17 Best Things to Do in Corfu, Greece
Last Updated on September 17, 2026
Heading to the Ionian island of Corfu? From historic fortresses to hidden beaches and mountain villages, here are the best things to do in Corfu.
Corfu had been on my list for years, and we finally made it there recently. Before our Greece sailing trip, Alberto and I spent a week exploring Corfu, and for the first time in a very long time, we traveled without Kaleya! She stayed with family, which meant a rare week of long lunches, lazy afternoons by the pool, and spontaneous detours without anyone asking “are we there yet?”
We rented a car and drove all over the island: beach hopping, visiting the main sights, getting lost in charming hilltop villages and squeezing in a short hike. What surprised me most was how green Corfu is. Unlike the dry, rocky Cyclades, the Ionian island is covered in olive groves, cypress trees and wildflowers, with a coastline of turquoise coves and dramatic cliffs. But the real highlight for me was Corfu Old Town: with its Venetian fortresses, pastel buildings and maze of narrow lanes.
If you’re planning a trip, here are the best things to do in Corfu, an itinerary and all the practical tips you need.
Where is Corfu?
Corfu (Kerkyra in Greek) is the second-largest of the Ionian Islands, located off the northwest coast of Greece. It’s so close to Albania that you can see its mountains from the island’s northeast coast.
Because of its location, Corfu has a history unlike anywhere else in Greece. The Venetians ruled the island for around 400 years, followed by the French and then the British, and it was one of the few parts of Greece never conquered by the Ottomans. You’ll see those influences everywhere, from the Italianate architecture to the cricket matches on the main square and the ginger beer served in cafés.
Corfu has its own international airport just outside Corfu Town, with direct flights from all over Europe in summer, and it’s a short flight from Athens.
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Best Things to Do in Corfu
1. Get Lost in Corfu Old Town
If you only do one thing in Corfu, make it this. Corfu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful old towns in Greece.
Wander through the kantounia, the narrow alleyways lined with tall Venetian townhouses in shades of ochre, pink and peach, with laundry strung between the balconies. Pop into the Church of Saint Spyridon, dedicated to the island’s patron saint, whose red-domed bell tower is the tallest in town. Then keep walking and see where the lanes take you, stopping for a freddo espresso in a hidden square.
As soon as we stepped into the old town, I was reminded of Valletta in Malta: the same honey-colored stone, the fortifications looming over the sea and the layers of history on every corner.
Tip: Visit in the early morning or evening, when day-trippers from the cruise ships have left and the town takes on a magical glow.
2. Have a Drink at the Liston & Spianada Square
On the edge of the old town, the Liston is an elegant arcade built by the French in the early 1800s and modeled on the Rue de Rivoli in Paris. Today it’s lined with cafés and bars, and it’s the place to people-watch over an aperitif.
In front of it is Spianada Square, one of the largest squares in Greece. Its lawn is also a cricket pitch, a quirky leftover from British rule. If you’re lucky, you might catch a match on a summer weekend.
Order a tsitsibira (the local ginger beer, another British legacy) and watch the world go by.
3. Climb the Old Fortress
Built by the Venetians on a rocky headland separated from town by a moat, the Old Fortress is Corfu Town’s most iconic landmark. Walk across the bridge and climb up to the lighthouse at the top for panoramic views over the old town’s rooftops, the sea and the mountains of mainland Greece and Albania.
Inside, you’ll also find the Church of St George, which looks strikingly like a Greek temple.
- Opening hours: 8am–8pm in summer
- Price: Small entry fee (check the latest price on the official Hellenic Heritage website, hhticket.gr)
4. Explore the New Fortress
Don’t let the name fool you. The New Fortress was built by the Venetians in the late 16th century. It’s less visited than the Old Fortress, but it has its own maze of tunnels, ramparts and great views over the port and the old town’s rooftops. Come in the late afternoon for the golden light.
5. See Mouse Island & Vlacherna Monastery
Just south of Corfu Town, on the Kanoni peninsula, is one of the most photographed views in Greece. The tiny Vlacherna Monastery sits on an islet connected to the shore by a narrow causeway, with the cypress-covered Pontikonisi (Mouse Island) floating just behind it.
