Corfu holidays

How to reach Corfu

• Flight time: Nonstop flights to Corfu from Dublin and other major airports in Ireland take about 3 hours and 15 minutes on average.

• Transfer time: Corfu Town is just a 10-minute bus ride (route No. 15) or a quick taxi trip away.

• Price: A bus ticket will set you back €1.20, but if you buy it on board, they'll charge you a bit extra. Taking a taxi from the airport to Corfu Town usually costs around €15 to €20.

Weather and best time to visit Corfu

Corfu's character changes with the seasons, so the best time to visit really depends on what sort of holiday you're after.

• April to June is perfect for outdoor adventures and getting to all those lovely beaches before the summer crowds arrive. During these months, temperatures range from a pleasant 19°C in April to a warm 29°C in June. You'll see a drop in rainfall too, from about 58mm in April to just 16mm by June, and you'll enjoy plenty of sunshine, increasing from 7 to 11 hours a day.

• July to August marks the peak tourist season in Corfu. With temperatures climbing to about 32°C and the sea warming up to a comfortable 22 to 24°C, this is the ideal time for sunbathing and beach fun. Expect lovely sea breezes and very little rain, but be ready for busy beaches and tourist hotspots.

• September to October can be a more comfortable choice if you’re not keen on the intense heat. Temperatures fall to around 27°C in September and further down to 23°C in October. It's still warm enough for beach days and sightseeing with 6 to 8 hours of sunshine daily, but do keep an eye out for some rain (around 104 to 140mm) and occasional thunderstorms.

• November to March brings cooler and wetter weather, with December typically being the rainiest month at 178mm. You’ll only see about 4 hours of sunshine each day, but temperatures average around 16°C. If you fancy a peaceful getaway with fewer tourists, these months could be just what you’re looking for, as long as you don’t mind the chill and drizzle.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official lingo, but English is spoken widely in tourist areas.

• Currency: You’ll be using the euro (€) while you’re in Greece.

• Getting around: Corfu boasts a handy bus network. There are two zones you'll need to know about: A and B. A single ticket for Zone A is €1.20 and for Zone B it’s €1.60 (make sure to grab your ticket from a vending machine to avoid any surcharges). If you want to explore those more remote spots, car hire is a great option, with prices starting at about €25 a day.

• Electricity and plug types: Corfu uses the standard European two-pin plugs (Type C and F), so make sure your devices can handle that.

• Time zone: Corfu follows Eastern European Time, which is 2 hours ahead of GMT.

• Travel documentation: If you’re heading over from Ireland, just make sure you have a valid passport (it should be issued less than 10 years before your entry and valid for at least three months after your planned departure). Good news – no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

Best things to do in Corfu

Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, the island has plenty to offer visitors. Whether exploring historical sites or relaxing on beautiful beaches, holidays to Corfu have something for everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Kanoni: One of the most famous views in Corfu is from Kanoni, where you can see the charming Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) and the white monastery of Vlacherna.

• Mount Pantokrator: The highest point on the island, Mount Pantokrator, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Corfu and the surrounding sea. On clear days, you can even see Albania.

The best districts

• Kérkyra (Corfu Old Town): A UNESCO World Heritage site with labyrinthine narrow streets, Venetian buildings and charming squares. Highlights include the Liston arcade and the Esplanade (Spianada), one of the largest squares in Europe.

• Campiello (Corfu Old Town): The oldest part of the Old Town, characterised by narrow alleys, tall houses and hidden courtyards. It's a wonderful place to get lost and discover small cafés and independent shops.

Parks and gardens

• Mon Repos Estate: This estate features lush gardens, ancient ruins, very strollable parkland, and the Neoclassical Mon Repos Villa, the birthplace of Prince Philip.

• Corfu Botanical Garden: Located in the heart of the island, this garden showcases a variety of Mediterranean plants.

Museums

• Museum of Asian Art Corfu: Housed in the Palace of St Michael & George in Corfu Town, this museum is unique in Greece. Its 15,000-strong collections span Chinese, Japanese, Nepalese, Tibetan, Southeast Asian and Central Asian Nomadic art.

