Corfu, a gem of the Ionian Sea, presents many sights and experiences that cater to each kind of traveler. From the timeless attract of the Achilleion Palace, as soon as graced by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, to the bustling Spianada Sq. within the coronary heart of Corfu City, this stunning Greek island has one thing for everybody.
Nature lovers can immerse themselves within the rugged fantastic thing about Cape Drastis or embark on a ship experience to discover the enchanting Blue Caves. Historical past buffs will discover lots of Corfu’s historic treasures, with the Corfu Previous City, Previous Fortress, and the Mon Repos Palace, all ready to be explored on a day journey to this charming island.
Whether or not you’re a historical past buff, a nature lover, or a culinary explorer, Corfu’s mix of experiences will certainly depart an enduring impression.
Learn on to search out our tackle the most effective issues to do in Corfu, Greece
The best way to get to/round Corfu
Corfu, an island of pure magnificence, tiny sea caves, panoramic sea views, and historic appeal, is conveniently accessible to vacationers.
Right here’s a quick overview of methods to attain Corfu and discover its stunning shoreline and conventional villages.
Attending to Corfu
By Aircraft
Corfu Worldwide Airport (IATA: CFU) presents direct flights from main European cities, making reaching the island’s widespread seashores handy. In the course of the peak vacationer season, sometimes Spring to early Fall, yow will discover direct flights from Athens, London, Milan, and Frankfurt.
Taxis and buses are available upon arrival for transportation to your lodging.
By Ferry
For a scenic journey, take into account taking a ship journey to the Greek islands of Corfu. Ferries and cruise ships join the island to Greek mainland ports, close by Mouse Island, and different Ionian Islands.
The port of Corfu City is the first entry level for ferry vacationers, providing a leisurely various to air journey, particularly on the West Coast.
The ferry experience throughout the Ionian Sea could be a spotlight of your journey, permitting you to benefit from the scenic journey with clear blue waters, distant islands, and even perhaps a dolphin sighting.
Ferries in Greece provide facilities on board, resembling cafes, seating areas, and outside decks to reinforce your journey.
Boats passing by close to Vlacherna Monastery in Corfu
By Automobile
Reaching Corfu by automotive is an adventurous and versatile choice. Begin your journey by driving to both Igoumenitsa or Patras on the Greek mainland, each of that are well-connected coastal cities.
From there, board a ferry to Corfu, sometimes arriving in Corfu City. The island’s wonderful street community makes it straightforward to discover varied locations when you arrive, together with seashores, villages, and historic websites.
Upon reaching your chosen coastal metropolis (Igoumenitsa or Patras), comply with well-marked indicators directing you to the ferry terminals. Take a while to discover these cities when you’ve got the chance, as they provide their distinctive appeal and an opportunity to take pleasure in native delicacies, historic websites, or seaside rest.
Notice: Whereas it’s attainable to journey to Corfu with your individual car, we’d not advocate renting a automotive in Athens and driving to Corfu until, after all, Corfu is only one cease in your Greece street journey.
Alternatively, take into account touring by bus/practice and ferry and renting a automotive in Corfu Previous City or at Corfu Airport upon arrival.
Greatest Time to Go to Corfu
Corfu’s local weather and seasonal rhythms provide numerous alternatives for exploration and rest.
Spring: Tranquility and Gentle Climate
Corfu in Spring presents gentle and nice climate, supreme for outside actions and sightseeing. In the course of the day, you may anticipate temperatures starting from 15-24°C (59-75°F), making it snug for all island adventures.
For seaside lovers, water temperatures in Spring are round 15-17°C (59-63°F). Though it’s not the height seaside season, the ocean is ideal for refreshing swims, and also you’ll discover quieter shores, particularly in April and Could.
Summer time: Mediterranean Paradise
From June to August, Corfu transforms right into a Mediterranean paradise with heat waters and a vibrant environment. The daytime temperatures sometimes vary from 28-34°C (82-93°F), offering the right backdrop for summer time enjoyable.
In summer time, the water temperatures hover round 24-26°C (75-79°F), making it supreme for swimming and water sports activities.
