Ultimate Travel Guide to Corfu, Greece: Everything You Need to Know

If there’s one place in Greece that perfectly captures that wild, sun-soaked, adventure-is-just-around-the-corner feeling, it’s Corfu. This guide to Corfu will help get you started.

Corfu feels real and raw, unlike some of the more polished and crowded Greek Islands. It is much more affordable, untamed in the best ways, and has a much larger focus on nature.

My seven-day trip to Corfu ended up looking a lot different from what I had planned in advance. After I arrived, I quickly learned some important things that could have made my trip more seamless if I had known in advance. I didn’t realize how important it would be to stay somewhere central, rent an ATV to reach the best beaches, and be a little flexible with bus schedules.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to have a seamless and unforgettable trip to Corfu. I’ve included logistical tips, the best beaches and things to do, local eats, and more!

Where is Corfu and How Do You Get There?

Corfu is a lush, mountainous island off the northwest coast of Greece. It is in the Ionian Sea, closer to Albania and mainland Greece than to other Greek Islands. As a result, it has a totally different vibe—a little more rugged, Italian-influenced, and adventurous.

How to Get to Corfu

By Plane:

The easiest way to get to Corfu is by flying into Corfu International Airport, also known as Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport.
Direct flights are available from many major European cities, such as the UK, Germany, France, and Italy. Most flights run between April and October. I flew to Corfu from Split, Croatia, and had a short layover in Naples before arriving in Corfu.

If you’re flying from North America, Australia, or outside Europe, you’ll likely connect through Athens or nearby Italian cities first. From Athens, it’s a super quick one hour flight to Corfu.

By Ferry:

If you’re already in Greece or exploring nearby in Italy, there are some ferries to get to Corfu. Ferries leave daily from Igoumenitsa in mainland Greece and take about 1.5 hours to reach Corfu Town. However, most of the time it’s much easier and price comparable to just fly from Athens to Corfu.
You can also find seasonal ferries from Paxi (Paxos), Lefkada, and Italy (ports like Bari, Brindisi, and Ancona), although the Italian routes are longer overnight journeys.

How to Get to Igoumenitsa for the Ferry:

If you are in Greece, you can take a bus to Igoumenitsa. KTEL buses are Greece’s regional and intercity public bus system. If you are close to Athens, the bus to Igoumenitsa takes about 6 hours. After bus fare and ferry fare, it really does make more sense to fly, but if you are close to Igoumenitsa already, the ferry would work.

Driving to Corfu:

If you’re road-tripping in Greece, you can take your rental car on the ferry from Igoumenitsa. Just check with your rental company because not all allow ferry transport, and you might need to pay a small extra insurance fee.

When is the Best Time to Visit Corfu?

Corfu is technically a year-round destination, but summer is the peak season with the best weather conditions. Here’s a breakdown of Corfu’s seasons:

Summer (June to August):

Most travellers opt for summer because it is the time to swim in the clear water and enjoy the beaches. Temperatures are hottest with highs around 28–32°C (82–90°F).

While summer is peak season and therefore the busiest, one of the best things about Corfu is it does not feel overcrowded. I was there in July and found it so quiet compared to other destinations I had been to like Split, Croatia. The only exception to this is when visiting a few of Corfu’s top attractions, like Porto Timoni Beach and Canal D’Amour. They are small and the hottest spots to be, so naturally, they can get really crowded. This time of year can also be better because you know all the tour companies are operating.

Spring (April to early June)

Spring can be a great time to visit Corfu if you want to experience the island at its greenest. Wildflowers grow across the island and temperatures are more comfortable at about 18–25°C (65–77°F). Prices of hotels and rentals are also a bit cheaper than in peak season.

Fall (September to October)

September is a great time to visit for the summer experience, with slightly fewer crowds at the popular attractions. The sea is still warm from summer temperatures. October is cooler, about 18–25°C (65–77°F), and experiences occasional rain.

Winter (November to March):

While you technically can visit in winter, it’s not the best for beach days or adventure activities. Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators shut down for the off-season. Corfu Town stays lively and will have a more authentic, sleepy Greek island atmosphere.

How much time should I spend on Corfu?

If you’re wondering how many days you need in Corfu, here’s my honest answer: at least 4 to 7 days to really feel the island’s magic. You can obviously visit some of its highlights in less time, but you’ll leave wishing you had more time.

