Corfu – the greenest Greek island, 217 square kilometers of lush vegetation, Venetian architecture, stunning beaches, and a UNESCO World Heritage old town. This Ionian gem is different from the typical white-and-blue Cycladic islands: instead of barren landscapes, you’ll find olive groves, cypress forests, and verdant hillsides. Instead of whitewashed houses, you’ll discover Italian-influenced pastel buildings and French-style arcades.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family beach vacation, or organizing a corporate event on a Mediterranean island – Corfu delivers. Excellent connections from across Europe, a well-developed tourism infrastructure, and perfect year-round climate make this island accessible and comfortable even for first-time visitors to Greece.

This complete Corfu travel guide covers everything: Where to stay (hotels vs. vacation rentals), how to get there (flights vs. ferries), what to see (Old Town, Paleokastritsa, beaches), where to rent a car, and how Corfu works perfectly for business travel and MICE events.

Why Corfu? Island Highlights

1. Corfu Old Town – UNESCO World Heritage Site:

Corfu Town’s Old Town is the only Greek old town on the UNESCO list! Why? Because it’s unique – shaped by 400 years of Venetian rule (1386-1797), followed by French and British periods. The result: Italian-style architecture, French arcades (the Liston), British neoclassical buildings. Walk through narrow alleyways, discover hidden squares, admire the Old Fortress with spectacular views. Absolutely magical!

2. The Greenest Greek Island:

Corfu receives more rainfall than other Greek islands, making it incredibly lush. Over 4 million olive trees cover the island! Cypress forests, wildflowers in spring, green hillsides year-round. If you associate Greece with barren rocks, Corfu will surprise you!

3. Beaches for Every Taste:

Corfu has over 50 beaches! From long sandy stretches with water sports (Glyfada, Dassia) to hidden coves (Porto Timoni, Rovinia) to dramatic cliff beaches (Paleokastritsa). Sandy, pebbly, rocky – every beach type available.

4. Paleokastritsa – Postcard Perfect:

The most famous spot on Corfu: dramatic coastline with six bays, crystal-clear turquoise water, monastery on the cliff, boats bobbing in tiny harbors. Simply stunning! Popular but worth it.

5. Italian Influence Everywhere:

Unlike most Greek islands, Corfu feels Mediterranean-European. Venetian architecture, Italian cuisine (alongside Greek), Italian spoken by locals, even cricket (from the British!). This cultural mix makes Corfu special.

6. Excellent Infrastructure:

International airport, modern marina, well maintained roads, large hotel selection, many restaurants. Corfu is tourism ready – comfortable even for Greece beginners.

Hotels in Corfu – From Budget to Luxury

Corfu has over 300 hotels ranging from small family guesthouses to 5-star luxury resorts. Key question: Where on the island to stay?

Corfu Town (East Coast) – Culture & Nightlife

Perfect for: City breaks, culture enthusiasts, nightlife fans, business travelers.

Top Hotels Corfu Town:

Mayor Mon Repos Palace Art Hotel: Elegant 5-star boutique hotel in Corfu Town, walking distance to Old Town. Neoclassical building, rooftop pool, spa. Adults-oriented (focus on couples). What makes it special: Perfect location (town + beach), stylish, not huge (45 rooms = personal service).

Cavalieri Hotel: Historic 4-star hotel RIGHT on the Esplanade (main square), inside the Old Town! Restored 17th-century building, rooftop terrace with fortress views. What makes it special: You’re sleeping IN the UNESCO Old Town – magical!

Corfu Palace Hotel: Grand 5-star hotel on Garitsa Bay, 5 minutes from Old Town. 115 rooms, pools, private beach. Family-friendly. What makes it special: Large hotel infrastructure + town proximity.

Paleokastritsa (West Coast, 25km northwest) – Scenery & Romance

Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, peace-seekers, scenery lovers.

Top Hotels Paleokastritsa:

Akrotiri Beach Hotel: 4-star hotel directly in Paleokastritsa, perched on cliff above the bays. Spectacular sea views, pool, steps down to beach. What makes it special: You wake up to THE Corfu view – bays, monastery, turquoise water!

Paleokastritsa Hotel: Family-run hotel since 1953, simple but charming, incredible location above the bays. Budget-friendly. What makes it special: Old-school Greek hospitality + million-dollar views.

Glyfada (West Coast, 16km west) – Beach & Sunset

Perfect for: Beach lovers, families, sunset enthusiasts.

