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One of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, Corfu is an island in the Ionian Sea that is loved for its cosmopolitan Old Town, spectacular sandy beaches and beautiful scenery.
What Corfu is best known for
Corfu is known for its captivating blend of Venetian, French and British influences, reflected in its elegant Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which has an aristocratic air and landmark monuments such as Venetian fortresses. It boasts beautiful beaches and lively beach resorts, traditional villages, and a lush, hilly interior filled with olive groves, making it a favourite for holidays throughout the year and for nature lovers.
Visitors also cherish Corfu (or Kerkyra, as it’s known in Greek) for its warm hospitality and rich traditions, and for its cuisine, which displays many cultural influences in dishes that show off Italian touches and the island’s delicious Mediterranean produce. Corfu also played a key role in the cultural, intellectual and political emergence of the modern Greek state, and its Easter celebrations are among the most memorable in Greece.
What to do in Corfu
Corfu Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is like an open-air museum and its crowning glory is the Venetians’ Old Fortress, built in the 13th century and invaluable in holding off Ottoman sieges. The New Fortress, built between 1572 and 1645, is also a masterpiece of military architecture. You’ll love exploring the alleyways of Campiello (the medieval district) and other highlights, such as the Palace of St Michael and St George (a legacy of the 19th-century British protectorate) and the Parisian flair of the Liston Arcade by Spianada Square. Other highlights include Pontikonisi (Mouse Island) and neighbouring Vlacherna islet, with its 17th-century monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Close to the Old Town, the Achilleion Palace was built by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria-Hungary (the legendary Sissi) and later became the summer retreat of Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. Meanwhile, Mon Repos was built in 1828 by British High Commissioner Frederick Adam and houses the Palaiopolis Museum and botanical gardens.
Corfu is also famous for its beaches, from little coves to large stretches of sand with beach bars, tavernas, shops and water sports. And the countryside is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Among the hidden gems are traditional villages and Lake Korission in the south. Finally, the Easter celebrations in Corfu are unique in Greece and a perfect time to enjoy the island’s Philharmonic bands and spring atmosphere.
Eat like a local
The traditional cuisine of Corfu is a reflection of the many cultural influences on the island. The Venetian legacy can be found in dishes such as Pastitsada (beef cooked in a mix of spices), sofrito (beef cooked with plenty of parsley and garlic) and bourdeto (spicy fish stew). But you’ll also find influences from the British (ginger beer and kumquat) and other settlers in Corfu over the years – as well, of course, as favourite Greek dishes and regional delicacies. They all combine to give Corfu a unique local flavour that you’ll enjoy in the traditional tavernas and restaurants of the island. Among the local products, olive oil, honey and wine stand out, and traditional sweets include mandoles (caramelised almonds) and mandolato (a soft nougat).
Best time to visit Corfu
As one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, Corfu does get busy in July and August, especially in the Old Town and on popular beaches. For the best experience, visit in May-June or September-October, when the weather is warm and the sea is great for swimming, but the island is less busy. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) are also wonderful seasons for outdoor activities in Corfu, such as hiking and exploring the countryside. And for an extra special experience, Corfu comes alive at Easter with unique traditions and celebrations. Winters are mild but wetter, with fewer tourist services available.
How to get to Corfu
Corfu is easily accessible by air and sea, making it one of the most convenient Greek islands to visit.
By air: Corfu International Airport (CFU) receives direct flights from major European cities during the summer months, as well as domestic flights from Athens year-round. The flight time from both Athens and Thessaloniki is around 1 hour.
By ferry: Ferries to Corfu’s main port and Lefkimi (a smaller port, in the south) operate year-round from Igoumenitsa, on the northwest coast of mainland Greece, with frequent crossings taking 5 to 2 hours. If you are travelling from Athens, Igoumenitsa is approximately 470km (5-6 hours by car), while from Thessaloniki, it’s around 320km (4-5 hours by car). Public buses (KTEL) operate from both Athens and Thessaloniki.
Ferry Schedules to Corfu
What to see in Corfu
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Corfu like a local
Corfu is about so much more than its Venetian Old Town and beautiful beaches… although that’s a pretty good place to begin. To help you plan your ideal holiday on this enchanting island in the Ionian Sea, here are some insider tips to get you started.
Tours & Activities in Corfu
Discover authentic local experiences and secure your booking for tours and activities in Corfu with our official online rates.
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4.5 hours
Best of Corfu: Half-Day Private Sightsee...
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4.5 hours
Corfu Olive Oil Experience & Corfu Town ...
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4.5 hours
Corfu Beaches Private Tour: Paleokastrit...
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7.5 hours
Corfu: Semi-Private Cruise to Blue Lagoo...
Where to stay in Corfu
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Mr & Mrs White Corfu
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Accommodation
Corfu offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to every budget and travel style. One of the best places to stay in Corfu is the main town, where you’ll find elegant boutique hotels and restored Venetian-era mansions, perfect for immersing yourself in the island’s history. Along the coastline, there are luxury beach resorts, family-friendly hotels, and self-catering apartments in popular areas like Paleokastritsa, Dassia and Glyfada, which are all well developed for tourism. Corfu also has traditional villages and countryside guesthouses surrounded by olive groves, offering a more tranquil holiday experience. Budget travellers can also find hostels and budget-friendly studios, while you can also opt for private villas with sea views.
