Corfu, the emerald jewel of the Ionian Sea, captivates visitors with its blend of Venetian elegance, crystal-clear beaches, and verdant landscapes. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, this Greek island is a must-visit destination in 2025. Whether you’re drawn to the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the serene beaches, or the lush hiking trails, this definitive Corfu travel guide helps you navigate everything from arrival logistics to hidden adventures. Perfect for solo travelers, families, or couples, this comprehensive resource ensures an unforgettable Corfu experience, complete with practical tips and answers to the most common questions about visiting the island.
Getting to Corfu: Transportation Options
How to Get to Corfu
Planning your journey to Corfu is straightforward, with multiple transportation options available to suit different preferences and budgets. By Air: Corfu International Airport (CFU), also known as Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport, serves as the primary gateway, welcoming over 3 million passengers annually. Direct flights are available from major European cities through carriers like EasyJet, Ryanair, and Aegean Airlines, with new routes from Scandinavian destinations introduced for the 2025 season. Flight durations are convenient—expect around 3 hours from London, 2.5 hours from Berlin, and just 1 hour from Athens, making Corfu an accessible escape for a weekend or longer.
By Ferry: For those traveling from mainland Greece, year-round ferries operate from Igoumenitsa (1.5-hour journey, tickets starting at €20) and Patra (7-hour journey). Seasonal routes from Italian ports like Bari, Brindisi, and Venice provide a scenic alternative, perfect for travelers already in Italy. These ferries often allow car transport, which is ideal if you plan to explore the island by road. By Cruise: Corfu is a popular stop on Mediterranean cruise itineraries, with ships docking at the New Port near Corfu Town. Corfu cruise excursions typically include guided tours to the Old Town, Achilleion Palace, or Paleokastritsa, offering a taste of the island’s highlights in a single day.
If you’re arriving with luggage and want to start exploring immediately, our port and airport solutions provide secure storage options. This allows you to dive into Corfu’s charm without the burden of heavy bags, whether you’re heading to a beach or the historic Old Town.
Corfu Airport Transfers
Once you land at Corfu International Airport, several transfer options ensure a smooth journey to your destination. Public Bus: The Blue Bus (Route #15) connects the airport to San Rocco Square in Corfu Old Town for just €1.80, running approximately every 20 minutes during peak season (June to September). It’s a budget-friendly choice, though buses can get crowded in summer, especially with tourists and locals heading into town. Shuttle Services: Pre-bookable shared shuttles offer a convenient middle-ground option, costing €10-15 per person to most destinations across the island, including popular spots like Paleokastritsa and Sidari.
Taxis: Official airport taxis operate on a fixed-rate basis, making them a reliable choice. A ride from Corfu airport to Old Town costs €15-20, while fares to farther destinations are higher: Paleokastritsa (€40), Sidari (€55), and Kavos (€70). Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, but it’s wise to confirm the fare with the driver beforehand. Private Transfers: For a more comfortable experience, especially for families or groups, private transfers start at €25 for standard vehicles. These can be pre-arranged online, ensuring a hassle-free start to your trip with a driver waiting for you upon arrival.
To maximize your first day, consider dropping your luggage at our Corfu airport storage. This service allows you to explore unencumbered, whether you’re heading to a café in the Old Town or a nearby beach like Faliraki for a quick dip in the Ionian Sea.
Top Attractions: Must-See Sites in Corfu
Corfu Old Town: UNESCO Heritage
Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the beating heart of the island, blending Venetian, French, and British influences into a charming labyrinth of narrow streets, pastel-colored buildings, and historic landmarks. The Old Fortress: Built by the Venetians in the 15th century on the site of a Byzantine castle, this imposing structure guards the eastern edge of the town. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the Old Town’s red-tiled rooftops. Entry costs €6, and it’s open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM in summer, making it a perfect spot for a morning or late afternoon visit.
Spianada Square: As Europe’s second-largest square, Spianada is the social hub of Corfu, where locals and tourists alike gather to relax. Bordered by the elegant French-inspired Liston arcades, it’s an ideal spot to sip a coffee or enjoy a traditional kumquat liqueur while watching the world go by.
The New Fortress: Despite its name, this 16th-century fortification on the western side of the town offers stunning vantage points across the harbor and the Old Town. Entry is just €3, and the fortress shares the same summer hours as the Old Fortress.
Palace of St. Michael and St. George: This neoclassical mansion, originally built for British governors, now houses the Museum of Asian Art, showcasing an unexpected collection of artifacts from China, Japan, and India. The palace’s grand halls and serene gardens make it a cultural highlight.