Corfu City
Fall: Vibrant Landscapes and Cultural Experiences
As summer time gracefully offers approach to autumn, Corfu reveals a unique side of its magnificence from September to November. Daytime temperatures are nonetheless nice, sometimes starting from 21-26°C (70-79°F).
Water temperatures within the Fall stay snug for swimming, hovering round 22-24°C (72-75°F). Throughout this season, you may encounter native festivals celebrating the harvest season, take pleasure in cultural experiences, and discover tranquil seashores and comfortable villages.
Winter: Serenity and Cultural Exploration
You is perhaps stunned to listen to that Corfu continues to be a nice vacation spot within the Winter. All through the winter months, the island retains lush and daytime temperatures hover round 13-15°C (55-59°F), not often dropping beneath 0, offering a snug backdrop for a leisurely keep and supreme climate for cozy walks amongst olive groves and cypress bushes.
Water temperatures within the Winter are cool, hovering round 15-16°C (59-61°F)
Winter lodging typically provide diminished charges, creating a comfortable retreat the place you may benefit from the heat of a hearth whereas gazing out on the serene sandy seaside landscapes.
The season additionally brings native celebrations and traditions to life, particularly throughout the vacation season, providing a glimpse into the island’s cultural richness and a heartwarming sense of neighborhood.
Greatest Issues to Do in Corfu Island
Nestled within the embrace of the Ionian Sea, Corfu Island is a perfect vacation spot for adventurers and tradition seekers with its pristine seashores, vibrant traditions, historic relics, and scrumptious Greek delicacies.
Listed below are our favourite issues to do in Corfu!
1. Discover Corfu Previous City
On the high of the record of issues to do in Corfu is a go to to Corfu City, a charming and historic coronary heart of the island. Stroll by this UNESCO World Heritage Website, popping into quaint outlets, eating places, and bars.
Discover the traditional artifacts within the Archaeological Museum of Corfu, and don’t miss a go to to the exceptional New Fortress, boasting spectacular structure and panoramic views.
As you wander by the city’s charming streets, soak within the environment of its historic websites and bask in culinary delights. Whether or not it’s a leisurely stroll within the lush Spianada Sq. or a espresso break at one of many inviting cafes, Corfu Previous City is a should on the record of the most effective issues to do in Corfu.
Corfu Historic Heart
Avenue in a small city on Corfu Island
2. Go to the Previous Fortress of Corfu
The Previous Fortress on Corfu Island serves as a dwelling testomony to the island’s intriguing historical past, forging a tangible reference to its previous. As you wander by the fortress’s historic partitions and complicated tunnels, you’ll embark on a fascinating journey by the centuries, gaining a deeper understanding of Corfu’s historic significance.
Throughout the fortress, you’ll discover cobblestone pathways, imposing buildings, and time-worn partitions that witness Corfu’s enduring significance. Ascending to the fortress’s highest level, you’re rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of Corfu City and the glistening Ionian Sea, a sight of specific enchantment throughout the smooth hues of dawn or sundown.
Venturing into the fortress’s underground tunnels unveils an eerie but fascinating journey by its historic secrets and techniques, a testomony to its strategic significance all through the ages. Control the native occasion calendar for cultural performances throughout the fortress, the place the open-air theatre serves as a novel backdrop for creative expression.
You’ll want an admission ticket to enter the Previous Fortress. The €3 ticket covers the fortress and the close by Museum of Asian Artwork.
If you happen to’re eager on discovering extra of the island’s cultural heritage, a particular ticket bundle is offered for €15 and is legitimate for 3 days. This bundle not solely grants you entry to the Previous Fortress but in addition consists of visits to a number of different noteworthy sights, such because the Antivouniotissa Byzantine Museum, Archaeological Museum of Corfu, Museum of Asian Artwork, and Museum of Palaiopolis-Mon Repos.
Previous Fortress in Corfu
3. Go to Achilleion Palace
Achilleion Palace, positioned simply 20 minutes from Corfu Previous City by automotive, presents a window right into a world of neoclassical opulence and historic significance. Commissioned by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, it served as her personal escape from the royal calls for of the late nineteenth Century.
