11 Best Things to Do in Corfu

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Last updated on October 9th, 2024 at 12:11 am

There are many options and a wide variety of things to do in Corfu.

Here is our list to help you make the most of your vacation on the island.

1. Try the delicious Corfiot food

Corfu cuisine - Pastitsada
Corfu cuisine – Pastitsada

While in Corfu, it is impossible not to try the flavorful delicacies of Corfiot cuisine.

In all the good restaurants on the island, you will find unique Corfiot recipes such as Pastitsada, Sofrito, Bianco, and Bourdeto.

2. Visit Aqualand Water Park

Aqualand water park
Aqualand water park

In the area of Agios Ioannis in Central Corfu.

Aqualand is the top water park in Europe and one of the largest worldwide.

It’s a place you must visit if you want to experience a wonderful combination of fun, relaxation, and a big dose of adrenaline.

At Aqualand, you’ll find 51 slides, pools, and a wide variety of other games suitable and entertaining for children of all ages.

All the water games are here, and the many facilities will make your day exciting until the last moment.

You can spend relaxing moments under our beautiful maple trees and get thrilled by our adrenaline-packed water slides.

3. Book a Day Cruise

In almost every tourist resort in Corfu, you can try day cruises that take you to well-known and lesser-known spots on the island, as well as to nearby islands such as Paxos and the Diapontia Islands, or even to the opposite mainland.

Additionally, a day trip to Albania will satisfy your curiosity.

It’s the well-known island-hop that happens in the Aegean, but here the options are fewer yet equally exciting and fun.

4. Go Sailing

In Corfu, there are many opportunities for sailing enthusiasts.

You will find sailing companies that organize sailing trips, and rent boats, or yachts. Some companies even offer open-sea sailing lessons.

Take advantage of the many opportunities to keep up with your favorite hobby during your vacation.

5. Visit Achilleion

Entrance of Achilleion
Entrance of Achilleion

The beautiful neoclassical Achilleion Palace was built in 1890 by Empress Elisabeth of Austria on an estate originally owned by the philosopher and diplomat Petros Vrailas Armenis, on the site of the former “Villa Vraila.”

Located 10 kilometers south of Corfu Town and three kilometers north of the village of Benitses, at the edge of the village of Gastouri, it is a must-see attraction in Corfu.

Here you will see magnificent works of art, including two statues of Achilles and significant paintings, and sculptures of ancient gods, and heroes. The famous outdoor gardens and the stunning views of Corfu Town also make it worth visiting.

6. Visit Mount Pantokrator

The highest mountain in Corfu is in the northeastern part of the island, with its highest peak at 900 meters.

From here, you have the best view of the entire island, Albania to the northeast, and if the atmosphere is clear, which is rare in the summer months, you can even see as far as Italy.

The Pantokrator Monastery is located here, celebrating on August 6th. There is also a café-bar and many antennas for radio, television, and mobile phones that emit strong radiation, as it is a major broadcasting center. For this reason, we do not recommend staying for many hours. One hour is enough to admire the scenery.

7. Take a trip to Paleokastritsa

Northwest Corfu - Paleokastritsa from above
Northwest Corfu – Paleokastritsa from above

One of the most beautiful landscapes in Corfu.

Paleokastritsa is truly picturesque and becomes even more beautiful when viewed from above.

From the village of Lakones, located on the mountain that surrounds Paleokastritsa from the north, you have a stunning view of the small beaches and capes that form its varied coastline.

On the largest cape, you’ll find the famous Paleokastritsa Monastery, visited by thousands of tourists. Among its exhibits are the bones of a whale that once washed ashore on the rugged rocks of the area.

A visit to Paleokastritsa is a must.

  • See the Paleokastritsa Monastery

    Paleokastritsa monastery museum whith whale bones
    Paleokastritsa Monastery Museum with whale bones

    Located at the top of the largest cape along the Paleokastritsa coast.

    From here, you can see Angelokastro to the northwest, perched on its rock since 1100 AD, protecting the area ever since.

    The monastery houses various exhibits, including old traditional tools once used in ancient olive mills and various traditional artifacts from the village.

    In another room, you will find the bones of an unfortunate whale that washed ashore on the rocks in the area.

  • Cool off at the beaches of Paleokastritsa.

    Paleokastritsa Beach Corfu
    Paleokastritsa Beach Corfu

    Indeed, Paleokastritsa boasts several beaches, from the bustling ones in the center of the settlement to more secluded ones just a few kilometers away in the surrounding area.

    All of them have crystal-clear waters, but they are also very cold, hence the expression “freeze!”

