[ad_1]
Choosing the proper Greek island could be a daunting process; in spite of everything, there are millions of them (although fewer than 250 are inhabited). However Corfu has been a vacationer favourite for many years.
For those who’ve narrowed down which Greek island you will and are searching for one of the best issues to do in Corfu, now we have obtained you lined with one of the best Corfu points of interest, locations to eat, and the place to remain.
First, it’s essential to notice that the northernmost of the Ionian islands differs considerably from lots of the most well-known Greek islands: It’s a lot greener and plush, and it has a powerful Italian affect.
The mountains within the northern a part of Corfu will probably be of specific curiosity to mountaineering followers. And after having fun with all of the great landscapes, spending some hours at one of many many beautiful Corfu seashores is a welcome technique to calm down. Lastly, should you’re searching for issues to do in Corfu City, the capital has loads of sightseeing choices.
So don’t fear, you received’t get bored in Corfu, irrespective of your pursuits. For those who’re nonetheless uncertain of what to do in Corfu, learn on for some solutions.
When is one of the best time to go to Corfu?
Opposite to journey in different Greek islands, Corfu doesn’t shut down within the winter, so you’ll be able to actually go to at any time of the 12 months. The island has a sizeable inhabitants of scholars, that means life by no means really stands nonetheless. When to go to Corfu actually is dependent upon what precisely you need to do on the island.
That doesn’t imply that seaside lovers ought to ebook a visit solely in the summertime. July and August, the most popular months of the 12 months, are costlier than different months, and the temperature could be a bit a lot should you’re not used to the local weather. Might and June or September is likely to be higher choices as they’re cooler and see fewer vacationers.
I take into account these months a few of the greatest instances to go to Greece. We spent many of the month in June in Corfu, and the climate was excellent, though it was positively beginning to creep up in temperature in the direction of the top of the month, and costs had been rising as we obtained into July.
For those who’re searching for a cultural expertise, you could need to take into account touring to Corfu round Greek Orthodox Easter. The celebrations in Corfu City differ from wherever else in Greece and are properly price a visit. Have you ever ever seen folks throw clay pots from balconies to have fun Easter? You’ll in Corfu!
The way to get round Corfu
Corfu isn’t a tiny island, and since it’s stretched fairly lengthy, it might take some time to get from the north to the south. Whereas there’s a public bus system on the island, it’s extra appropriate for seeing the primary sights, villages, and seashores. If you wish to scratch beneath the floor, renting a automotive in Greece is a extra handy technique to get round.
The roads in Corfu are in okay situation, although you probably have earlier expertise driving in Greece, it will be greatest. The Corfu roads are actually the worst we’ve seen in all of the 15 islands now we have visited. Nonetheless, you probably have pushed in Greece and are okay with dilapidated, slim roads you’ll be positive on Corfu.
You possibly can simply deliver all of your necessities and can even have the ability to attain extra distant seashores. Simply remember that parking could be a problem in some locations.
Scooters and ATVs are widespread choices on the island. Nonetheless, though they are typically cheaper, they don’t seem to be as snug as automobiles, don’t assist you to deliver lots of stuff, and, most of all, can not present air con or shelter in opposition to the cruel Mediterranean solar. Needless to say Corfu is a really late island, and it might take an hour or extra to get from level to level. If going from the south to all the best way north, count on virtually two hours! In order that might not be tremendous snug on a moped or ATV.
We rented a automotive from the Corfu airport for 2 weeks for about €30 a day with Alamo.
Evaluate Costs For Rental Automobiles on Corfu
greatest issues to do in Corfu, Greece
Wander by the Previous City
The Previous City of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage web site, so it must be included on any record of issues to do in Corfu. Versus a few of the smaller Greek islands, Corfu’s capital is kind of vigorous and value a go to at any time of the 12 months, although fairly actually I didn’t discover it as lovely because the Rhodes Previous City, or these fundamental cities within the Cyclades.
Nonetheless, merely strolling by the slim alleys and admiring the attractive façades is an excellent expertise.
In a method, strolling by Corfu’s Previous City is like being in two international locations directly: Greece and Italy. Corfu was below Venetian rule for a number of centuries, so the structure within the previous city with its colourful buildings appears surprisingly completely different from the remainder of Greece and extra like what you’d discover in an Italian metropolis.
For those who stroll round for some time, you could come upon a free live performance. Corfu is thought in Greece for its many marching bands and common musicality, so it comes as no shock that reside live shows on the streets of the Previous City happen frequently.
