Corfu, a gem in the Ionian Sea, is one of Greece’s most enchanting islands. Known for its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and rich history, Corfu offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This guide will help you explore the best of Corfu, from its charming old town and picturesque villages to its idyllic coastlines and historical sites.
History of the Destination
Corfu has a storied history that spans several millennia, influenced by various civilizations including the Venetians, French, and British, which have all left their mark on the island. The island’s strategic location made it a coveted naval base and a crossroads of maritime trade routes. Corfu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance, Baroque, and classical architecture, reflecting its diverse historical influences.
Information on the Location
Corfu, known in Greek as Kerkyra, is situated in the northwestern corner of Greece, in the Ionian Sea. It is the second largest of the Ionian Islands. The island is noted for its rugged mountains and a resort-studded shoreline. Its cultural heritage reflects years spent under Venetian, French, and British rule before it was united with Greece in 1864.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
Corfu is a splendid destination throughout the year, but certain times may enhance your visit depending on your interests:
- Spring (April to June): The island is in full bloom and the weather is perfect for exploring the countryside. This period before the summer crowds arrive offers a peaceful holiday with mild weather.
- Summer (July to August): Peak tourist season brings vibrant nightlife and bustling beaches. The weather is hot, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Autumn (September to October): The sea remains warm enough for swimming, and the island quiets down. This is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with fewer crowds.
- Winter (November to March): While cooler and rainier, winter in Corfu is mild. It’s ideal for those interested in cultural tours and experiencing local life without the tourism buzz.
Best Sites to Visit
Corfu boasts an array of sights that cater to all tastes, from historical landmarks to natural wonders:
- Achilleion Palace: Built by Empress of Austria Elisabeth of Bavaria, also known as Sisi, this palace is a tribute to classical mythology and offers magnificent views over the island.
- Old Fortress: This Venetian fortress stands as a testament to Corfu’s military significance with panoramic views of Corfu town and the sea.
- Canal D’Amour: Famous for its natural beauty, this channel of water between rock formations is one of the most romantic spots on the island.
- Mount Pantokrator: The highest point on the island provides breathtaking views and houses a monastery at its peak.
- Corfu Old Town: Wander through charming alleys lined with pastel-coloured buildings and visit the Saint Spyridon Church, dedicated to the island’s patron saint.
- Palaiokastritsa Monastery: Located on a scenic bluff over the sea, this monastery is rich in history and offers stunning views of one of the most picturesque parts of the island.
Best Excursions to Do
Corfu’s unique geography and rich history offer a variety of excursions to enhance your holiday experience:
- Boat Trips: Explore the Ionian Sea with a boat trip to the nearby islands or discover secluded bays only accessible by water.
- Scuba Diving: Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Corfu to explore underwater caves and wrecks teeming with marine life.
- Hiking: Take advantage of the Corfu Trail, a 200 km long distance footpath that traverses the entire island, offering spectacular landscapes and pristine nature.
- Vineyard Tours: Visit local vineyards to taste Corfu’s unique wine varieties and learn about the island’s winemaking traditions.
- Heritage Tours: Explore the island’s rich history with guided tours of its ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, and British-built landmarks.
Best Beaches to Visit
Corfu is renowned for its stunning coastline with numerous beaches that appeal to every type of beachgoer:
- Glyfada Beach: One of the most popular and beautiful beaches on the island, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Pelekas Beach: This family-friendly beach offers a mix of sand and pebbles, clear waters, and plenty of amenities.
- Agios Gordios Beach: Surrounded by impressive rock formations and olive groves, this beach is perfect for those seeking natural beauty.
- Issos Beach: Known for its dunes, Issos offers a more secluded experience and is ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Sidari Beach: Famous for the Canal D’Amour, Sidari offers a unique landscape and is great for swimming and sunbathing.
Best Food & Drink Places to Visit
Corfu’s culinary offerings reflect its multicultural history, featuring local and international flavours:
- Old Perithia: Visit this abandoned village turned gastronomic hub to enjoy traditional Corfiot dishes in a unique setting.
- Rex Restaurant: Located in Corfu Old Town, Rex is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, offering a menu that combines Greek and Italian cuisines.
- Ambelonas Corfu: An agritourism estate that offers wine tastings, cooking classes, and meals prepared with local ingredients from their garden.
- Taverna Tripa: One of the oldest tavernas in Corfu, located in Kinopiastes village, known for its authentic Corfiot dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
- Etrusco: This award-winning restaurant offers exquisite dishes prepared by Chef Ettore Botrini, a menu inspired by Greek and Mediterranean flavours.
