We find ourselves returning to Corfu every few years, often as a perfect end to our travels through the Balkans. Corfu is one of our favorite Greek islands, offering a little bit of everything—stunning beaches, charming resorts, and a rich array of cultural experiences. And, of course, like the rest of Greece, Corfu boasts a fantastic selection of Greek restaurants. Here’s a guide to the 22 best things to see and do in Corfu.
Best Ways to Travel to Corfu
Corfu is easily accessible by air or ferry from Albania or mainland Greece. While it’s also possible to travel from Italy, it’s not the most convenient option, as the journey can be quite lengthy.
By air to Corfu
Corfu is about a 2-hour flight from Prague. However, due to the time difference between the Czech Republic and Greece, it may feel like the trip takes an extra hour when heading there and an hour less on the return.
To reach Corfu, you can book flights with the budget airline Ryanair, which operates seasonal flights from March to October. Ticket prices start at around 2,500 CZK outside the peak tourist season. Alternatively, SmartWings flies from multiple Czech cities, though their fares tend to be higher.
For more affordable options, consider checking flights from nearby airports, especially outside the busy tourist season:
- Vienna: Ryanair, Wizz Air
- Bratislava: Ryanair
- Wrocław: Ryanair
- Berlin: easyJet, Ryanair
If you plan to explore other parts of Greece, you can also fly into Athens, which offers numerous domestic flight connections. Volotea, for example, provides daily flights with one-way tickets starting from €25.
By ferry or boat to Corfu
If you’re traveling to mainland Greece, the most common and convenient route is via the port of Igoumenitsa. The ferry journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, with 6 to 10 departures available daily.
Ticket prices for adults typically start at around €10, though you might find online promotions offering a reduced fare of €5. If you’re bringing a car, expect to pay around €40 per vehicle. For information on schedules, prices, and special deals, you can check out Kerkyra Seaways or the Ferries.gr platform.
We traveled from Greece and from Sarandë in Albania. The ferry from Sarandë to Corfu takes about 35 to 40 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online, often with a 10% discount compared to buying them at the port. This route is serviced by Ionian Seaways, with a one-way fare of €19 and a round-trip fare of €38.
During our bike trip, we also traveled from Corfu to Italy. You have several destination options, including Ancona, Bari, and Brindisi. For purchasing tickets, we recommend using Ferries.gr, where you can also find schedules from various operators. If traveling with a vehicle, it’s best to book your tickets at least one week in advance.
Essential Travel Documents Needed for Your Trip to Corfu
You can enter Corfu, a Greek island, using either an ID card or a passport, whether you arrive by air or by ferry—both documents are accepted. If you plan to visit Albania during your trip, a passport is not required, an ID card is sufficient, even though Albania is not part of the EU or Schengen area.
Best Hotels in Corfu
Unfortunately, we always ended up arranging accommodation at the last minute and never quite found what we were looking for. To avoid this, try booking early and checking availability at Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa.
Where to rent a car in Corfu
Renting a car in Corfu is simple, especially at the airport. We always use the RentalCars platform and have never encountered any issues. We recommend opting for a smaller car, as some roads can be narrow, and parking spaces are often limited.
Best Time to Visit Corfu
The best time to visit Corfu is from June to September, when the weather is perfect for a summer getaway. The sea reaches its warmest in August, with temperatures up to 26°C.
- June: Corfu is less crowded, and while the air is pleasantly warm, the sea is still a bit cooler.
- July – August: These are the hottest, busiest, and most expensive months, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with average temperatures around 30°C.
- October – April: This period sees few tourists, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring the island’s sights. Daily temperatures range from 15-22°C.
22 Best Things to Do and See in Corfu
You could easily spend two weeks in Corfu without ever getting bored. The island is quite large, and traveling between destinations takes time, so a week isn’t enough to see everything it has to offer.
The most beautiful beaches in Corfu
Corfu truly offers beaches for every preference, from secluded coves to lively sandy shores with bars and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful swim in a quiet bay or an active day of snorkeling and water sports, you’ll find the perfect spot here.
Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa is renowned for its stunning pebble beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of the lush, green hills that surround the area.