    This is due to a cold current that originates from the Adriatic Sea and ends up in the area.

    Of course, during the summer with the intense heat, the cold sea becomes refreshing and enjoyable.

  • Visit the Aquarium of Corfu in Paleokastritsa

    Lobster in Paleokastrtsa aquarium
    Lobster in Paleokastrtsa aquarium

    Explore the Aquarium of Corfu in Paleokastritsa, a museum showcasing live marine life and various species of Corfu’s fauna.

    Take advantage of this opportunity to discover the underwater world of Mediterranean marine life!

    At this expansive aquarium, you can observe many species swimming lively in their habitats. The species are well cared for with responsibility. Come and see them for yourself!

  • Board the Corfu Sea Discovery ship in Paleokastritsa

    Discover the “Corfu Sea Discovery,” a ship with a glass bottom that began operating in 2008 in Corfu to showcase the stunning seabed of Paleokastritsa.

    Through the underwater windows of the ship and beneath your feet, you’ll witness the captivating marine life thriving in the area’s beautiful caves.

8. Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Corfu

Corfu’s beaches are a must-see, offering a range of stunning landscapes.

Rovinia Beach, near Paleokastritsa, is a picturesque and secluded pebble beach with crystal-clear waters.

Myrtiotissa, once a nudist beach, is small and charming, known for its shifting sands.

Issos and Halikounas are the island’s largest beaches, perfect for windsurfing and adventure.

Agios Gordios is a lively sandy beach with shops and nightlife.

Canal d’Amour in Sidari is a unique sandstone formation with a romantic legend.

Finally, Cape Drastis offers breathtaking views of a rare geological landscape.

9. Explore the nature of Corfu

If you don’t explore the natural side of Corfu, what else can you do on this island?

Corfu’s natural environment is unique, diverse, and constantly surprising with its changes in landscape, beautiful mountain villages, and secluded beaches hidden away from the bustling tourist areas.

  • Try the paths of the Erimitis

    Erimitis Beach
    Erimitis Beach

    Erimitis is located at the northeastern tip of Corfu, very close to the Albanian shores.

    It’s a virgin paradise, filled with small charming coves and beaches separated by small capes that provide beautiful scenery to the landscape, most of which are accessible by sea.

    Here, you’ll have the opportunity to come into direct contact with pristine nature, untouched by tourist development.

    You can explore secluded beaches where wildlife has found its ideal refuge.

    Pebble beaches with calm waters, very clean.

    Horseback riding is one of the most exciting ways to explore the area.

  • Visit to Lazaretto Island

    Lazaretto is a small island of 70 square kilometers, located in the bay of Gouvia, just 2.5 km from Gouvia and Kontokali.

    It is uninhabited now but it was an island with a significant history, not necessarily pleasant.

    There was a church dedicated to the Lady of Nazareth. The word was paraphrased to Lazaretto, and the current name of the islet probably derived from this.

    Later, another monastery and leper hospital were built there, and much later it was used as a place of detention, torture, and execution of political prisoners, especially during the Greek Civil War (1945-1949).

    A dark historical past for this bright beautiful little island.

  • Go mountain biking in Corfu

    Corfu is an island with mountains, plains, and valleys. Most importantly, it has a dense road network with small trails through and around these mountains.

    Therefore, it’s the ideal place for hiking and biking.

    Here you have the opportunity for luxurious cycling vacations and group activities in nature.

    Let the unmatched natural beauty of Corfu inspire your passion for cycling or biking on an adventure of a lifetime.

10. Outdoor Activities in Corfu

Corfu is not only one of the richest in history and mythology Greek islands but also the jewel of the Ionian Sea and the greenest Greek island. There’s so much to do and explore here.

Of course, you may choose to spend most of your time sunbathing, visiting attractions, and enjoying delicious local cuisine, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

However, if you prefer more active holidays, Corfu won’t disappoint you. There are plenty of outdoor activities to try on the Emerald Isle. Below are our top choices.

  • Diving

    Scuba Diving
    Scuba Diving – Sebastian Pena Lambarri on Unsplash

    If you are on holiday in Corfu and already know how to swim, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to learn autonomous diving! You will be provided with all the necessary equipment and embark on a diving tour that will leave you amazed.

    There is plenty to see in the clear waters of the Ionian Sea, from beautiful seabeds and various fish species to old shipwrecks. There are adventure tours that allow you to explore the numerous wrecks around the island, but keep in mind that they are only for experienced divers.

