Corfu, Greece is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. This stunning island is located in the Ionian Sea and boasts crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and charming villages. From secret beaches and hidden coves to authentic Greek food and picturesque walking trails, this local guide for Corfu, Greece will share how to make the most of your time on the island.
I didn’t know what to expect before visiting Corfu, but it was truly one of the most magical, stunning places in Europe (lucky for me, it’s where my partner and I got engaged!). Imagine driving through rolling, windy hills, with panoramic views of the entire island, crystal clear waters, charming villas, and villages. It’s like driving through a photograph.
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What to do in Corfu, Greece
While we were in Corfu, we met a lovely local who grew up in Corfu his entire life. After two weeks of travel through Albania and Montenegro, my partner and I had just recovered from the flu and food poisoning, and we were ready for some rest and relaxation.
We arrived in Corfu thinking we would mostly hang out at the hotel pool and private beach… which isn’t usually like us! Thankfully, on the first evening, we met Spiros from Corfu Beer. He was hosting a beer-tasting event at our hotel, The Angsana, and we were surprisingly only one of two couples who attended this free event. Spiros asked what we were doing while in Corfu and we admitted we had nothing planned. He gave us the best recommendations for four perfect days in Corfu. The island is surprisingly much bigger than you may think, and there is a lot to do. Spiros gave us a true local’s guide to Corfu, Greece, and we are so thankful we ran into him!
Tip: Corfu Beer is delicious! It can be find all around the island. Make sure you try the red ale. That was our favorite!
Day 1 – Northern Corfu
Start your day early and drive to the Northern tip of the island before it gets too busy. Start the day at this cute coffee shop in town, WakeUp Coffee&more. Grab a coffee, breakfast, or some snacks, and then head to the beach!
You can park for free along many of the side streets and walk to the beaches (or pay a fee at a closer lot). Walk to Canal D’Amour Cliffs, known for its beautiful rock formations and stunning views of the Ionian Sea and its turquoise waters. Grab a spot along the rocks and then take a swim into the Dionysus Cave. As long as the water isn’t choppy, you should be able to walk in.
Tip: Bring towels, water, sunscreen and any snacks. You are literally sitting on rock along the cliffs (there isn’t sand). Try to get there early as it gets very crowded. Every inch is covered in towels and people sunbathing.
You can walk through the town along Sidari for a bite to eat or pop into the shops. Then head west for more incredible beaches. It’s about a 15-minute drive to Cape Drastis, and another 10 to Loggas Beach. You can also hike from Sidari (about 50 minutes). Cape Drastis offers dramatic views of cliffs and natural rock formations scattered islets and clear blue, transparent waters. Over thousands of years, the wind and waves helped form these unique sculptures. You can park where the main road ends and walk the rest of the way.
Loggas Beach is nestled under large cliffs – be prepared to climb down rickety, steep, and somewhat broken stairs. When you arrive, keep driving until you get to the very end of the parking lots. Then hike down a few minutes to the beach. The water is crystal-clear and the view is truly jaw-dropping. Again, there isn’t any sand or comfortable place to sit. Some people brought floaty devices to lie on as you are sitting on rocks.
Tip: Make sure to bring water shoes. It’s extremely rocky. If you want to cross over to some other areas you will need water shoes!
If you stay there long enough, grab drinks or dinner at 7th Heaven, the famous restaurant along the cliffs. Alternatively, you can drive back East and have dinner at Trilogia Restaurant and ice cream at Ice Dream. Trilogia Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant with a wonderful view of the clear blue ocean and the food is incredible.
Day 2 – Northwest Corfu
Today you’ll head to the northwest part of the island to visit some of the most beautiful beaches in the village of Paleokastritsa. Your first stop is Agios Spiridon Beach. This is more of a traditional sandy beach and gets very crowded in the summer, as it is one of the most popular beaches and areas in Corfu. The water is calm and turquoise blue. You can bring a towel or pay to rent sun beds and there are canoes and boat rides available. There is plenty to see and do in this area including many restaurants, shops, and an aquarium. This beach was a must-see on Spiros’ local guide for Corfu, Greece.
Next up, take a short walk from the beach up to the Monastery of Paleokastritsa—it’s not just a historic spot; it’s a whole spiritual journey wrapped in lush greenery and overlooking the sea. Right next to the monastery is Monastre. Lunch at Monastre is a must, serving up Mediterranean delights with a view that’s simply breathtaking. This restaurant is such a vibe! The decor is chic, the food delicious, and the views are unbeatable. This would also be a great spot for a sunset dinner!
