15 of the Best Things to do in Corfu a stunning Greek Island
Corfu, the northernmost of the Ionian Islands in Greece, is a place of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. This island has been a favorite destination for travelers for centuries, and it’s easy to see why.
From its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters to its charming villages and historic sites, Corfu Island has something for everyone and is absolutely worth visiting.
If you’re planning a trip to Corfu in 2024, here are 15 of the best things to do on this beautiful island! One of the best things to do to really enjoy Corfu is to rent a car to properly explore the Island as the bus service is limited.
Best things to do in Corfu
Sitting in the sparkling Ionian Sea, Corfu is one of the most romantic islands in Greece.Corfu is known for its stunning Corfu beaches, making it one of the best places to visit in Greece. If you’re looking for things to see in Corfu, the Corfu City and the town of Parga are definitely worth a visit. The Corfu Museum of Asian art is also a popular attraction for those who want to discover Greece’s cultural heritage. Just a short drive from Corfu, on the northwest side of the island, you can find some of the best beaches in the area.
In Corfu, one of the popular things to do is swim through the Canal d’Amour (Canal of Love) in Sidari to get married soon. According to local legend, swimming through this narrow channel is believed to bring good luck and lead to a speedy marriage. Located in the northwest of Corfu, one of the places to see in Corfu – Palaiokastritsa is a charming village, reputed to be the Greek mythological site of Scheria and the final destination Odysseus visited before his journey home.
A must-visit in Corfu is to take a guide to visiting Corfu, as it offers the best day trips to explore the rest of Greece. Corfu is known for its options in Corfu attractions, and the best way to discover them is by exploring the mainland Greece.
1. Walk the Streets of Old Town of Corfu
One of the best things to do in Corfu is to explore the capital of Corfu – Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in Greece. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and alleyways to enjoy Corfu’s historical sites.
The highlights of the Old Town of Corfu include:
· The Old and New Fortresses
· Church of St. Spyridon
· The Palace of St. Michael and St. George
· The Spianada
· The Liston
2. Explore the Achilleion Palace
The Achilleion Palace is a beautiful neoclassical mansion that was built in the late 19th century for Empress Elisabeth of Austria. The palace is surrounded by stunning gardens with panoramic views of the sea and the mountains.
Spend half a day wandering through Achilleion Palace to enjoy the stunning landscapes and scenery. Or, book a tour to learn more about the history of the Palace. Currently, the inside of the palace is closed for restoration, but the grounds are easily worth the visit.
3. Relax at one of Corfu’s many beaches
Being in Greece, it’s hardly unexpected that one of the tops things to do in Corfu is unwinding on its stunning beaches.Corfu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Spend a day relaxing on the sandy shores of Glyfada or Paleokastritsa, or head to the more secluded beaches of Agios Gordios or Agios Stefanos.
Located just a brief five-minute drive from Cape Drastis in Peroulades village lies Loggas Beach, also known as Sunset Beach. It’s one of the best beaches for sunset viewing, it offers unparalleled vistas of the sun sinking below the horizon. While the best beaches are open year-round, during Spring and Winter the beaches are too cold to swim in. The best season in Corfu for visiting the beaches is in summer and fall, when the temperatures are in the high 70s.
4. Take a Boat Tour
Corfu is the perfect base for exploring the other Greek Islands for a day cruise. Take a boat tour and visit the nearby islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, where you can swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters and enjoy a traditional Greek lunch.
There are several options for boat tours of nearby islands, but this tour is my favorite because you will get to swim in the world-class Blue Caves!
5. Visit the Mon Repos Palace
The Mon Repos Palace is a beautiful mansion on Analipsis Hill. Back to 1826, Mon Repos Palace was built on 258 acres of land. Today, the palace is a museum and a hotel that houses a collection of artifacts from Corfu’s history.
Spend a day enjoying the beautiful palace’s beautiful rooms, interesting exhibitions and and extensive gardens. Admission into the palace is free and open to the public during business hours.
6. Explore the Corfu’s West Coast
Corfu is home to many charming villages throughout the entire island.
One of the best villages to visit, though, is traditional village of Lakones. Lakones is located on the west side of the island, and features stunning views of the sea and Paleokastrisa Beach.
Lakones is a fantastic place on Corfu to spend the day and due to its location on the west coast, is a fabulous place to watch the sunset.
7. Visit the Byzantine Museum
The Byzantine Museum of Antivouniotissa is located in the Old Town of Corfu and houses a collection of Byzantine icons and artifacts. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the learning more about Corfu’s history and culture.
The Byzantine Museum is housed in the Panagia Antivouniotissa church, only 12 minutes from the central bus station of Corfu. Entrance into the museum is 4 euros, and tickers are available for purchase at the door.
8. Admire the rock formations at Canal D’Amour
Canal d’Amour is a unique geographical formation located on the northern coast of the island of Corfu. It’s famous for its striking rock formations, which have been shaped over thousands of years by the erosive forces of wind and water. These rocks are characterized by their smooth, rounded shapes and distinct red color, and are a stunning sight to see!
The most iconic feature of Canal d’Amour is the “Tunnel of Love,” a narrow passageway between two towering rock formations that leads to a secluded beach. Legend has it that couples who swim through the tunnel together will be blessed with eternal love!
Aside from the Tunnel of Love, Canal d’Amour is also known for its “Lovers’ Bridge,” a natural stone arch that stretches over a small cove. This bridge is said to be another spot where couples can make a wish for everlasting love.
9. Hike along Corfu Trail
Corfu is a great place for hiking for anyone looking for a bit of adventure during their time in Corfu. Take a hike along the Corfu Trail, which stretches for around 220 kilometers (137 miles) across the island, offering a variety of landscapes and terrains.