Walk along the causeway to the monastery, or take a little boat across to Mouse Island. Aviation fans will love this spot too: the runway of Corfu Airport is right next to it, so planes fly in low over the lagoon.
Tip: For the classic view, head to the café terraces up at Kanoni.
6. Visit the Achilleion Palace
About 10km south of Corfu Town, in the village of Gastouri, the Achilleion Palace was built in the 1890s for Empress Elisabeth of Austria (better known as Sisi), who fell in love with Corfu and wanted a summer retreat dedicated to her hero, Achilles. It was later bought by the German Kaiser Wilhelm II.
The neoclassical palace is filled with artworks, but the real highlights are the gardens, with sweeping views over the coast and the giant statue of Achilles Triumphant.
- Opening hours: 8am–8pm daily (April–October)
- Price: €7 for adults, €5 reduced
7. Swim in the Coves of Paleokastritsa
On the west coast, Paleokastritsa is one of the most beautiful spots in Corfu, a series of small bays with water in every shade of blue and green, framed by forested cliffs. Legend has it that this is where Odysseus washed up on the shores of the Phaeacians in Homer’s Odyssey.
Take a boat trip from the harbor to explore the sea caves along the coast, then walk up to the Monastery of Paleokastritsa, a whitewashed 13th-century monastery perched on the headland with a peaceful courtyard and incredible views.
Tip: Paleokastritsa gets very busy in July and August, so arrive before 10am to find parking.
8. Hike Up to Angelokastro
A few kilometers north of Paleokastritsa, the ruins of Angelokastro cling to a rocky pinnacle more than 300 meters above the sea. This Byzantine castle was built in the 13th century and used as a lookout against pirate attacks. It’s a short but steep climb from the parking area, rewarded with jaw-dropping views down the coast.
9. Hike to Porto Timoni
This was our favorite spot in Corfu. Porto Timoni is Corfu’s famous “double beach,” two crescent-shaped coves back to back on a narrow strip of land, with water on both sides. You can only reach it on foot (or by boat).
The trail starts in the hilltop village of Afionas and takes about 20–30 minutes each way. It’s rocky and steep in places, so wear proper shoes, bring plenty of water and go early. There are no facilities on the beach, and the climb back up is tough in the midday heat.
10. Swim Through the Canal d’Amour in Sidari
On Corfu’s north coast, the village of Sidari is famous for the Canal d’Amour, a series of sandstone rock formations carved by wind and waves into coves, arches and narrow channels. According to local legend, if you swim through the canal, you’ll find your true love (or stay with the one you’ve got!).
Sidari itself is quite built up, but the rock formations are beautiful, especially at sunset. Nearby, the Cape Drastis cliffs are even more dramatic and far less crowded.
11. Go Beach Hopping on the West Coast
Having a car in Corfu means you can go beach hopping, and that was one of our favorite things to do. The west coast has the best sandy beaches, and they’re perfect for watching the sunset.
Some of the best beaches in Corfu include:
- Glyfada Beach: A long stretch of golden sand with beach bars and great sunsets
- Myrtiotissa Beach: Lawrence Durrell called it perhaps the loveliest beach in the world. It’s small, wild and reached by a steep path.
- Rovinia Beach: A secluded pebble cove near Liapades with crystal-clear water, best reached by boat or a short walk
- Agios Gordios: A wide bay backed by olive-covered hills and dramatic rock formations
- Arillas & Agios Georgios Pagon: Laid-back bays in the northwest, close to Afionas and Porto Timoni
12. Wander Through Old Perithia
Tucked in the foothills of Mount Pantokrator, Old Perithia is one of the oldest villages in Corfu. It was built in the Byzantine era, when islanders moved to the mountains to escape pirates, and was gradually abandoned in the 20th century as people moved to the coast.
Today, its stone houses and churches are slowly being restored, and a handful of excellent tavernas serve traditional food in the village square. Wandering its quiet lanes feels like stepping back in time.