Top Hotels Glyfada:

Louis Grand Hotel: Large 4-star resort directly on Glyfada Beach (one of Corfu’s best sandy beaches). Pools, kids’ clubs, animation. All-inclusive option. What makes it special: Direct beach access + family facilities.

Glyfada Beach Villas: Self-catering villas near the beach, more private than big hotels. What makes it special: Villa feeling with beach proximity.

Dassia/Kommeno (East Coast, 12km north) – Luxury & Water Sports

Perfect for: Luxury seekers, water sports enthusiasts, families.

Grecotel Corfu Imperial: 5-star luxury resort on private peninsula (Kommeno), bungalows and villas, private beaches, spa, fine dining. What makes it special: Exclusive location, very high standard.

Dassia Chandris Hotel: Large 4-star resort in Dassia, water sports center, kids’ facilities. What makes it special: Active vacation with all facilities.

Budget Tip

Smaller 3-star hotels or studios/apartments are significantly cheaper. Look in Corfu Town (outside Old Town) or smaller villages like Benitses, Moraitika. You’ll pay 30-50% less than top resorts.

Vacation Rentals & Apartments in Corfu

Vacation rentals are very popular in Corfu – especially for families, self-caterers, and longer stays.

Advantages of Vacation Rentals

• Cheaper: Apartments often 40-60% cheaper than hotels of similar standard
• More Space: Living room, kitchen, often multiple bedrooms
• Self-Catering: Own kitchen = save money on meals
• More Authentic: Live like locals, often in regular neighborhoods
• Privacy: Own terrace/balcony, no hotel animation bustle

Best Areas for Vacation Rentals

Corfu Town: Many apartments in the new town, 10-15 minutes walk to Old Town. Good connections, supermarkets nearby.

Paleokastritsa Area: Villas and apartments on hillsides overlooking the bays. More expensive than other areas, but spectacular views.

Agios Gordios: Beach village on west coast, long sandy beach, good tavernas. Many apartments, popular with families.

Kassiopi: Charming village in the northeast, small harbor, beaches nearby. Mix of traditional and tourist, good vacation rental selection.

Where to Find Vacation Rentals

• ferienhaus.guide: Direct contact with owners, fair prices

Getting to Corfu – Flight or Ferry?

Flights to Corfu

Corfu Airport (CFU) is located 3km south of Corfu Town, near Kanoni. International airport with good connections.

Direct Flights from UK:

• From all major UK airports (London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bristol, etc.)
• Flight time: approx. 3-3.5 hours
• Airlines: British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, TUI
• High season (May-September): daily multiple flights
• Low season (April, October): 3-5x per week
• Winter (November-March): reduced, mainly easyJet + Ryanair

Direct Flights from Other European Countries:

• Germany: Frankfurt, Munich, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Hamburg
• Austria: Vienna
• Switzerland: Zürich, Geneva
• Netherlands: Amsterdam
• Italy: Rome, Milan (frequent!)

Ticket Prices:

• Low season: £60-120 return (if booked early!)
• High season: £150-300 return
• Last-minute summer: £250-500

Ferries to Corfu

Corfu is well-connected by ferry to mainland Greece and Italy.

Corfu ↔ Mainland Greece (Igoumenitsa):

• Distance: 12 km (shortest crossing!)
• Duration: 1-1.5 hours
• Frequency: Hourly in summer, every 2-3 hours in winter
• Price: €8-15 per person, cars €30-50
• Perfect if driving through Greece

Corfu ↔ Italy (Bari, Brindisi, Ancona, Venice):

• Bari: 8-10 hours overnight, €50-90, daily in summer
• Brindisi: 7-9 hours overnight, €45-80, daily in summer
• Ancona: 15-17 hours, €60-100, 3-4x/week
• Venice: 24-26 hours, €80-130, 2-3x/week
• Book cabins for overnight ferries!

Corfu ↔ Other Greek Islands:

• Paxos: 1-2 hours, daily, €15-25 (beautiful day trip island!)
• No direct ferries to other major islands – must go via mainland

Where to Book Ferries:

• Traghetti online Minoan Lines, Anek, Ventouris Ferries

Car Rental in Corfu

A rental car is highly recommended in Corfu! The island is large enough (60 km long) that you won’t be flexible with buses, but small enough that you can reach everything within a day.

Why Rent a Car?

