Corfu in Greece is justifiably a favourite of travellers from across the world, welcoming over 1.83 million international arrivals in 2023. This jewel of the Ionian Sea offers something for everyone as a holiday destination, from its stunning beaches to its fascinating history via a vibrant local culture.
If you’re considering a trip to this beautiful island, here’s how to get the best out of it.
When to visit
Part of the reason why ‘travel twinning’ – searching for destinations similar to, but less busy and expensive than, more renowned options – has become so popular is a desire to avoid crowds while on holiday. If you’d like to avoid the busiest period when you come to Corfu, your best bet is to visit during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. Its Mediterranean climate means you’ll enjoy a delightful warmth even outside of the height of summer.
Corfu beaches
For many, Corfu’s incredible beaches are the number-one reason to visit here. There’s a great variety to be found, from the popular Glyfada which offers opportunities to enjoy water sports to the more secluded swimming paradise of Sidari.
If the sands are your main impetus for a trip to Corfu, you could look to maximise your time on them by staying in a villa, many of which can be found within easy reach of an idyllic beach. It’s a good way to enjoy a spot of luxury while giving yourself the most opportunity to enjoy swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing.
Top attractions in the city and beyond
There’s a wealth of history waiting to be explored across Corfu, and you can start right at its heart – the UNESCO-listed Old Town. It’s a charming area bursting with Italian influence that makes for a delightful walk, and it’s next door to not one but two impressive fortresses that afford you incredible views of the island and the surrounding sea.
You can also venture further across the island to explore even older sites like the Byzantine castle of Angelokastro or the beautiful Paleokastritsa monastery.
Outdoor activities
Adventurous travellers can find a variety of diversions on Corfu, whether it’s sailing along its sparkling coast or cycling through picturesque olive groves. Keen hikers flock here to walk the Corfu Trail, which crosses the whole island and can be easily broken into stages for a trek that goes at your preferred pace.
Local cuisine
Corfu’s mixture of Greek and Italian history has given rise to a distinct cuisine that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s characterised by popular dishes like sofrito and pastitsada which should be tried at local tavernas to get the authentic local flavour. If you’re staying in a villa, you could even hire a local chef to prepare a traditional meal for you, to get a truly immersive Corfiot experience.
Have you visited Corfu or any other Greek Island? Would you recommend Greece to others?
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