For those who’re in for some less-known historical past, make your technique to Corfu’s previous Jewish quarter. Sadly, through the Second World Warfare, a lot of Corfu’s Jews had been deported. As such, the neighborhood right this moment is kind of small, however you’ll be able to nonetheless go to the small synagogue.
Bask in native meals
Greece is legendary for its delicacies, however there’s something particular concerning the meals you could find in Corfu. Particularly, there may be one specific ingredient that you could be not be aware of but: the kumquat fruit.
Kumquat is a citrus fruit you will discover in native liqueurs and sweets. Its taste takes a bit getting used to, however you must attempt it nonetheless.
Whereas kumquat comes from China, in Greece the fruit is principally cultivated on Corfu. Corfu produces 140 tonnes of kumquat yearly! So benefit from the vitamin A and C if you are visiting.
Except for that, there are many eating places and taverns on the islands that you could select from, together with superior vegan choices in Corfu.
For one of the best sweets on the island, head to Rosy’s Bakery within the Previous City. There are tons of choices, together with kumquat sweets. Simply bear in mind that you simply pay by weight.
Go to the Achilleion
The Achilleion is a palace not removed from the capital Corfu, within the village Gastouri. It was constructed for Austrian Empress Elisabeth, also referred to as Sisi. The Achilleion was inbuilt 1890, a 12 months after Sisi’s son died. Its title is derived from the legendary hero Achilles, of whom there are additionally statues within the backyard.
The palace was a summer season residence, and the beautiful backyard actually makes it an ideal go to through the hotter season with its fabulous views of Corfu. Needless to say there are extra vacationers in the summertime, so it tends to get pretty busy. Contained in the palace, you’ll be able to admire a number of artworks similar to work and sculptures associated to Greek mythology.
The Achilleion isn’t removed from Corfu City, however parking may be tough to seek out throughout peak instances. A daily ticket is €10.
Discover the bays of Paleokastritsa
You clearly can’t go to a Greek island and never go to the seaside. Corfu has a ton of choices should you’re seeking to spend a while enjoyable on the seaside. A few of the most beautiful seashores you could find in Corfu are positioned round Palaiokastritsa. This is without doubt one of the greatest places in all of Greece!
This space within the northwest of Corfu affords probably the most splendid views as a result of cliffs and marvelous greenery. Regardless that we had been staying close to Corfu City, we spent most of our days touring to Palaikastritsa to go to the seashores right here.
Whilst you completely should come right here at the least as soon as, the seashores listed here are bustling in the summertime, so you could want to hunt out just a few of the much less widespread ones as properly (or lease a ship to hang around within the coves).
If you wish to transcend what most vacationers do within the space, make certain to incorporate a go to to the Monastery of Palaiokastritsa, from the place you’ll be able to see the great thing about the entire space.
From Corfu City, you’ll be able to attain Palaiokastritsa by automotive in about 40 minutes. The general public bus A9 takes about an hour from Corfu City to Palaiokastritsa. A one-way ticket prices €2.30.
25 Finest Seashores in Corfu to Loosen up On
Loosen up at Issos seaside
A much less well-known seaside on Corfu is Issos, which is positioned within the southwestern a part of the island. The seaside is much much less busy than a few of these in Palaiokastritsa, though it’s organized with sunbeds and umbrellas. Make sure you keep round for the sundown, which transforms the dunes behind the seaside right into a desert-like panorama.
Stroll alongside Spianada sq. and the Liston
Who would have thought that the most important sq. in all of Greece is positioned on the island of Corfu? Spianada Sq. is probably the one place in Greece the place Greeks play cricket, a pastime launched below British rule.
The Liston is the promenade proper subsequent to the sq. and showcases elegant arcades the place you’ll be able to cease for a espresso. This can be a great spot for folks watching.
Spend time in Hlomos village
Corfu isn’t simply its capital and the numerous seashores. There are a number of lovely villages on the island which can be price visiting. For unbelievable sundown views, head to Hlomos village within the southern a part of the island. The street to the village is kind of steep, however you’ll be rewarded with superb views.
As a result of location of Hlomos, you’ll be able to see each of Corfu’s coasts. The village will not be extremely popular with vacationers but, so that you may find yourself being the one customer making this a really calm place to hang around.
Discover a few of the greatest views on Kaiser’s Throne
One other less-visited place on Corfu is Kaiser’s Throne, positioned within the village of Pelekas. The gorgeous vistas you get from right here make it one other implausible place to see a dawn or sundown. As a former observatory for the German Emperor, it’s additionally an ideal place for stargazing.