13. Drive Up Mount Pantokrator
At 906 meters, Mount Pantokrator is the highest point in Corfu. A winding road climbs almost all the way to the summit, where there’s a small monastery and a café. On a clear day, you can see across the island to the mainland and Albania. It’s the best view in Corfu, and a great detour if you’re staying in the north.
Tip: The last stretch of road is narrow and steep, so take it slow, and bring a jacket as it’s much cooler at the top.
14. Explore the Villages of the Northeast Coast
Corfu’s northeast coast is lined with picturesque fishing villages facing Albania across the strait. The water here is calm and clear, and it’s a great area for a lazy day of swimming and seafood lunches.
- Kassiopi: A lively harbor village with the ruins of a Byzantine castle, pretty coves and lots of restaurants
- Kalami: Home of the White House, where writer Lawrence Durrell lived in the 1930s (his brother Gerald’s My Family and Other Animals inspired the TV series The Durrells). The house is now a taverna right on the water.
- Agni: A tiny cove with three famous seafood tavernas
- Agios Stefanos Sinion: A peaceful horseshoe bay with fishing boats and yachts
15. Taste Corfu’s Food & Kumquat Liqueur
Thanks to its Venetian heritage, Corfu’s cuisine is a little different from the rest of Greece. Make sure to try:
- Sofrito: Veal slow-cooked in white wine, garlic and parsley
- Pastitsada: A spiced beef or rooster stew served with pasta
- Bourdeto: A spicy fish stew with red pepper
- Kumquat liqueur: Kumquats were brought to Corfu by the British in the 19th century and are now the island’s signature product. You’ll find the bright orange liqueur, sweets and preserves in shops all over the old town, often with free tastings.
16. Take a Day Trip to Paxos & Antipaxos
Some of the most beautiful water in the Ionian Sea is found just south of Corfu, around the tiny islands of Paxos and Antipaxos. Fast ferries and day cruises leave from Corfu Town and Lefkimmi, and most visit the blue sea caves of Paxos, the turquoise lagoons of Antipaxos and the pretty harbor town of Gaios.
After our week in Corfu, we spent several days sailing around Paxos and Antipaxos, and it was the highlight of our entire trip. If you have time, stay for a night or two! They promise spearmint waters, pristine coves and surprisingly empty beaches.
If you’d like to combine Corfu with Paxos or other Ionian islands, Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays offers excellent villa holidays in Greece with accommodation and transfers all taken care of. They’re particularly great for families looking to stay in spacious villas with nice views.
17. Hop Over to Albania for the Day
Here’s one for the adventurous. Corfu is so close to Albania that you can take a day trip across the strait. Ferries run from Corfu Port to Saranda on the Albanian Riviera. The crossing takes only around 30 minutes. From Saranda, you can visit the ancient ruins of Butrint or continue exploring the rest of the country.
Alberto and I took the ferry over from Corfu and ended up traveling all over Albania. It was such an easy yet adventurous experience! Albania itself is a beautiful country packed full of medieval mountain villages, historical sites and sprawling beaches. I would recommend spending at least a week to explore Albania if you’re short on time, otherwise 2 or 3 weeks would be better.
Remember to bring your passport, and check the entry requirements for your nationality.
Our Recommended Corfu Itinerary
Not sure how to fit it all in? Here’s how I would plan a trip, based on our week on the island.
3 Days in Corfu
Day 1: Corfu Town Spend the morning exploring Corfu Old Town, the Church of Saint Spyridon and the Old Fortress. Have lunch in the old town, then visit Mouse Island and Vlacherna Monastery in the afternoon. End the day with drinks at the Liston.
Day 2: West Coast Drive to Paleokastritsa for a boat trip to the sea caves and a visit to the monastery. After lunch, climb up to Angelokastro, then head south for a sunset swim at Glyfada Beach.
Day 3: North Coast Go early to Afionas and hike to Porto Timoni. In the afternoon, visit the Canal d’Amour in Sidari and watch the sunset at Cape Drastis.
