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Let’s set our sights on the Mediterranean where a piece of land surrounded by water has, for centuries, excited all desires with its beautiful landscapes. We’re talking about Corfu, a Greek island located in the Ionian Sea, on the western coast of Greece, near its border with Albania. This paradise destination is known for its steep mountains and its welcoming and chic seaside resorts. It was a pleasure to visit this island, a pleasure we want to share. So, here are, in our opinion, the ten must-do things in Corfu, during a trip.
🧳 Make your choice. Greece is not short of dreamy places to discover. Here are the most beautiful Greek islands for your future holidays.
🗒️ Weather, transport: things to know about Corfu
Before we start our list of must-do things on the Greek island of Corfu, let’s focus on two or three frequently asked questions about this destination.
How to get to Corfu Island?
To get to Corfu, the easiest way is to take a flight to Corfu International Airport (CFU), Ioannis Kapodistrias. Many airlines serve this destination, including Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways, and Lufthansa. Flights are available from several major European cities like Paris, London, Frankfurt, and Athens.
The second option to get to Corfu: the boat. It’s slower, sure, but far more exotic. You need to take a ferry from the port of Igoumenitsa, on the west coast of mainland Greece. Ferry companies, such as Kerkyra Lines and Corfu Ferries, provide regular links between Igoumenitsa and Corfu port. The crossing lasts from 1h30 to 2h, depending on the type of ship chosen.
Finally, if you are in Italy, you can also take a ferry from the ports of Brindisi, Bari, Ancona, or Venice. The crossing times vary depending on the departure port and the type of ferry, ranging from 7 to about 24 hours. Yes, it’s longer!
When is the best time to go to Corfu?
Well, let’s start by saying that it obviously depends on your travel plans and the time you have available. In general, the ideal season extends from May to June and from September to October. During these months, the temperatures are pleasant (20-28°C), the beaches are less crowded, and the prices are more affordable than in high season. The high tourist season, from July to August, offers a hotter and sunnier climate (at least 30°C, sometimes more) but the beaches and tourist sites can be very crowded and prices higher.
How to get around the island of Corfu?
Corfu is not – by far – the smallest of the Greek islands. So here are some means of transportation to get around.
- Take local buses: the “Green Buses” serve most of the villages and beaches on the island. Schedules and routes are available on the Corfu Green Buses website. Tickets can be purchased on board or at bus station counters.
- Rent a car : several car rental agencies are present at the airport, the port, and in the main tourist areas. Renting a car offers great freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Don’t forget your international driving licence if you come from abroad.
- Opt for the scooter or the bicycle : Scooter and bicycle rentals are also possible in tourist areas. It’s an economical and practical option for short distances. Make sure to wear a helmet for your safety – even if it’s always nicer with the wind in your hair.
- Choosing the taxi : Taxis are available in the main tourist areas and can be booked by phone or via taxi booking apps. They are more expensive than buses, but offer a door-to-door service.
- What about boats and ferries? To get to the neighbouring islands or beaches only accessible by sea, boat excursions and ferry services are available from the main port of Corfu and some seaside resorts.
Which hotel to choose in Corfu?
The island of Corfu is home to many popular hotels. Among them, the Pelekas Monastery, a 5-star hotel offering breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, a luxurious spa, and a gourmet restaurant.
There is also the Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa, a 4-star establishment nestled in a peaceful setting with a private beach, pools, and spa facilities for relaxation.
Finally, the Domes Miramare, an iconic luxury hotel, attracts many travellers with its elegant suites, refined culinary experiences, and beautiful gardens overlooking the sea. All these hotels are highly appreciated by customers for their location, service, and atmosphere. But the choice is yours!
Booking.com🔝 What are the things to do in Corfu?
Alright, let’s delve into the heart of our topic, what you are here to read this article for: the must-do things on the island of Corfu.
Walk around the historic centre of Corfu (the city)
This island still bears the marks of the influence of various European conquerors – British, French, Turkish, and Venetian – that it has undergone. And this is felt as you walk and explore every street corner of this small picturesque town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. Located to the east of the island, it is the capital. Its cobbled streets and Venetian architecture with pastel tones characterize it. The centre of the city, known as Spianada square, is unmistakable.
