Corfu, the emerald gem of the Ionian Sea, has long been a magnet for both conquerors and holidaymakers. Its intoxicating mix of historical monuments, lush hillsides, blue skies, sand and pebble beaches, and calm azure waters offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The island’s rich history is evident in its atmospheric Old Town, where British and French influences mingle with the more pronounced Venetian legacy. Having spent 400 years under Venetian rule, Corfu’s sociocultural fabric is deeply intertwined with its Italian heritage.

How to Spend Your Weekend

Day One: Morning

If time is of the essence, stay relatively close to Corfu Town, which is situated roughly halfway down the eastern coast. A hire car is essential on this sprawling island, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Start your day with an early breakfast, then park beside the old harbor to explore the pedestrian-only UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Cross the moat to the 14th-century Old Fortress before the cruise crowds arrive. From the Tower of the Land, enjoy panoramic views of the terracotta-roofed neoclassical buildings bathed in light, juxtaposed against the glittering Adriatic Sea. Spot the two winged lions of St. Mark, the Tower of the Sea, the British barracks, and the church of St. George.

At the elegant French-built Liston Arcade, take a seat outdoors at Café Kohlias and savor an iced espresso while soaking in the ambiance of Spianada Square, the largest square in the Balkans.

Afternoon

Lunch late, as the locals do, at Marina’s Tavern in the old Jewish quarter. Indulge in delectable meze like taramasalata (fish roe dip) with marinated anchovies, nourishing pies from owner Marina’s native Epirus region, and braised lamb with artichoke. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the Campiello neighborhood, characterized by narrow streets and laundry hung high to dry. Across from Agios Vassilios church, visit the Lazaris Distillery & Artisan Sweets Brand Store to pick up a bottle of smooth kumquat cream liqueur, a delightful twist on the traditional tipple.

Next, pop into the retro Papagiorgis patisserie, dating back to 1924, for the best pistachio gelato this side of Naples.

Evening

Dress up in resort linens and espadrilles for an elegant night out in the Old Town. At Pomo d’Oro, Chef Aristotelis Megoulas offers seasonal farm-to-table finesse with a menu that changes monthly. You might find dishes like octopus carpaccio with strawberries and pine nuts in red pepper sauce. Be sure to book ahead, especially during peak summer months. After dinner, head to Café Bristol for a signature cocktail like the Monkey & the Beans, accompanied by jazz tunes. Alternatively, visit the rooftop of NAOK Azur for a stunning view of the Old Fortress.

Day Two: Morning

Today, head to Corfu’s western coast. Your first destination is Paleokastritsa, a resort town of hills and dramatic cliffs adorned with olive, pine, and fir trees. Pack a picnic, bring shade and water supplies, and rent a motorboat from Ampelaki Boats for a half-day adventure. Explore isolated beaches accessible only by sea, such as Giali, Limni, Paradise, Stelari, and Iliodoros. Alternatively, discover the excellent dive sites near Paleokastritsa, including Colovri islet, where you can spot marine life like tuna, jacks, anthia, and nudibranch among reefs, caves, and canyons. Achilleon Diving offers courses and dives for both beginners and experienced divers.

Afternoon

Head up to the Theotokos Monastery, built on Paleokastritsa’s highest peak. Arrive at exactly 1 p.m., when it closes to the public for two hours, and head directly to the lookout points for breathtaking views of the town’s main beaches and densely vegetated bluffs. Afterward, visit the serene monastery and its tiny church, housing rare icons founded in the 13th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

If hunger strikes, head to Taverna Elizabeth in Doukádes village for traditional pastitsada, a tomato-based casserole prepared with beef or occasionally cockerel. For a refreshing late afternoon swim and snorkel, visit La Grotta Bar, accessible via 142 steps or by boat from Paleokastritsa’s main road. Enjoy locally produced ale or a classic piña colada.