5 Days in Corfu
Follow the 3-day itinerary above, then add:
Day 4: Northeast Coast & Mountains Drive up Mount Pantokrator in the morning, then have lunch at a taverna in Old Perithia. Spend the afternoon swimming and village hopping between Kassiopi, Agios Stefanos and Kalami.
Day 5: Achilleion Palace & Day Trip, or Beach Day Visit the Achilleion Palace in the morning, then spend the afternoon on one of the west coast beaches. Alternatively, take a full-day boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos.
One week or more? Use the extra days to slow down, as we did. Stay a few nights in the north and a few in Corfu Town, add a day trip to Albania, or take the ferry to Paxos and stay a couple of nights.
How to Get Around Corfu
Rent a car. Corfu is much bigger than most people expect (it takes around 1.5 hours to drive from the far north to the far south), and the best beaches, villages and viewpoints are spread out across the island. We rented a car for the week, and it gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace. Search for car rentals in Corfu here!
A few driving tips:
- Roads in the mountains and villages are narrow and winding, so rent a small car.
- Parking in Corfu Town is limited. Use the paid parking lots near the New Fortress or the port and walk into the old town.
- Arrive early at popular beaches like Paleokastritsa and Porto Timoni, when parking spaces run out.
Buses: The green KTEL buses connect Corfu Town with the main resorts, and the blue city buses cover Corfu Town and nearby areas like Kanoni and the Achilleion. They’re cheap, but not very frequent.
Boat trips & water taxis: Many of the best coves are easier to reach by boat. You can rent a small motorboat without a license in places like Agios Stefanos and Kassiopi.
Best Time to Visit Corfu
The best time to visit Corfu is the shoulder season – May, June and September – when the weather is warm and sunny, the sea is perfect for swimming, and the island is less crowded than in peak summer.
July and August are the hottest and busiest months. Beaches and parking lots fill up quickly, it can get really crowded, and prices for accommodation and car rental go up. If you’re traveling in the summer holidays, book well in advance.
October is still lovely, with warm seas and quiet beaches, although some businesses start to close at the end of the month. Corfu is so green because it rains a lot in winter, so November to March isn’t ideal for a beach holiday. But it’s a great time to explore Corfu Town without the crowds.
Easter in Corfu is also very special, with processions and the famous tradition of throwing clay pots from the balconies of the old town on Holy Saturday.
Where to Stay in Corfu
Where you stay will shape your trip, so it’s worth thinking about what kind of holiday you want.
Corfu Town
Stay in or near Corfu Old Town if you want to be able to walk to restaurants, bars and sights, and use it as a base for day trips. It’s also close to the airport and the port. You won’t need a car then and there’s plenty to see within walking distance.
- Cavalieri Hotel (mid-range): A historic hotel with a rooftop bar and restaurant overlooking the Old Fortress and the sea. Check rates here.
- Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel (boutique): A restored 19th-century mansion with elegant rooms and a peaceful garden courtyard. Check rates here.
- Bella Venezia (mid-range): A neoclassical mansion with breakfast served in its garden, a few minutes’ walk from the Liston. Check rates here.
North Corfu
The north and northeast are perfect for a quieter holiday, with calm, clear water, waterfront tavernas and easy access to Mount Pantokrator, Old Perithia and the fishing villages.
We stayed at Mr and Mrs White Corfu Couples Retreat, an adults-only hotel in Acharavi on the north coast, and loved it. The rooms are decorated in minimalist white and set around lush Mediterranean gardens, with a pool, pool bar and outdoor jacuzzi, and the long sandy beach of Acharavi is just a short walk away.
- Mr and Mrs White Corfu Couples Retreat (adults-only): Our pick for couples. Minimalist, relaxing and close to the beach. Check rates here.
- San Antonio Corfu Resort (adults-only): A hillside resort with an infinity pool overlooking the bay. Check rates here.
- The Durrell White House (villa): Rent a villa in Lawrence Durrell’s former home, right above the famous waterfront taverna. Check rates here.
East Coast
Just north of Corfu Town, the east coast around Dassia and the Kommeno peninsula is home to some of the island’s best big resorts. It’s a great choice for families who want pools, kids’ clubs and an easy drive into town.
