10 Best Things to Do in Corfu

Situated in a region of sheltered bays on the Ionian Sea, Corfu’s beaches are a nirvana for recreation and relaxation. The island’s aquamarine waters and variety of beaches invite you to an immersion in the striking beauty of Greece. Soak up the Mediterranean sunshine on Barbati’s Blue Flag pebbly beach or discover hidden coves and beaches perfect for swimming and boating on Paleokastritsa.

Adventure seekers can hike the cliffs of Canal D'Amour or kitesurf on Issos Beach. Discover the local culture, savour Greek cuisine or enjoy snorkelling, diving or swimming to explore the coral reefs of Nissaki Beach. Romantics will enjoy the serene atmosphere of Gialiskari’s secluded bay, while Glyfada and Sidari beaches offer lively nightlife scenes.

Embark on a hiking adventure along the Corfu Trail, a long-distance hiking trail that spans Corfu from the south to the north, offering a discovery of the island’s natural beauty. Hikers typically start their journey on the Corfu Trail in the southern part of the island, at Kavos or Asprokavos.

The trail can be divided into 10 day-long sections, so you can experience Corfu’s beauty at your own pace. Swim in blue waters and admire ocean views from the summit of Agii Deka, Corfu’s second-highest peak, and birdwatch at Lake Morrison. Visit traditional villages to learn their culture, marvel at frescos in a ruined chapel and stroll through olive groves before concluding your hike at Agios Spyridon Beach.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Ionian Sea, the Paleokastritsa Monastery offers insights into its rich history and Greek Orthodox heritage, dating back to the 13th century. On the road to the monastery, pass through a scenic forest of olive and cypress trees. History and art enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the monastery’s collection of artefacts, Byzantine icons and frescoes that reflect the monastery’s heritage.

Explore tranquil courtyards with colourful flowers and sea views, a scenic spot to appreciate the ambience of this peaceful setting. Before departing, see the monastery’s traditional olive press and shop for olive oil and other products made from the olive trees on the monastery's grounds to commemorate your visit to this historic and scenic site.

You’ll find a fascinating glimpse into Corfu’s ancient history at Angelokastro, a remarkable Byzantine fortress perched on a hill overlooking the sea. Built during the 13th century, the fortress served as a strategic military defence against attacks, protecting the surrounding area and the capital of Kassiopi.

History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring cleverly engineered fortress walls, gates, watchtowers and cisterns for rainwater collection. Visit the stone Chapel of the Archangels to see 18th-century frescoes and marvel at expansive ocean views. To reach this Corfu attraction from the village of Krini, park in a designated car park and then take a short, steep hike to the entrance, or undertake a moderately challenging trail through olive groves.

Explore Corfu Old Town to experience daily Corfiot life in a pedestrianised town. Stroll along narrow, winding cobblestone lanes lined with charming boutiques and toast your Corfu adventures in a festive taverna. Shop at the market for fresh fruit and handcrafted goods by local artisans. Wander Liston Arcade, a French-style promenade overlooking the Splanada, Corfu’s vibrant central square that serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Enjoy dining al fresco on Corfiot favourites, such as sofrito, a savoury beef dish, a spicy meat stew called pastitsada or fish-themed bourdeto, along with olive-based side dishes that reflect Corfu’s Mediterranean heritage. To complete your day’s discoveries, indulge in sweet treats made from kumquats or baklava.

Set sail on a boat trip with a skipper, or sail on your own to explore Corfu’s awe-inspiring coastlines. Begin by anchoring off at Paxos to discover the enchantment of the blue caves, then Antipaxos to swim and snorkel in crystal clear turquoise waters, explore hidden sea caves and sunbathe on the shores of the famous lagoon.

For shopping, head to Sivota, a charming seaside village where you can find unique handcrafted souvenirs and savour delicious Corfiot cuisine while enjoying sea views. Diversify your boating adventure with a landside excursion with a visit to Paleokastritsa Bay to explore and swim in sea caves, then head to the Monastery of Paleokastritsa to explore historical relics and relish hilltop views.

Corfu’s picturesque villages offer a blend of natural beauty, history and the rich flavours of traditional cuisine. Start your explorations in colourful Pelekas. From the hilltop, watch the sunset transform the seascape into shimmering hues. Explore the modern luxuries of Kassiopi with its upscale resorts, vibrant nightlife and Kassiopi Castle, or Fortress as it’s sometimes known, built during the Byzantine era.

Explore Venetian-style houses in Old Perithia, a ghost village at the foot of Mount Pantokrator, then wander along the cobblestone streets of Afionas and marvel at distant islands. Visit the gardens and Greek statues at Gastouri’s Achilleion Palace, once the dwelling place of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as ‘Sisi’, and later, Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany.

Plan a beach day at Canal d’Amour, the Channel of Love, a destination for romantics. This popular Corfu attraction features a mix of sandy and pebbly shores and is part of a series of narrow inlets carved over time by the wind and sea. It’s created intriguing coastal features such as coves, caves and the canal’s narrow channel and sandstone cliffs.

Local lore says that couples who swim the canal together will be in love forever, while singles throw a coin into the canal to wish for true love. Bask in the sunshine or dive to discover underwater caves and marine life. Alternatively, hike the coastal trails for sea views. After your adventures, toast your day at a seaside cafe.

Nestled on a hilltop in Gastouri, the magnificent Achilleion Palace was built as a seaside retreat in the late 19th century by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as ‘Sisi’. The palace operates as a museum with exhibits that provide insights into Elisabeth’s life and her passion for Greece. The palace’s attractive style was inspired by neoclassical and Pompeian architecture.

Inside, admire elegant furnishings, including frescoes, ceiling paintings, handcrafted furniture and personal artefacts. Wander through the palace gardens, dotted with Greek statues, which reflect Empress Elisabeth's passion for Greek mythology, such as Dying Achilles. Don’t miss an opportunity to marvel at panoramic views of the sea, a perfect backdrop for photographs.

Experience an aquatic adventure at Aqualand, one of the best things to do in Corfu for families. Whether you opt for thrilling rides on extreme slides like the Black Hole, Tornado and Kamikaze, catching waves in the wave pool or you prefer a laid-back ride along the lazy river, Aqualand promises a memorable day.

For younger water enthusiasts, kids’ adventure pools feature shallow waters, smaller waterslides and interactive water features like splash zones. The mini park features slides, water games and shallow pools, ideal for introducing toddlers to the joys of water play. The pirate adventure pool is a favourite feature of the park where kids can live out their swashbuckling fantasies.