at popular restaurants in advance.
These were our favorite spots in Kerkyra:
- Sagrado Corfu
- Favela Nº17
- Diporto
- Di Santo Premium Sandwiches
- Arthaus Cafe
- Mikro Cafe
- Imabari Corfu
- Bizou Cafe & Antiques
- To Tsipouradiko
- Kumquat
Our favorites on the rest of the island:
- Tavernaki Green Stone (Saint Gordios)
- Ambelonas Corfu
- Anafoufou (Afionas)
- Panorama Kommeno
- 7th heaven (Peroulades)
- Il Pozzo Corfu (Lakones)
- The Night Owl (Afionas)
It’s also worth joining a food tour through the city, learning about the town’s history and relationship with their local products!
Best Time to Visit Corfu, Greece
The best time to visit Corfu is between May and October when the island comes alive with warm sunshine and clear, blue skies. In spring, the island is a lush, green paradise with wildflowers in full bloom. Summer offers long, hot days perfect for beach-hopping and swimming in the crystal clear waters.
We visited during the high summer season (August), and although it’s busy, it’s not as crowded as other islands in Greece, such as Santorini. However, it does get very hot during the day, meaning you’ll be trying to stay in the shade. We went out between 8 AM – 1 PM and then from 5 PM on again. Because of this, shoulder seasons might be better: slightly cooler, less busy, and more affordable.
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