Known as the Grand Lady of the Ionian islands, Corfu is one of the largest and most popular place to choose a holiday rental in Greece. This beautiful destination offers astonishing white sand beaches, a fascinating history and a lively food and drink scene. If you are travelling with your family then book accommodation with more space in the form of a villa, or if you want to stay in the center of Corfu rent one of our stylish serviced apartments.
Book accommodation on the astonishing Island of Corfu
Although Corfu is one of the most famous of the Greek Islands and extremely popular with British tourists, it is more than just a place for a Brits abroad all-inclusive holiday. Corfu has a strong multi-cultural heritage, stunning scenery and azure blue seas. Book a holiday rental in Corfu and enjoy all that this cosmopolitan Mediterranean destination has to offer.
When to go to Corfu
Corfu is lucky enough to enjoy good weather most of the year due to its location being off the north-west coast of Greece. You'll find an average temperature of 25°C throughout the year, but during high season (July & August), temperatures can reach up to 35°C. Visiting during low season means less people and milder temperatures and the moderate temperatures of 11°C during the winter makes Corfu a popular visitor destination throughout the year.
How to get around Corfu
There are a few ways to travel around Corfu that we'd recommend: hiring a car, local bus or renting a boat. If you're feeling flash, then hire your own speed boat, unlike many European destinations no licence is required. Soak in the beautiful views from out at sea whilst enjoying your holiday at your own pace. Do your research and be sensible if you decide to hire your own boat. Renting a car in Corfu is the most flexible way of exploring and whilst the roads are windy and narrow, they are safe to drive on. Alternatively, local buses are a fantastic way to travel; they are ‘relatively' reliable, cheap and a great way to get chatting to the locals.
Corfu is easily accessible from the UK, as you can catch a direct flight from airports in London, Manchester and Edinburgh. However, if you are already holidaying in Greece, why not choose to add a few days in Corfu to your itinerary? You can travel to the Grand Lady of the Ionian islands from a mainland holiday apartment in Athens, or a holiday villa in Thessaloniki in only one hour, and hit the beach in no time!
Where to book your accommodation in Corfu
Kavos
If you're after an all-inclusive holiday or cheaper accommodation, then head to Kavos town. It is best described as a young person's paradise, you will find clubs open to the early hours of the morning, an array of cocktail bars and the best beach parties in Greece. If this is what you're after, then a self-catering apartment is a great choice the nearby restaurants are good value and the likelihood that you'll be spending the days relaxing by the pool is quite slim. We would advise avoiding this place if you're looking for nice, luxury accommodation as you won't find it here!
Corfu Town
If you are looking for a mixture of Greek culture, history and a buzzing atmosphere then book a holiday rental in Corfu. The town is centred around a 16th century fortress meaning there is plenty to explore. Also you can enjoy a stroll down winding lanes, hidden gardens and breathtaking beaches. Book one of our many luxury apartments here, or if you want to experience ultimate relaxation then rent a hotel room and enjoy being pampered. Although, not situated on a beach, the great transport links make the different beaches and attractions of Corfu easily accessible from this town.
Paleokastritsa
Another breathtaking place to book a holiday rental is PaleoKastritsa, an iconic spot tucked between three beautiful bays. This is a popular area to rent a villa and it is definitely one of the best places to stay in Corfu. You'll find visitors eating traditional Greek dishes in the authentic tavernas whilst looking out onto the beautiful blue sea. If you're on a budget, there are cheaper accommodation options in the form of self-catering holiday rentals, but you'll also find luxury accommodation a plenty in this resort.
Benitses
Benitses, once a tourist hotspot, has now reinvented itself as a charming fishing town perfect for couples looking to escape reality. Book a traditional Greek villa here or stay in a bed and breakfast and experience life as a local. The food in Benitses is some of the best Greek cuisine that you'll find on the island and Oraies in Benitses hasn't been voted Number 1 on Trip Advisor for no reason. Visit the remains of the Roman baths or hike the local hills and discover the natural springs. This town gives visitors a chance to relax in their Corfu accommodation or the chance to explore the hidden gems of this whimsical fishing town.
Kassiopi
Kassiopi is probably the most popular place in Corfu for British families to stay in and this is due to the great value holiday rentals and breath-taking scenery. It is a perfect place for parents to relax whilst their children spend the day partaking in numerous water activities. There are also many reasonably priced villas with private pools in this area that are perfect for a family.