Here’s what you can see with this number of days:

3 – 4 Days

If you want a taste of Corfu, 3 – 4 days work to get in some culture in Corfu Town, a beach day or two at Porto Timoni and/or Agios Gordios, and maybe even a boat tour to Paxos and Antipaxos.

5 – 7 Days

This is the sweet spot for balancing adventure and relaxation. You can explore more beaches, participate in more adventure activities, take a boat out for a day, and still have lazy nights.

7+ Days

If you have a week or more, you’ll be able to adventure hard, discover hidden villages, eat at real local tavernas, and spend full days at deserted beaches.

How to Get Around Corfu

One thing you’ll quickly realize about Corfu is that getting around isn’t straightforward. Public transportation exists, but it’s few and far between. Not all the best spots are easily connected. The good news? With a bit of planning, it’s totally manageable, even if you don’t rent a car.

Renting a Car

Renting a car in Corfu is the easiest way to get around the island. You’ll have the ultimate freedom to explore Corfu’s best attractions without spending time worrying about how to get there. Here are some important considerations for renting a car in Corfu:

• Car rental companies are available at the airport and in Corfu Town. Smaller towns like Agios Gordios also have car rentals if you want to rent one for a day or two to get to certain spots.
• Automatic cars are rarer and more expensive. Most rentals are manual.
• Parking can be tricky in Corfu Town and popular beaches, so if you’re driving, look for accommodations that offer parking.
• Driving on Corfu is not for the timid. The roads are real mountain roads, with crazy narrow strips, windy corners, and locals who drive fast. If you’re a nervous driver, you might want to skip or limit it.

Taking Public Buses

If you don’t want to drive, you’ll need to combine the rest of these transportation options to get everywhere you want to go. Buses can’t get you everywhere, but they do go to some popular places. Schedules change seasonally, with more running in the summer. There are fewer buses on Sundays, so always double-check timetables. You can find the schedules for the green buses here. And those for the blue line buses here.

Here’s what you need to know about busing on Corfu:

Green Buses

Longer routes connecting towns and beaches (Paleokastritsa, Kassiopi, Sidari, Agios Gordios). Most run from Corfu Town so if you’re staying elsewhere, you’d have to connect through there. Buses don’t run to popular spots like Porto Timoni, Canal D’Amour, or the Achillieon.

Blue Buses

Local routes around Corfu Town and nearby villages.
You can pay cash to the driver, but sometimes you have to buy tickets at kiosks near the stops. It’s a bit of a mixed bag, which you have to do. One day, I bused from Agios Gordios, and it was cash to the driver. The next time I bused from the exact same stop to the same town, we were told we were supposed to buy tickets inside the small shop right beside the bus stop. I recommend getting there early and checking inside at whatever shop is beside the stop.

Insider Tip: Save the Google Maps location for the Green Bus Station in Corfu Town. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the Old Town and not where they drop you off when you arrive into town.

Renting an ATV or Scooter

Renting an ATV or scooter is hands down the most fun way to explore Corfu. It can also make getting between certain cities that buses don’t run to much easier. ATVs are street legal and you’ll see several others driving the main roads on these. Cars are used to them and drive around.

You can rent ATVs or scooters easily from tourist shops in beach towns like Agios Gordios or Paleokastritsa. They’re cheaper than a car rental if you are only 1 or 2 people. Most shops require a driver’s license and some require the driver to be 22 or older.

We rented an ATV to travel from Agios Gordios to Paleokastritsa and Canal D’Amour. It takes longer to get between destinations than a car, but it adds adventure. It would also be a great way to reach Porto Timoni beach.

Taxis

Taxis are available, but they’re the most expensive option. Uber doesn’t work on Corfu. Always agree on the price beforehand. Check shuttle options first if you are travelling from the airport to your accommodation. Many hotels offer shuttles, and an airport shuttle into Corfu Town costs less than a taxi.
If you are trying to arrange a taxi to reach specific destinations, you can go to local ATV and tour shops. Many of them book taxis in advance for customers.

Booking Tours with Pickup

Organized tours are your final resort if you want to visit somewhere and don’t have a car. Many boat tours and day trips provide hotel pickup from common places to stay, like Agios Gordios and Corfu Town.

Subscribe below to be alerted to the next article as soon as it’s published. We pride ourselves in writing informative articles with interesting tips.

Search for accommodation anywhere by using Expedia or Booking.Com, book a sightseeing tour using Viator. Any commissions earned will help keep this website running.