• Flexibility: Discover hidden beaches, mountain villages, scenic viewpoints at your pace
• Paleokastritsa Trip: Much more pleasant with own car than crowded tour buses
• East Coast + West Coast: Explore both sides of the island
• Cheaper than Taxis: Definitely more economical for excursions

Car Rental Costs

• Small car: €25-40/day (high season), €15-25/day (low season)
• Medium class: €35-55/day
• SUV/Jeep: €50-85/day
• Per week: Often 10-20% discount

Where to Rent Cars

• At Airport: All major providers (Hertz, Avis, Budget, Sixt, Enterprise) + local companies
• Local Renters: Often cheaper (e.g., Abelos Rentals, Top Cars Corfu), but check reviews!

What to Consider

• Full Coverage: Essential! Roads are OK but narrow in villages
• Fuel Policy: “Full to full” is fairest
• License: EU/UK license sufficient, no international needed
• Traffic: Right-hand traffic like continental Europe, somewhat chaotic but relaxed
• Parking: In Corfu Town difficult (use car parks outside Old Town), rest of island easy
• Mountain Roads: Some roads to remote beaches are unpaved – standard car OK, but drive carefully

Key Places & Attractions

Corfu Town (Kerkyra) – The Capital

Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage): Venetian architecture from 14th-18th centuries, French arcades, British neoclassical buildings. Highlights: Liston (French arcades with cafés), Spianada (Europe’s largest square), Saint Spyridon Church (island’s patron saint), Old Fortress (climb for views!), New Fortress. Plan at least half day, better full day. Most beautiful early morning or evening (daytime can be crowded with cruise ship tourists).

Achilleion Palace: 10 km south of town, built 1890 for Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sissi). Neoclassical palace with magnificent gardens, Achilles statues, spectacular views. Entry €10. Worth visiting for Sissi fans and view lovers.

Mon Repos Estate: Former Greek royal family summer residence, now museum. Beautiful park with swimming spots. Free entry to park, museum €6.

Paleokastritsa – The Scenic Jewel

Paleokastritsa is Corfu’s most famous spot and absolute must-see! Dramatic coastline with six small bays, crystal-clear turquoise water, cliffs covered in cypress trees.

Monastery of Paleokastritsa: Built 1225 on cliff promontory. Small museum, beautiful views, peaceful gardens. Dress code: shoulders and knees covered. Free entry (donations welcome).

Boat Trips: From the main beach, take boat trips to sea caves (Blue Eye Cave) and hidden beaches. €10-20 per person, 30-60 minutes. Worth it!

Beaches: Six small pebble beaches, clear water perfect for snorkeling. Main beach organized with sunbeds, smaller ones more natural.

Canal d’Amour (Sidari) – Natural Wonder

Dramatic sandstone formations on north coast, narrow channel between cliffs. Legend says couples swimming through the channel will stay together forever. Very photogenic! Can get crowded in summer – early morning best.

Angelokastro – Clifftop Byzantine Castle

13th-century Byzantine fortress on 300m cliff on northwest coast. Spectacular views over west coast and sea. Short but steep climb to top. Entry €4. Best at sunset!

Mount Pantokrator – Island’s Highest Peak

Corfu’s highest mountain (906m). Drive or hike to monastery at summit for 360° views over entire island and Albania. On clear days, you can see Italy! Narrow mountain road – drive carefully.

Beaches

Glyfada Beach: Long sandy beach on west coast, considered Corfu’s best. Clear water, organized with sunbeds, water sports, beach bars. Popular but spacious. Golden sand, beautiful sunsets.

Porto Timoni: Hidden gem! Twin beaches on either side of narrow peninsula, accessible only by 20-minute hike from Afionas village. Stunning views, quieter than famous beaches. Bring water and snacks!

Rovinia Beach: Secret beach near Liapades, accessible only by boat or difficult hike. Crystal-clear water, peaceful. For adventurers!

Barbati Beach: East coast pebble beach, clear water, dramatic mountain backdrop. Less crowded than west coast beaches.

MICE in Corfu – Business Travel & Events

Corfu is excellent for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events). Why? Perfect infrastructure + Mediterranean charm + cultural richness = ideal mix of business and pleasure.

Why Corfu for MICE?