The palace’s neoclassical structure, that includes grand columns and complicated particulars, is a testomony to the creative imaginative and prescient of Italian architect Raffaele Caritto. Perched atop a hill, the palace presents panoramic views of the encircling panorama and the Ionian Sea.
Achilleion Palace often hosts cultural occasions and exhibitions, so remember to verify their calendar to see if there’s something on throughout your go to. Earlier than leaving, discover the present store for souvenirs and native merchandise.
Palace of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, Achilleion
4. Spend the Day in Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa is commonly celebrated as certainly one of Corfu’s most stunning coastal locations. The world, positioned a few 30-minute drive from Corfu Previous City, is a great spot for a day journey or a vacation spot in and of itself.
The world boasts a number of stunning seashores, every with its distinctive appeal. Agios Spyridon Seaside presents calm waters, whereas Agios Petros Seaside is a little more secluded, and the principle seaside has a extra bustling environment.
Exploring Paleokastritsa’s rugged shoreline is a should, and boat excursions are a good way to do it. Native operators present guided excursions to spots just like the Blue Eye Cave and the Paradise Seaside Caves, that are greatest skilled from the ocean.
For snorkeling and diving lovers, the clear waters of Paleokastritsa reveal a vibrant underwater world with marine life, submerged caves, and intriguing rock formations.
There are a selection of nice eating places within the space, together with Nereids Restaurant & Bar and Akron Seaside Bar, providing a spot to seize a chunk to eat whereas within the space.
Paleokastritsa, Corfu
5. Go to Kanoni Peninsula and Mouse Island
Kanoni Peninsula, positioned on Corfu’s japanese aspect simply quarter-hour from Corfu Previous City, is widely known for its historic significance and spectacular vistas. At its coronary heart, a scenic overlook presents panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, the Kanoni Peninsula, and the distant Mouse Island.
Named after the cannons that when protected this strategic location, the Kanoni Peninsula has important historic significance, with the remnants of the traditional Kanoni fortress nonetheless seen. Guests can discover the fortress and find out about its position in defending towards invaders.
An iconic landmark on Kanoni is the Monastery of Vlacherna, which is accessible by way of a slim causeway connecting it to the mainland. The monastery’s pristine white facade and red-tiled roof present a fascinating distinction towards the ocean’s vibrant blue.
Mouse Island, or Pontikonisi, provides to the appeal of this vacation spot. Its title is impressed by its mouse-like form and plush, fur-like vegetation.
There’s a actually cool aircraft recognizing expertise at Perama Bridge, simply on the tip of Kanoni Peninsula, the place you may watch planes land at Corfu Worldwide Airport.
Monastery of Vlacherna in Corfu, Greece
6. Get pleasure from Corfu’s Seashores
Corfu is thought for its beautiful seashores, so irrespective of the place you base your self throughout your time in Corfu, remember to make a visit out to take pleasure in certainly one of extra seashores throughout your go to.
Listed below are only a few of the most effective seashores in Corfu so as to add to your record.
Glyfada Seaside
Glyfada Seaside is a vigorous seaside positioned on the west coast of Corfu, roughly 15 km or a 25-minute drive from Corfu Previous City. It presents golden sands and a variety of water sports activities, making it good for thrill-seekers.
The seaside is good for windsurfing and jet-skiing, guaranteeing action-packed days within the solar. Close by seaside bars and eating places provide refreshing drinks and delectable delicacies.
Glyfada Seaside
Kontogialos Seaside
Positioned on the West Coast of Corfu, roughly 15 km or a 25-minute drive from Corfu Previous City, Kontogialos Seaside is one other stunning seaside tucked between lush hills. This seaside presents a tranquil escape amidst pure magnificence.
Its pristine lengthy sandy seaside and crystal-clear waters create a serene setting for sunbathing and swimming. Mountaineering lovers can discover close by trails that result in beautiful viewpoints overlooking the shoreline.
Issos Seaside
Positioned on the southwestern coast, about 45-minute drive from Corfu Previous City, Issos Seaside stands out with its intensive dunes and lagoons, making it a haven for nature lovers and windsurfers.
The distinctive panorama presents a unique seaside expertise, and its shallow waters are good for windsurfing classes. The close by Lake Korission is a protected nature reserve, making it a great place for birdwatching and scenic walks.