You can choose to do shorter sections or the full trail, which takes around ten days to complete. The trail takes you through olive groves, villages, and coastal paths, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea while you hike.
10. Visit the Corfu Donkey Rescue
The Corfu Donkey Rescue is a non-profit organization based in the village of Afionas on Corfu. It was founded in 2004 by Eleni Kontoulis and her husband, and its primary mission is to rescue and rehabilitate neglected donkeys on the island. The organization also aims to promote the welfare of donkeys and educate the public about their care and needs.
You can visit the donkey sanctuary where rescued donkeys are provided with veterinary care, food, and shelter. The sanctuary is located on a 15-acre plot of land donated by a local farmer, and it is home to over 100 donkeys.
11. Take a Wine Tasting Tour around Corfu
Although Corfu is not as well-known for wine among the Greek islands, there are several wineries in Corfu that are worth visiting for a wine tasting during your trip! There are several opportunities to take a guided wine tour to explore the wineries with a local that has a deep knowledge of Corfu’s viticulture.
Or, you can rent a car to explore Corfu’s wineries on your own! If you choose this option, I recommend visiting Pontiglio Winery, which is a small family-run winery that specializes in Corfiot grape varietals.
12. Enjoy views from the top of Mount Pantokrator
Mount Pantokrator is a mountain in northeast Corfu, standing 906 meters (2,972 feet) tall. As the highest point on the island, Mount Pantokrator offers panoramic views of the entire island, and is a must-see sight!
To get to the top, you have a few options. You can drive to the top of Mount Pantokrator along the winding roads, which takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete. You can also take a jeep tour of Corfu that includes a ride to the top of Mount Pantokrator. And finally, you can also hike to the top of Mount Pantokrator, which takes about 4 hours to complete.
At the summit of Mount Pantokrator is a café for tourists to enjoy as well as a monastery that can be toured.
13. Explore Angelokastro Castle
Angelokastro, also known as Angel Castle, is a medieval fortress on top of a steep hill. The castle offers panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the Albanian coast. It was built by the Byzantines in the 13th century and later expanded by the Venetians in the 16th century, making it a significant historical and architectural site!
Visitors to Angelokastro can explore the ruins of the fortress, including the main gate, the walls, and the towers. The castle’s location also makes it an excellent spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of Corfu. The nearby village of Krini offers opportunities to sample local Greek food and learn about the island’s history.
14. Visit Vlacherna Monastery
Vlacherna Monastery, also known as Panagia Vlacherna Monastery, is a small Greek Orthodox monastery located on the small island of Vlacherna, just off the coast of the Kanoni Peninsula in Corfu, Greece. Accessible via a narrow strip, the monastery is a popular tourist destination and a significant religious site.
Visitors to Vlacherna Monastery can take a leisurely stroll around the island, enjoy a picnic on the grassy areas, or simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery. The monastery is also a popular spot for weddings, offering a romantic setting for couples to exchange vows!
15. Explore the waterfalls of Nefeli Gorge
Nefeli Gorge is a hidden gem located in the northern part of Corfu, Greece. It is a relatively unknown natural wonder that offers a breathtaking experience for hikers and nature lovers.
The gorge is characterized by its lush greenery, crystal-clear streams, and towering rock formations, and is home to several rare and endangered plant species, making it an important ecological site.
The main trail through Nefeli Gorge is relatively easy to navigate, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, hikers will encounter several beautiful waterfalls, including the impressive Nymfes Waterfall, which cascades down a sheer cliff into a deep pool below.
Conclusion all the best things to do in Corfu, Greece
Corfu is a must-visit destination in Greece for adventure lovers, history buffs, and vacationers looking to explore a less touristy Greek islands.
Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, exploring the historic sites, or enjoying the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone on this stunning island. So if you’re planning a trip to Corfu in 2024, be sure to add these 15 best things to do to your itinerary!
If you love Greece you may like to read these articles:
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Greek Food Guide: 49 Traditional Dishes to Look For in Greece
Is Paros Worth Visiting: 10 Reasons I Love Paros
10 romantic things to do in Santorini for couples – the ultimate guide
Q: What are the top 15 best things to do in Corfu in 2024?
A: The best things to do in Corfu include staying in Corfu, taking a day trip, visiting Corfu Old Town, exploring the Venetian architecture, and enjoying the sandy beaches.
Q: How can I get around Corfu to visit its top attractions?
A: You can get around Corfu by renting a boat, exploring the island’s old fortress, and visiting the Archaeological Museum of Corfu for a deeper insight into the history of the island.
Q: What are the must-see attractions in Corfu?
A: The top attractions in Corfu include the Museum of Asian Art, the picturesque Paleokastritsa, the crystal clear waters of the beaches, and the stunning views of Corfu from various vantage points.
Q: What is the best way to explore Corfu’s old town?
A: The best way to explore Corfu’s old town is by walking through its narrow streets, discovering the Venetian influence in the architecture, and visiting the various attractions scattered throughout the area.
Q: Are day trips popular in Corfu?
A: Yes, day trips are popular in Corfu as they offer visitors the opportunity to see more of the island, experience different attractions, and make the most of their time in this Greek paradise.
Q: What are the best places to visit in Corfu for a memorable experience?
A: Some of the best places to visit in Corfu include the sandy beaches, the beach bars offering amazing views, the historical sites like the Old Fortress, and the charming Corfu Town.
Q: Why is Corfu considered one of the most beautiful Greek islands?
A: Corfu is considered one of the most beautiful Greek islands due to its crystal clear waters, stunning beaches, rich history, picturesque towns, and the array of activities it offers for all types of travelers.