Corfu

Its rich history weaves a fascinating blend of influences that have each left its mark on the island and given it a unique character. It is perfect for families, couples and friends and offers visitors both relaxation and adventure. Discover why this iconic island is one of Greece’s most beloved holiday destinations.

What Corfu is best known for

Corfu is known for its captivating blend of Venetian, French and British influences, reflected in its elegant Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which has an aristocratic air and landmark monuments such as Venetian fortresses. It boasts beautiful beaches and lively beach resorts, traditional villages, and a lush, hilly interior filled with olive groves, making it a favourite for holidays throughout the year and for nature lovers.

Visitors also cherish Corfu (or Kerkyra, as it’s known in Greek) for its warm hospitality and rich traditions, and for its cuisine, which displays many cultural influences in dishes that show off Italian touches and the island’s delicious Mediterranean produce. Corfu also played a key role in the cultural, intellectual and political emergence of the modern Greek state, and its Easter celebrations are among the most memorable in Greece.

What to do in Corfu

Corfu Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is like an open-air museum and its crowning glory is the Venetians’ Old Fortress, built in the 13th century and invaluable in holding off Ottoman sieges. The New Fortress, built between 1572 and 1645, is also a masterpiece of military architecture. You’ll love exploring the alleyways of Campiello (the medieval district) and other highlights, such as the Palace of St Michael and St George (a legacy of the 19^th-century British protectorate) and the Parisian flair of the Liston Arcade by Spianada Square. Other highlights include Pontikonisi (Mouse Island) and neighbouring Vlacherna islet, with its 17th-century monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Close to the Old Town, the Achilleion Palace was built by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria-Hungary (the legendary Sissi) and later became the summer retreat of Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. Meanwhile, Mon Repos was built in 1828 by British High Commissioner Frederick Adam and houses the Palaiopolis Museum and botanical gardens.

Corfu is also famous for its beaches, from little coves to large stretches of sand with beach bars, tavernas, shops and water sports. And the countryside is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Among the hidden gems are traditional villages and Lake Korission in the south. Finally, the Easter celebrations in Corfu are unique in Greece and a perfect time to enjoy the island’s Philharmonic bands and spring atmosphere.

Enjoy 8 top things to do in Corfu

Eat like a local

The traditional cuisine of Corfu is a reflection of the many cultural influences on the island. The Venetian legacy can be found in dishes such as Pastitsada (beef cooked in a mix of spices), sofrito (beef cooked with plenty of parsley and garlic) and bourdeto (spicy fish stew). But you’ll also find influences from the British (ginger beer and kumquat) and other settlers in Corfu over the years – as well, of course, as favourite Greek dishes and regional delicacies. They all combine to give Corfu a unique local flavour that you’ll enjoy in the traditional tavernas and restaurants of the island. Among the local products, olive oil, honey and wine stand out, and traditional sweets include mandoles (caramelised almonds) and mandolato (a soft nougat).

Best food and drink experiences in Corfu

Best time to visit Corfu

As one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, Corfu does get busy in July and August, especially in the Old Town and on popular beaches. For the best experience, visit in May-June or September-October, when the weather is warm and the sea is great for swimming, but the island is less busy. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) are also wonderful seasons for outdoor activities in Corfu, such as hiking and exploring the countryside. And for an extra special experience, Corfu comes alive at Easter with unique traditions and celebrations. Winters are mild but wetter, with fewer tourist services available.

How to get to Corfu

Corfu is easily accessible by air and sea, making it one of the most convenient Greek islands to visit.

By air: Corfu International Airport (CFU) receives direct flights from major European cities during the summer months, as well as domestic flights from Athens year-round. The flight time from both Athens and Thessaloniki is around 1 hour.

By ferry: Ferries to Corfu’s main port and Lefkimi (a smaller port, in the south) operate year-round from Igoumenitsa, on the northwest coast of mainland Greece, with frequent crossings taking 5 to 2 hours. If you are travelling from Athens, Igoumenitsa is approximately 470km (5-6 hours by car), while from Thessaloniki, it’s around 320km (4-5 hours by car). Public buses (KTEL) operate from both Athens and Thessaloniki.