  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding

    Paddleboarding
    Paddleboarding – Elizabeth Kay on Unsplash

    Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) originates from surfing but is a much more relaxed activity. Instead of surfing waves, you float on a board on the water using a paddle.

    You can try it at the beautiful Dasia Beach, where all the necessary equipment will be provided. SUP is a wonderful idea if you want to spend a leisurely day at the beach while trying something new and exciting.

    It can be an ideal activity for families with children who may be apprehensive about more challenging adventures like diving, which can be seen as risky.

  • Cruises

    Whenever you’re by the sea, a cruise is an excellent choice for a wonderful day. You’ll have plenty of options to explore the beautiful island from the sea, but if you have a bit more to spend, you can opt for a private yacht cruise.

    This is a fantastic choice for group vacations with friends. Booking a private cruise allows you to enjoy the breathtaking views of the island and its surroundings. You can also head for a swim at some of the beaches with turquoise waters or simply enjoy the breeze on your sun-kissed skin.

  • Cycling Excursions

    There is no better way to explore the island than by taking a cycling tour. You can rent a bike and wander on your own. You don’t need to worry about difficulty levels because there are options suitable for all fitness levels.

    Whether you decide to visit Corfu Old Town or focus on the lush nature of the island, you will not be disappointed. You can explore the countryside, villages, and forests. Corfu is mountainous, so you can even try a mountain biking adventure.

  • Camping

    Camping
    Camping – Scott Goodwill on Unsplash

    Instead of booking accommodation, why not turn your stay in Corfu into a full outdoor adventure? While there aren’t many campgrounds on the island, those available offer all the necessary amenities to make you feel welcome.

    You can try Dolphin Camping in Sidari Bay or a cozy campground in Roda village. Typically, you’ll need to bring your tent and other essentials, but some places also offer bungalows for rent.

  • Paragliding

    So far, we’ve talked about enjoying Corfu from land and sea, but how about flying above it? Whether you’ve tried paragliding before or not, experiencing it above Corfu’s coastline will surely be the adventure of a lifetime.

    You don’t need prior experience – just enthusiasm! Guides will take you to a launching point by speedboat. There, they’ll equip you with all the necessary gear and brief you on everything you need to know.

    The flight lasts only 5-7 minutes, but it could be the highlight of your vacation.

11. More things to do in Corfu

  • The most beautiful sunset in Greece?

    Certainly in Corfu, from any of the peaks on the western side of the island which is entirely a mountain range.

  • Wherever you are in Corfu, there is certainly something exciting and interesting to see, we simply cannot describe and include them all in the limited space of one page.There is a very lively nightlife in many areas, mainly for foreign tourists but also for those who feel very young.There is of course nightlife for purely Greek tastes mainly in the north of the city, bars for those who love good music but also all kinds of restaurants for gastronomic delights.For example, there is a restaurant with a terrace inside the sea at the Kaiser Bridge.

    Although not necessary, car use is very useful, with so many places to visit you will probably need it.

    Visit the small neighboring islands

    Of course, anyone coming for holidays in Corfu should not miss a visit to the island of Paxos, an island that has been characterized as one of the 20 most beautiful in the world.

    There, among other things, you will visit and admire the sea caves of the western coast with turquoise waters, better than the most famous beaches of Zakynthos.

    Also, with a visit to the Diapontia Islands Othoni, Ereikoussa, and Mathraki located northwest of the island, you will experience a different, quieter, and exciting world.

    There is also the islet of Vido, close and just opposite the old port of the city.

    A small natural paradise with an area of ​​just 540 acres, a sacred island for the Serbs since there is a Serbian mausoleum with the bones of Serbian soldiers from World War I.

    On the islet, there are many surprises, there are no roads but organized paths only for walkers, there is a restaurant and refreshments, health facilities, a clinic, an organized beach, municipal campsites, and the historic restored church of Agios Stefanos.

    There is a legend that the island communicates with the Old Fortress through an underwater tunnel built by the Venetians.

    We do not know if this is true but the truth is that the Venetians had this ability since there are underground tunnels connecting the two fortresses of the city, these tunnels are not accessible to the public.

    The correct name of the island is the island of Vido and not Vidos as many mistakenly refer to it, and it got its name from a former owner, Guido Malipieri, simply Guido was paraphrased into Vido.

    In summary

    These activities are just a few of the things you can do in Corfu.

  • This wonderful island has something for everyone and regardless of your preferences, you will have a great time!
  • Whatever your tastes, in Corfu you are sure to not be bored, it is a huge island with interesting natural beauties that offer locations, opportunities, and facilities as well as surprises that cater to all tastes.

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