After lunch, prepare for a trek to Rovinia Beach, a hidden gem accessible by footpath. You have to park and then walk downhill for about 10 minutes. This beach is a short drive (15 min) from Paleokastirsa, and is a bit more off-the-beaten-path. Rovinia Beach captivates visitors with its unspoiled beauty. There aren’t any restaurants, bars, shops etc. Surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery, it’s a quieter spot known for its clear turquoise waters, perfect for a peaceful retreat. The sand is more rocky, so make sure you have something comfortable to sit on.
Dinner in Benitses
After a day at the beach, head back to your hotel to freshen up. I recommend heading to Benitses town for a stroll along the marina and seaside dining. Check out Oi Oraies Benitses for some traditional Greek goodness or Kilmataria, a local gem renowned for its fresh seafood. The owner at Oi Oraies Benites was so generous and welcoming! He gave us a couple of shots of kumquat liquor to try. Dinner is the perfect way to cap off your day of exploration and flavors on Corfu Island. During the summer months, I recommend making a reservation. These spots fill up every night!
Day 3 – Historic Corfu
It’s hard to step away from all the beautiful beaches, but Corfu has so much history and it is worth seeing some of its historical landmarks.
Start your day by immersing yourself in the grandeur of Achilleion Palace. Explore the opulent interiors featuring 19th-century neoclassical architecture, impressive artwork, and captivating sculptures. This impressive palace was built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria in the late 1800s. Wander through the beautifully manicured gardens boasting breathtaking sea views.
Travel to the picturesque Danilia Village, an idyllic setting reminiscent of traditional Greek village life. Danilia Village is a replica of a 1930’s Corfiot village, with two open-air village squares, a church, a cafe, and a tavern. The narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings take you back in time. (There is a 10€ entrance fee, which you can use at the cafe inside).
Dive into the rich history of Corfu at the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with Venetian-influenced architecture, vibrant squares, and artisanal shops. Explore historical sites like the Church of Saint Spyridon and discover the town’s multicultural heritage.
Check out the Old Fortress, which has beautiful panoramic views of the town and sea. Delve into centuries of history as you explore the fortress grounds, bastions, and tunnels. Don’t miss the iconic clock tower and the picturesque lighthouse.
Head to Liston, a charming area near the Esplanade, known for its elegant architecture and lively atmosphere. Stroll along the promenade and stop at a café for a meal, or refreshing drink while people-watching.
Recommended Walking Tours
We always like joining a walking tour to learn more about the history and culture from a local.
Corfu: History and Culture Walking Tour
Corfu: Small Group City Walking Tour
Day 4 – Boat Ride
On your last day, I recommend taking a boat ride along the coast of Corfu, or to Paxos/Antipaxos and the Blue Caves. On many tours, you can snorkel or swim in different spots along the way. Get ready to spot many impressive mega-yachts and oceanfront villas. This was the most fun part of the boat ride and our captain told us all the dirt about which celebs or famous people lived on the island or were visiting!
Recommended Tours
Gouvia: Corfu Island Sailing Trip with Lunch and Soft Drinks
From Corfu: Day Cruise to Paxos, Antipaxos, and Blue Caves
From Corfu Island: Antipaxos & Paxos Blue Caves Boat Cruise
Corfu: Private Sailing Yacht Cruise
How to get to Corfu
Corfu Island offers several transportation options for visitors. The most common means of arrival is by air, with Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport serving as the island’s main gateway. Direct flights connect Corfu to various European cities, making air travel a convenient choice for many. To discover what cities fly in and out of Corfu I recommend using Flightsfrom.com.
Alternatively, there are ferry services from different parts of Greece, or other nearby countries, such as Albania or Italy. Check out Ferry Hopper for ferry information.
How to get around the island
Like many smaller European cities, it’s easiest to get around with a car. We ended up renting a car through our hotel, but had we booked ahead of time I would recommend Sixt, which is great in Europe!. Some of the roads are pretty small, windy and steep so drive slowly and carefully! There’s also only one way in or out of many routes, so there could be traffic delays. Make sure you leave time if you have any scheduled activities or reservations.
Where to stay in Corfu
We did a lot of research on where to stay in Corfu and ultimately chose the Angsana Resort, a more affordable luxury 5-star property. It was truly wonderful. The resort had the most beautiful pool and stunning panoramic ocean views. Most of the rooms have a view of the ocean. The hotel had various on-site restaurants and a huge buffet breakfast. The food was delicious, albeit expensive, but we preferred leaving the hotel to try local spots. Luckily, the hotel has a shuttle that takes you to the bottom of the hill it’s perched on, and then you can walk 5-10 minutes into a cute seaside town called Benitses.
Angsana Resort
Here are a few other affordable luxury hotels I would recommend and stay at. As a travel advisor, I can get you the best perks, upgrades, free breakfast (for no extra charge), and more if you book through me directly. Contact me to get your hotel booking started.
