Located in the northwest corner of Greece, in the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, is the magical island of Corfu. It is an island where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine in perfect harmony. Known for its lush vegetation and emerald colored hills, beautiful beaches, Venetian architecture, and vibrant traditions, Corfu has long been a favored destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
The first time I visited Corfu was during college, after participating in a Study Abroad program in Kavala, Greece. I was a naive and careless 21 year old who had never traveled outside the US on my own. Following the program, I began a backpacking adventure around Europe, with Corfu being my first destination. To make a long story short, I became stranded in Corfu for a week without travelers checks and a passport (both which I later retrieved). I slept in the airport a few days begging strangers for money and stayed a few days in a pensione near Pelekas beach out of the kindness of some Canadians that I met. While it was an adventure that most people wouldn’t seek, it was the beginning of what would become my quest to travel the world for the rest of my life. Since that time, I’ve wanted to revisit the place where I was bitten by the travel bug.
I visited Corfu this past summer for the first time since that first trip. I actually made two visits to this stunning island. The first was a holiday with my partner’s family to celebrate several milestone birthdays. We stayed in a fabulous villa overlooking Agni Bay on the northeast part of the island. A second trip with friends included renting a lovely villa near Gouvia named Xenonerantzia, that provided breathtaking views.
Corfu’s unique charm comes from its rich history, which spans centuries of foreign rule and cultural influence. The island has seen the reign of the Venetians, the French, and the British, and each of these civilizations has left an indelible mark on its architecture, cuisine, and culture. As you stroll through the cobbled streets of Corfu Town, you’ll encounter grand Venetian mansions, French-style arcades, and British touches like the iconic cricket ground on Spianada Square. Outside of Corfu town, visitors will be enchanted by the many rustic but charming mountain villages, narrow country roads, hilltop monasteries, olive tree covered hills, teal colored bays, and beautiful secluded pebble and sand beaches.
Beaches
Corfu is renowned for its beautiful beaches, each with its own personality. From secluded coves to popular beaches lined with tavernas, the island offers a variety of beaches for everyone. Because there are so many beaches to explore, I’ve compiled my favorites in a separate post below:
Corfu’s Coastal Paradise: Beaches for Every Kind of Traveler
Corfu’s Cities and Villages
Corfu is not just about beaches. It’s main city, Corfu town, is a vibrant place full of exquisite architecture, charming streets and alleys, and many cultural offerings. The island’s mountainous interior is dotted with charming villages that offer a glimpse into traditional life.
Corfu Town – Most visitors to Corfu will begin their exploration in its vibrant capital located midway on the east coast of the island. Corfu town is a cultural crossroads reflecting its rich history of Venetian, French, and British influences. Visitors will be captivated by its ornate pastel colored buildings, lively squares and narrow cobblestone streets. The Old Town area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, containing well-preserved historical landmarks and an eclectic mix of local shops, cafes, and artisan markets.
We started our day by visiting the Old Fortress, a Venetian stronghold that offers panoramic views of the city and the sparkling Ionian Sea. The Old Fortress sits on a rock that juts into the sea, separated from the Old Town and Spianada Square by a canal. Originally a 12th century Byzantine fortification, the Venetians replaced the fortification in the 16th century, and it successfully repulsed three major Ottoman sieges between the 16th and 18th centuries. During World War II, the fortress was used by the Nazis to imprison Corfu Jews. We explored the numerous buildings including a prison, barracks, and museum with historic archives. On the south side of the peninsula sits the Church of Saint George, originally an Anglican church built in 1840 for British soldiers who served in Corfu during the period of English protection. Since then, it has been converted to an Orthodox church.
We crossed beautiful Spianada Square, which separates the fortress from the historic old town. This very green and landscaped park is the largest square in Greece and the Balkans. The serene square contains numerous monuments, gardens, fountains and a gazebo. At the north end sits the Palace of Saints Michael and George which today houses the Museum of Asian Art. The square was originally built in the 16th century by the Venetians and added to by both the French and the British. To this day, the British tradition of cricket is played within the park.
