Corfu

Written by Celine Fournier, Julien Lambert, Maria Gaulto
07/08/2025
Stunning view of coastal buildings in Corfu, Greece under a clear blue sky.
Nico Hartnauer, Pexels

Corfu is a Greek island characterized by its lush green scenery, historic towns, and diverse beaches. It attracts a broad range of visitors with its blend of cultural depth, natural beauty, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Opportunities for socializing with other tourists range from the lively bars and tavernas of Corfu Town to the intense nightlife of Kavos, which is known as the island's clubbing center. Agios Gordios, particularly around The Pink Palace hostel, is a popular spot for backpackers and those seeking a party atmosphere. Kassiopi in the north also offers a vibrant array of shops, bars, and clubs.

Top 5 Things to do in Corfu

Visitors to Corfu can immerse themselves in historical architecture, explore natural wonders, and unwind on picturesque beaches.

1. Explore Corfu Old Town

Wandering through Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals a unique blend of Venetian, French, and British architectural influences. Its narrow, cobbled streets, known as 'kandounia,' are ideal for leisurely strolls, discovering charming boutiques, and traditional tavernas. Key landmarks include the Liston Promenade, Spianada Square (the largest square in Greece), and the Old Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the town and sea. Exploring the town on foot allows for immersion in its vibrant culture and history.

Cost: Exploring the Old Town on foot is free. Entrance to the Old Fortress is approximately €4 per adult, or an €8 multi-ticket includes access to the Archaeological Museum, Antivouniotissa Museum, and Corfu Museum of Asian Art.

Transport: Corfu Old Town is highly walkable. For those staying outside the center, blue city buses provide transport to areas around the Old Town, with tickets ranging from €1.10 to €1.50. An unlimited day pass for urban buses costs €5. Taxis are also readily available.

2. Visit Paleokastritsa and its Blue Caves

Paleokastritsa, located on the island's western coast, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, featuring dramatic cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and numerous coves. Visitors can relax on its popular beaches, which can get busy, so arriving early is recommended. A highlight is the Byzantine Monastery of the Virgin Mary, perched on a hill, offering stunning views and a chance to explore its architecture and gardens. Boat trips from Paleokastritsa are highly recommended to explore the famous Blue Caves and secluded beaches accessible only by sea, revealing mesmerizing underwater light effects.

Cost: The bus fare from Corfu Town to Paleokastritsa is approximately €2.30 to €3.00 one way. A shared boat trip to the Blue Caves costs around €15 per person for 35-40 minutes, while private boat rentals start from €60-100.

Transport: Paleokastritsa is approximately 45 minutes to an hour from Corfu Town by green intercity bus. Buses depart from the Green Bus Terminal in Corfu Town. Taxis are also an option, with a cost of around €30 from the airport to Paleokastritsa.

3. Discover Canal D'Amour in Sidari

Canal D'Amour, or the 'Channel of Love,' is a unique geological formation in Sidari, characterized by impressive sandstone cliffs carved by centuries of erosion, creating a series of natural channels and small coves. Legend has it that couples who swim through the canal will find eternal love. The area offers opportunities for swimming in the calm, shallow waters, exploring rock formations, and even cliff jumping. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available on nearby beaches, and various water activities like paddleboarding and jet skiing can be rented. The sunset views over the canal are particularly enchanting.

Cost: Access to Canal D'Amour is free. Renting pedalos, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards is an option for exploring the formations. Jet ski rentals are also available.

Transport: Sidari is approximately 37 km northwest of Corfu Town, taking about an hour by car. A green intercity bus from Corfu Town to Sidari costs €3.40 to €5 and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with the final stop a 10-minute walk from Canal D'Amour. A taxi from Corfu Town could cost €35-€45.

4. Ascend Mount Pantokrator

Mount Pantokrator, the highest peak on Corfu (906 meters), offers spectacular panoramic views of the entire island, the Ionian Sea, and even the Albanian coast and, on clear days, the coastline of Italy. The ascent, whether by car, hike, or bike, passes through traditional villages, providing glimpses into rural Corfiot life. At the summit, a historic monastery built in 1347 (and rebuilt in 1989 after destruction) welcomes visitors. There is also a café and an observation deck, making it an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the vast scenery.

Cost: Access to Mount Pantokrator is generally free. Organized tours are available, with some full-day tours including Mount Pantokrator starting from approximately €60 per person, which may include transportation and lunch.

Transport: Driving is a common way to reach the summit, taking about 40 minutes from Corfu Town. Routes typically pass through villages like Spartilas or Sidari. A combination of green bus and taxi from Corfu Town could cost €20-€26 and take around 53 minutes. Private transfers are also available.

5. Relax at Glyfada Beach

Glyfada Beach is one of Corfu's most popular and well-organized sandy beaches, known for its golden sands and clear turquoise waters. It is a favored spot for families, couples, and solo travelers due to its wide range of amenities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports such as windsurfing and beach volleyball. The beachfront is lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants, providing ample options for refreshments and meals with a view, creating a lively yet relaxing atmosphere.

Cost: Access to the beach is free. Costs for sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as water sports rentals, vary.

Transport: Glyfada Beach is located on the west coast, approximately 16 km from Corfu Town. It is reachable by blue city bus from San Rocco Square, taking around 30 minutes. Taxis and private transfers are also available, ensuring flexible travel, especially during peak season when public transport or parking can be challenging.

Check out our other pages on Corfu

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