Corfu, Greece Travel Guide

Discover Corfu, the enchanting Greek island in the Ionian Sea, known for its rich history, stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and delectable cuisine.

Corfu, known as Kerkyra in Greek, is a stunning island located in the Ionian Sea. It boasts a rich history influenced by various cultures, including the Venetians, French, and British. The old town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with narrow cobblestone streets, elegant mansions, and charming squares. Visitors can explore historic landmarks like the Old Fortress, the Liston Promenade, and the Saint Spyridon Church, which houses the relics of the island's patron saint. The island is also renowned for its beautiful beaches, ranging from sandy stretches to pebbly coves. Glyfada, Paleokastritsa, and Sidari are some of the most popular beaches where tourists can relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. For nature lovers, the island offers lush green landscapes and scenic hiking trails. The Corfu Trail, a long-distance footpath, takes you through olive groves, cypress forests, and traditional villages. Corfu's gastronomy is another highlight. The island's cuisine is a blend of Greek and Italian influences, offering dishes like pastitsada (spiced meat stew) and sofrito (beef in white wine sauce). Local tavernas and restaurants serve fresh seafood, homemade bread, and local wine. Don't miss the chance to try kumquat liqueur, a sweet and tangy spirit unique to Corfu. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing by the sea, Corfu has something to offer. Its warm hospitality and picturesque scenery make it a must-visit destination in Greece.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Corfu.

Visit the Old Fortress early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views of the island.
Rent a car or a scooter to explore the island at your own pace and discover hidden beaches and villages.
Try to visit during the Easter celebrations, as Corfu is famous for its unique and vibrant Easter traditions.
Don't miss a boat trip to the nearby islands of Paxos and Antipaxos for a day of exploring and swimming.
Learn a few basic Greek phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it can enhance your experience.

Neighbourhoods in Corfu

Corfu Old Town

Paleokastritsa

Kanoni

Dassia

Gouvia

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Corfu

Explore Corfu: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Corfu

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The Achilleion Palace

Explore the majestic Achilleion Palace in Corfu, a historical landmark offering stunning views and rich royal history amidst beautiful gardens.

4.2

Canal d'Amour

Discover the magical Canal d'Amour in Sidari, a stunning beach with breathtaking rock formations and romantic legends of love.

4.4

Butrint National Archaeological Park

Discover the ancient wonders of Butrint National Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Albania, where history and nature unite in breathtaking beauty.

4.6

The Blue Eye

Experience the breathtaking beauty of The Blue Eye, a stunning natural spring in Sarandë, Albania, where crystal-clear waters meet lush landscapes.

4.4

Best landmarks in Corfu

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Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna

Explore the enchanting Holy Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna in Corfu, a serene retreat of stunning architecture and tranquil seaside views.

4.7

Municipal Gallery of Corfu

Discover the enchanting Municipal Gallery of Corfu, where art and history intertwine in a beautiful setting, showcasing the island's rich cultural heritage.

4.7

Holy Church of Saint Spyridon

Discover the spiritual heart of Corfu at the Holy Church of Saint Spyridon, home to the island's revered patron saint and a treasure of Venetian architecture.

4.8

Old castle in corfu

Explore Corfu's iconic Old Fortress: a historic Venetian stronghold with stunning views, Byzantine artifacts, and British architectural influences.

4.6

Best restaurants in Corfu

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Fishalida

Discover Fishalida: A premier seafood restaurant in Corfu specializing in fresh angler fish dishes amidst charming island ambiance.

4.5

Avli Restaurant Corfu

Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Avli Restaurant in Corfu - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.3

Taverna Ninos

Discover authentic Greek flavors at Taverna Ninos in Corfu - your destination for traditional barbecue delights.

4.5

Pergola

Experience the essence of Greek cuisine at Pergola in Corfu—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

4.0

Best bars in Corfu

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Bristol Café

Discover the lively Bristol Café in Corfu, a perfect blend of exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the island.

4.4

Arthaus Cafe Wine Bar

Discover the enchanting blend of art and fine wines at Arthaus Cafe Wine Bar, a cultural landmark in the heart of Corfu, Greece.

4.8

Mojito Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing cocktails of Mojito Bar in Sidari, the perfect spot for relaxation and fun.

4.2

Dirty Nellie's Irish Pub

Experience the heart of Irish culture at Dirty Nellie's Irish Pub in Kato Agios Markos, offering delicious food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Corfu

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Πολύτεχνο (Polytechno)

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Corfu at Πολύτεχνο, where eclectic drinks and a lively atmosphere await every night.

4.7

54 Dreamy Nights

Dive into the nightlife of Corfu at 54 Dreamy Nights, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.5

Montecristo Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Montecristo Club in Ipsos, Corfu – where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.

3.8

Edem Beach Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife and stunning beachside views at Edem Beach Club in Corfu, where relaxation meets lively entertainment.

4.3

Best shops in Corfu

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Corfu Central Market

Experience the authentic charm of Corfu at the Central Market, a vibrant hub of local flavors, crafts, and culture.

