View of a quiet bay scattered with a handful of whitewashed houses and covered in lush greenery.

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Q: What is the signature dish of Corfu?

Pastitsada is widely regarded as Corfu's most distinctive dish. It’ slow-braised meat (traditionally cockerel, though beef is also common) cooked in a rich tomato sauce spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, then served over thick pasta. The recipe reflects the island's Venetian heritage and tastes noticeably different from dishes you'd find elsewhere in Greece.

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Holidays in Corfu

Green and mountainous, Corfu rises dramatically from the Ionian Sea. Sitting just off Greece's north-west coast, with year-round good weather and just a three-and-a-half-hour flight from the UK, it’s no wonder it’s a top choice for a holiday.

Culturally distinct, the island's cooking, architecture, and customs reflect centuries of Venetian, French, and British influence. The result is an island that feels very Greek, but is also noticeably different from the rest of the country.

Swim in turquoise coves in the morning, explore a UNESCO-listed old town by afternoon, and sit down to slow-braised pastitsada (a beef stew with pasta) as the sun sets. With a coastline that has a little something for everyone – families love the calm north-east beaches, while couples head for the romance of the dramatic north-west coastline – this is an island ripe for exploration.

Top destinations in Corfu

Corfu

Kavos

Corfu

Sidari

Corfu

Kassiopi

Corfu

Arillas

Good to know

Flight time

3.5h

(from London)

Currency

Euro (€)

Language

Greek

The best beaches in Corfu

With a combination of sheer limestone cliffs, forest-clad hills, and turquoise waters, Corfu’s coastline changes dramatically as you move around the island.

The north-west is lined with sheltered coves and vivid turquoise water. The west opens into longer, sandier stretches facing the open Ionian Sea. And the calmer north-east offers shallower, clearer conditions. Whatever kind of beach day you're after, you won't have to look far to find it.

Paleokastritsa Beach

Tucked into multiple coves on the north-west coast near the village of Paleokastritsa, Paleokastritsa Beach lies beneath steep, wooded cliffs with lagoon-like water that shifts from green to deep blue. Hire a small boat from the shore to reach the nearby Blue Caves — sea caverns best seen in the morning light when the colour of the glowing ocean within is at its most vivid.

Porto Timoni

Reached on foot from the village of Afionas in the north-west, Porto Timoni is a double cove split by a narrow ridge of land, with excellent snorkelling in both bays. The walk down from the village takes 15-25 minutes and is steep in places, so wear appropriate footwear.

Barbati Beach

On the north-east coast near the resort of Barbati, this is a white-pebble shore rather than a sandy one – and it's the pebbles that keep the water so exceptionally clear. You can hire sunbeds or find a free spot and spread out at your own pace.

Halikounas Beach

On the south-west coast beside the Korission Lagoon nature reserve, Halikounas Beach stretches for around 3km (1.9 miles) and stays refreshingly uncrowded even at the height of summer. It's a favourite with kite surfers and windsurfers thanks to the reliable afternoon breeze off the Ionian Sea, especially from May to October.

Canal d'Amour

Within walking distance of the resort of Sidari in the north, Canal d'Amour is a series of sandstone channels and small coves shaped by centuries of wave erosion. It's better suited to a morning visit – by midday the narrow channels fill up quickly, so arriving early means you'll have more space to swim and explore the rock formations.

The best things to do in Corfu

Corfu offers far more than a week on the beach. The island has a genuinely layered history — Venetian fortresses, French-built arcades, and Byzantine monasteries sit alongside working olive mills and dramatic sea caves you can explore by boat. Dip into as much or as little as suits you, and you'll come home feeling like you've seen a proper slice of the island.

Corfu Old Town

The narrow lanes – known locally as kantounia – take you past crumbling archways, Orthodox churches, and the grand Liston arcade, a colonnaded promenade originally built during the French occupation in the early 19th century. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's easy to spend a full morning here without covering the same ground twice.

Old Fortress of Corfu

This Venetian citadel rises dramatically above the eastern edge of Corfu Town, separated from the rest of the town by a man-made moat. Inside its walls, you'll find the church of St George, sweeping sea views, and enough history to fill a 60-90 minute visit at least. Entry costs around €10 per adult.

Corfu Explore Boats

Based at Paleokastritsa on the north-west coast, Corfu Explore Boats hires small self-drive motorboat that allow visitors to reach deserted beaches and quiet coves inaccessible from the shore. No licence is required, making it a genuinely accessible way to see the coastline at your own pace.

The Governor's Olive Mill

Near Agios Matheos in the south-west, Corfu Olive Tours runs guided tours of its working traditional mill, finishing with a tasting of its Governor freshly pressed oil paired with bread, local feta, and wine. It's a short but memorable insight into one of Corfu's most important agricultural traditions.

V Museum Corfu

Near the port in Corfu Town, the V Museum Corfu uses holograms and a 3D film to walk you through the island's history in a way that holds the attention of even the most fidgety holidaymaker. Suitable for all ages, it takes around an hour to see all its exhibits thoroughly.

Best family activities in Corfu

Corfu has a solid range of family-friendly activities that go well beyond the beach. From the thrill of the water park, to getting to know the local sea life at the aquarium there’s plenty to explore. The island is easy to navigate with children, and most of the main family attractions are within a short drive of the popular resort areas.