Loggas Seaside
Loggas Seaside is a hidden gem on Corfu’s northwest coast, about 45-minute drive from Corfu Previous City. The seaside is thought for its beautiful cliffs and breathtaking views.
Guests can take within the surroundings from the excessive cliffs or descend to the sandy shore for a peaceable day by the ocean. The seaside’s rugged magnificence and distinctive landscapes make it a novel seaside expertise in Corfu.
Loggas Seaside
7. Pattern Corfu Delicacies
Corfu’s delicacies is a treasure trove of Mediterranean flavors to discover, so don’t miss the chance to bask in native specialties whereas in Corfu.
Listed below are some must-try Corfu dishes to strive:
Pastitsada: A savory mix of pasta and spicy meat sauce, a Corfu delicacies staple.
Sofrito: Tender beef slow-cooked in a aromatic white wine and garlic sauce, a flavorful native favourite.
Bordello: A spicy fish stew that showcases the bounty of Corfu’s coastal waters.
Kumquat Preserves: These tangy-sweet preserves seize the essence of Corfu’s well-known kumquat fruit.
Mandolato Nougat: A tasty nougat made with almonds, honey, and egg whites, providing a candy end to your meal.
Advisable Conventional Eating places
Conventional tavernas scattered throughout the island present the best backdrop for these culinary adventures, providing distinctive meals and a heat, genuine environment stuffed with Greek hospitality. Many eating places are serving native Corfu specialties throughout the island, however listed here are a couple of we notably advocate.
Taverna Trypa: A family-owned gem in Corfu City recognized for its pastitsada and seafood dishes. This can be a great place to strive native meals but in addition take pleasure in a novel native dance efficiency (extra on {that a} bit later).
Thymari Restaurant is a hidden gem the place you may immerse your self in Corfiot and Greek delicacies. The restaurant’s dedication to utilizing recent, native substances ensures that each dish bursts with genuine flavours. Its cozy ambiance makes it an ideal spot to understand the island’s culinary heritage.
Tsipouradiko offers a style of conventional Greek meze, permitting you to savour an array of delectable small plates paired with ouzo or tsipouro. The taverna’s heat and welcoming setting captures the essence of Greek eating, inviting you to indulge within the pleasures of shared meals.
At Oinos kai geniuses (Wine and Tastes), wine lovers can expertly discover a various collection of Greek wines with a menu that enhances their character. The restaurant’s educated workers guides you thru the wine record, making a harmonious eating expertise celebrating Greek viticulture.
Etrusco: Positioned within the coronary heart of the Previous City, this restaurant presents a mix of Italian and Greek flavours, together with sofrito.
Rex: A wonderful alternative for seafood lovers, providing recent fish and the spicy fish stew, bordello.
To Perasma: An enthralling taverna on the coast, serving up scrumptious kumquat preserves and Mediterranean delicacies.
Nikolas Taverna: Positioned within the village of Kassiopi, this restaurant is famend for its conventional Greek dishes, together with mandolato nougat.
These eating places present not solely a style of genuine Corfiot delicacies but in addition a possibility to immerse your self within the island’s wealthy culinary traditions and tradition.
9. Pattern Native Wine
Corfu, like many Greek islands, has a protracted and proud custom of winemaking. The island’s local weather, with loads of sunshine and gentle temperatures, offers supreme circumstances for grape cultivation. Corfu’s vineyards produce quite a lot of distinctive wines which can be value exploring.
There are a few wineries dotted round Corfu, with the most well-liked being Nicoluzo Vineyard and Theotoky Property, each of that are value a go to.
Nicoluzo Vineyard
At Nicoluzo Vineyard, you may discover lush vineyards, study in regards to the winemaking course of, and decide up varied wines, together with native grape varieties. The vineyard doesn’t provide tastings on-site, however the proprietor could be very passionate and completely happy to share his love for wine with guests.
Theotoky Property
Theotoky Property, then again, does provide wine tastings. The vineyard is thought for natural viticulture and is about in a serene environment. The vineyard primarily focuses on white wines, together with some constructed from indigenous grape varieties, such because the Robola and Kakotrygis. These wines are recognized for his or her crisp and refreshing traits, typically with citrus and floral notes.