We ventured beyond the square to the Old Town, arriving first at the iconic Liston promenade, with its elegant arches and outdoor cafes. We continued walking the dozens of seductive narrow streets and alleys. The influence of the Venetians, French, and British can be felt in the architecture and layout, creating a unique atmosphere that sets Corfu Town apart from other Greek islands. Near the center of the Old Town is the Church of Saint Spyridon with its distinctive red domed bell tower. The church holds the relics of Corfu’s patron saint.
On the west side of the Old Town is the New Fortress, another impressive remnant of Venetian rule. The fortress sits on the hill of St. Mark, towering over the harbor. Built in the late 16th century, it was used to strengthen the defense of the outer part of the city from the Ottomans. Later additions were made by the British in the 19th century. The fortress gate is decorated with the relief of the Lion of St. Mark, the emblem of Venice, and other sections include several bastions, barracks and a dry moat.
Many of Corfu Town’s streets are oriented toward tourists, with a myriad of souvenir shops, galleries, restaurants, bars and coffee shops. We enjoyed coffee at a small, quaint but quirky bar and café facing the street on the first floor of the Puppet Guesthouse. Later, we decided to get off the beaten path and explored the picturesque alleys where the locals live. Here, you will see laundry hanging above cobblestone streets, children playing in small courtyards, and people going about their daily chores.
We spent an afternoon at the small but impressive Archaeological Museum located just south of the Old Town near the bay. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of Corfu’s ancient past, from the prehistoric era through the Roman period. The highlight is the pediment from the Temple of Artemis dating to the 6th century BCE. The pediment features the mythical Gorgon Medusa and is one of the finest examples of Archaic Greek sculpture. The museum also houses statues, pottery, coins, and everyday items unearthed from local archaeological sites.
Traffic and finding parking in Corfu Town can be difficult during the peak tourist season. A few times we were able to find free parking in the morning along Kerkyra-Kanoni Road which follows the waterfront south of the harbor and Old Town. During the evening, using a rideshare service, such as Uber, can save the time and hassle.
Kassiopi – Another must-visit is the village of Kassiopi, a lively fishing town on the northeastern coast on Kassiopi Bay. With its quaint harbor, ancient Roman ruins, and friendly tavernas, Kassiopi offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling town of Corfu. Here visitors can also find boutiques and gift shops, as well as a wide variety of hotels, pensiones and apartments. Local streets and trails led to secluded beaches, such as Kanoni Beach and Pepitos Beach. We enjoyed lunch at Tavernaki, a taverna on the east side of the bay. The restaurant has a large selection of seafood, traditional Greek and Corfiot dishes, including a tasty pastitsada.
Lakones – Perched above Paleokastritsa Bay on Corfu’s west coast is the picturesque village of Lakones. The village is filled with winding cobblestone streets, colorful bougainvillea, and old stone houses, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking a slice of authentic Corfiot life. Lakones offers some of the best viewpoints on the island, with breathtaking vistas over turquoise Paleokastritsa Bay. Many of the village’s cafes and tavernas have terraces that let visitors soak in the view.
Old Perithia Village – Nestled high on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator surrounded by olive groves and cypress trees is Old Perithia, Corfu’s oldest permanently inhabited settlement dating to the 14th century. It was once a safe haven from pirate raids along the coast, and by the 17th century, one of the wealthiest villages on the island, with 130 houses of Venetian origin. Today, it is known as a “ghost village” due to its mostly abandoned state, and is a protected heritage site. While most of the buildings are remnants of their former selves, there are some intact buildings that house cafes, gift shops, and guest houses. We spent an hour roaming the abandoned buildings, followed by coffee and a delicious traditional Greek orange cake at a local café. Getting to the village requires driving narrow and twisty roads that climb high, offering stunning views of the sea along the way.
Sokraki Village – Sokraki is a small traditional village in northern Corfu, perched on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator. We traveled up a steep narrow road with nearly 30 switchbacks to reach this quiet village, taking in the breathtaking views of the verdant landscape and Ionian Sea. Sokraki has preserved its authentic Corfiot character, with stone houses, narrow winding streets, and a relaxed pace of life that feels a world away from the busier coastal areas. In the heart of the village, we stopped at one of several family-run tavernas, devouring homemade spanakopita and honey cake.