Aqualand Corfu

Near Agios Ioannis in central Corfu, this is the island's largest water park, with lazy rivers, toddler splash zones, and high-speed slides that older children will want to ride repeatedly. It suits mixed-age groups well. Arrive early to get a good lounger.

Corfu Aquarium

In Paleokastritsa on the north-west coast, Corfu Aquarium combines a small marine display with a reptile house and includes a guided tour in the entry price. Most families spend around 45-60 minutes here, making it an easy add-on before or after a morning at the nearby beach.

Where to eat and drink in Corfu

Centuries of Venetian, French, and British rule have left a lasting mark on Corfiot cooking, giving the island a food culture that's noticeably different from the rest of Greece. You'll find slow-braised meat dishes, herb-heavy stews, and fresh seafood sitting side by side on menus across the island.

Brisk Restaurant

Tucked into the lanes of Corfu Town's Old Town, Brisk serves inventive takes on traditional Corfiot cooking. Think beef cheek and moussaka ravioli rather than standard taverna fare. It draws a loyal crowd of repeat visitors, so book ahead if you're planning an evening visit.

Klimataria N. Bellos

In the south-east coastal village of Benitses, this is a long-running family taverna known for its octopus pastitsada, a slow-braised dish cooked in a spiced tomato sauce with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, then served over thick pasta. Fresh whole fish, sourced daily, rounds out a menu that reflects the best of Corfiot cooking.

Salto Wine Bar – Bistro

Near the Old Port in Corfu Town, Salto pairs a carefully chosen Greek wine list with refined meze plates. The sommelier is happy to guide you through lesser-known varieties from across Greece, making it a good option if you want to explore beyond the usual holiday staples.

Oinos Kai Geuseis

A small, alley-side spot in Corfu Town serving home-style Corfiot dishes — taramasalata, cheese pies, and slow-cooked mains — at prices that won't stretch the holiday budget. It's the kind of place that's easy to walk past but well-worth seeking out.

Taverna Agni

On the north-east coast at Agni Bay, Taverna Agni is traditional seaside dining at its best. Accessible by water taxi from nearby resorts, the beachfront restaurant serves simply prepared whole fish at tables set right on the waterfront. The journey across the water is part of the appeal; it's a relaxed, unhurried way to spend a long lunch. Be aware, the restaurant is open seasonally from May to October, though dates can vary, so check ahead.

Your Corfu questions answered

FAQs

Do I need a visa to visit Corfu from the UK?

No. British passport holders can visit Corfu – and Greece as a whole – without a visa for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your stay and issued within the last ten years. Check FCO for up-to-date travel advice.

Which part of Corfu is best for a holiday?

It depends on what you're looking for. The north-east coast, including resorts like Kassiopi and Barbati, suits those after calm, clear water and a quieter pace. The north-west, around Paleokastritsa, has more dramatic scenery and easier access to boat trips. Corfu Town is the best base if you want history, restaurants, and evening entertainment all within walking distance.

What is the best month to visit Corfu?

June and September offer a strong balance of warm weather, manageable crowd levels, and better value on accommodation and flights. July and August are the hottest months – temperatures regularly reach 30⁰C–33⁰C – but prices rise and popular spots fill-up fast. May is worth considering if you want warm days without the summer rush.

Is Corfu expensive for a holiday?

Corfu sits comfortably in the mid-range for Greek island destinations. A beer at a local bar costs roughly €3-6, and a two-course meal for two at a mid-range taverna typically comes to €19–35. Hiring a car to get around independently is one of the smartest ways to keep costs down, as taxis costs can add-up quickly.

What plug adapter do I need for Corfu?

Greece uses Type C and Type F plugs – the standard two-pin European sockets. UK travellers will need a travel adapter. Check that your devices are compatible with 220-240V before you travel, as some older electronics will not work at this voltage.

How long is the flight from the UK to Corfu?

Direct flights from London take around three and a half hours. Flying from Manchester or Birmingham adds roughly 15-30 minutes. Several airlines run direct routes to Corfu International Airport (CFU) throughout the summer season, with services typically running from late April through to October.

Is Corfu safe for tourists?

Corfu is generally a safe destination for tourists. Keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas such as Corfu Town's market streets, and take extra care if you're driving or hiring a scooter on the island's narrower mountain roads, which can be poorly lit after dark. Check FCO for up-to-date travel advice.

What is the signature dish of Corfu?

Pastitsada is widely regarded as Corfu's most distinctive dish. It’ slow-braised meat (traditionally cockerel, though beef is also common) cooked in a rich tomato sauce spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, then served over thick pasta. The recipe reflects the island's Venetian heritage and tastes noticeably different from dishes you'd find elsewhere in Greece.

Can I hire a car in Corfu?

Yes, and for most visitors it's the most practical way to explore the island. Many of the best beaches and inland villages are difficult to reach by bus, and a hire car lets you set your own schedule. You'll need a full UK driving licence, and most providers require drivers to be at least 21 years old.

When is the cheapest time to book a holiday to Corfu?

Late April, early May, and October tend to offer the lowest prices on flights and accommodation. Bear in mind that many resorts and restaurants begin to close from late October, so check that your chosen area will be open if you're travelling outside the main season. For peak months July and August, book at least six months in advance.