- Grecotel Corfu Imperial (luxury): A classic luxury resort spread across its own peninsula, with private beaches and villas. Check rates here.
- Ikos Dassia (all-inclusive): Upscale all-inclusive with excellent restaurants and family facilities. Check rates here.
- Grecotel LUXME Daphnila Bay (luxury all-inclusive): A beachfront family resort surrounded by pine forest, with a kids’ club. Check rates here.
West Coast
Base yourself on the west coast if you want to be near the best sandy beaches and sunsets, as well as Paleokastritsa, Angelokastro and Porto Timoni.
- Domes of Corfu (luxury): A stylish beachfront resort right on Glyfada Beach, with gorgeous sunset views. Check rates here.
- Akrotiri Beach Hotel (mid-range to upscale): Sea views from every room, with direct access to the water and diving nearby. Check rates here.
- Ella Alkyna Adults Only (adults-only): A seafront hotel with a pool and spa on one of the island’s prettiest bays. Check rates here.
Corfu Travel Tips
- Rent a car (seriously!). It’s the best way to explore the island. Search for car rentals in Corfu here!
- Book the popular spots early in the day. Paleokastritsa, Porto Timoni and the Canal d’Amour get busy by mid-morning in summer.
- Check the cruise ship schedule. Corfu Town can get crowded when several ships are in port. Plan your old town visit for early morning or evening.
- Carry some cash for beach loungers, parking and small tavernas, although cards are widely accepted.
- Pack water shoes. Many beaches in Corfu are pebbly.
- Cover up in monasteries and churches. Bring a scarf or sarong to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Get an eSIM for navigating around the island. We used Airalo on our trip. Check out Airalo’s eSIMs for Corfu here.
- Get travel insurance that covers car rental and water activities. Not sure where to start? Check out my detailed guide to choosing the best travel insurance for your trip.
FAQs About Visiting Corfu
How many days do you need in Corfu?
We recommend at least 3 days to see Corfu Town and the highlights of the west and north coasts. With 5 days to a week, you can explore the whole island at a relaxed pace, add a beach day or two and take a day trip to Paxos.
Is Corfu worth visiting?
Absolutely! Corfu combines one of the most beautiful old towns in Greece with lush landscapes, great beaches, mountain villages and delicious food. It’s also much greener and less windy than the Cyclades.
Is Corfu good for couples?
Yes! Corfu is a great destination for couples, with romantic sunsets, adults-only hotels like the one we stayed in and plenty of secluded coves to discover.
Is Corfu good for families?
Corfu is also a great family destination. The calm, shallow beaches on the north and northeast coasts are perfect for kids, and there are boat trips, castles and water parks to keep everyone busy.
Do you need a car in Corfu?
You don’t need a car if you’re only staying in Corfu Town, but we highly recommend renting one to explore the rest of the island. Search for car rentals in Corfu here!
What is the best part of Corfu to stay in?
It depends on your travel style. Stay in Corfu Town for history, restaurants and nightlife, the north and northeast for calm water and a relaxed atmosphere, and the west coast for sandy beaches and sunsets.
Further Reading on Greece
Thank you so much for reading all the way through! I hope this list of the best things to do in Corfu has given you a real feel for the island, from getting lost in the old town’s narrow lanes to hiking down to those hidden double beaches up north.
If you’re planning your own trip and have questions about where to stay, how to fit it all into your itinerary, or anything else, just leave a comment below and I’ll help however I can.
And if this has you craving more of Greece, I’ve written plenty of other guides to help you explore the country:
- Our 1-Week Greece Island Hopping Itinerary
- Our Greece Sailing Holiday with Yacht Getaways
- 10 Best Greek Islands to Visit
- My Guide to Kefalonia Greece
- 20 Best Things to do in Mykonos, Greece
- Santorini with Kids
- 10 Best Historical Sites in Greece
- Sailing in Greece
- How We Find the Right eSIM for Travel
- 20 Best Travel Apps
- Best Travel Insurance
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.
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