Historical monuments

• Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio): Dominating the eastern side of Corfu Town, this 14th-century fortress houses a small museum, hosts cultural events throughout the year and offers spectacular views over the town and the sea.

• New Fortress (Neo Frourio): Built by the Venetians, this fortress offers insights into Corfu's military history. The views from the top aren't half bad, either.

• Achilleion Palace: Located in the village of Gastouri, this palace was built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria and is dedicated to Achilles. The gardens and the views over the Ionian Sea are magnificent.

• Church of Saint Spyridon: This is the must-see church on the island. It houses the relics of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu, and boasts the tallest bell tower in the Ionian Islands.

Day trips in the area

• Paxi: A 45-minute ferry hop from Corfu, diminutive Paxi offers secluded beaches, turquoise waters, underwater caves and verdant hills.

Activities for families in Corfu

There's plenty to do on family holidays to Corfu, from swimming and sliding to close encounters with marine life.

• Swimming pools: Many hotels and resorts in Corfu feature large swimming pools with kids' sections. Some even have water slides and splash zones.

• Playgrounds: Corfu has several playgrounds, particularly in Corfu Town and larger resorts, where children can play and make new friends while parents relax nearby.

• Aquarium and zoos: A hit with kids of all ages, the Corfu Aquarium in Paleokastritsa showcases local marine life and offers interactive experiences like touch tanks.

• Interactive museums: The fun Casa Parlante Museum in Corfu Town recreates 19th-century Corfiot life with animatronics and sound effects.

• Water parks: Aqualand, one of Europe's largest water parks, provides hours of fun with its numerous water slides, wave pools and lazy rivers.

Free things to do in Corfu

Corfu holidays don't have to break the bank; numerous free activities will give you a taste of the island's culture and natural beauty.

• Free events: Corfu hosts several free cultural events throughout the year, including open-air concerts, religious processions and folk festivals. The annual Corfu Carnival in February or March is a vibrant celebration with parades and street performances.

• Free museums: Select museums in Corfu offer free entry on specific days. For example, the Archaeological Museum in Corfu Town, which showcases fascinating artefacts from ancient Greece, is free to enter from November to March on the first Sunday of each month.

• Explore Corfu by public transport: Take bus route 2, 6 or 7 to explore different parts of the island. A single ticket costs around €1.20, making it an affordable way to see the sights. Bus route 6, for instance, takes you from Corfu Town to Benitses, where you can explore ancient Roman baths.

• Free guided tours: Some companies offer free walking tours of Corfu Town, focusing on its rich history and architecture. Tours typically operate on a tips-only basis, so you can pay what you feel the tour was worth.

Wellness in Corfu

• Spas and thermal baths: Many high-end hotels in Corfu feature luxurious spas offering a range of treatments, including massages, facials and body scrubs. These spas often incorporate natural ingredients from the island, such as olive oil and sea salt, to enhance the therapeutic experience.

• Traditional body care: Embrace traditional Greek body care rituals at local hammams, where you can enjoy steam baths, exfoliating scrubs and soothing massages. These treatments often use locally sourced herbs and oils to promote relaxation and well-being.

• Yoga and meditation centres: Corfu has several yoga and meditation centres that offer classes in beautiful outdoor settings, such as on the beach or in olive groves.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: The 200km Corfu Trail traverses the island from south to north.

• Water sports: Try windsurfing, kitesurfing or paddleboarding in popular spots like Dassia and Glyfada. For a more relaxed experience, consider a kayaking or sailing trip along the coast.

• Paragliding: Several operators offer tandem flights that allow you to soar above the island's beaches and lush landscapes.

• Cycling and mountain biking: Corfu's varied terrain is ideal for leisurely cycling and challenging mountain biking. Numerous trails take you through picturesque villages, olive groves and along the coastline.

• Wildlife watching: Visit the Korission Lagoon, a protected area on the island's southwest coast that is home to a variety of wildlife, including turtles and migratory birds.

• Horse riding: Several stables around Corfu offer horse riding excursions along scenic trails.

Exploring the Best Beaches on Your Corfu Holiday

Corfu, an emerald island nestled in the Ionian Sea, is famed for its diverse coastline, featuring everything from long sandy stretches to secluded coves. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a slice of paradise, Corfu's beaches offer something for everyone.