From Corfu City, it solely takes about 20 minutes by automotive to succeed in the point of view. You possibly can both drive up or hike if you want.
Go to Kassiopi village and seaside
The picturesque former fishing village of Kassiopi has developed into extra of a resort and may be very widespread with English vacationers. The stays of a Byzantine fortress supply a pleasant view of the village. Regardless of Kassiopi’s recognition, it’s one of many extra quiet vacationer resorts on the island.
The seaside at Kassiopi is pebbled, which isn’t everybody’s favourite. However those that recognize not getting sand throughout their stuff will certainly get pleasure from it particularly as a result of crystal clear water. Kassiopi doesn’t get as windy as a few of the seashores within the west of Corfu, making it an ideal alternative should you’re touring with youngsters.
Reaching Kassiopi is best by automotive and takes about 50 minutes from Corfu City. However should you depend on public transport, the inexperienced bus A4 takes lower than 1.5 hours. A one-way ticket prices €3.60.
Climb the previous Venetian fortress
The Venetians have left a mark on the structure of Corfu’s Previous City and fortified components of the island to defend it. The Byzantines initially constructed the previous fortress, however the Venetians rebuilt it. The ticket value is €6 and in addition lets you enter the Museum of Asian Artwork, the Byzantine Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and Mon Repos.
Enjoyable truth: In For Your Eyes Solely, you’ll be able to see the previous Venetian fortress as the placement the place James Bond defeats one among his enemies. Immediately, as you stroll across the fortress, maintain your ears open for music rehearsals. The Ionian College’s music division is positioned within the previous fortress so you’ll be able to take heed to some lovely melodies.
Dive Into the Sea at La Grotta
La Grotta is an superior seaside bar within the northwestern a part of the island. This bar is actually constructed into the facet of a cliff and serves up nice drinks, meals with music that retains that celebration vibe going all day.
There’s an ideal diving board that leads those that soar straight into the crystal clear waters. It’s a peaceful place to swim and luxuriate in time with buddies and different vacationers. Our day at La Grotta was the most effective we had on Corfu, and I extremely suggest testing this little bar at the least as soon as in your journey!
Hire a Boat and Discover Hidden Seashores
Among the best issues to do in Corfu is lease a ship for the day and discover all of the hidden coves and bay accessible through boat. Two of the preferred locations to lease a ship are Paleokastritsa and Liapades, although we discovered that you could additionally lease them at Agni Seaside. We rented a ship for below €100 for the total day (plus €20 for gas).
You don’t want a particular license to lease a ship in Greece if the boat is below 30 hp. Nonetheless it clearly helps you probably have pushed a ship earlier than as you driving out on the ocean. For those who don’t really feel snug driving by your self, you’ll be able to rent a skipper to drive you round to the bays as properly!
Maintain a watch out for the climate when renting a ship; you don’t need to decide a windy and uneven day as it should positively have an effect on your day! We rented our boat with Triton Marine Excursions in Paleokastritsa as they’d 5 star evaluations and extremely suggest their household firm.
Hike Right down to Porto Timoni
Porto Timoni is definitely the preferred seaside within the north a part of the island. The rationale for that is it’s a surprising double seaside with turquoise water and a viewpoint that appears out of this world.
The hike all the way down to Porto Timoni is steep and uneven, and it’s greatest to put on tennis sneakers (no flip flops) for the trek down. The hike down takes about 35 minutes and there aren’t any services down on the seaside, so make certain to deliver all of the sunscreen, water, and snacks you want. There are photograph viewpoints alongside the best way so make certain to deliver your digital camera!
After you hike again up cease at Zeus Throne for some drinks and snacks!
Stroll By way of Afionas
The hike to Porto Timoni begins at Afionas above. This can be a small city with just a few boutique outlets and scrumptious eating places. It’s a well-liked place to move and soak within the vibe and wander round.
It’s notably well-known for its sunsets, so attempt to come and spend one night right here. Even higher, see should you can ebook a lodge within the space so you’ll be able to benefit from the views proper out of your balcony.
Catch Sundown at Loggas Seaside
Loggas Seaside is the last word place to observe the sundown in Corfu. It’s positioned on the northern tip of the island and gives beautiful views out to the ocean. Loggas Seaside is a small seaside that requires a really brief hike to get to; nevertheless the out there sand space is kind of slim between the waterline and the cliffs, and also you’ll have to move right here at low tide to essentially benefit from the “seaside” portion.
The extra widespread factor to do at sundown is head to seventh Heaven proper above the seaside. They’ve a glass-bottom viewing platform for sundown!