Looking for other great getaways or local adventures? Check out Top 10 scenic drives in Canada that will leave you in awe, 8 Reasons Why Newfoundland and Labrador Should Be on Your Bucket-list, Top 10 day trips from Vancouver you will want to explore, Epic 5-Day Vancouver to Tofino Road Trip Itinerary: Coastal Adventures, Hidden Gems & Must-See Stops, Discover 10 Best B.C. Provincial Parks Near Vancouver, and 2025 Alaska Cruise Guide – Explore the best ports of call

Discover other incredible journeys for your next adventure.

Where to Stay in Corfu

Corfu Town

Best for: Culture, history, food, easy transportation

Corfu Town is the most central spot where you can stay on the island, and the easiest way to get around. It has museums, old forts, the largest variety of food options, and is the central hub for buses and tours. The biggest downside is that it doesn’t feel like a beachy destination (which is why I opted for elsewhere).

Budget: There aren’t true budget accommodation options in Corfu Town. Your best bet is to search on Airbnb.
Mid-range: Cavalieri Hotel – A comfortable hotel in the heart of the old town with a beautiful rooftop terrace.
Luxury: Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel is central in the old town, serves a delicious breakfast in its garden, and offers high-quality service.

Agios Gordios

Best for: beach life and a central base for adventures

Agios Gordios is my personal favorite if you want a beach vacation without sacrificing access to the rest of the island. It is 30 minutes from Corfu Town and perfectly central between the north and south. It has a great mix of ATV rentals, beach bars, little markets, and a laid-back vibe. Plus, the beach is considered one of the best on the island.

Budget: The Pink Palace is a legendary hostel with a famous toga party and tours. They also have private rooms, which is where I opted to stay.
Mid-range: Panorama Apartments – Comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean, a pool, and excellent service.
Luxury: Alkyna Lifestyle Beach Resort (ex La Grotta Verde) – A stunning location, modern rooms with ocean views, and stunning seaside pools and lounges.

Paleokastritsa

Best for: breathtaking beaches, chill atmosphere and snorkelling

Paleokastritsa has lush green cliffs dropping into clear blue water. It has a slower, scenic vibe and several beaches spread along its six bays. It has limited nightlife but is excellent for snorkelling, boat rentals, and a hike to a monastery.

Budget: No hostels available. The cheapest accommodation option would be Airbnb or Paraskevi Apartments – Simple and clean rooms in a central location. They have a homey feel with friendly hosts.
Mid-range: Odysseus Hotel Paleokastritsa Corfu – A beautiful hotel central to Paleokastritsa’s best beaches. It also has a swimming pool and a lounge area.
Luxury: Akrotiri Beach Resort Hotel is a divine beach resort with views of rocky cliffs and the ocean. The pool is gorgeous with views over the ocean, and they have delicious food and its own beach.

Tip: Renting a scooter here makes exploring nearby coves way easier.

Kassiopi (North Coast)

Best for: relaxed small-town vibe, coastal hikes, budget-friendly stays

Kassiopi is a charming fishing village on Corfu’s North Coast with pebbly beaches, harbour cafes, and castle ruins to climb. It’s great for escaping other tourists without sacrificing natural beauty. It is a bit far from Corfu Town, about one hour by car or bus, but it is worth it if you love a more local feel. I’d choose here if you want to stay in one area, rather than checking off the attractions around the island, or if you have a rental car and don’t mind driving.

Budget: Villa Panorea – Simple apartments with full kitchens and have easy access to the beaches.
Mid-range: Melina Oasis Boutique Hotel – Right on the waterfront with a great on-site restaurant.
Luxury: Melina Bay Boutique Hotel – Same owners, different location. The Melina Bay hotel has ocean views and a gorgeous swimming pool.

Other Areas Worth Mentioning:

Sidari: On the North Coast, Sidari is fun if you want lively nightlife and the famous Canal d’Amour beach.

Benitses: Low-key resort village close to Corfu Town. It is good if you want a beach but quick city access.

Gouvia: Perfect for those wanting day trips. It’s a marina hub with boat tours galore.

If you plan on exploring a lot of the island, choose somewhere central (like Agios Gordios or Corfu Town). If you’re dreaming of lazy beach days, stay near Paleokastritsa or Kassiopi and plan some excursions.

