Corfu Guide

Known as the emerald isle, Corfu stands as a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty nestled in the heart of the Ionian Sea. The island's strategic location off the western shores of mainland Greece made it a coveted prize among many of history's great powers who left a mark in the island giving it today its distinct character and unique architectural and cultural landscape which distinguishes it from the other Greek islands. Now in the 21st century Corfu is the perfect place for a holiday full of history, relaxation and adventure. 

Where to stay in Corfu:

The people of Corfu are known for their long-standing tradition of welcoming foreigners, a characteristic highlighted in Gerald Durrell's 20th-century memoir, "My family and other animals," which recounts his childhood experiences on the island. Nowadays the island offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Visitors can choose from luxury resorts with private beaches and spas, boutique hotels with personalised services and family-friendly apartments. For a more local experience, there are also traditional guesthouses and charming bed and breakfasts, often in picturesque villages. Whether you're looking for opulence or cosiness, in Corfu you will find it.

What to do in Corfu?

Visiting Corfu offers a delightful mix of activities that cater to diverse interests, from exploring historical sites and picturesque villages to relaxing under the sun on the islands’ many beaches. 
Corfu Town, also known as Kerkyra, is the charming capital of Corfu Island and a UNESCO world heritage site. The town is distinctive for its elegant blend of European architectural influences, thanks to the succession of Venetian, French, and British rulers before it became part of Greece in 1864. The Campiello is the mediaeval heart of Corfu Town and it is ideal for leisurely strolls, offering unexpected views, artisan shops and intimate cafes where you can taste local dishes. Bordering the neighbourhood is Liston, an elegant piazza-cum-promenade with a Parisian feel whose arcade is lined with cafés, restaurants and boutiques. When it comes to cultural sights both the Archaeological Museum and the Byzantine Museum are worth a visit as are the two impressive venetian fortresses. The city also hosts a variety of cultural events, particularly during the summer, including concerts, festivals, and theatrical performances that reflect its rich historical legacy and vibrant contemporary culture.
Going deeper into the island there are traditional mountain villages like Lakones and Pelekas to experience Corfu’s rustic charm and enjoy some of the best views of the island while hiking the Corfu Trail is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. This 220-kilometer trail runs from the north to the south of the island, passing through olive groves, traditional villages, and along impressive coastlines.

Best beaches in Corfu

Corfu also boasts some of the most beautiful and idyllic beaches in Greece. Glyfada, Agios Gordios, and Paleokastritsa are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while Sidari’s Canal d’Amour offers unique sandstone formations and crystal-clear waters. According to a local legend, couples who swim through its narrow canal will soon get married. We recommend a boat tour to explore more remote beaches and the nearby islands such as Paxos and Antipaxos.

What to eat in Corfu?

The island has a unique culinary tradition with dishes that blend Greek and Italian influences, thanks to its history under Venetian rule. We particularly recommend trying Pastitsada, perhaps the most famous dish from Corfu. The meat is cooked in a rich, spicy tomato sauce and served over pasta, traditionally bucatini or a thick spaghetti. It's flavoured with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, reflecting the island's historical spice trade connections. Bourdeto and Bianco are two fish-based dishes which also reflect the island's Venetian influences. Bianco is a lighter fish dish is prepared with white fish cooked in a garlic, lemon, and white wine sauce, often thickened with potatoes whereas Bourdeto is a spicy fish stew typically made with scorpion fish and simmered in a spicy tomato sauce with plenty of red pepper and onions.

How to get to Corfu

Travelling to in Corfu is convenient whether you travel by air or sea. Corfu International Airport, "Ioannis Kapodistrias" (CFU), offers direct flights from major European cities, particularly during the tourist season, and is well-connected to Athens and Thessaloniki year-round. The airport is just a short distance from Corfu Town, with taxis, car rentals, and buses readily available for transfers. Alternatively, you can reach Corfu by sea via Corfu’s Port, which accommodates international ferries from Italian ports like Venice and Ancona, as well as domestic ferries from Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland. This port also serves as a departure point for local boats to nearby Ionian islands, ideal for island hopping. For both air and sea travel, it's very advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability as services can fill up quickly due to the high demand.