Benefit from the View at Cape Drastis
Cape Drastis is probably the wildest place in Corfu. On the northernmost level, not removed from Loggas Seaside is that this lovely sight. Cape Drastis is formed by cliffs and tiny sea caves with just a few sandy strips between them.
One of the best ways to go to Cape Drastis is by automotive, and to stroll and see it from above, you’ll must hike a brief distance to the primary viewpoint over the cliffs, but it surely shouldn’t take you greater than 20 minutes to get there, and it’s not tough!
This offers you superb views from above, however you received’t actually attain the seaside from above because the cliffs are straight off all the way down to the ocean. To achieve the sandy seashores, it’s greatest to go to by boat (on a peaceful day).
Cliff Leap at Kanali tou Erota
Among the best cliff leaping spots in Corfu is Kanali Tou Erota close to Sidari. As you’ll be able to see, the form is a wild horseshoe, and from the cliffs, guests can soar in! The soar is about 5 meters, although it might get greater should you attempt.
Whereas the cliff leaping was tremendous enjoyable, I discovered the climb out a bit of tough, particularly for brief folks, because it requires a collection of handholds on moist rock. To keep away from the climb out, robust swimmers can swim across the cliffs to the left and swim by a sea cave to entry the seaside and get out of the water that method. Don’t neglect to have lunch at D’ Amour Seaside if you’re finished!
Spend an Night at Ambelonas Winery
We had been searching for a vineyard on Corfu and landed on Ambelonas Corfu. This can be a small winery simply 6 km from Corfu City, on a ravishing hill with pure wild vegetation and beautiful sundown views of the island.
Whereas the white and crimson wine are scrumptious, the world is phenomenal for dinner. Ambelonas serves up conventional Corfiot delicacies with a contemporary aptitude. It’s the most effective meals we had in Corfu because the meals is tasty, and the grounds are really magical.
Reservations are extremely beneficial (and virtually required). Ambelonas hosts lots of weddings, so their hours are fairly restricted (Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 19:00—22:30).
See the Vlacherna Monastery
The Vlacherna Monastery is the one constructing on a really tiny islet close to the airport. This monastery dates again to the seventeenth or 18th century. Whereas it’s attention-grabbing to stroll by and round, I notably appreciated sitting at Café Kanoni up the hill and getting a view of it.
Climb Up the Angelokastro
Angelokastro is a Byzantine fort positioned on the high of the best peak of the island’s shoreline. In case you are close to Palaiokastritsa, take into account including it to your day because it’s not distant and is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Corfu!
It might appear like an extended climb as much as the fort, but it surely’s actually not that dangerous and can take lower than 10 minutes. From the highest, you get superb views to the north and south!
The Finest Issues to do in Corfu Map
The Finest Locations to Eat on Corfu Island
- Avli Restaurant Corfu: A Greek Conventional Restaurant within the coronary heart of Corfu City. Barely upscale so reserve for particular events!
- Thymari Restaurant: Trendy Greek Mediterranean delicacies on the steps of Sofokleous Dousmani.
- Romeos Cafe Taverna: Household run taverna excellent for lunch and dinner!
- The Village Taverna: One in all our favourite meals we had was at The Village Taverna. This household taverna is about in a captivating small village and the homeowners are so candy and type. We allow them to completly select our meal for us and it was excellant!
The place to Keep on Corfu Island
The Excellent Ionian Itinerary?
Yearly we attempt to take a look at a brand new chain of Greek Islands. Why? Effectively as a result of Greece is our favourite nation to journey to! Throughout this journey, we visited the Ionian Islands. We began in Corfu the place we rented a automotive, and after took the ferry (with the automotive) to the mainland, and drove to Lefkada.
After our time on Lefkada, we took one other ferry to the quiet island of Ithaca. We solely wished we had extra time in order that we may have added on Kefalonia and Zakynthos. For those who’re already on Corfu and have additional time we extremely suggest testing just a few different Ionian islands!
READ MORE GREECE TRAVEL TIPS
I hope you loved this information on what to do on Corfu! Hopefully, you discovered it helpful. Listed here are just a few related articles for extra journey round Greece!
Thank You For Contributing
Whereas we loved our two weeks on Corfu, Nina Ahmedow is a journey content material creator who has traveled to greater than 20 international locations on three continents – she helped curate this record of issues to do in Corfu. Born and raised in Germany however at present dwelling in Greece, she loves exploring the world by vegan meals. She is the voice behind Lemons and Baggage, a journey weblog devoted to vegan and accountable journey. You can comply with her on Instagram.
[ad_2]
Source link