Discover Paleokastritsa and its monastery
If you like diving, then this beautiful place with its crystal-clear waters and clover-shaped bay is worth a visit. The bay of Paleokastritsa – and its famous beach of the same name – is also renowned for the greenery of its region, with its olive groves. You can also visit a monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Panagia Theotoki), dating back to the 13th century – for its foundation. Inside, you’ll find a small church and a museum dedicated to Orthodox religion. You will undoubtedly love the richness of its collections and the abundantly flowered outdoor courtyards.
Cross the Canal of Love
If you’re looking for true love, then Corfu is surely the ideal destination. At least, it has places for it. This canal, naturally shaped by the sea, offers a breathtaking sight. But there’s more: according to legend, swim through it and you will find perfect love or see the bonds of your relationship strengthen. It’s a place that tourists love.
Visit the Achilleion, Empress Sissi’s residence
Located 10 kilometres from the city of Corfu, this neoclassical palace was built in 1890 at the request of the Austrian Empress and Queen of Hungary, Sissi. It is dedicated to the Greek hero Achilles, which explains the magnificent statue of this hero found there. The Empress’s own statue is located at the entrance of the palace. Inside this building, her passion for mythology is manifested through numerous paintings and the presence of Greek myths throughout the residence, right up to the garden.
Climb Mount Pantokrator
Corfu is also a landscape composed of steep mountains, the highest point of which is Mount Pantokrator at 906 metres above sea level. Surrounded by pine forests and verdant meadows, this mountain offers a superb view from its summit. You can get there by car from the paved road that leads there. The more athletic can get there on foot. This mountain is indeed suitable for beautiful hikes in cooler seasons. Avoid high season, to enjoy its trails in relative calm and under mild temperatures.
As you will have understood, climbing Mount Pantokrator is undeniably one of the things to do in Corfu.
Stroll in Kanoni
This peninsula, located on the east coast of Corfu, offers a landscape worthy of a postcard. It is an extremely beautiful place, a true must-see of this island. You will find an amazing view of the Ionian Sea and the famous islet of Pontikonisi, also known as “Mouse Island”. This small green islet, housing the small white chapel of Pantokrator, is accessible in the summer season by taxi boats leaving regularly from Kanoni.
Kanoni is also famous for its stunning sunsets, which light up the sky and offer a breathtaking spectacle to its visitors. Another gem of the place, the Vlacherna Monastery (photo), a charming white church with red roofs, surrounded by slender cypresses, and which seems to float on the waters. This emblematic place, dating from the 17th century, is a must-see site for travellers.
Admire the Church of Saint Spyridon
Built in the 16th century, the Church of Saint Spyridon presents a Baroque architectural style, with a richly decorated facade and a tall steeple that is the tallest on the island. Frankly, you can’t miss it in the city. Moreover, the beauty of this church is not limited to its exterior, as the interior is equally impressive. The walls are adorned with detailed frescoes and religious paintings, while the altar is embellished with solid silver icons.
The highlight of the church is undoubtedly the shrine housing the relics of Saint Spyridon, which is carved and gilded wood. Worshipers come from afar to venerate these relics.
Take a detour through the village of Pelekas
Located at the top of a hill overlooking the west coast of the island, Pelekas is a small, picturesque, and lively village of Corfu. Surrounded by olive trees and cypresses, it offers a breathtaking view of the Ionian Sea. The traditional houses with white facades and coloured shutters contribute to the peaceful and welcoming atmosphere of Pelekas. Visitors can enjoy nearby beaches, such as Glyfada beach.
Relax at Lake Korission
Lake Korission is a coastal lagoon located in the southern part of the island of Corfu. This lake welcomes many tourists and locals who come to laze around in the summer by the shoreline. You will also have the opportunity to admire migratory birds that stop by, including flamingos. Indeed, this fragile and preserved ecosystem stretches over nearly 6 square kilometres, offering a peaceful refuge for a variety of animal and plant species. The brackish water lagoon is bordered by golden sand dunes and lush vegetation, creating a strikingly beautiful landscape. You will see it for yourself.
Swim in the Blue Lagoon
This magical place is part of the locations only accessible by boat. It is indeed located on a deserted island, called Nisida Syvota, or also Mourtos. And it is also its difficulty of access that makes its charm. The Blue Lagoon is a real paradise for beach lovers and natural beauty enthusiasts. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and green pines, it offers an idyllic setting for relaxation, swimming and snorkelling – yes, its marine fauna and flora are also breathtaking. It’s a nice place to end your getaway in Corfu.
Well, we hope that this list of must-do things in Corfu has helped you plan your stay on this beautiful Greek island. If you have other experiences in mind, don’t hesitate to share them in the comments.