Domes Miramare, A Luxury Collection Resort
Domes of Corfu (Autograph Collection)
Nido, Mar-Bella Collection
Top Corfu Questions & Answers
What currency is used in Corfu, Greece?
Corfu, Greece, uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, making it convenient if you come from other Eurozone countries. I recommend having cash on hand for smaller purchases, tips, or in case you come across places that might not accept cards. Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments on the island.
What is the tipping etiquette?
In Corfu, as in the rest of Greece, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. It’s considered polite to leave a small tip for good service, but it’s not expected in the same way it might be in some other countries.
In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving an extra 5-10% of the total is a common practice if you’re satisfied with the service. For exceptional service, you might consider leaving a bit more.
For other services like taxi rides, rounding up the fare is appreciated, or adding a small tip if the service was particularly good. In hotels, leaving a few euros a day for housekeeping is a nice gesture.
Tipping isn’t a strict rule, so you should feel comfortable tipping according to the level of service you received and what feels appropriate to you.
What kind of plugs are used in Corfu, Greece?
In Corfu, Greece, the standard plug type used is Type C and Type F. Type C plugs are two round pins and are commonly used throughout Europe. Type F plugs are similar but have two additional grounding clips on the side.
What is the best time of year to visit Corfu?
The best time to visit is typically from May to October when the weather is warm and dry, perfect for beach activities and hiking. Much of the island typically starts to close down in October when the weather begins to get more cold and rainy. Summers are hot, while spring and autumn offer milder temperatures.
What is the weather like in Corfu?
Temperature: Summer temperatures in Corfu typically range from the mid-70s to high-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-32 degrees Celsius). It can occasionally reach into the 90s Fahrenheit (above 32 degrees Celsius), especially in July and August, which are the hottest months.
Sunshine: Expect plenty of sunshine during the summer months, with long daylight hours providing ample time for outdoor exploration and beach activities.
Rainfall: Rainfall during the summer months is relatively low, with occasional short showers or thunderstorms, typically in the form of brief afternoon downpours. However, these showers don’t usually last long and don’t significantly affect travel plans.
What language do locals speak in Corfu?
In Corfu, the official language spoken is Greek. However, due to its history as a popular tourist destination, many locals in Corfu, especially those working in tourism-related industries, also speak English proficiently. You’ll likely find that you can navigate comfortably using English in most tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s always appreciated if you attempt a few Greek phrases, but you shouldn’t have significant issues communicating in English during your visit to Corfu.
Greeks are friendly and welcoming. It’s polite to greet with “Kalimera” (Good morning) and “Efharisto” (Thank you).
What is the local cuisine in Corfu like?
Corfu has many delicious traditional Greek dishes. Some of the most popular are: Pastitsada (pasta with spiced meat sauce), Sofrito (veal cooked in white wine sauce), and Bourdeto (spicy fish stew). Being on an island, there is also a lot of fresh seafood.
Interestingly, Corfu is famous for its kumquats, and you’ll find various kumquat-based products like kumquat liqueur, sweets, jams, or even in savory dishes. You should definitely try some while you are visiting!
Are there any health or safety concerns in Corfu?
Corfu is generally safe, but as with any city, be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas. There are medical facilities and pharmacies available, but having travel insurance is always advisable.
Do I need travel insurance?
We always recommend travel insurance, especially for international travel! It covers things like cancellations, delays, emergencies, medical issues, and more. I highly recommend using Faye Trip Insurance. It’s super easy to use and they have a simple, user-friendly app where you can view your trip and submit claims. You can email me for assistance with your travel insurance quote or click the link below.
At-a-glance itinerary
DAY 1
- WakeUp Coffee&more
- Canal D’Amour Cliffs / Dionysus Cave
- Cape Drastis
- Loggas Beach
- 7th Heaven for dinner & sunset
- Alternate: Dinner at Trilogia Restaurant & ice cream at Ice Dream
DAY 2
- Agios Spiridon Beach
- Monastery of Paleokastritsa
- Lunch at Monastre
- Rovinia Beach
- Dinner at Oi Oraies Benitses or Kilmataria
DAY 3
- Achilleion Palace
- Danilia Village
- Old Town Corfu
- Old Fortress of Corfu
- Liston
DAY 4
Boat ride up the coast of Corfu or visit nearby islands
Corfu is undeniably one of the most beautiful places I have visited in Europe. There are so many other beaches and things to see, but this local guide to Corfu covers the best spots, loved and recommended by a local!
Explore my other itineraries and guides for travel in Europe. If you enjoyed this guide, drop a comment below!
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