Sidari – Love Canal
Sidari, a charming seaside resort on Corfu’s northern coast, is home to one of Greece’s most stunning and romantic natural wonders—the Canal of Love (Canal d’Amour). This unique attraction, shaped by the erosion of soft sandstone cliffs, is a favorite among couples and draws visitors from around the globe.
Local legend has it that if a couple swims through the rock tunnel together, they will remain together forever. This romantic allure draws couples from all over the world.
Visitors can also rent a boat to explore the nearby bays, including some that are only accessible by water, or hike through the scenic hills surrounding the area. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, perfect for a refreshing break on a warm summer day.
Glyfada
Glyfada boasts a long stretch of golden sandy beach, making it a favorite spot for both families and young travelers. It’s one of the most well-known beaches on the island.
Agios Gordios
Agios Gordios Beach is a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts and those who appreciate stunning views. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush olive groves, it offers a serene environment for relaxation.
Halicoun
Halikounas Beach features a long stretch of fine sand and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for families and windsurfing enthusiasts. Its expansive size ensures that everyone can find their own slice of paradise, even during the busy summer months.
Agios Georgios
Agios Georgios is one of those rare spots in Corfu that has managed to preserve its tranquility and authentic charm while still offering everything you need for a perfect holiday. Located on the island’s northwest coast, this stunning beach is known for its long stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
Agios Georgios is home to one of the longest and most stunning beaches in Corfu, surrounded by lush green hills and charming olive groves, creating a perfect setting for relaxation. The shallow, calm waters make it an ideal destination for families with children.
Beyond sunbathing and swimming, Agios Georgios offers a variety of water sports, including windsurfing, jet skiing, and diving. Nature enthusiasts can explore nearby hiking trails that wind through the beautiful landscape, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Myrtiotissa
Myrtiotissa is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Corfu. This small, secluded stretch of sand is nestled between steep cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a truly intimate and serene atmosphere.
Sights to see in Corfu
Corfu is a treasure trove of cultural gems, featuring everything from grand palaces to charming historic fortresses. These sites reflect the island’s rich history, with some even earning a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Let’s explore some of the most fascinating ones.
Achilleion – Palace
Achilleion, a stunning palace situated in the southern part of Corfu, is one of the region’s most significant cultural landmarks. Built in 1890 for the Austrian Empress Elisabeth of Bavaria, also known as Sissi, the palace is named after the legendary Greek hero Achilles, whose statue stands proudly in the palace gardens.
Tours can be conveniently booked through GetYourGuide.
The old fortress in Corfu
The Corfu Fortress, also known as Paleo Frourio, sits on a rocky peninsula that extends into the Ionian Sea. It was constructed in the 15th century by the Venetians to defend against Ottoman invasions.
The fortress combines elements of Byzantine, Venetian, and British military architecture and offers stunning views of Corfu Town and the surrounding sea.
Within its walls, you’ll find several historic structures, including the former British military hospital, which has been transformed into a museum.
New fortress in Corfu
The New Fortress of Corfu, or Neo Frourio, is another of the island’s significant historical landmarks and a prime example of military architecture. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, this fortress overlooks the city of Kerkyra, offering strategic views of both the town and the sea.
Its imposing walls and well-preserved defensive structures showcase the advanced military engineering of that era. Inside the fortress, you’ll find historic buildings and corridors, along with open spaces that now host cultural events and concerts.
Paleopolis – Archaeological Museum of Corfu
The Archaeological Museum of Corfu is situated in the Mon Repos area. The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts uncovered during archaeological excavations in the region.
Byzantine Museum
The Byzantine Museum houses a valuable collection of icons and religious artifacts, offering a glimpse into the richness and depth of Byzantine culture.
Church of Saint Spyridon
In the heart of the Old Town stands the Church of Saint Spyridon, dedicated to the island’s patron saint. Its iconic red bell tower is a defining feature of the city’s skyline, while the interior holds magnificent icons and relics.