Hidden Gems to Visit
Corfu is full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered:
- Agios Stefanos: A quiet fishing village with a beautiful sandy beach, away from the tourist crowds.
- Erimitis Bay: Accessible by a hike through a forest, this secluded beach offers pristine waters and peaceful surroundings.
- Lazaretto Island: Once a quarantine station and prison, now a tranquil spot with a small chapel and lush vegetation.
- The Antivouniotissa Museum: A lesser-known art museum housed in a beautifully restored church, featuring a collection of Byzantine icons and religious artefacts.
- Kassiopi Castle: Explore the ruins of this ancient castle in the village of Kassiopi, with panoramic views of the coastline.
Best Budget Hotels
Corfu offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay without overspending:
- Jason Hotel: Located in Ipsos, this hotel offers affordable rooms with stunning views of the Ionian Sea and easy access to local attractions.
- Telesilla Hotel: Known for its friendly staff and excellent location in Kontokali, this hotel provides a cost-effective option with many amenities.
- Rose Garden Apartments: Situated in Barbati, these apartments offer great value with fully equipped units, ideal for families or groups.
Best Mid-Range Hotels
For those seeking a balance between luxury and affordability, Corfu has several mid-range hotels that offer excellent services:
- Mayor Mon Repos Palace: Located near Corfu Town, this adults-only hotel combines comfort with history, offering elegant rooms and impressive sea views.
- Ariti Grand Hotel: Set in a serene location in Kanoni, this hotel provides spacious rooms and great facilities, including a pool and multiple dining options.
- Delfinia Hotel: A beachfront hotel in Moraitika, known for its lush gardens, comfortable rooms, and excellent customer service.
Best Boutique Hotels
Corfu’s boutique hotels are perfect for those looking for a unique and personalised lodging experience:
- Bella Venezia: A boutique hotel set in a neoclassical mansion in Corfu Town, offering stylish rooms and a lush garden.
- Art Hotel Debono: This recently renovated hotel offers a blend of luxury and traditional design, set amidst an olive grove in Gouvia.
- Cavalieri Hotel: Originally a 17th-century nobleman’s mansion, the Cavalieri offers a roof terrace with panoramic views of the Old Fortress and Corfu Town.
Best Luxury Hotels
For the ultimate in luxury, consider staying at one of Corfu’s premier hotels:
- Corfu Palace Hotel: Located in the heart of Corfu Town, this hotel offers luxury accommodations, a spa, and a casino.
- Grecotel Corfu Imperial: Set on a private peninsula, this exclusive resort offers luxurious rooms, suites, and villas with stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
- MarBella Corfu Hotel: A five-star resort in Agios Ioannis Peristeron, known for its excellent facilities, including several pools, a spa, and a selection of restaurants.
Best Transport Options
Getting around Corfu is straightforward, with several options available:
- Car Rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. Numerous rental agencies are available at the airport and in major towns.
- Buses: The local bus service in Corfu is reliable and covers most tourist destinations. The main bus station in Corfu Town serves routes to many key locations.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be a convenient way to travel, especially if you’re visiting remote areas or travelling at night.
- Biking: For the more adventurous, biking is a wonderful way to explore Corfu’s scenic countryside. Bike rentals are available in many tourist areas.
Currency Information
The currency used in Corfu is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions, especially in rural areas. ATMs are readily available in Corfu Town and other tourist centres.
Finding the Best Flights on TravelZine Flight Comparison Site
Planning your trip to Corfu starts with finding the best flights. TravelZine’s flight comparison site is an excellent tool for this purpose, offering a user-friendly interface and comprehensive search options to find the best deals on flights. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Flexible Dates: Use the flexible dates feature to compare prices across different days and find the most affordable options.
- Airline Filters: Filter your search by airlines to find your preferred carriers or discover budget-friendly options.
- Stopovers: Decide whether you prefer direct flights or if you are open to stopovers, which can sometimes offer cheaper fares.
- Price Alerts: Set up price alerts to receive notifications when flight prices drop for your desired route.
- Compare Airports: Consider all nearby airports to find the best deal, especially if you can be flexible with your travel plans.
Corfu, with its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture, offers an unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient sites, relax on sun-drenched beaches, or enjoy the local cuisine, Corfu promises a spectacular getaway. With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to plan your ultimate holiday in Corfu and create memories that will last a lifetime.