Food and Dining
Corfu boasts a rich culinary scene influenced by Venetian, French, and British cuisines. Traditional dishes include pastitsada (beef cooked in a mix of spices), sofrito (beef cooked with plenty of parsley and garlic) and bourdeto (a spicy fish stew). Dining in Corfu ranges from local tavernas to upscale restaurants, offering diverse experiences for all budgets. More on the Corfu’s cuisine and local products can be found in our Corfu Foodie Guide.
Climate
Corfu has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The island enjoys long hours of sunshine, particularly from April to October, making it ideal for nature and beach holidays. Summer temperatures typically range from the high 20s to low 30s (°C), while winters are mild, with occasional rain, keeping the island lush and green. Most rainfall occurs between November and March, contributing to Corfu’s rich vegetation. Spring and autumn offer the best weather in Corfu for outdoor activities such as hiking, with only occasional showers. These seasons provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them a great time to experience Corfu’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Safety and Health
Corfu is generally safe for travellers, but it is always wise to be cautious, especially in crowded tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables. The emergency number for all services, including medical emergencies, is 112. Corfu has a hospital and several health clinics that provide medical services. Pharmacies are widely available and can offer over-the-counter medications as well as prescription drugs. Drinking bottled water is recommended. The island's food safety standards are high, making it safe to enjoy local cuisine. For more health and safety tips, you can visit our practical info page.
FAQs about Corfu
Where is Corfu in Greece?
Corfu is one of the most popular of the Ionian Islands, the island chain off the west coast of mainland Greece in the Ionian Sea. It is the northernmost of the main Ionian Islands, opposite southern Albania. Its proximity to Italy makes it a favourite of Italian visitors.
How do you get around Corfu?
Once on the island, choosing where to go in Corfu is easy. Hiring a car or scooter gives most flexibility for exploring at your own pace, and taxis and private transfers are also available Corfu also has a good bus network within the city and around the island, connecting Corfu Town with popular beaches and villages. For a more scenic experience, boat trips allow you to discover Corfu’s coastline and nearby islands.
What are the must-see attractions in Corfu?
Corfu is one of the best places to visit in Greece for everyone who appreciates culture and history. The entire Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with monuments (Venetian, British, French) and museums, such as the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Asian Art (inside the Palace of St Michael and St George). The Old and New Fortresses are landmarks of Corfu, but the entire Old Town is like an open-air museum, with churches, squares and Venetian-era buildings. Two focal points of the Old Town are Liston and Spianada Square.
Is Corfu a good destination for families?
Corfu is a fantastic destination for families, with a mix of safe, sandy beaches, child-friendly activities and welcoming accommodation options. Many of the island’s resorts, such as Dassia, Glyfada, Messonghi, Benitses and Agios Gordios, have shallow waters and excellent facilities for children. Families can enjoy waterparks, take boat trips to secluded coves, or discover Corfu’s rich history in the Old Town. The island’s relaxed atmosphere, combined with its warm hospitality and variety of outdoor adventures, makes it an ideal choice for a fun and stress-free family holiday.
What types of accommodation are available in Corfu?
As an island that has been on the tourist map for decades, Corfu offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and travel styles. Visitors can choose from luxury beachfront resorts, boutique hotels in Corfu Old Town, and family-friendly hotels with extensive facilities. There are also plenty of self-catering apartments and studios, ideal for independent travellers. For a more secluded stay, traditional guesthouses and private villas with sea views are available in the countryside and along the coast. Budget-conscious travellers will also find hostels and affordable rooms, ensuring there’s something for everyone on this diverse island.
How safe is Corfu for visitors?
Corfu is a safe destination for visitors. As with any popular tourist spot, it’s always advisable to take basic precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings in busy areas. Roads can be narrow and winding, so care should be taken when driving or renting a scooter. The sea is generally calm in the summer months, but swimmers should always be mindful of local conditions. Overall, Corfu is a relaxed and secure island, making it a great choice for families, solo travellers, and couples alike.
Is Corfu expensive?
Corfu caters to a range of budgets, from luxury to affordable travel. While high-end resorts, fine dining and private villas can be pricey, there are plenty of budget-friendly options, including self-catering apartments and guesthouses, and traditional tavernas offering great value meals. Hotel prices tend to be higher in July and August, especially in Corfu Town and popular beach resorts, while May-June and September-October and better deals on accommodation and activities. Overall, Corfu can be as affordable or luxurious as you choose, making it a great destination for all types of travellers.
How long should I spend in Corfu?
Corfu has so much to offer that five days is the minimum to truly experience the island. This gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, visit historical landmarks, relax on some of its beautiful beaches, and explore the local cuisine.
If you want to venture beyond the main sights, a week or more is ideal. You can take a boat trip, explore traditional villages, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere of Corfu’s countryside. Whether you visit for a short escape or an extended holiday, Corfu’s mix of culture, nature and seaside charm will make you want to stay even longer!