Evening

On the way back to your hotel, stop at Nagual on Kontogialos Beach for a legendary sunset and exceptional cocktails. Alternatively, freshen up and head to Corfu Town for dinner at The Venetian Well, where chef-owner Yiannis Vlachos serves creative Mediterranean dishes like crayfish tartare marinated in vanilla and citrus juices.

Insider Tips

Beach Watch: Yaliskari Beach, a short drive south of Kontogialos, is a narrow strip of sand surrounded by greenery. Arrive early for a leisurely lunch of steamed mussels, lobster pasta, and occasionally fried cod Greek-style.

Attractions: Corfu is home to over 300 bird species, including cormorants, egrets, and migrating flamingos. Lake Korission and the former salt pans of Alikes are significant wetland habitats. Ornithologist Giannis Gasteratos leads bird-watching tours, offering insights into the island’s rich biodiversity.

Island Hack: Visit the Kanoni lookout point, named after a cannon installed by the French. From here, you can see the 17th-century Vlacherna Monastery and take a boat to Pontikonissi islet. Plane spotters frequent the adjacent causeway as aircraft fly directly overhead.

Hotel: Stay at the luxurious Domes Miramare Corfu, where the resort’s sleek black yacht, Miramaretta, can whisk you to Corfu Town in about 20 minutes. Enjoy the Ionian coastline with a flute of champagne in hand.

When to Go

Hotels generally open in early May and close in October. Corfu is busiest in summer, while May, September, and October are increasingly popular, though cloudiness and occasional showers are possible. Most hotels in and near the Old Town stay open year-round, along with a host of attractive apartments. Orthodox Easter is a major draw, so expect crowds. Hikers should visit in spring when the weather is cool and the island is ablaze with blooms.

Where to Stay

Luxury Living: Domes Miramare Corfu is the gold standard for luxury. This five-star, adults-only hideaway sits on its own beach in peaceful Moraitika, southeast of Corfu Town. Once owned by the Onassis family, it offers sea view or waterfront pavilion retreats with private pools and hot tubs.

Boutique Beauty: MarBella Nido, surrounded by pines and firs above a sandy Blue Flag beach, offers rooms and suites with enviable sea views. Enjoy romantic dinners at the open-air fine dining restaurant Apaggio, featuring creative spins on classic Corfu recipes.

Budget Bolthole: Aeolos Beach Hotel caters to both romantic getaways and family holidays. The large resort mimics a traditional Corfiot village, with stone cottage-style buildings, two pools, a spa, and a variety of dining options.

How to Get There and Around

Flights arrive at Corfu International Airport Ioannis Kapodistrias. Corfu City Bus connects the airport with Corfu Town in about 20 to 30 minutes. Pre-book a transfer with Alfa Taxi Corfu for a quicker ride. Green KTEL intercity buses offer connections to most beaches, resort areas, and villages. Hiring a car is highly recommended for independent exploration.

Know Before You Go

Tourist Board Information: 00 30 26610 37638; visitgreece.gr

Emergency Numbers:

- Fire: 199 or 112

- Ambulance: 166

- Police: 100

British Vice Consulate: First floor, 18 Mantzarou St, Corfu; For urgent help, call 00 30 26610 23457; in an emergency outside working hours, call 00 30 210 727 2600.

Local Laws and Etiquette: Locals and visiting Greeks tend to have lunch or dinner late. Shorts and beachwear are fine at casual tavernas, while trousers and skirts are required at smarter restaurants. Covering up in church is mandatory. Tipping is not required, but a 10% tip is appreciated.

Public Transport: Corfu’s green KTEL intercity buses offer regular service from Corfu Town to resort areas, inland villages, and most beaches. Corfu City Bus covers routes in and around Corfu Town. Taxis are readily available, and hiring a car is highly recommended.

Corfu offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and vibrant culture. From the bustling charm of Corfu Town to the serene beauty of Paleokastritsa, every corner of the island tells a story. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, Corfu has something to offer everyone. Rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, Corfu deserves a spot on everyone’s travel list.