Old Perithia
Book yourself accommodation in Old Perithia, this place is the islands best kept secret. North of the island is Corfu's oldest village, it only has a few residents in it; it is surrounded by vineyards, ancient ruins and not much else. Holiday apartments are limited so we advise to book up to avoid disappointment. It is now a heritage protected village and it is one of the oldest examples of Greek history. Now stuck in time, the village is enchanting and a must visit regardless of whether you decide to book a holiday letting here or not.
Acharavi
Acharavi, set back from a dreamy, stone beach you will find this busy working town in the north of Corfu. Locals and tourists live side by side in this town, especially if you book a bed and breakfast or holiday rental on Airbnb or TripAdvisor. A long stretch of sandy beach is a big draw for visitors wanting to relax in the sun. If you are looking for a more strenuous activity, then hike up one of the surrounding hills that have marked out trials for incredible views.
What to do in Corfu
Hiking
Hiking may not come immediately to mind when you think of Corfu, but the island is extremely popular with hikers and nature lovers from all over the world. The Corfu trail is a sensational wealk however, be warned that this isn't a leisurely stroll in a park. This trail is a total of 220 kilometres and can take even the most experienced hikers 8 to 10 days to walk. However you will not be disappointed by the incredible landscape this trail has to offer. Do you research and plan your route, much of the trail is dirt tracks leading you to turquoise lagoons and extreme summits. We would also advise not hiking in the peak summer months due to the heat.
Canal D'Amour
For a much more leisurely stroll, then why not visit the Canal D'Amour. Here you will find beautifully shaped sandstone cliffs that have eroded over thousands of years, it is now a tourist hotspot and it is especially popular with landscape photographers. Looking for love? Then rumour has it if you swim through the channel, you'll find it.
Vlacherna Monastery
One of the most iconic sites in Corfu and a must visit during your stay is the Vlacherna Monastery that is situated on its own island. You will find amazing views of Corfu from here and a trip to the monastery makes for a lovely walking tour. The monastery is open all year round and once you are here you can also visit Mouse Island, which is another popular attraction very nearby.
Water activities
On almost all of the beaches in Corfu you will find companies that offer an array of water activities such as sailing, waterskiing, knee-boarding and banana boating. Another particularly popular activity is snorkeling, the best dive areas are around Paleokastritsa, Othoni or Paxi islets.
Corfu Old Town
Fronted in an old Venetian- style neoclassical architecture visiting the Old Town will immerse you in traditional Greek culture. Visit Kerkyra's old quarter and wander down the narrow lanes to see washing lines and Venetian shutters. Visit the many museums there such as the Byzantine Museum, Asian Art Museum and the Neo Frourio Fort.
Angelokastro
This phenomenal castle sits on top of a protruding rock and is worth a visit. Although locals have tried repairing and consolidating this castle, there is not much left inside besides an underground church, but the views are one of a kind and postcard worthy. In the C12th the Venetians used to use it as a watchpoint to survey Adriatic Sea lanes.
Sidari Rock Formations
If you are a geography enthusiast, then be sure to check out the busy resort of Sidari. Explore the coastal sandstone cliffs which have been eroded away by winds and water into unearthly shapes. The most famous single formation is the Canal d'Amour and is named this because of a legend that said by swimming the length of the channel here, lovelorn women would gain the object of their affections.
Horse Riding
Book a horse trek through the lush hills of Mt Pandokrator and be fully immersed with the local culture. Riding groups are small and take place all week apart from Sunday.
Embark on a Journey to Idyllic Island Destinations and Stunning Beaches
Corfu Island enchants with its lush landscapes and vibrant history, and nearby island treasures hold their own allure. Experience the enchanting allure of vacation rentals on Hvar Island, where the Dalmatian coast offers pristine beaches and the stunning St. Stephen’s Square. Indulge in the timeless charm of airbnb in Skopelos, renowned for its verdant hills and the iconic Agios Ioannis Chapel from the silver screen. If archaeological wonders captivate you, Crete accommodations beckon with its rich history at sites like the Palace of Knossos.
The azure waters and sun-kissed shores are echoed in other Mediterranean gems waiting to be discovered. Delight in a captivating stay in Cyprus, where the Mediterranean meets rich layers of history at sites like Kourion. Steep yourself in the cultural spell of a stay in Paphos, home to ancient mosaics and the storied Aphrodite’s Rock. For an Adriatic escapade, consider rentals in Croatia, where the blend of vibrant coastal cities and natural splendours like Plitvice Lakes National Park surprise and delight. Or indulge in a warm Mediterranean retreat with Kos airbnb, relishing its picturesque old town and the historic Asclepeion sanctuary.