• Accessibility: Direct flights from across Europe, short transfers from airport
• Conference Hotels: Several large hotels with meeting rooms (200-800 persons capacity)
• Year-Round Destination: Even winter mild (12-17°C) – perfect for spring/autumn events
• Incentive Activities: Team building on beaches, sailing trips, historical tours, olive oil tastings
• Evening Programs: Gala dinner in Venetian fortress, beach parties, Greek folklore shows
• Cultural Program: UNESCO Old Town, palaces, monasteries – impressive venues

Top MICE Hotels in Corfu

Grecotel Corfu Imperial: THE MICE hotel in Corfu! 5-star resort on private peninsula, conference center with rooms for 20-800 persons, modern technology, 304 rooms. Perfect for large conferences, product launches, corporate retreats.

MarBella Corfu: 5-star luxury resort in Agios Ioannis Peristeron, meeting facilities for up to 500 persons, beachfront location. Excellent for incentive trips combining business with luxury.

Corfu Holiday Palace: Large 5-star hotel near Kanoni, convention facilities for up to 600 persons, near airport (5 min). Good for conferences with tight schedules.

MICE Activities in Corfu

• Team Building: Sailing regattas, kayaking, beach Olympics
• Cultural Program: Private Old Town tours + Achilleion Palace visits
• Incentive Excursions: Boat trip to Paxos island, wine tasting at local estates, cooking classes
• Evening Events: Gala dinner at Old Fortress (can be rented!), beach BBQ, traditional Greek taverna evening
• Wellness: Many hotels with spas – wellness programs for participants

MICE Planning: Best Time

• April-May: Perfect! 18-24°C, not too hot for outdoor activities, lower hotel rates
• September-October: Also ideal, sea still warm, fewer tourists than high summer
• November-March: Mild (12-17°C), very affordable, but some hotels closed
• June-August: Very hot (28-35°C), expensive, crowded – better avoid for MICE

Practical Tips for Corfu Vacation

Best Time to Visit

• May-June: Perfect! 22-28°C, sea warm enough (20-23°C), fewer tourists, nature green, moderate prices
• September-October: Also ideal! 24-29°C, sea warmest (24-26°C), less crowded, good prices
• July-August: Very hot (30-35°C!), very crowded, expensive – only if summer holidays mandatory
• April + November: OK for cultural trips, 16-22°C, but sea cool (16-18°C), some hotels closed
• December-March: Mild but rainy, many hotels/restaurants closed, only for peace-seekers

How Long to Stay?

• Weekend trip (3-4 days): Corfu Town + 1-2 excursions (e.g., Paleokastritsa) doable
• 1 week: Ideal! Time for town, Paleokastritsa, several beaches, relaxed pace
• 10-14 days: Perfect to see remote corners too, island combination possible (e.g., + Paxos day trip)

Money & Costs

• Currency: Euro
• Card Payment: Widely accepted in hotels/restaurants, cash for small tavernas/beaches
• Tipping: 5-10% in restaurants customary (often not included)
• Budget per Day: €40-70 budget (simple accommodation, self-catering), €80-120 mid-range (3-4* hotel, eating out), €150+ luxury

Food & Drink

• Greek Cuisine: Moussaka, souvlaki, fresh fish, Greek salad, tzatziki
• Local Specialties: Sofrito (veal in white wine sauce), Pastitsada (beef with pasta), Bourdeto (spicy fish stew)
• Italian Influence: Pizza and pasta often excellent (Venetian legacy!)
• Kumquat: Local liqueur from small oranges – sweet and strong!
• Taverna vs. Restaurant: Tavernas more authentic + cheaper, often better than tourist restaurants

Language

• Greek is the official language, but English widely spoken (tourist areas also Italian!)
• Helpful: “Kalimera” (Good day), “Efcharisto” (Thank you), “Parakalo” (Please)

Conclusion: Corfu – The Green Gem of Greece

Corfu truly offers everything: history and culture in the UNESCO Old Town, stunning beaches for every taste, excellent hotel infrastructure, perfect accessibility by flight or ferry, and lush Mediterranean nature. Whether city break, beach vacation, active holiday, or business trip – Corfu works for all!

The island is large enough for 1-2 weeks of exploration, but compact enough for an extended weekend. With a rental car you’re flexible, without a car you’ll still manage well (buses, taxis, organized tours). The combination of Venetian architecture (Old Town!), natural beauty (Paleokastritsa!), Italian-Greek fusion cuisine, and green landscapes makes Corfu unique among Greek islands.

Whether you book a romantic boutique hotel in the Old Town, choose a large all-inclusive resort in Dassia, or rent a cozy apartment overlooking Paleokastritsa – Corfu will enchant you. The Venetians called it “the most beautiful daughter of Venice.” After your visit, you’ll understand why!

Kalo taxidi – Safe travels to Corfu!