The best public beaches in Corfu

• Glyfada Beach: Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Glyfada is one of Corfu's most popular beaches, equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a variety of water sports.

• Paleokastritsa Beach: Spread across several small coves, these beaches offer stunning blue-green waters and are ideal for snorkelling and swimming.

• Sidari Beach: Famous for the Canal d'Amour, Sidari offers unique sandstone formations, shallow waters, and ample facilities, making it perfect for families.

Exclusive experiences at private beaches in Corfu

While Corfu is predominantly known for its public beaches, some luxury resorts offer exclusive beach sections:

• Private Resort Beaches: High-end resorts often have their private stretches of beach, offering exclusive sunbeds, umbrellas, and personalized service for guests, ensuring a tranquil and luxurious beach experience.

Hidden gems of Corfu's coastline

• Rovinia Beach: Accessible only by boat or through a footpath, Rovinia is a secluded bay with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery.

• Myrtiotissa Beach: Dubbed the island's unofficial nudist beach, Myrtiotissa offers stunning natural beauty, with turquoise waters and a backdrop of cliffs and greenery.

• Agios Georgios Pagon: Nestled in a bay on the northwest coast, this beach is less frequented by tourists and offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking sunsets.

Beaches for water sports enthusiasts

Corfu's diverse beaches cater to a wide array of water sports, making it a haven for enthusiasts:

• Windsurfing and Kite Surfing: The breezy conditions at beaches like Issos and Chalikounas are ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing.

• Scuba Diving and Snorkelling: With clear waters and rich marine life, sites around Paleokastritsa and the northeast coast offer excellent diving and snorkelling opportunities.

• Sailing and Boating: Explore Corfu's coastline and nearby islets with boat rentals and sailing excursions available from most major beaches.

Beaches closer to important cities or resort areas

• Corfu Town Beaches: While Corfu Town itself doesn't have beaches, nearby options like Mon Repos offer a quick escape to the sea, with historical sites nearby.

• Kontokali and Gouvia: Situated close to Corfu Town, these areas offer a mix of pebble and sandy beaches, with a variety of water sports and facilities, catering to those staying in or visiting the island's capital.

Your holiday in Corfu unfolds on its stunning beaches, each with its own character and charm. From the lively shores of Glyfada to the serene hidden coves of Rovinia, and the water sports paradises like Chalikounas, Corfu's coastline invites you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty, vibrant sea life, and the warm Ionian sun. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Corfu's beaches provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday.

Local dishes in Corfu

One of the pleasures of holidays to Corfu is indulging in all the culinary delicacies (a blend of Greek and Venetian influences) that make it one of Greece's best foodie destinations.

Some typical dishes

• Sofrito: A must-try for meat lovers, this Corfiot speciality is made with thinly sliced veal cooked in white wine and garlic sauce.

• Bourdeto: A spicy fish stew made with scorpion fish and flavoured with paprika and onions.

Meat dishes

• Pastitsada: One of the island's signature dishes, beef or chicken cooked with tomatoes, red wine and spices, served over pasta.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Bianco: Bianco is a simple yet flavourful preparation of fish cooked with garlic, white wine and lemon juice. It's often served with potatoes.

• Octopus stifado: Octopus cooked in a rich tomato and red wine sauce with onions. This dish highlights the island's maritime culinary traditions.

Sweets and desserts

• Sikomaida: A traditional fig cake made with dried figs, ouzo and spices, wrapped in fig leaves. It's a unique treat that reflects the island's agricultural heritage.

Local drinks

• Kumquat Liqueur: This sweet and tangy liqueur is made from local kumquat fruit.

• Tsitsibira: Corfu's non-alcoholic spicy ginger beer is perfect for hot days.

• Ouzo: Greece's famous anise-flavoured spirit. It can be enjoyed straight or diluted with water and is often served as an aperitif with meze.

• Local wines: Corfu has several excellent local wines, including the white wine Kakotrygis and the red wine Petrokoritho. These wines are perfect companions to the island's cuisine.