Navigating the Old Town’s cobblestone streets with luggage can be challenging, so we recommend using our storage services. Drop your bags and wander freely through the narrow alleys, stopping at local shops selling handmade ceramics or tasting traditional pastries like bougatsa at a nearby bakery.
Other Key Sites
Saint Spyridon Church: Located in the heart of the Old Town, this red-domed church, built in the 1580s, is Corfu’s most significant religious site. It houses the mummified remains of St. Spyridon, the island’s patron saint, credited with saving Corfu from plagues and invasions. The interior boasts intricate ceiling iconography and a silver sarcophagus, drawing pilgrims and visitors alike. The church hosts four annual processions, with the most notable during Orthodox Easter. For visiting hours and ceremony details, check our guide.
Achilleion Palace: Situated in the village of Gastouri, about 10km south of Corfu Town, this neoclassical palace was built in 1890 as a summer retreat for Empress Elisabeth of Austria. The palace is a tribute to Greek mythology, with elaborate gardens featuring statues of Achilles and other figures from the Trojan War. Inside, you’ll find original furnishings, paintings, and personal items of the empress, reflecting her deep admiration for classical Greek culture. The terraces offer breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. It’s open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM during summer (shorter hours in winter), with entry fees of €12 for adults and €6 for students and seniors.
Mouse Island (Pontikonisi): One of Corfu’s most iconic landmarks, this tiny islet in Kanoni Bay, near the airport, is dominated by the 11th-13th century Byzantine chapel of Pantokrator. Its cypress-covered silhouette resembles a mouse from certain angles, giving it the name “Mouse Island.” Accessible by small boats from Kanoni, it’s a peaceful spot for a quick visit. The adjacent Kanoni peninsula offers the classic postcard view of Mouse Island alongside the white-washed Vlacherna Monastery, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. For photographers seeking the best Corfu photography locations, visit in the morning when the light is soft, and the water is calm, creating a mirror-like reflection of the islet.
Beaches & Outdoor Adventures
Best Beaches in Corfu 2025
Corfu boasts over 200 beaches, ranging from bustling resorts to secluded coves, catering to every type of traveler. Here are some of the best beaches in Corfu for 2025, based on visitor reviews and local recommendations. Paleokastritsa: Often called the crown jewel of Corfu’s coastline, Paleokastritsa features six turquoise bays set against dramatic limestone cliffs. The area is also home to the 13th-century Paleokastritsa Monastery, perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea. The monastery’s small museum and flower-filled courtyard are worth a visit, and the beaches below offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and boat rentals to explore nearby sea caves.
Glyfada: Located on the west coast, Glyfada is Corfu’s most popular sandy beach, stretching over a mile with golden sand and shallow waters. It’s ideal for families and couples, with extensive facilities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing. Beachfront tavernas serve fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes, making it easy to spend a full day here. Sidari: On the northern coast, Sidari is famous for the Canal d’Amour, a natural rock formation where legend says couples who swim through the narrow channel will find true love. The area also offers sandy beaches and lively beach bars, perfect for a romantic or fun-filled day.
Kardaki Beach: A hidden gem near Corfu Town, Kardaki Beach is a peaceful alternative to more developed spots. Tucked beneath white cliffs, its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Access requires a short but steep path from the Mon Repos estate, which keeps it relatively uncrowded even in peak season. If you’re traveling with beach gear, our oversized storage service ensures you can travel light and enjoy the beach without hassle.
Hiking and Water Activities
Corfu’s diverse landscape offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes to thrilling water activities. Corfu Trail: This 220km route stretches from the island’s southern tip to its northern end, passing through olive groves, coastal paths, and mountain villages. Most visitors tackle shorter sections, such as the trail from Liapades to Agios Georgios, which offers stunning sea views and a glimpse of rural Corfu life. Mount Pantokrator: At 906m, Mount Pantokrator is the island’s highest peak, providing 360-degree views that extend to Albania and mainland Greece on clear days. Several hiking routes of varying difficulty lead to the summit, where a small monastery awaits, offering a serene spot to rest and take in the scenery.