8 Best Things to Do in Corfu

1. Beach Hop Across the Island

Corfu has some of the most stunning beaches in Greece. The best ones are:

• Porto Timoni: Twin beaches with steep cliffs. Only accessible by a sweaty 30-minute hike or by boat, but 1000% worth it. I travelled to Corfu specifically for this beach.
• Agios Gordios Beach: One of the most scenic beaches on Corfu with green cliffs behind it and rock formations shaped like Hershey kisses in the water. The beach is pebbled like many others on Corfu, with small beach bars lining parts of it.
• Glyfada Beach: One of the few beaches with sand, Glyfada has clear water and beach bars. It’s halfway between Agios Gordios and Paelokatrista on the west coast. Here’s the Google Maps location, because there is also a beach by the same name in mainland Greece.
• Paleokastritsa Beaches: Crystal blue coves perfect for snorkelling and swimming. You can even rent a boat without a license and explore secret caves.
• Issos Beach: Long, wild, sandy beach with epic sand dunes. It is great if you want space to yourself.
• Canal D’Amour – On Corfu’s North Coast, Canal D’Amour has yellow sandstone cliffs carved into a smooth bay. You can walk up on the cliffs and jump off them into the water.

Tip: Bring water shoes if you plan to visit some of the pebbly beaches (like Porto Timoni or Kassiopi). Your feet will thank you.

2. Rent an ATV and Explore the Island

One of my favorite things we did in Corfu was rent an ATV and just go. You’ll find small mountain villages, olive groves, deserted beaches, and twisty scenic roads you’d miss by bus or taxi.

3. Wander Corfu Old Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason, Corfu has narrow pastel alleys, old fortresses, and historic squares.
Make sure to visit the Old Fortress, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and its harbour. Visit Spianada Square (the largest public square in Greece) and chill under the shady columns. Grab gelato and wander its narrow streets.

4. Take a Boat Trip to Paxos and Antipaxos

Paxos and Antipaxos are two dreamy little islands south of Corfu. Day trips leave Corfu Town and include snorkelling stops, visiting the famous Blue Caves, and lounging on Antipaxos’ beaches. The Ionian Cruises trip to Paxos and Antipaxos also has a DJ party with drinks. We also loved jumping off the boat’s top into clear water at one of its swimming spots.

5. Hike Part of the Corfu Trail

The Corfu Trail is a legendary multi-day hike that covers 180 km across the island’s length. Even if you don’t hike the whole thing, pick a section. Some beautiful half-day hikes include trails around Porto Timoni, Agios Georgios to Arillas, or the mountains above Paleokastritsa.
Make sure to start early because it gets hot fast, even in spring and fall.

6. Visit the Achilleion

Built by the Empress of Austria (Sisi) in the late 1800s, this palace is dreamy with Greek statues and views over Corfu Town. The gardens have black and white checkered marble, white marble statues, and detailed landscaping. The palace is in Gastouri Village, about 20-minute drive from Corfu Town.

7. Snorkel or Dive in Paleokastritsa

Paleokastritsa has six main bays that are amazing for snorkelling or diving. You can take a tour to see underwater caves, reefs, and a plethora of multi-coloured fish and marine life.

8. Experience a Toga Party

If you stay in Agios Gordios, you must experience the Pink Palace’s legendary toga party. It’s chaotic, it’s hilarious, and you may get a plate or two smashed over your head. Even if you’re not staying at the Pink Palace, you can buy a ticket to join the party for the night. They host them weekly on Saturdays.
You’ll dress up in a bright pink toga (provided by the hostel), sip ouzo shots, and join in on plate smashing – an old Greek tradition for celebrating good times.


What to Eat and Drink in Corfu

Corfu offers a completely different culinary experience than mainland Greece. Its food is influenced by hundreds of years of Venetian, French, and British influences.

Here’s what you should try when you’re on the island:

Must-Try Corfiot Dishes

• Pastitsada is the unofficial dish of Corfu. It’s slow-cooked beef or rooster in a rich tomato and cinnamon-spiced sauce served over thick pasta.
• Sofrito is thin slices of beef slow-cooked in white wine, garlic, and parsley.
• Bourdeto: For seafood lovers, Bourdeto is a spicy red fish stew made with scorpionfish, tomatoes, and lots of chili.
• Bianco: A white fish stew cooked with lemon, garlic, and potatoes. If you like lighter flavours, this is the seafood dish for you.
• Koumquat Treats: Corfu’s famous little orange fruit is turned into liqueurs, sweets, and jams. They hand you free shots of kumquat liqueur almost everywhere. It’s also a great souvenir idea.

