A beginner's guide to Corfu, Greece

Corfu was among the first popular Greek holiday spots, and it continues to be a favorite.

Nestled in the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, the island boasts a rich history, stunning architecture influenced by Venetian, French, and British styles, lush landscapes, diverse coastlines with exquisite beaches, delightful cuisine, lively nightlife, and warm, music-loving residents.

Use our beginner's guide to plan your trip to Corfu.

When is the best time to visit Corfu?

Corfu's Mediterranean climate makes it a year-round destination, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences in every season.

The peak season (June to September) is hot and bustling, with hundreds of thousands of tourists visiting the island. Spring and autumn are more serene, featuring pleasantly warm weather and reasonable prices. While winters can be rainy, they allow visitors to experience the island's true essence, engage with locals, and enjoy an authentic Greek atmosphere.

Easter is particularly remarkable for a unique cultural experience, marked by a week of solemnity followed by joyous chaos, with church bells ringing and clay pots being tossed from balconies to shatter on the cobblestones below. The booming cannonade from the fort blends with the beautiful music of the island’s 18 philharmonic orchestras, creating an exhilarating ambiance that celebrates life’s triumph over death.

The local carnival festivities in February mirror those of Venice, drawing large crowds and providing a fantastic opportunity for celebration and merriment.

How long should I stay in Corfu?

Visitors are sure to have a fulfilling experience, whether for a long weekend or a complete two-week getaway. The Old Town, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is ideal for those with limited time. Here, you can wander through stunning alleyways and squares, appreciate the unique blend of architecture, explore numerous museums, enjoy local cuisine in charming restaurants, and partake in the lively nightlife.

For extended stays, the island's lush landscapes and exceptional beaches provide a wide range of activities, from pure relaxation to thrilling adventures.

Is it convenient to travel to and within Corfu?

Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport serves as Corfu's main gateway, named after the island's first governor. It offers numerous daily flights to and from Athens throughout the year. During peak tourist season, the airport sees a steady influx of charter flights, making it one of Greece's busiest.

Ferries run daily between Corfu and Igoumenitsa on the mainland, with additional services to the Italian cities of Brindisi, Bari, and Ancona during the summer months. There are also frequent connections to other Ionian islands and Saranda, Albania.

Public transportation on the island is excellent, with blue city buses and green intercity KTEL services reaching even the most remote villages and beaches. Extra services are available during the peak months.

Taxis are readily available, offering a more flexible and comfortable travel option, though they can be expensive. However, for the best experience of Corfu, renting a car is highly recommended, as many reliable rental companies operate on the island.

Essential experiences on Corfu

There are several must-see attractions, even if your visit to Corfu is brief.

• On even the briefest visit, take time to wander the winding kantounia (alleys) of the Old Town. Enjoy a leisurely coffee or try the delectable kumquat liqueur made from the celebrated local 'golden orange' along the Liston, a grand pedestrian walkway located in Greece’s largest public square, the Spianada.

• Achilleion Palace is a magnificent structure that once belonged to Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sissy) and Kaiser Wilhelm II. While the interior is currently closed for restoration, its beautiful gardens and sweeping views of the town and island are well worth the visit.

• Explore the Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio), an impressive Venetian fortification situated on a rocky peninsula that marks the site of the ancient Byzantine capital, dominating the eastern part of the Old Town.

• For nature lovers and adventurers, the Corfu Trail is a remarkable 200km (124-mile) path that traverses the island from south to north. It winds through picturesque villages both inland and along the coast, providing rest stops for trekkers aiming to complete the trail. For those with less time or stamina, any section of the trail offers a delightful glimpse into the island’s untouched beauty.

• Corfu’s coastline stretches 217km (135 miles) and is dotted with countless breathtaking beaches, making it impossible to see them all in one visit. There’s a perfect beach for everyone, ranging from long sandy expanses to small pebbly coves and bustling tourist spots to quiet retreats. Some of the island's best beaches include those near Palaiokastritsa, Benitses, Sidari, Porto Timoni, Agios Georgios Pagon, and Ipsos.

• For romantic souls, the Canal d'amour is a charming fjord with a lovely small beach. Legend says that couples who swim in its waters will remain in love forever. Bring a snorkeling mask and arrive early to claim your spot on the beach.

My top activity on Corfu

The highlight of my time on Corfu is cruising to the island's most stunning and secluded spots. During the busy summer months, the beautiful beaches can become quite crowded, making a private small boat rental (no professional license needed) the perfect way to escape the throngs of tourists.

Countless inaccessible bays and hidden beaches await, particularly along the northeastern coast between Kalami and Kasiopi. Spending a day amidst the vast blue waters under the clear sky, with the sparkling Ionian Sea below, is a true delight for the senses.

What local dishes should I sample?

Corfu's cuisine features a variety of delectable dishes that are unique to the island. Among the must-try dishes are sofrito, a garlic-infused veal dish prepared with wine; pastitsadha, a local pasta dish with chicken or beef seasoned with a blend of spices; and bourdeto, a fish dish cooked in a spicy red sauce.

What is the top day trip from Corfu?

While the phrase 'unspoiled by tourism' may seem like a cliché, the three remote Diapontia islands—Othoni, Erikousa, and Mathraki—at the northernmost edge of Greece are often overlooked by travelers. With their serene sandy beaches, quaint villages, and peaceful walking paths, these islands provide a perfect escape from the crowded tourist spots. Regular ferry, caïque, and private mini-cruise services connect them daily.

What is the estimated budget for a trip to Corfu?

Like many popular tourist destinations, accommodation and service prices in Corfu peak during the high season. However, the island caters to a range of budgets, accommodating everyone from backpackers to luxury travelers.

Public transport is quite budget-friendly, and there are numerous local tavernas offering affordable meals. For those seeking a more lavish experience, Corfu provides options that cater to every whim. Here’s a breakdown of daily expenses in Corfu.

• Hostel dormitory: €25–40

• Basic double room: €60–100

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €90–150

• Intercity public transport fare: €2–5 (depending on distance)

• Coffee: €3–5

• Sandwich: €5–8

• Dinner for two: €50–80

• Beer at a bar: €5–8

• Self-drive boats (half day): €80–120 in low season; €100–150 in high season

• Private mini-cruises with a skipper: €100–150 per hour.