Greece is one of the number one destinations in Europe for a romantic, adventurous and unforgettable summer vacation. While most travellers aim directly towards Mykonos or Santorini, there is another beautiful island in the North of Greece. Corfu. Corfu is the second largest Ionian Island and known as the “Green Island” of Greece. If you have fallen in love with Corfu and are planning your trip, there are a few things about what you must know before visiting Corfu. This blog is all about the best preparation for your trip to Greece and contains all the insider know-hows. Where is it best to stay? How do you explore the island? Get ready and hope, you are already feeling the Greek sun on your skin.
To explore Corfu, a car is the best option
Corfu is actually way too pretty to just spend your time at the hotel pool. While a pool day can be nice, of course, there is a lot more to see on the island. If you are up for some exploring and seeing a new beach almost every day, a car is a must-have. As on any other holiday destination, you can find car rentals almost anywhere. You can either directly rent your car at the airport or choose a rental in the area you are staying in. Renting it at the airport might be the best option, especially if you want to rent it for your entire time on Corfu. You will not only save the money for the transportation to your hotel or apartment, but as well you can dive into your adventure immediately.
The roads on Corfu are fine, but still, you need to be a safe driver. Especially tourists can cause accidents. It is recommended to rent a small car, because at some places, the roads are narrow. Especially if you visit the beaches around the island, you will thank yourself for renting a smaller vehicle.
With a car, the island is yours. You can drive all around Corfu and see all the beautiful beaches and places the island has to offer. You will absolutely love it! Plus, it is probably the best spent money.
To make sure you are not missing out on a beautiful beach during your roadtrip, click here.
If you want to see all of Corfu: change your hotel and book 2 stays
The island is not as big as for example Crete. But still, if you want to see it all, you should think about changing your base once. It is perfect to spend a few days down in the South and then change to a hotel or apartment up in the North of Corfu. Like this, you do not only avoid some long drives but as well you can see a totally different area of the island and get some more insights.
A change of hotel makes especially sense if you are staying a week or even longer. As you still want to relax a bit and do not want to hurry from one place to other, you can also base yourself somewhere in the middle of Corfu if you only have a few days.
Free sunbeds for our customers
This is a little budget tip for all the budget travellers. On many beaches around the island, there are restaurants or beach bars offering free sunbeds to customers. This is a great way to save at least 8 or 10 Euros on your daily sunbeds. As you might be looking for a place to eat or get drinks anyway, you can combine it perfectly.
You simply have to order food or drinks at the bar or restaurant and you get a free and comfortable place directly by the ocean. Can it get any better?
The Corfiot cuisine is absolutely delicious
Ready for some Greek food every night? The tavernas are at every corner and invite you to an incredible tasting experience. On most menus, you will find the traditional Greek dishes, such as Gyros and grilled fish and Tzatziki. But make sure to keep an eye out for the Corfiot dishes as well. They are slightly different but not less delicious. The stuffed peppers and tomatoes for example are an absolute must-try.
If you are in Corfu, there is no better way to experience it than with food. Of course, there are also some other options in restaurants and you can have pasta and pizza as well. But nothing beats the Greek nights. So, bring some hunger and taste yourself all the way through the menus. And not to forget: start the meal with some great bread and local olive oil (heavenly).
Every beach offers a totally different experience
Corfu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. During your trip, you will have the choice of the choices: which beach will we be relaxing at today? That Corfu is perfect for some beach days is well-known. But what you probably did not know but must know before visiting Corfu: each beach is totally different. You can get a different experience at every beach and it totally blows your mind.
While there are beaches for long walks in the sand, there are others with steep cliffs or simply some calm bays. There are beaches for snorkeling and water sports and there are beaches with many tavernas and bars. No beach is like the other. And yes, while this might sound basic, you will soon find out that it indeed is true.
If you have the chance, make sure to visit as many beaches as possible. Because even if you think you´ve seen it all and this beach is just like the rest of it – be sure: it isn´t.
Do not trust Google maps all the time
As a traveller, Google Maps is often the best friend. Especially if you are driving around with a scooter or a car. What is the best route to today´s beach? What is the way to the hotel from the airport? Let´s be honest: without it, we all would be pretty lost.
But pay attention in Corfu, because Google Maps is not always 100% right. Especially if it concerns, the “fastest route”. The best advice: always use your own head and think wisely which way to take. Sometimes, it wants to lead you right through a gravel road through the olive tree plantations. Maybe not the best way.
Therefore, what you must know before visiting Corfu and start your road trip: stay on the main road and do not follow Google Maps blindly.
Do not book a hotel in Corfu Town
Yes, Corfu Town is a nice place to visit and do a day trip to. But do not stay in the city itself. There are many hotels and many tourists staying directly in the city center. But here are definitely better places to spend your time on Corfu. Plan a day trip to the city, but remember: you can see the highlights in just a few hours.
Never miss a sunset
This is the number 1 rule about what you must know before visiting Corfu: never ever miss a sunset. The sunsets in Corfu are absolutely breathtaking and simply too good to be missed. If you have the chance, watch the sun setting down on a beach. There are mostly some great sunset spots and you can have a drink and watch the show on the sky.
If you want, you can also find your own private spot at the end of the beaches. And of course: do not forget a sunset swim. Remember to live life because these are the moments to remember.
Corfu is hard to leave
And last but not least, what you must know before visiting Corfu is that it won´t be easy to leave. The island really has that special vibe that makes you fall in love with it instantly. The friendly locals, the welcoming atmosphere everywhere you go – there are many reasons why it is hard to say goodbye.
But see for yourself and get ready for your very own Corfu adventure.
Click here to get to know the best things to do in Corfu.