Boat Tours: Exploring Corfu by sea is a must, and Corfu boat tours offer a range of experiences. Departing from Paleokastritsa, trips to the Blue Caves showcase dramatic limestone formations and vibrant blue waters, ideal for photography and swimming. Day trips to the nearby islands of Paxos and Antipaxos start at €40 per person and include stops at pristine beaches like Voutoumi, known for its white pebbles and turquoise waters. For a more independent adventure, private boat rentals are available from €50 per day, requiring no license for vessels under 30 horsepower. Scuba Diving & Water Sports: Corfu’s underwater world is rich with caves, shipwrecks, and marine life, making it a prime spot for scuba diving. Dive centers in Paleokastritsa and Kassiopi offer guided dives for all levels. On the surface, water sports like windsurfing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are widely available at beaches like Glyfada and Sidari, catering to thrill-seekers and beginners alike.
Cultural Experiences
Corfu Easter Traditions
Corfu’s cultural heritage shines during its unique festivals, with Orthodox Easter being the most significant. In 2025, Easter Sunday falls on April 27, with Holy Week celebrations starting April 20. The island’s traditions, influenced by its Venetian past, include the dramatic pot-throwing ceremony on Holy Saturday, where locals throw clay pots from balconies to ward off evil spirits, creating a thunderous spectacle in the Old Town. On Good Friday, three separate Epitaph processions, accompanied by philharmonic bands, wind through the streets, drawing crowds for their solemn beauty. The midnight Resurrection celebration on Saturday at Spianada Square features a spectacular fireworks display, marking the highlight of the festivities. Visitors can find detailed schedules and viewing tips in our Easter guide.
Corfu History and Culture
Corfu’s history is a tapestry of Venetian, French, British, and Greek influences, evident in its architecture, traditions, and cuisine. The island’s archaeological sites, such as the Temple of Artemis in Corfu Town and the Byzantine castle of Angelokastro near Paleokastritsa, offer a glimpse into its ancient past. Museums like the Archaeological Museum and Byzantine Museum showcase artifacts from these eras, while the Museum of Asian Art in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George adds an unexpected cultural dimension. Corfu’s musical heritage is equally rich—home to Greece’s oldest philharmonic society (founded in 1840), the island hosts frequent band concerts, especially during festivals like the Summer Cultural Festival in July and August, which features concerts, dance, and theater across various venues.
The island’s culinary identity reflects its multicultural history, with dishes like sofrito (veal in white wine sauce), pastitsada (spiced beef with pasta), and the signature kumquat liqueur, a sweet-tangy drink made from the island’s abundant kumquat fruit. Visitors can sample these at traditional tavernas in the Old Town or mountain villages like Strinilas, where farm-fresh ingredients elevate every meal. For a deeper dive into Corfu’s cultural offerings, our attractions guide provides detailed recommendations on sites and experiences across the island.
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit Corfu
Choosing the best time to visit Corfu depends on your travel goals. Peak Season (June-August): Expect hot weather (25-32°C), with sea temperatures reaching 25°C, perfect for beach activities. This period is the busiest, with crowded beaches and higher prices, but it’s also when the island’s tourism infrastructure is at its fullest, with all attractions, tours, and events like the Summer Cultural Festival in full swing. Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-October): These months offer mild weather (18-24°C), fewer crowds, and lower prices, making them ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the island’s natural beauty without the summer rush. Mid-May and late September strike the perfect balance of good weather and manageable visitor numbers, ensuring a more relaxed experience at popular spots like Paleokastritsa and the Old Town.
Transportation Around Corfu
Getting around Corfu is easy with a variety of transportation options tailored to different needs. Public Buses: The green KTEL buses connect Corfu Town to major villages and beaches, operating hourly during summer (less frequently in winter). Routes cover destinations like Paleokastritsa, Sidari, and Kavos, with fares starting at €2. The main terminal at San Rocco Square in Corfu Town is the hub for all routes, and schedules are available online or at the terminal. Car Rentals: Renting a car offers the most flexibility, especially for exploring remote beaches and mountain villages. Book well in advance during peak season, opt for smaller vehicles to navigate narrow roads, and ensure your rental agreement includes insurance for unpaved roads if you plan to venture off the main routes. Rental prices typically start at €30 per day.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Corfu Town and larger villages, with regulated fares starting at €15 for short trips. They’re a convenient option for quick transfers, such as from your hotel to a nearby beach, but fares can add up for longer journeys. To travel light and avoid carrying luggage while exploring, our luggage-free program lets you store bags securely and move freely across the island, whether you’re taking a bus to Sidari or a taxi to Achilleion Palace.
