Many of the hotels and resorts on Corfu are blessed with their own private stretches of beach meaning you can enjoy endless days basking in the warm sunshine. However, for a fun day out and a change of scenery, head northwest to the popular beach resort of Sidari home to a long sweeping bay of golden sands, warm shallow waters and endless water sport activities. Here you’ll also find the Canal d’Amour Cove (channel of love) which is featured on countless postcards; a unique natural formation of sandstone rocks where swimmers can dive through an archway of sand and into the turquoise waters beyond.
Exploring the island's many beautiful beaches is definitely one of the best things to do in Corfu.
Although a Greek island, Corfu is known for its Mediterranean character and Venetian influence when it comes to food, with most dishes centred around spices, olive oil, vegetables, meat and pasta. Specialities include sofrito, a beef or veal casserole served with a white sauce of garlic, onion, pepper and wine vinegar, and pastitsáda, beef or veal served in a tomato sauce with pasta.
Local Corfu cuisine can be sampled anywhere on the island, either with a modern twist at a 5 star all-inclusive resort or in a more casual setting at a traditional taverna on the beach.
The island’s capital, Corfu Town, is located on the east coast overlooking the sparkling turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Known for its cobblestone streets and pastel-coloured Venetian architecture, Corfu Town is home to a two magnificent fortresses, an Old Town packed with ancient churches and fantastic museums and an Esplanade, a long green square lined with cute cafes. Easily accessible by road or by boat from the various surrounding beach resorts, it is a beautiful and fascinating place to visit, and one of the top things to do in Corfu.
To experience some of the island’s prettiest countryside, head to the west coast of Corfu and to charming Paleokastritsa. Set in the middle of a bay and overlooked by an 18th century hilltop monastery, this stunning village is one of the most picturesque spots on the island, surrounded by green mountains, olive groves, hidden coves and quiet beaches. The colourful port is a lovely spot to grab lunch in a traditional taverna and soak up the spectacular views.
Take a break from Corfu’s beaches and hike up to the island’s highest peak, Mount Pantokrator, which dominates the northeast region. One of the best places to start is in 14th century Old Perithia, Corfu's oldest village which, although is now ‘suspended in time’, still maintains an enchanting ambience. This route takes approximately three hours round trip and forms part of the Corfu Trail which spans the length of the island.
Waiting at the summit is an ancient monastery as well as spectacular panoramic views of Corfu’s green countryside, sweeping coastlines and the neighbouring islands that lie beyond.
For more inspiration, visit our Corfu Holidays pages, and check out one of our top recommended adults only properties in Corfu - 5★ Nido, Mar~Bella Collection.
Written by Sarah Johns
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