10. Attempt Olive Oil Tasting
Olive oil is commonly referred to as “liquid gold,” and Corfu’s olive oil isn’t any exception to this accolade. A go to to the island wouldn’t be full with out indulging within the expertise of olive oil tasting.
The expertise will educate you a ton about olive oil, its manufacturing, and the nuances of olive oil varieties.
Olive Oil Tasting in Corfu, Greece
Go to Dr. Kavvadia’s Natural Farm
One wonderful vacation spot for olive oil tasting is Dr. Kavvadia’s Natural Farm. This idyllic farm, nestled within the verdant Corfiot countryside, presents guests the chance to discover the artwork of olive oil manufacturing.
Dr. Kavvadia produces olive oil from two native and uncommon varieties, Lianelia and Thiako, each of which can be found for tasting on the farm. Their farm tour and tasting expertise features a stroll by the olive bushes and see the vegetable backyard, a go to to their previous olive press and olive oil storage, and provide an perception into the operation of this sustainable farm works.
The farm tour and tasting happen day by day at 10:00 am and once more at 11:00 am, Monday – Friday. The expertise lasts roughly 1.5 hours and may be booked on their web site for simply 20€.
11. Watch Sundown from a Pirate Ship
One of the vital distinctive issues to do in Corfu is spending a day on a pirate ship. Sure, you learn that proper – there’s a pirate ship in Corfu that gives scenic cruises alongside Corfu’s japanese shoreline.
Corfu’s Black Rose Pirate Ship is a perfect exercise for households (children get to decorate up with hats and swords), however the expertise is simply as enjoyable for adults with out children too.
The ship units sail day by day from mid-Could to September, with a number of departures all through the day, together with at sundown, a very stunning time to take pleasure in beautiful views of the Corfu shoreline. The pirate cruise lasts about 1-1.5 hours and sails previous landmarks like Vlacherna Monastery, Vido, the Corfu City, the Previous and New Fortresses, Windmill, and Mouse Island earlier than returning to the port.
The pirate ship presents a self-service bar with snacks, bottled water, and smooth drinks. It’s additionally an excellent choice for a particular occasion, like a gaggle journey, party, or a pirate-themed gathering, and may be booked for personal occasions.
Black Rose Pirate Ship from afar.
12. Get pleasure from Dinner and a Present at Trypas
Trypas is likely one of the most original and most famed eating places in Corfu. This spot is thought for its scrumptious delicacies and stay leisure and is THE place to go for a night of genuine Greek tradition.
Nestled within the charming village of Kinopiastes, this family-owned taverna has been serving up genuine Greek dishes and unforgettable experiences for locals and guests alike for
What units Trypas aside is the mixture of meals and leisure. The menu is about and features a collection of conventional Greek dishes, together with dips, salads, meats, and extra!
As you dine, you’ll be handled to stay Greek music and dancing, offering an genuine style of native tradition. Viewers participation is inspired so you may be part of within the enjoyable and immerse your self within the vigorous environment.
13. Spend a Day on a Boat
Considered one of our favourite issues to do in Corfu is to spend a day on a ship, be it a sailboat or a catamaran. You’ll be able to hire both to take pleasure in a day of journey round Corfu’s beautiful shoreline.
You’ll be able to hire a ship for half a day and sail alongside the crystal-clear waters, discovering hidden coves and sandy seashores good for swimming and sunbathing. Or go for a full-day journey and discover close by gems like Paxos and Antipaxos, every providing its distinctive appeal.
Boats close by Paxos Island
The Backside Line
There isn’t any scarcity of enjoyable and distinctive issues to do in Corfu, Greece. From exploring Corfu City’s streets and the island’s stunning seashores to savoring conventional dishes, ingesting native wines, and sampling regionally made olive oils, Corfu presents one thing for each kind of traveler.
Whether or not you’re searching for rest, journey, or a meals and wine expertise, Corfu has all of it!
We hope our information and our record of really helpful issues to do in Corfu have given you a head begin in planning your go to to this picturesque island.