Other Attractions
Danilia Village – Danilia Village is a replica of a traditional style Corfu village, located near Gouvia. It offers a unique glimpse into the island’s past with its recreated early 20th century architecture and ambiance. Danilia was originally built as an open air museum in the 1970s to capture the essence of a classic Corfiot village. Since then, it has become a popular destination for visitors and filmmakers alike. It has served as a filming location for the TV series The Durrells and the James Bond movie For Your Eyes Only, and more recently My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3. Walking through the near authentic village feels like stepping back in time, with cobbled streets, a picturesque central square, a traditional church, and houses complete with old-world charm. A museum above a taverna showcases local artifacts and history. The entrance fee includes a free drink at the taverna.
Cape Drastis – Located on the northern tip of Corfu is one of the island’s most dramatic and scenic coastal areas. Cape Drastis, known for its distinctive white cliffs and rock formations, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters, offers breathtaking views over the Ionian Sea and secluded coves. The rock formations have been shaped over millennia by wind and waves, creating narrow inlets, small beaches, and picturesque swimming spots. Getting to the view point requires hiking down a long dusty road. Visitors should beware of vendors selling overpriced water. Near the top of the road, we were charged and paid $5 for a bottle, followed by the vendor chasing us telling us we owed her more money.
Mouse Island and Vlacherna Monastery – Near the mouth of the Halikiopoulou Lagoon near the airport are two scenic islands. On a small islet connected by a causeway to the Kanoni peninsula is the iconic Vlacherna Monastery. This charming, whitewashed building dates to the 17th century, and is one of Corfu’s most photographed landmarks because of its unique location in the blue Ionian Sea. The small structure includes a picturesque bell tower and an inner courtyard filled with blooming flowers.
Further out is Mouse Island, known for its lush greenery and distinctive shape, which is said to resemble a mouse when viewed from afar. According to legend, it is the petrified remains of Odysseus’ ship, turned to stone by Poseidon. The island is home to a small Byzantine chapel dedicated to Pantokrator, which attracts both pilgrims and curious visitors. It can reached by a short boat ride, and there are several good view points. We stopped for drinks at the Café Kanoni located on the southern tip of the Kanoni Peninsula. Set high on a hill, the restaurant terraces provided a perfect spot for viewing the islands, as well as the planes landing and taking off at the Corfu airport. A long pedestrian bridge across the harbor also affords views of the islands and airplanes.
Monastery of Paleokastritsa – The Monastery of Paleokastritsa, located above Paleokastritsa Bay on Corfu’s west coast, is a serene and historic sanctuary for visitors seeking tranquility and breathtaking views. The original monastery dates to the year 1228, but the current structures date to the 18th century. The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and its complex includes a small church, living quarters, and a museum featuring religious icons, ancient manuscripts, and artifacts that tell the story of the island’s rich spiritual history. The walls are adorned with vibrant frescoes, and the courtyard, filled with blooming flowers, olive trees, and fountains, offers a calm respite for reflection.
Achilleion Palace – A few miles south of Corfu Town is the Achilleion Palace, the former summer residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. The palace, set amidst beautifully manicured gardens, offers stunning views over the island and Ionian Sea and houses an impressive collection of artwork and memorabilia. It was built in 1890 and inspired by Greek mythology and particularly devoted to Achilles, reflecting the empress’s admiration for classical Greece. The estate is lavishly adorned with statues of gods, heroes, and philosophers, most notably a grand statue of Achilles himself. The palace was later owned by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany and has historical significance as a former political meeting place. The interior of the palace was closed for renovation when we visited, but when complete, will include restored frescoed ceilings, intricate décor, and artifacts that offer a glimpse into royal life.