These historic sites offer a glimpse into the rich and diverse history of Corfu, whether your interest is in the Middle Ages, antiquity, or more recent periods. From UNESCO World Heritage sites to enchanting monasteries like Vlacherna Monastery, Corfu invites you to explore its timeless beauty and marvel at the heritage preserved over centuries.
Tips for the best viewpoints in Corfu
If you love exploring new places, we’ve compiled a list of the best and most popular attractions in Corfu that we’ve enjoyed visiting over the years.
Bella Vista in Pelekas
In Pelekas, you’ll find Bella Vista, one of the island’s most famous viewpoints. It’s renowned for offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Europe.
The Kaiser’s Throne
At this historic site, you can sit on the Kaiser’s Throne and take in the stunning views of the Corfu landscape. According to legend, German Emperor William II was particularly fond of this hill for its peaceful atmosphere and the breathtaking views of the island’s west coast.
View of Paleokastritsa
One of the most stunning views in Corfu can be found in Paleokastritsa. If you’re visiting during the summer, it’s best to start your trip in the morning to avoid the heat and a potentially exhausting journey.
Things to do in Corfu: Tips for excursions
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Corfu. You can either join organized tours through a travel agency or plan your own adventure using GetYourGuide, which is our preferred booking platform.
Boat trips – e.g. to Paxos and Antipaxos
One of the most popular excursions in Corfu is a boat trip to the nearby islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, where you’ll discover hidden caves and crystal-clear waters. If you’re visiting Corfu independently and not through a tour operator, we recommend using GetYourGuide to find tours. We’ve been using this platform for years, booking dozens of trips and tickets without any issues.
Diving and snorkelling
If you love diving and snorkeling, it’s always best to take a boat out to explore the open sea. However, if a boat trip isn’t available, try visiting one of these top snorkeling spots:
- Paleokastritsa: A popular destination for spotting marine life, including fish and sea urchins.
- Agios Georgios Pagon: Located on Corfu’s northwest coast, this beach offers long stretches of sand and clear waters, making it perfect for snorkeling.
- Kerasia: A peaceful beach in the northeast, surrounded by olive groves, offering great snorkeling opportunities.
- Avlaki: Near Kassiopi, this beautiful beach is known for its excellent conditions for snorkeling.
- Nissaki: A small but charming beach on the northeast coast, ideal for snorkeling.
- Agios Gordios: Famous
Trip to Metéora in Greece
If you’ve always wanted to visit Meteora in Greece—a stunning complex of monasteries perched atop sandstone cliffs—you have the opportunity to do so from Corfu, where day trips are available. I’m not sure if Czech tour operators offer these excursions, but you can easily book a day trip yourself through GetYourGuide.
Hiking – e.g. Corfu Trail
If you visit outside the peak season, trekking is a great option. One of the most popular routes is the Corfu Trail. However, avoid planning a hike in July and August, as the weather is typically too hot for comfortable trekking.
Aqualand Water Park
Wondering what to do in Corfu with kids? Take them to Aqualand, a water park filled with plenty of slides and pools. If you have older children, you can relax and enjoy a drink while they have a great time exploring the attractions.
Trip to Albania to Butrint National Park
You can book this day trip through GetYourGuide or a travel agency. The excursion takes you to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The journey begins with a scenic cruise across the Ionian Sea from Corfu to Saranda, offering stunning views of both Corfu and Saranda, with their crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches.
At Butrint National Park, you’ll have the chance to explore the well-preserved ruins of an ancient Greek city, including an amphitheater and a baptistery.
Not interested in Corfu? Check out our article on where to go on holiday in Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do with children in Corfu?
Head to a local waterpark or take them on a boat trip or snorkelling trip.
What are the most beautiful beaches in Corfu?
The most beautiful beaches in Corfu are definitely Sidari, Paleokastritsa or Glydas.
What documents do I need to travel to Corfu?
All you need is a passport or ID.
How far is it from Corfu to Albania?
From Corfu to Albania is only 1.5 hours by ferry.
What to taste in Corfu?
In Corfu you should definitely try sofrito (sliced beef cooked in white wine and garlic), pastitsada (spicy beef or rooster ragout served with macaroni) and local olive oil.