What to Drink in Corfu:

Koumquat Liqueur

Bright orange, sweet, and citrusy, Koumquat Liqueur is a must-try, whether you sip it neat or bring a bottle home.

Ouzo

Greece’s famous spirit, Ouzo, is known for its strong, licorice-like taste. In Corfu, people pour shots of it like it’s water. Be warned: Ouzo is strong, with around 40% alcohol.

Local Wine

Corfu has small but lovely local wineries. If you find them on a menu, try a glass of white Kakotrygis or a red Petrokoritho.

Greek Coffee

If you’re feeling adventurous, order a Greek coffee (warning: don’t stir the bottom or you’ll get a mouthful of coffee sludge).

Where to Eat on Corfu

Paleokastritsa

• Spiros is a Taverna with BBQ Greek food and a large outdoor patio.

Agios Gordios

• Sebastian’s Tavern has the best Pastitsada and warmest welcome on the island.

Corfu Town

• Rouvas is a traditional grill house that’s a favourite with locals (and way cheaper than tourist spots).
• Avli has cozy courtyard dining and highly-rated local dishes.

Insider Tip: Greek mealtimes are late. Lunch is around 2 – 3 PM, and dinner usually doesn’t really get going until after 8 PM.

Packing List for Corfu

You already know to pack your underwear and socks. Here are items that are specifically good to bring to Corfu:

• Light, breathable clothes because Cofu summers are HOT (linens and loose cotton are your best friends).
• Sandals or water shoes are recommended for swimming at the beach. Most beaches have stone surfaces, and walking barefoot in the water hurts.
• Comfortable walking shoes (for exploring Corfu Town and the Porto Timoni’s hike.
• Quick-dry towel (especially if you’re hitting multiple beaches in a day)
• Dry bag or waterproof phone case for boat trips
• Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and aloe vera if you burn easily.
• Basic first aid kit (motion sickness tablets if you plan on boating)
• European plug adapter
• Portable charger (days exploring = dead phones)
• E-SIM if you want easy, cheap data (I recommend Airalo)
• Some Euros (small villages and local buses often don’t take cards)
• Small daypack or beach bag.

How Much Does a Trip to Corfu Cost?

Corfu is one of the best Greek islands if you want to have an epic adventure but don’t have the steepest budget. You can make it a luxury getaway or a more budget-friendly beach trip, depending on how you travel. Overall, Corfu is way more affordable than places like Santorini or Mykonos.

Helpful Tips for Travelling to Corfu

Corfu has some local quirks, so here are some insider tips that will make your trip smoother (and much more fun).

1. Book Tours and Rentals in Advance

There are not as many tour companies in Corfu, so booking in advance is important. This surprised me because I usually book my tours and rentals a day or two in advance when travelling, but when I tried to book an ATV rental on a Saturday, the next available day was the following Thursday. If you want to make sure you fit every tour or activity in, book in advance!

2. Do Not Drink the Tap Water

While the island may seem very developed, the tap water is not drinkable.

3. Stick to an Itinerary to Make the Most of Your Time in Corfu

Corfu can be a place to spontaneously decide what to do on a day of, but only if you have lots of time or don’t have a strict list of things you want to do. If you want to fill each day with adventures, then come up with your itinerary in advance and book anything you need ahead. We had a list of things we wanted to do, but no real plan. As a result, we ended up having to pay a lot of money and even miss out on one of the activities because of the logistics.

4. Carry Small Change for the Public Washrooms

Many touristy spots, like Corfu Town, have public washrooms available. However, you need spare change to access them. The cost is not much at all but not many people carry change on them.

5. Stay on the West Side for Breathtaking Sunsets

Corfu has incredible sunsets on the west side of the island. Head to popular spots like Agios Gordios or Pelekas Beach to watch the sun disappear below the horizon. Staying there to catch them every night is even better.

Final Thoughts on this Complete Guide to Corfu, Greece

It’s hard to explain what makes Corfu so special until you’ve felt it for yourself. It’s not just the scenic beaches or adventures in nature… It’s the way the island feels.
The warm sea breeze as you race down coastal roads on an ATV. The spontaneous friendships you’ll make over wine in a tucked-away taverna. The quiet moments at sunset. Corfu is wild, welcoming, and even messy sometimes, in the best way. With this guide in hand, you will surely experience its magic the same way I did! Read more about my trip to Corfu.