A Taste of Corfu
No trip to Corfu is complete without indulging in its local cuisine. Corfiot dishes have been Influenced by Venetian and Greek traditions and can be tried at most of the tavernas throughout the island. I enjoyed two of the local dishes, including Sofrito, and Pastitsada. Sofrito, consists of thinly sliced beef or veal cooked in a tangy white wine and garlic sauce. Pastitsada, passed down from the Venetians, is a pasta dish consisting of beef sauteed in a tomato sauce that contains hints of allspice, cinnamon, paprika and garlic. Another favorite is bourdetto, a spicy fish stew simmered with onions, tomatoes, and red pepper
Corfu is famous for its kumquat liqueur, a sweet and citrusy drink that originated from the small orange-like fruit brought to the island by the British, and imported from Japan. I enjoyed a shot of the liquor, as well as cocktails flavored with it. The liquor can be purchased at souvenir shops throughout Corfu, and the Mavromatis distillery in Felekas includes a gift shop and tour.
Olive trees and farms are scattered throughout Corfu, and olive oil shops can be found throughout the island. There are even olive oil museums, including the Lithari Olive Oil Museum located in the tiny mountain village of Sokraki, and the Mavroudis Olive Oil Museum, located near the village of Vragkaniotika. The Enotis groves and museum is located near Makrades. In addition, olive oil tasting tours can be arranged through Viator.
Day Tours
A variety of day tours throughout Corfu can be arranged through companies such as Viator. These include sightseeing tours, ATV tours, olive tasting tours, private yacht cruises, taste of Corfu tours, and more.
There are also a variety of cruise tours to nearby destinations including the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, as well as Albania. These tours are also available through Viator as well as local tour companies. I highly recommend the Paxos-Antipaxos tour. We took an all day boat excursion which included a lunch stop in the beautiful village of Gaios (on Paxos), a stop for swimming at beautiful Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos, and visits to several of the famous blue caves on Paxos. The ride back to Corfu was more of a party, with the onboard DJ playing a variety of popular music, and a show of traditional Greek dancers. The tours usually include an option for a hotel pick up and drop off.
Getting There
Corfu is accessible by both air and sea, making it an ideal destination for travelers from Europe and beyond.
By Air – Corfu’s international airport, Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU), is about one mile south of Corfu Town. The airport serves direct flights from many European cities, especially in the summer. From Athens, you can also catch a quick one-hour flight if you’re traveling domestically.
By Ferry – For those already in Greece or Italy, ferries are a scenic option. Ferries run from Igoumenitsa on the mainland and take roughly 1-2 hours, while ferries from Patras take longer. You can also travel to Corfu from Italy (Bari, Ancona, and Brindisi), a popular choice for those combining multiple destinations. More information on ferries to and from Corfu can be accessed here.
Getting Around Corfu
By Car or Scooter – Renting a car or scooter is one of the best ways to explore Corfu’s beaches, villages, and scenic spots, especially if you’re aiming to reach less accessible areas. The island’s road network is generally good, though many roads can be narrow or winding. Rental cars are available at the airport, as well as in Corfu town and other locations throughout the island. Scooter rentals are available in Corfu Town as well as throughout the island.
By Bus – Corfu has a reliable bus system, operated by Corfu City Bus. There are two types of service. Green buses cover longer routes to more remote areas and beaches, while blue buses serve Corfu Town and nearby regions. Buses also access the airport and the ferry terminal. Buses are affordable and can get you to popular spots like Paleokastritsa, Sidari, and Kavos. Ticket options include They can be purchased at kiosks next to bus stops, and at Saroko Square in Corfu town. Tickets can be purchased for individual one-trip rides, or as a daily unlimited use.
Taxis – Taxis are available in Corfu Town and other main towns, and you can book them at the airport or through your hotel. They’re a convenient option for shorter trips, though they can be pricier than buses. Corfu Taxi and Transfer Services is the largest provider on Corfu.
Boat Rentals – To see the island from the sea, renting a small boat or taking a day cruise is a good option. Corfu’s coastline is dotted with coves and secluded beaches, and a boat offers a fun and intimate way to explore these hidden gems, especially beaches that are inaccessible by car. Boat rentals can be found at coastal towns and harbors throughout the island.