8 Best Things to Do in Corfu

Located in the Ionian Sea off Greece’s northwest coast, Corfu is one of the greenest islands in the country. Known for its Venetian architecture, dramatic coastline, and relaxed atmosphere, the island offers a mix of beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and authentic village experiences.

While many visitors come for the crystal-clear water and scenic coastline, Corfu also has a rich cultural history and plenty of hidden corners to explore. From exploring centuries-old fortresses to swimming at secluded beaches, these are some of the best things to do on the island.

Wander the Streets of Corfu Old Town

Did you know the Old Town of Corfu is actually a UNESCO-listed site? Exploring these narrow cobbled streets is one of the best ways to experience the island’s history and atmosphere. Be sure to have your camera handy, because those colourful Venetian buildings make for the perfect backdrop. You’ll also find hidden courtyards, bakeries, and small tavernas tucked into the maze of streets.

Be sure to add these sites to your walking tour:

Liston Promenade: This elegant, arcade-lined street, inspired by Paris’ Rue de Rivoli, is one of Corfu's most famous spots. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee and watch the world go by.

Old Fortress: Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, this impressive fortress sits on a rocky peninsula overlooking the sea. Climb to the top for panoramic views across the town and coastline.

Spianada Square: One of the largest squares in Greece, this wide open space sits between the Old Town and the Old Fortress and is a lively gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Swim at Porto Timoni Beach

Porto Timoni is one of the most unique beaches on the island. A narrow strip of land forms two bays with incredibly clear water on either side.

To reach the beach, you’ll hike down from the hilltop village of Afionas. The walk takes around 20-30 minutes and offers beautiful views over the coastline. Bring water and sturdy shoes - the path can be steep, but the swim at the bottom makes it worthwhile.

Pack your towel and enough food to spend the day here, after all - you have two beaches to explore!

Visit the Cliff-Top Fortress of Angelokastro

Perched high on a rocky peak above the sea, Angelokastro is one of the most dramatic historical sites in Corfu.

This Byzantine fortress once played an important role in defending the island from invaders. Today, visitors can climb a series of steps to reach the ruins and enjoy sweeping views across the Ionian Sea.

Much of the site is now in ruins, but with the helpful eyes of a tour guide, you can spot the defensive walls and gates, a small cave chapel and a Church at the summit.

It’s far quieter than many of Corfu’s other landmarks, which makes the experience even better.

Take a Boat Trip Around Paleokastritsa

Paleokastritsa is famous for its striking coastline made up of hidden coves, sea caves, and emerald water.

One of the best ways to explore this area is by boat. Along the main beach, there are little stalls where you can rent a small motorboat or join a tour that takes you to beaches and caves that are difficult to reach by land.

You’ll pass by dramatic limestone cliffs and narrow grottoes where the water is a deep turquoise, making it a great place for swimming or snorkelling.

While you’re here, it’s also worth visiting the hilltop Monastery of Paleokastritsa for panoramic views over the bays.

Watch the Sunset at Cape Drastis

Cape Drastis is known for its unusual limestone cliffs that stretch into the sea in soft, sculpted shapes. The scenery here looks completely different from most of Corfu’s coastline.

During the day, the viewpoint offers incredible panoramic views over the Ionian Sea and the dramatic coastline below. It’s a great place to stop for photos or simply take in the scenery. Sunset is the best time to visit, when the cliffs glow golden and the sea reflects the changing colours of the sky.

Nearby, you can also visit Canal d’Amour, famous for its carved sandstone formations.

Try Traditional Corfiot Food in a Local Taverna

Corfu’s cuisine reflects centuries of Venetian influence, giving it a unique twist compared to other parts of Greece. Rich sauces, slow-cooked meats, and bold Mediterranean flavours are common in many traditional dishes.

Some local dishes worth trying include:

Pastitsada: A hearty dish typically made with slow-cooked rooster or beef served over pasta in a rich tomato and spice sauce.

Sofrito: Tender veal cooked in a garlicky white wine sauce, traditionally served with mashed potatoes or rice.

Kumquat liqueur: A sweet local drink made from the island’s famous kumquat fruit, often served as a digestif after dinner.

Many of the best meals are found in small family-run tavernas in villages rather than busy tourist areas. Sitting down for a long, relaxed meal with local wine is one of the best ways to experience authentic Corfiot culture.

Explore the Village of Old Perithia

For a more authentic side of Corfu, head to Old Perithia. Located on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator, this historic village dates back to the 14th century.

Once abandoned, many of the stone buildings have now been restored, and a few traditional tavernas now operate in the village. Walking through the quiet streets, you’ll see centuries-old houses, crumbling stone walls, and beautiful mountain views in every direction. It’s a peaceful place to wander and a great spot for a long, relaxed lunch in the mountains.

We visit Old Perithia on our Corfu & Albania Explorer, giving you the chance to experience this hidden corner of the island without having to plan it yourself.

Visit the Imperial Gardens of Achilleion Palace

One of Corfu’s most iconic landmarks, the Achilleion Palace was built in the late 19th century for Empress Elisabeth of Austria as a summer retreat.

While the palace itself is impressive, the real highlight for many visitors is the surrounding Imperial Gardens. These beautifully landscaped grounds are filled with classical statues, shaded pathways, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Ionian Sea.

It’s an easy stop just outside of Corfu Town and a great place to slow down, take in the views, and experience a different side of the island’s history. This is also one of the stops on our Corfu & Albania Explorer and often leaves guests feeling surprised by just how grand and peaceful this part of the island is.

Bonus: Take a Ferry to Sarandë

One of the most unique things about visiting Corfu is how close it is to another country. From Corfu Town, you can take a short ferry across the Ionian Sea to the Albanian Riviera.

The journey to the coastal city of Sarandë takes around 30-60 minutes, depending on the ferry, making it one of the easiest international day trips you can take in Europe.

Once there, you can explore the lively seaside promenade, swim at nearby beaches along the Albanian Riviera, or visit the ancient ruins of Butrint National Park, a UNESCO-listed site just outside the city.

It’s a great way to experience a completely different culture while you’re already in the region.

With its lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and fascinating history, Corfu offers far more than just a typical Greek island getaway. From wandering the historic streets of Corfu Old Town to discovering hidden beaches and traditional villages, there are plenty of ways to experience the island beyond the main tourist spots.

If you’re looking to experience both Corfu & Albania in one trip, our Corfu & Albania Explorer takes you from the beaches and historic towns of Corfu to the dramatic mountains, villages, and coastline of southern Albania.