Corfu enchants travelers with a trove of historical treasures, sprawling resorts and picturesque beaches framed by tranquil blue waters. Discover its layered cultural heritage, reflective of years spent under Venetian and French rule.
Start in the UNESCO-listed capital, flanked by 2 imposing fortresses and winding medieval lanes. Explore its churches, including the Saint Spyridon Church, which houses the island’s patron saint’s silver casket.
Beaches
Corfu is a summer destination of glistening golden beaches, exotic scenery & endless sun-drenched pleasures. Here, awe-inspiring cliffs & pristine bays line the shore, while lush green forests sway in the wind above.
There’s no shortage of gorgeous beaches to choose from on Corfu, but if you’re looking for one of the best in the north, look no further than Kavos. This long strip of pale golden sand is backed by a row of tavernas, cafes & bars and lapped by crystal-clear waters. It can be a little over the top in high summer, but it’s still a must-see for beach lovers on any Corfu trip.
Located near the village of Afionas, Chomi is another of the island’s most impressive beaches. Towering cliffs guard pale white sands, which are lapped by the clearest of seas. The beach isn’t organized, but umbrella rentals are available nearby. It’s also a popular spot for snorkeling.
This southwestern beach is a family favorite thanks to its shallow waters, plenty of shade from cypress trees & olive shrubs and tons of water sports to enjoy. It’s also just over an hour from Corfu Town, with buses running regularly throughout the day.
Resorts
Corfu’s resort hotels offer an array of luxury amenities including swimming pools, spas and gourmet restaurants. Some are located in UNESCO-listed old town areas while others have stunning beach views.
One of the island’s original resorts, this large hotel occupies prime Corfu real estate on Garitsa bay and offers spacious rooms and suites with ample marble bathrooms. It also has four unique bars and restaurants influenced by ancient narratives like the tale of Ulysses crossing the Mediterranean on a driftwood raft.
Acharavi’s main beach is small and shingly, but there are plenty of smaller coves nearby for those who prefer a more tranquil setting. This resort is popular with families and has a more local feel than many of the larger seafront hotels on the south side of the island.
This secluded boutique property is set within an olive grove, offering serene hillside sanctuaries with sweeping island views and a host of bespoke design details (think crafted furnishings made from fallen Corfu wood). It also boasts one of the best restaurant scenes on the island.
Nightlife
Corfu’s nightlife is vibrant and varied, with a wide selection of bars and clubs for all tastes. There are lively dance spots with DJs and a main dance floor where you can let loose, but also cozy lounge areas that cater to those who prefer a low-key night out.
The party continues well into the early morning at sublime beach bars dotted along the coast, especially in resorts such as Paleokastritsa, Sidari, Dassia and Benitses, where guest DJs spin dance music until dawn. A more subdued experience can be found in the town center, where skilled bartenders mix invigorating cocktails from an array of liqueurs, juices and native herbs at elegant venues concentrated around Vrahlioti Square and several impressive waterfront locations.
EDEM Beach Club is an especially popular nightclub, located right on the shoreline of Dassia Beach and open until dawn. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy some fun in the sun and dance until sunrise, though be sure to drink water between cocktails or you may end up a little more than tipsy!
Shopping
Corfu offers many shops that sell a wide variety of clothing items, jewellery and food. However, there are also traditional items sold here that you cannot find anywhere else in the world. These are primarily manufactured and cultivated on the island, which makes them unique souvenirs.
Leather sandals are a popular item on the island, and you can also find an array of stylish leather bags and wrist cuffs. Another great buy is dried herbs, which are an important ingredient in Greek cooking. Purchase basil, sage, red saffron and oregano to add authentic flavour to your favourite dishes at home.
Several restaurants on the island are dedicated to creating local delicacies. Try tsigareli, pork tenderloin with kumquats and beef with Corfu beer to taste some of the finest foods on the island.
Dining
The island is home to a range of must-visit restaurants and foodie hotspots. Whether you’re after top-notch dining in the cosmopolitan capital or traditional Greek cuisine, Corfu has something to satisfy even the most demanding of palates.
Salto is one of the newest dining additions to the island’s culinary scene. Tucked away in the trendy Spilia area of the old town, this restaurant combines traditional and contemporary ingredients to create innovative dishes that far surpass the standard horiatiki. Stunning salads, jet black pasta with squid ink and tender scallops with salsa verde are just some of the delectable options on offer.
Pomo D’oro serves a selection of classic Italian cuisine with a twist. Exciting flavour combinations and expert textural pairings make this restaurant stand out from the crowd. Try stifado, a rich tomato stew of beef, rabbit or octopus infused with sweet shallots, garlic and spices; or the spicy bourdeto (spider fish cooked with tomatoes, onion, red wine, basil and nutmeg). A true highlight is the tsigareli, pork tenderloin with kumquat, which is sure to stick in your memory.