The best things to do in Corfu – all the secrets revealed
Thanks to the island's big size, there is a whole range of things to do in Corfu! Whether you are traveling your family, your significant other, a group of friends or alone, there’s no way you get bored in Corfu.
The truth is, though, that in order to have the best Corfu holidays possible, it’s better to have some insider information, right?
No worries, we did the hard work for you!
So, without further ado we present you our ultimate list of the best things to do in Corfu!
Let’s get started!
Feel like a royal family member in Achillion palace
Seriously, what’s better than visiting a glorious palace?
Located on a verdant hill 10 km from Corfu town, on the mountainous Gastouri village, Achillion palace is one of the most popular and impressive Corfu attractions.
Achillion palace used to be the summer residence of the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, better known as Sissy. Having a poor health, Sissy decided to build Achillion in 1890, in order for it to be her retreat, during a hard period of her life. Both its architecture and decoration are strongly influenced by Sissy’s love for classical Greece and especially for Achilles, her favorite ancient Greek hero, after whom the palace has been named.
The setting of Achillion palace is mesmerizing, as it is surrounded by an exotic garden with statues and fountains, while it boasts a majestic view to Corfu island. Inside the palace, which now operates as a museum, you’ll find items such as photos, documents, books, statues, Sissy’s personal stuff and furniture. Almost everything seems to have remained untouched since the last time the palace was inhabited!
Take a dip in Canal d’Amour
Probably the most popular of Corfu beaches, Canal d’Amour is a natural miracle!
Just imagine peculiar rock formations, sculptured by the water and the wind, forming canals with turquoise waters. Either you choose to soak up the sun on the rocks, or jump from them in the sea, there’s no way you won’t enjoy this unique beach.
Apart from its breathtaking natural setting, though, there is another reason why Canal d'Amour beach is famous. The legend states that if you swim through the narrow canal of this beach, you’ll get married soon! So if you’re still waiting from your significant other to pop the question, a dip may bring you some luck!
Canal d’Amour is located between Sidari and Peroulades villages, about 32 km from Corfu town. Given that this beach is not organized and there is no shade, it’s better to take some beach essentials with you.
Dive into history at Mon Repos
Mon Repos is another royal residence!
Sitting where the ancient town of Paleopolis used to be, Mon Repos, which means “my rest”, is one of the most beautiful sights in Corfu. Nestled in a 258 sq. meters verdant property, it has a rather romantic past, as it was built by the English commissioner of the Ionian island Frederick Adam, as a gift to his wife, the Corfiot Nina Palatianou. What’s more, it was where prince Philip, the husband of queen Elizabeth of England was born, later on.
Mon Repos consists of two neoclassical main buildings and is surrounded by a beautiful garden, in which over 2,000 plant species thrive. Today, it is open to public and houses the museum of Paleopolis, which hosts the finding of the excavations carried out in the ancient town of Paleopolis.
Hike your way around the island
Thanks to its impeccable natural setting, Corfu is a top destination for hiking!
Keen walkers from all around the world choose hiking as the best way to explore Corfu off the beaten tourist trail.
Corfu trail, the biggest walking route in Corfu that stretches for 220 km, passes through wild natural landscapes. Starting from Kavos and ending at Old Perithia, one of the most beautiful traditional settlements in Corfu, Corfu trail passes though olive groves, lush green hillsides, rural villages, picturesque monasteries and pristine beaches. Every corner hides its own natural surprise, so make sure you often stop to take in the scenery!
Tip: The best seasons for hiking in Corfu are spring and autumn, as the weather is mild, but not very hot!
Stay at a Corfu hotel by the beach
Well, if you want to have the ultimate Corfu holiday experience, your best bet is to choose a seaside Corfu hotel for your stay! Besides, with coastal resorts galore, you’ll have no difficulty in finding the perfect one for you.
Ermones Corfu is a great option, as it is one of the best seaside resorts in Corfu! Located in the west coast of Corfu, in the heart of Ropa valley, Ermones village boasts a verdant natural landscape. There is a great selection of Ermones hotels, ideal for those who want to unwind and immerse themselves in relaxation in the heart of the nature.
Eat all the Corfiot food
Well, it’s not a secret that Corfu’s gastronomy is out of this world!
Strongly influenced by the Venetians, Corfiot cuisine is based on pasta, meat, fish, vegetables, olive oil, herbs and spices.
Some of the most popular traditional dishes are:
Pastitsada
Rooster cooked with tomato sauce, olive oil, spices, red wine, onion and garlic. It is served with pasta and grated cheese.
Bianco fish
Fish cooked with garlic, olive oil, plenty of lemon and potatoes.
Bourdeto fish
A spicy fish dish, cooked with red pepper and lemon.
Sofrito
Veal cooked with garlic, parsley and white wine. It is served with mashed potatoes.
Mandolato
Traditional sweet, made of honey, sugar, eggs and almonds.
Visit Panagia Vlacherna Monastery and Pontikonisi
Chances are, the most Corfu postcards you’ve seen depict Panagia Vlacherna monastery and Pontikonisi (Mouse island). Well, the truth is that these two are the trademarks of Corfu!
Located under a hill in Kanoni area, Panagia Vlacherna is a beautiful whitewashed 17th century chapel sitting on a tiny islet, which is connected with Corfu island by a narrow passage. Behind Panagia Vlacherna Monastery, lies the verdant Pontikonisi (Mouse island). Named after its tiny size, Mouse Island is a verdant paradise emerging from the sea! Apart from lush greenery, in Mouse island you'll also find the 13th century Pantokrator church.
Tip: You can enjoy a breathtaking view to Panagia Vlacherna and Pontikonisi from the cafeterias sitting on the top of the hill in Kanoni.
Marvel at the view from Corfu Old Fortress
Corfu Old Fortress is one of the most popular Corfu attractions!
Sitting on a tiny islet on the east side of Corfu Old Town, Old Fortress was built in the 6th century, in order to protect the town. The entrance of the Old Fortress is located at Spianada square, where there is also a small iron bridge leading to the fortress.
Once you get into the fortress, you’ll feel like you’ve time traveled to another era. The Venetian prison, moats, a military chapel and the English military hospital will give you an idea of the initial structure of the fortress.
After a couple of hours’ exploration, climb up the stairs leading to the upper level of the castle and marvel at the breathtaking view to the vast Ionian sea and Corfu Old Town!
In truth, there’s no doubt that Corfu offers experiences galore to those willing to explore it.
From activities in the nature, to sightseeing, there’s a huge range of things to do in Corfu!
The question is: are you ready for a trip of a lifetime?
Book your ferry tickets to Corfu and make it happen!