4.4

Corfu Sandals

Discover the best footwear at Corfu Sandals, where style meets comfort in the heart of Corfu's vibrant shopping scene.

4.5

PAOULIS

Discover PAOULIS in Lefkimmi, a vibrant shopping mall blending local and international brands with a taste of Greek culture.

4.3

Sweet 'N Spicy Organic Shop

Experience the rich flavors of Greece at Sweet 'N Spicy Organic Shop, your destination for exquisite spices and organic products in Corfu.

4.9

Explore Corfu on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Corfu, mapped for you.

Corfu Essentials

Corfu is accessible by both air and sea. Corfu International Airport (CFU), also known as Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport, is the primary airport and receives flights from major European cities. During the summer season, numerous charter flights operate to and from Corfu. For those preferring sea travel, ferries connect Corfu to the Greek mainland, particularly from the port of Igoumenitsa. There are also ferry connections from Italy, including ports like Bari, Venice, and Ancona.
Public transportation on Corfu includes buses operated by the KTEL service, which connect the main towns and tourist areas. Taxis are widely available, and car rentals are a popular option for exploring the island at your own pace. Scooter and bike rentals are also common and provide a convenient way to navigate the narrow streets and scenic routes. For short distances and local exploration, walking is a pleasant way to enjoy the island's beauty.
The official currency in Corfu is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or smaller establishments. ATMs are available throughout the island, so withdrawing cash is generally convenient. Currency exchange services can be found in major towns and tourist areas.
Corfu is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any popular tourist destination, it's wise to exercise standard precautions. Be vigilant in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing, and avoid leaving valuables unattended on beaches. While Corfu does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is advisable to stay cautious, especially at night and in lesser-known neighborhoods.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Corfu has several medical facilities and hospitals, such as the Corfu General Hospital in the town of Corfu. Pharmacies are available in all major towns and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-emergency medical advice, local clinics and private medical centers are also accessible.
Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid beachwear outside of beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful on public transport; give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Corfu like a local, visit the local markets, such as the Corfu Town Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals in kafeneia (coffee shops) to learn about the island's culture and history. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the lesser-known villages, such as Pelekas and Agios Matheos, where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine and scenic views. Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the island's vibrant traditions.

When is the best time to visit Corfu?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Corfu

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Corfu. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
- GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Andio]
- YesΝαι
  [Ne]
- NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
- Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
- Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
- Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
- How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
- Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
- Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika?]
- I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
- I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
- Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yia]
- I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]
- Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
- Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
- Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
- Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό!
  [Kaleste enan giatro!]
- I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
- I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]
- I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
- I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kito]
- How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
- That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
- Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na miisete tin timi?]
- What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
- It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
- Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (deka)]
- MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
- AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
- EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
- YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
- TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
- TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
- 1Ένα
  [Ena]
- 2Δύο
  [Dio]
- 3Τρία
  [Tria]
- 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
- 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
- 6Έξι
  [Exi]
- 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
- 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
- 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
- 10Δέκα
  [Deka]
- Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
- What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (προς το ....)
  [Ena isitirio (pros to ....)]

History of Corfu

The history of Corfu dates back to ancient times, with the earliest evidence of human habitation found in the Paleolithic era. The island, known as Kerkyra in Greek, is mentioned in Homer's epic poem, the Odyssey, where it is described as the home of the Phaeacians. According to mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, brought his love, the nymph Korkyra, to the island, giving it her name.
During the Classical period, Corfu was a prominent player in Greek politics. It was one of the first Greek cities to ally with Athens in the Peloponnesian War against Sparta. The naval battle of Sybota, considered one of the largest naval battles of the ancient Greek world, took place near Corfu in 433 BC.
In 229 BC, Corfu came under Roman control, becoming part of the Roman Empire. It later transitioned into the Byzantine Empire after the fall of Rome. During this time, the island served as a crucial military and trading post in the Adriatic Sea, benefiting from its strategic location.
From 1386 to 1797, Corfu was ruled by the Republic of Venice. This period significantly shaped the island's architecture, culture, and fortifications. The Venetians built impressive structures, including the Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio) and the New Fortress (Neo Frourio), which can still be visited today. They also introduced the cultivation of olive trees, which continue to be a staple of Corfu's landscape and economy.
After the fall of Venice, Corfu briefly came under French control in 1797, followed by British rule from 1815 to 1864. The British established the Ionian Academy, the first university in modern Greece, and constructed notable buildings such as the Palace of St. Michael and St. George. The British period also saw the introduction of cricket to the island, a sport still played in Corfu today.
In 1864, Corfu, along with the other Ionian Islands, was united with the Kingdom of Greece. This period marked significant changes as the island integrated into the modern Greek state. The unification was celebrated by the islanders and remains a crucial part of Corfu's national identity.
During World War II, Corfu was occupied by Italian and later German forces, enduring significant hardship and destruction. After the war, the island rebuilt and gradually became a popular tourist destination. Today, Corfu is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage, attracting visitors from around the world.