Sustainable Tourism: Preserving Corfu
Eco-Friendly Practices
Corfu’s natural beauty relies on sustainable tourism practices, and travelers can play a role in preserving the island for future generations. Despite its lush greenery, Corfu faces freshwater scarcity, especially in summer, so conserve water by taking brief showers and reusing towels at your accommodation. Reduce plastic waste by using refillable water bottles and reusable bags, helping to keep beaches like Issos and Glyfada free of litter. Respect local wildlife, particularly loggerhead turtles that nest on beaches like Issos—keep your distance from nesting areas and avoid disturbing their habitats. When joining Corfu boat tours, adhere to marine protection zones by not anchoring on seagrass beds, which are vital for marine ecosystems. Opt for public buses over private cars to lower your carbon footprint while traveling between destinations like Paleokastritsa and Corfu Town.
Supporting Local Communities
Your visit can directly benefit Corfu’s residents by supporting local communities in meaningful ways. Shop at Corfu local markets in Corfu Town or villages like Lefkimmi, where you can buy handmade crafts, olive wood carvings, and kumquat liqueurs directly from artisans and producers. Staying in family-run guesthouses, especially in rural areas like Kinopiastes, provides a more authentic experience and ensures your money supports local families rather than international chains. Participate in cultural events like the Varkarola festival in August, which celebrates a historic naval victory with boat parades and music, helping to preserve Corfu’s traditions. When dining, choose menu items featuring local, in-season ingredients at Corfu restaurants with local cuisine, such as fresh seafood in summer or wild greens in spring, supporting local farmers and fishermen. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural villages, to respect their privacy and traditions. Learn more about our commitment to sustainable tourism on our about us page.
Additionally, consider joining guided tours led by local experts, which not only provide deeper insights into Corfu’s history and culture but also directly support the local economy. Choosing eco-friendly accommodations, such as those certified for sustainability, can further reduce your environmental impact while enhancing your travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Traveling to Corfu
Top 10 Questions to Plan Your Trip
1. What is the best time to visit Corfu?
The best time to visit Corfu is May or September, offering mild weather (18-24°C), fewer crowds, lower prices, and ideal conditions for hiking, sightseeing, and beach activities without the summer rush.
2. How many days do I need in Corfu?
Plan 5-7 days to explore Corfu Town, beaches like Paleokastritsa, and villages like Kassiopi. A 3-day trip covers highlights like the Old Fortress and Achilleion Palace.
3. Is Corfu expensive to visit?
Corfu is moderately priced, with budget travelers spending €50-100 daily on accommodation, food, and transport. Dining and activities are affordable, especially in shoulder seasons.
4. How do I get to Corfu from the UK?
Direct flights from London to Corfu International Airport (CFU) take 3 hours. Airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, and British Airways offer frequent services, especially in summer.
5. What are the best beaches in Corfu?
Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, Sidari, and Kardaki Beach are top picks. Paleokastritsa offers turquoise bays, Glyfada has golden sands, Sidari features the Canal d’Amour, and Kardaki is a quiet gem.
6. Is Corfu good for families?
Yes, Corfu is family-friendly with shallow beaches like Agios Gordios, water parks like Aqualand, and attractions such as the Donkey Sanctuary near Agios Ioannis for kids to enjoy.
7. What is Corfu Old Town known for?
Corfu Old Town is a UNESCO site known for Venetian architecture, landmarks like the Old Fortress, Spianada Square, and narrow streets filled with shops and tavernas.
8. What cultural events should I attend in Corfu?
Attend Orthodox Easter (April 27, 2025) for pot-throwing and processions, or the Summer Cultural Festival (July-August) with concerts, dance, and theater performances across the island.
9. What food should I try in Corfu?
Try pastitsada (spiced beef with pasta), sofrito (veal in wine sauce), and kumquat liqueur. Local tavernas in the Old Town and villages like Strinilas serve authentic dishes.
10. How do I get around Corfu?
Use green KTEL buses (€2+) for routes to Paleokastritsa or Sidari, taxis (€15+ for short trips), or rent a car (€30/day) for flexibility in exploring the island.
Conclusion
Corfu offers a diverse array of experiences, from its Venetian-influenced Old Town to its pristine beaches and vibrant cultural traditions. This Corfu travel guide for 2025 equips you with the essentials to plan your trip, whether you’re exploring historic sites, relaxing on the beach, or immersing yourself in local festivals. Flexy Luggage ensures you can travel light—contact our team, check rates, or read our blog for more insights. Your unforgettable Corfu adventure awaits!
