The Ultimate Guide to Corfu
Posted on 30th January 2024 at 13:12
As January is coming to an end, our Monthly Spotlight wouldn't quite complete without an ultimate guide to Corfu! Known as the Emerald Island, Corfu is the gem of the Ionian Sea with its luscious landscapes, golden beaches and azure waters.
Perhaps not as famous as Santorini or Mykonos, Corfu quietly exudes an understated charm that will truely captivate you with its beauty. You can see the island's history through weathered cobbled streets and remnants of Venetian architecture in the Old Town. In this paradise, pastel-hued buildings line the streets, adorned with a simplicity and ruggedness rather than extravagance. Corfu Town may steal your heart but its the beaches and villages that will keep you coming back. Crystal clear waters surround Corfu and give way to soaring cliffs, dazzling grottos, secret beaches, sea caves and secluded coves. All this beauty with the backdrop of mountains, making it the perfect destination for photos!
I am biased but I think its the prettiest island in all of Greece. It's one of my favourite places and somewhere I am fortunate enough to call home.
Keep reading for our guide to the island including the best beaches, viewpoints, bars, restaurants, hotels and more.
How many days should you spend in Corfu?
This all depends on what you want to do while you're there. Personally, I would opt for 7 to 14 nights to really experience everything and relax as well. Corfu Town has plenty to see and do and you can easily spend 2 days exploring the stunning cobblestone streets and Venetian architecture. We definitely recommend hiring a car, so you can see the rest of this beautiful island, its beaches, mountains and tucked away villages.
Best time to visit Corfu
Direct flights from the UK open in April and stop in October; these months are the quietest and the weather is reasonably warm. You can experience the sights, attractions, museums during this time without it being too hot. It is warm enough to swim in the sea during these months although the locals might think your crazy as its still their winter!
The weather really picks up in May and June, with it reaching its hottest temperatures and busiest times in July and August, before getting more bearable in September.
Best Beaches in Corfu
This list could go on forever but I'll just include a few of my favourites!
Pelekas (Kontogialos) Beach
This is where you will find all the locals! Located on the West Coast of the island in Pelekas, down a winding road you will find this sandy stretch of beach. The sea is perfect for children as its quite wavey and stays shallow for quite a while. Grab some lunch at Nagual Beach Bar - they do the most amazing Caesar Salads!
Palaiokastritsa
Further north along the west coast is Palaiokastritsa, where in mythology is the last place Odysseus visited before returning home. This beach can get very busy, but it does have a few bays to choose from. From here you can hire a boat to explore caves and secret beaches that have their homes along the west coast. There is also a small aquarium here, great if you have little ones!
La Grotta
Not quite a beach in the traditional sense but a fantastic place for swimming, diving in, and cocktails. The spot has become so popular with locals and tourists alike that they had to build decking areas in the cliff face! La Grotta is very hidden and bear in mind there are a lot of stairs! Alternatively you can reach La Grotta by boat.
Porto Timoni
Not far from Palaiokastritsa is Port Timoni - you will have to park up and hike around 15 minutes to reach this beach but it is so worth it. Porto Timoni is two mirrored bays with back to back beaches and you will have to pack a picnic as there are no facilities here.
Where to eat in Corfu
Corfu is a foodies paradise! Here are a few of the best restaurants on the island.
Pane e Souvlaki
Venetian Well
Tsantsamini
Taverna Agni
Paprika
Where to stay in Corfu
Ikos Dassia and Ikos Odisia
Just a 20 minute drive from Corfu town, you will find two 5* star resorts. With All Inclusive dining options, you can spend a week here and not leave the reosrt! Rooms here are modern and comfortable and with the pools and beach you will be spoilt for choice!
Olivar Suites
Located in South East Corfu, this luxury, boutique hotel boast elegance and class. The suites embrace an outdoor living feel amongst an ancient Olive Grove. Also on the beach front you have the choice of sea and a natural water pool.
Kontokali Bay
Coming closer to Corfu Town, hidden amidst the pine, the cypress trees and beautifully landscaped gardens you will find Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa. Like Olivar Suites, they seamlessly blend elegance and outdoor living in all aspects.
Angsana
Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa is a 5-star hotel 20 minutes from Corfu Airport. This stunning resort mixdes authentic Greek hospitality with Asian influences throughout its elegant rooms, suites, and Mediterranean luxury villa homes with private pools.
Getting around Corfu
I would recommend a car for your trip to Corfu, but you can also hire a bicycle, moped or quadbike which is especially handy when exploring town. A boat trip is a must, you can hire a boat to self drive or arrange for a driver also - either way this is a great way to see some hidden gems of the island.
I hope this guide well help you with your trips to Corfu and know that this is just the tip of the iceburg! Corfu is such a wonderful place for couples, families, solo trips - it has something for everyone!
If this blog has inspired you, contact us now to book your summer getaway on 01442617777 or email us on holidays@tailoredjourneys.co.uk
We look forward to hearing from you!
Riannah
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