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This is a comprehensive Travel Guide for the enchanting island of Corfu. It offers a wealth of information regarding holiday resorts, culture, history, and entertainment.

A Travel Guide to the island of Corfu, written by locals, contains information about resorts, culture, history, and entertainment.
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Last updated on July 5th, 2024 at 10:15 pm

Embark on an Enlightened Odyssey: Uncover the allure of the historic Corfu and mesmerizing Greece.

Corfu Travel Guide

This Corfu travel guide provides you with accurate information about the unique wonders of Corfu.

Corfu travel guide - Corfu town from top
Corfu travel guide – Corfu town from the top

Corfu, also known as Kerkyra, is one of Greece’s most beautiful and popular islands, offering a mix of stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. A Greek island surrounded by the turquoise waters of the northern Ionian Sea on the west side of Greece.

Authored by knowledgeable locals who hold the key to Corfu’s hidden treasures, this travel guide is a beacon of wisdom that can truly enhance the joy and memorability of your holiday.

Getting to Corfu

Corfu is a popular destination, and there are several ways to reach the island. Here’s a guide to the most common methods:

Corfu airport
Corfu airport

By Air:

  • Corfu International Airport (CFU): The most convenient way to reach Corfu is by flying into Corfu International Airport, located just a few kilometers from Corfu Town. The airport is well-connected with major European cities, especially during the summer months when many airlines operate direct flights.

By Ferry:

  • From Mainland Greece: Ferries to Corfu run from Igoumenitsa, a port city on the mainland. The journey takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the type of ferry. There are also seasonal ferries from Patras.
  • From Italy: Ferries operate from Italian ports such as Bari, Brindisi, and Ancona, with travel times ranging from 8 to 15 hours.

By Car:

  • Via Igoumenitsa: If you’re driving, you can take the ferry from Igoumenitsa to Corfu. The drive from Athens to Igoumenitsa takes approximately 5-6 hours.

By Bus:

  • KTEL Buses: KTEL operates buses from major Greek cities like Athens and Thessaloniki to Igoumenitsa, where you can catch a ferry to Corfu. This option combines bus and ferry travel.

By Train:

  • Train and Ferry Combination: Although there is no direct train service to Corfu, you can take a train to Thessaloniki or Athens and then transfer to a bus or drive to Igoumenitsa, followed by a ferry ride to Corfu.

Each mode of transportation offers its advantages, so you can choose the one that best fits your schedule and preferences.

Check for more

When to Visit Corfu

The best time to visit Corfu is from late April to early October. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beaches, exploring the island, and participating in outdoor activities.

A panoramic view of the town of Corfu
A panoramic view of the town of Corfu
  • Spring (April to June): The island is lush and green, temperatures are mild, and there are fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and hiking.
  • Summer (July to August): This is peak tourist season with hot temperatures and bustling beaches. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife, but be prepared for larger crowds.
  • Early Autumn (September to early October): The weather remains warm, the sea is pleasant for swimming, and the crowds thin out. It’s a great time for a more relaxed visit while still enjoying all the island has to offer.

Corfu Accommodation

Corfu offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

From luxury resorts and boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels and charming guesthouses, you’ll find the perfect place to stay.

Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa

Diverse lodging options:

  • Luxury: Ikos Dassia, Corfu Imperial
  • Mid-range: Mayor Mon Repos Palace, Corfu Holiday Palace
  • Budget: The Pink Palace, Sunrock Backpackers Hostel

You can check for more:

Top Attractions

Corfu Town (Kerkyra)

The vibrant capital of Corfu, known locally as Kerkyra, is a charming blend of ancient history and modern life.

The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting narrow, cobbled streets, Venetian architecture, and stunning sea views.

Corfu new fortress
Corfu new fortress
  • Old Corfu Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site with Venetian architecture, narrow alleys, and historic squares.
  • Spianada Square: Greece’s largest square, perfect for strolling and enjoying cafes.
  • Liston Promenade: Inspired by Paris’s Rue de Rivoli, lined with cafes and restaurants.

