Welcome to Corfu – one of the most beautiful Greek Islands. Corfu is the second largest island of the Ionian Islands and located just a few kilometers distanced from Albania. It is mainly known for the beautiful landscapes, impressive cliffs and dreamy beaches. Compared to the other Greek Islands, it is known as the “Green Island” and has a great variety of plants and vegetation. If you are looking for a not so typical but not less beautiful destination in Europe, Corfu is definitely a place to consider. But what are the best things to do in Corfu and what places cannot be missed? Let´s take you on a short trip around the island and show you the most beautiful spots Corfu has to offer.
And you´ll see: booking a flight to Corfu airport is the only thing you want to do after finishing this blog post. Promise.
Go on a day trip to Corfu Town (Kerkyra)
Let´s start with a beautiful day trip in Corfu. The capital of the island is definitely worth a visit and characterized by the typical European vibe and architecture. Some travellers compare it to Sevilla in Spain, which could be accurate. Nevertheless, it is indeed a beautiful city and perfect to stroll around for a day. You`ll love it for sure!
Depending on if you are travelling with a rental car or not, you can either use one of the nearby parking areas or book yourself a bus ticket from any given location over the island. As the trip is quite popular, it is easy to find a good price and you can hop on the typical tourist bus. Parking is around 5 € for the day and most of the public areas are under surveillance, meaning your car is safe.
Corfu Town, or also known as Kerkyra among the locals, has some attractions you might want to visit, such as churches and a fortress. And even if you are not into the typical tourist stuff, you´ll have plenty of options to explore the area. Have a coffee in the cute cafés, stroll through the local shops and most important: dare to go a little out of the city center. Once you enter the quieter areas where most of the locals live, you will get a whole new impression: beautiful corners, calm alleys and an insight into the life in the city.
If you are travelling during summer, make sure to arrive in the morning to avoid the heat in the afternoon. While the temperatures in Corfu can be quite enjoyable on the beach, they are a lot more exhausting in the streets of the city.
Book a boat trip and explore the coast
Did you know that Corfu has an incredibly impressive coastal line? Most people didn´t and do not even get to see it as they spent most of their stays on the beaches or at the hotel pool. But getting out on the ocean and exploring the island from the water is an absolute must-do in Corfu. Renting a boat is one of the best things to do in Corfu and should be high up on your list. There are many boat rentals in the tourist areas and especially in the South, you will find plenty of options.
The area of Paleokastritsa is famous for unforgettable boat trips. But what is even more impressive is to drive along the coast of Cape Dratsis close to Sidari. In both areas, you will be able to anker on remote beaches only reachable by both. And both trips will give you incredible views of Corfu that you will for sure not forget.
Plus, renting a boat in Corfu is fairly cheap or rather it comes with a fair price. For half a day, expect to pay around 70 Euros plus fuel. Compared to other European destinations, this really is a price hard to say no to.
Explore the paradise beaches of the island
Of course, it would not be a trip to Greece without having some time off at the beach. Luckily, Corfu has quite a few of them and invites you to some of the most beautiful places by the Mediterranean Sea. What most travellers love most about the beaches of Corfu is how different they all are. Each beach offers you a totally new experience and you can dive into the diversity of the island.
While some beaches are typical tourist places with lots of watersports and bars, others are more remote and natural. You can jump off cliffs, go snorkeling in the clear blue water or go for a nearly endless walk in the sand – yes, those beaches really offer something for everybody.
The most beautiful beaches can be found along the southwest coast of the island. Of course, you can basically find nice beaches at every corner, but still, there are a few really outstanding places you should not miss.
An absolute highlight is the Porto Timoni Beach, which is known as the twin beach. Located in a remote bay down the cliffs, you can only reach the beach by hiking about 30 minutes or by boat. Even though, it is not as easy to reach as other areas, it is indeed quite popular. Make sure to arrive early to experience the place in the most natural atmosphere. The view with the green hills and the deep blue water is one of the best Corfu has to offer.
Other beaches for your list are the Kanoni Kassiopi Beach, the Liapades Beach or Issos Beach. On most of them, it makes sense to rent a sunbed and an umbrella for the day. The prices range from five to ten euros and offer you a comfortable place for the entire day. If you are on a budget, make sure to buy an umbrella at the beginning of your stay and take it with you on every beach day – you won´t regret it.
Have a night out in the Greek tavernas
When in Greece, spend your evenings in the tavernas. This is probably the number one rule, especially on an island like Corfu. On almost every corner, you will find a local restaurant, called taverna. They offer the traditional Greek cuisine, often mixed with some international dishes, such as pasta or even pizza. But make sure to dine like a Greek at least once during your trip.
Tasting the island and the cuisine is probably one of the best things to do in Corfu. You can spend the night in the beautiful tavernas, order some traditional dishes and taste the Greek wine. The locals are very welcoming and, in many cases, you will even get a few things on the house. Most times, it is even a small dessert or a Corfiot spirit (which you absolutely have to try!)
Rent a car or a quad and go on a road trip
The best way to explore Corfu? Definitely by car. No other way of transport will give you the freedom and possibilities as a car does. It is therefore one of the best things to do in Corfu. Rent a car and hit the roads of Corfu.
You can basically drive about 4 hours from North to South. And yes, there is quite a lot to see. You can drive to all the beaches along the coast, stop in the picturesque mountain villages or visit some of the tourist places where they sell the typical souvenir stuff. If you can, it is best to rent a car during your entire time on Corfu. If not, make sure to take at least three days to explore the island by yourself.
You are more into a quad adventure in Corfu? Why not. As many other Greek islands, Corfu is famous for quad tours and rentals. They are much cheaper than cars (but be aware, also slower and maybe more difficult to drive). A quad is perfect if you do not want to drive far and save some money. Plus, you get to feel the fresh and warm air in your hair while driving – definitely worth the experience.
Corfu is calling – are you ready for your Greek adventure?
This post about the best things to do in Corfu could indeed continue for a little longer. But let´s focus on the highlights, which are perfect for a one-week-trip to the idyllic island. Corfu really is one of a kind destination, which should be on your bucketlist. With many different things to do, Corfu is something for almost any traveller and offers you multiple experiences.
What are you waiting for? Book your flight and see that this blog was telling nothing but the truth!
