Things to do in Corfu

Corfu: Greece with a different accent

Corfu lies in the Ionian Sea, in the far north-west of Greece and close to the coast of Albania. The island has been ruled by the Venetians, the French and the British, and you notice it in Corfu town: the old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is a cricket pitch in the middle of town, and the arcades of the Liston recall Paris.

The landscape is different from the Aegean islands too. Corfu gets more rain in winter, so it is green, with millions of olive trees. Many people know Corfu from Gerald Durrell's books about the family who moved here in the 1930s.

Corfu is one of the islands of Greece. For a drier, hotter summer island, see Rhodes or Crete.

The best things to do in Corfu

• Corfu town: walk between the two fortresses, have a coffee under the Liston arcades and get lost in the narrow streets.

• Paleokastritsa: the bays on the west coast, with the monastery on the cliff. Take a boat into the caves.

• Kanoni: the view of Vlacherna monastery and the islet of Pontikonisi, just south of town.

• Achilleion: the palace built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, with gardens and views over the coast.

• The north-east coast: small villages such as Kassiopi and Kalami, with clear water and views across to Albania.

• Canal d'Amour at Sidari: sandstone formations and small channels on the north coast.

Where to stay in Corfu

• Corfu town: for the old town, restaurants and a short hop to the airport.

• The north-east coast: quiet, upmarket and lovely for swimming.

• Paleokastritsa and the west coast: dramatic scenery and sunsets over the sea.

• South of town: large hotels and family-friendly beaches.

The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Siora Vittoria: a boutique hotel in the old town

A small hotel in an old mansion in Corfu town, with the harbour and fortresses within walking distance. For those who want to see the town in the evening, after the day-trippers have gone.

Book your city break: See rooms at Siora Vittoria

Corfu Imperial: on the peninsula north of town

A classic luxury hotel on its own peninsula at Kommeno, with bays on several sides. A short drive to town, but it feels far away.

Book your sun break: See rooms at Corfu Imperial

Domes Miramare: adults only, at the water's edge

An adults-only luxury hotel in an old garden by the sea south of Corfu town. Calm, green and with a jetty for swimming right below.

Book your stay: See rooms at Domes Miramare

When is the best time to visit Corfu?

The season on Corfu runs from May to October. June and September are often best, with a warm sea and green countryside. July and August are the hottest and busiest. In spring the island is in flower and good for walking before the heat arrives.

Frequently asked questions about Corfu

Where is the best place to stay in Corfu?

Corfu town suits those who want the old town and restaurants. The north-east coast is quieter and more upmarket, while Paleokastritsa and the west coast have dramatic scenery and sunsets. Many large family hotels lie south of town.

What is Corfu famous for?

The Venetian old town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its green hills of olive trees and the bays of Paleokastritsa. Many also know the island from Gerald Durrell's books.

Is Corfu good for families?

Yes. The island has plenty of shallow beaches, especially in the north and south, and large hotels with pools. Distances are short, so day trips are easy with children.

Do I need a car in Corfu?

It is recommended if you want to see several bays. Roads are narrow and winding, so choose a small car. Buses run from Corfu town to the main resorts.

When is the best time to go to Corfu?

June and September are often the best months, with a warm sea and fewer crowds. The season runs from May to October.