Historical Sites

Corfu is rich in history and boasts numerous historical sites that reflect its diverse cultural heritage. Here are some of the must-visit historical landmarks on the island:

Corfu History - Gravure of the Palace
Corfu History – Gravure of the Palace

Museums

Corfu is home to a variety of museums that showcase its rich history, art, and culture. Here are some of the most notable museums you should visit:

Corfu old town at night
Corfu old town at night
  • Archaeological Museum: Houses artifacts from ancient Corfu, including the Gorgon pediment.
  • Museum of Asian Art: Unique collections in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George.
  • Byzantine Museum: Displays Byzantine icons and religious artifacts in the Church of Antivouniotissa.
  • All Museums in Corfu

Beaches

Corfu boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, ranging from bustling, organized shores to secluded, tranquil coves. Here are some of the top beaches to visit:

Corfu beach Porto Timoni
Corfu beach Porto Timoni
  • The Best 25 Sandy Corfu Beaches: The Ultimate Guide: A comprehensive guide to 25 of the most lovely beaches in Corfu Island.
  • Paleokastritsa Beach: Known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding green hills.
    Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boat trips to nearby caves.
  • Glyfada Beach: Popular sandy beach with a lively atmosphere, beach bars, and water sports facilities.
    Suitable for families and young travelers looking for a vibrant beach experience.
  • Agios Gordios Beach: Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery.
    Offers a mix of sand and pebbles, with clear waters perfect for swimming.
  • Issos Beach: Famous for its golden dunes and shallow waters, making it ideal for families.
    Great for windsurfing and kite surfing due to the windy conditions.
  • Myrtiotissa Beach: A secluded and unspoiled beach, known for its natural beauty and nudist-friendly area.
    Accessed by a steep path, offering tranquility and a sense of adventure.
  • Sidari Beach (Canal d’Amour): Unique rock formations and coves, with a legend that couples who swim together through the Canal d’Amour will get married soon.
    Popular with tourists for its picturesque landscape and clear waters.
  • Barbati Beach: A long, pebbly beach with crystal-clear waters and lush green surroundings.
    Ideal for snorkeling and relaxing in a serene environment.
  • Agios Stefanos Beach: A spacious sandy beach with shallow waters, perfect for families with children.
    Offers a range of amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas.
  • Rovinia Beach: The beach is framed by cliffs and dense greenery, offering a picturesque and secluded setting.
    It is close to Paleokastritsa on the west coast of Corfu.
  • Kassiopi Beaches: A pebble beach with clear, calm waters and a picturesque harbor nearby.
    Great for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the charming village of Kassiopi.
  • Map with Corfu Beaches by Type

These beaches showcase the diverse coastal beauty of Corfu, offering something for every type of traveler, from lively and bustling shores to quiet and secluded retreats.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Corfu’s natural beauty offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. From lush landscapes to crystal-clear waters, here are some top outdoor adventures:

Destinations in Corfu

Corfu is a diverse island with many charming villages, vibrant towns, and picturesque landscapes. Here are some of the must-visit destinations on the island:

Paleokastritsa resorts
Paleokastritsa resorts

Check for more:

Culture and Festivals

Corfu Travel Guide offers comprehensive insights into the captivating Corfiot culture.

Immerse yourself in Corfu’s cultural tapestry, uncovering a treasure trove of reports and insights that celebrate the island’s vibrant heritage.

Don’t overlook the wealth of cultural wonders in Corfu. Enrich your experience by attending captivating events like the renowned Corfu Carnival, ensuring your stay is marked by a profound appreciation for its multifaceted allure.

Don’t miss to explore the legacy of Saint Spyridon, the beloved patron saint of Corfu, through historical sites and cultural landmarks dedicated to his memory.

Additionally, our guide offers an abundance of information about the Corfu dialect, replete with a catalog of characteristic Corfiot words that lend a unique charm to the island’s linguistic landscape.

As the sun sets, Corfu’s nightlife unfurls with a contagious vivacity. From spirited bars to pulsating clubs and delectable restaurants, the offerings are as diverse as they are delightful.

You can find info to explore a wealth of knowledge, including detailed accounts of cultural events and celebrations, and an exclusive page dedicated to the famous Corfu Easter.

The guide to Corfu provides a panoramic vista into the island’s culture, peeling back layers of heritage to provide a comprehensive understanding and a presentation of the island’s cultural panorama, a glimpse into the tapestry of events and festivities that color Corfu’s calendar.

Agia Marina festival
Agia Marina festival

Find out more about Culture

Maps of Corfu and the surrounding places

Our cartographic treasures include expansive maps of Corfu, the town, the venerable old Corfu town, and a selection of bustling tourist havens.

Corfu map
Corfu map

Dining and Nightlife

Corfu offers, and always offered, a vivid nightlife, after all, it has always been one of the most cosmopolitan islands in Greece.

There are many lively bars scattered around the town and many more in the tourist areas of the island.

And if you need something really exciting, for instance, to reach the dawn dancing, meeting people, and enjoying yourself, visit one of the many large nightclubs of Corfu. Seek info about them in our Corfu Travel Guide.

Dabble in Corfu cuisine, a tantalizing journey best savored through the authentic recipes we share.

Indulge in a culinary exploration that reveals the essence of Corfiot flavors, perhaps by savoring the culinary artistry at the island’s finest dining establishments.

Bourdeto Octopus
Bourdeto Octopus

Corfu Journey through Photos & Videos

Mouse island sights
Mouse island sights

Behold an extensive gallery, Corfu Travel Guide boasts thousands of fresh Corfu photographs that capture the island’s contemporary allure.

Delve into history as you browse through hundreds of historical black-and-white images from Corfu, along with iconic snapshots from Greece‘s early 20th-century milieu.

Engage with our cornucopia of images, where both old and new harmonize, granting you a glimpse into Corfu’s past at the dawn of the 20th century.

A section dedicated to Benitses

Corfu Travel guide keeps this special section with posts about everything in Benitses, a charming village in Corfu, that played a pivotal role in the island’s tourism history.

Benitses was the first to welcome tourists in the mid-20th century, setting the stage for Corfu’s emergence as a popular travel destination, this village’s historic appeal, natural beauty, and proximity to Corfu town and the airport made it an ideal starting point for exploring the island.

In the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, Benitses attracted the rich and famous searching for a traditional and beautiful retreat.

Benitses village from a hight at the south
Benitses village from a height at the south

See everything about Benitses

Practical Tips for your Corfu holiday

  • Transportation: Renting a car or scooter is recommended. Public buses are available but may be less frequent.
  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to October) offers the best weather. July and August are peak tourist months.
  • Local Etiquette: Greeks are hospitable. Learning a few basic Greek phrases and respecting local customs enhances your experience.

Get to know Greece and the Islands

AtCorfu is also a Corfu Greece Travel Guide and offers a Blog for a comprehensive exploration of Greece, Providing insights into the country’s beauty, history, and culture, along with travel tips and practical information for travelers.

You can learn about Greece’s captivating landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

The guide covers gateways to the habits, accommodations, and activities. It also immerses you in Greek culture, offers a glimpse into its heritage, and provides a wealth of old and new images to enhance your understanding of the land’s history and charm.

Whether you seek historical sites, watersports, or local gems, We promise you an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Elafonisos at Lakonia Greece
Elafonisos at Lakonia Greece

More Blog posts about Greece

The Blog

Living Like a Local in Corfu: Daily Life on the Island

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This guide delves into what it’s like to live like a local in Corfu, offering insights into daily routines, cultural practices, and the island’s unique charm.

Exploring Corfu’s Underwater World: Spots for Snorkeling and Diving

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Corfu offers some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Greece, with crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and intriguing underwater landscapes.

Best Activities in Corfu for Families with Children

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The island’s diverse offerings ensure that families with children of all ages can have a memorable and enjoyable vacation.

The Top 7 Sandy Beaches in Corfu [Infographic]

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Along Corfu’s coastline lie countless pristine beaches, Discover in our Infographic the 7 best sandy shores in Corfu island, quick and easy.

Secrets of Corfu and Hidden Gems for Curious Travelers

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Corfu is a wonder of an island. If you’ve never explored it, it’s high time you did. Its golden beaches along with its salty seas make Corfu one of the most explored islands in Greece.

Corfu Historical Milestones in a Nutshell

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Explore the condensed timeline of significant events that have shaped the history of Corfu:

Ancient Goddesses: Powerful Women in Greek Mythology

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The presence of Goddesses and powerful women in Greek mythology is vast; in fact, it is not inferior to that of men, and in many instances, it surpasses it.

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Located 10 kilometers from Corfu Town in Perama, Aeolos Beach Hotel Resort is nestled in the quiet resort of Perama.

The Best of Western Crete in One Week

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This road trip itinerary is designed for people who want to explore the best of Western Crete in just one week.

The Olympic Games in Ancient Greece

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The Olympic Games in ancient Greece were a major sporting and cultural event that took place every four years in Olympia, a sanctuary dedicated to the god Zeus.

What is Corfu known for? Reasons to Visit Corfu

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Corfu boasts a collection of unique features that you won’t discover anywhere else in Greece. Among the most significant are:

Revealing Most Important Figures of Greek Mythology

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Greek mythology is a rich tapestry of divine beings and stories, with each generation of gods possessing its own unique qualities, roles, and rulers.

30 Beautiful Cities in Europe for You to Visit

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Welcome to a fascinating journey through the captivating cities in Europe! Today, there is no shortage of breathtaking destinations that will enchant and inspire you.

The Most Famous Tales in Greek Mythology

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Greek mythology tales aren’t just a collection of stories; it’s a cosmic symphony that’s been playing for centuries, and its timeless themes and characters will keep us under its spell for eons to come.

Ionian Islands in Greece: The Ultimate Hopping Guide

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Ready to dive into the stunning world of the Greek Ionian Islands? Get ready for a journey that blends emerald crystal-clear waters, ancient history, and heartwarming culture.

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