Greece, CorfuJune 15, 2025, by Isa de Laat

Tips on what to do and especially what not to do in Corfu

Greece, Corfu, June 15, 2025, by Isa de Laat

Tips on what to do and especially what not to do in Corfu

That Corfu is a beautiful Greek island is beyond doubt. And we will do our best to explain that in this paragraph, but it is in that 'aha' feeling that you only get by going there. On Corfu there is peace, olive trees, sun and ouzo on the terrace. There are villages where donkeys still climb the mountain paths and beaches where you can still find a beach bed even in high season (yes, it really is).

There is history and nature, as well as culture with for example the Byzantine monastery. Two more reasons to go to Corfu is that it is the perfect base for a day trip (more below) and that you can get great deals there ByJune (where you can find plane tickets, small-scale accommodation and a rental car) all in books).

Jubilation, jubilation Corfu. But you have to know where to go. Because there are okay, good and really good places. And there are lesser places, unfortunately, that too. And that is why a guide was created with tips for what to do and what not to do on Corfu.

Accommodation

The best tip is the By June accommodation in the middle of the island. Epta Karpi Villas is the name and these are lovely houses with a perfect private pool (there are 2 bedrooms and the houses are detached: ideal for a family). We liked the old town the most (20 minutes drive - at ByJune you always book incl. car rental) and the beaches on the west coast so beautiful and nice (less than 15 min drive). Best of both worlds! (If you sleep in the city or on the coast, we thought it was quite a 'far' drive to get to the other favorite).

Epta Karpi Villas fully booked? Bummer. But there are other options Ikos Dassia is known for all inclusive luxury, while the adults only Cook's Club Corfu those lovely trendy parasols by the pool and with their handsome looks and DJ tunes in the evening they capture that boho atmosphere.

Do it

Beaches that are worth it

And if you do end up on this wild island, you're doing yourself a disservice if you don't seek out at least four positions. Which ones? Pick your battles.

Pazuzu – on the beach of Glyfada. Think: (slightly overpriced) tight sunbeds and a dj set here and there (also a bit too loud), but a good atmosphere.

La Grotta Bar – a bar built into the rocks of Paleokastritsa, with a staircase leading to a small inlet of the water. Jump off the diving board, sip a cocktail. A bit 90s dirty here.

Spiros Beach – Paleokastritsa – Small, family-run and with good views of that typical Corfu blue. Rent a sup or pedalo and then join Spiros himself for a plate of fresh calamari.

Akron Beach Bar – A bit more chic, but a real holiday. Thatched parasol and a menu with dishes that are just a little bit better than you expect. Tip: stay until sunset.

Kassiopi – A village with several beaches and bays, ideal to combine. You can walk from your beach towel to a tavern with fresh fish and wine from the house.

Rovinia Beach – Only accessible by a small path or boat, but worth the walk. Think white pebble beach, turquoise water and cliffs. One of the most beautiful (and quiet!) on the island.

Barbati Beach – You will find a mix of locals and tourists here. Bring water shoes, the pebbles make it difficult to get in and out of the water.

Kerasia Beach – Quiet, calm and beautiful. Pack your snorkel and go

Restaurants

We will tell you which ones you should reserve in this article with restaurant tips for Corfu.

Culture and sights

The Old Town of Corfu – one of the most fun to do's. Stay on a square for an espresso freddo with a view of people.

MUSES CORFU – for a shopping spree

Faliraki – is perfect for the hiker looking for views.

Bosketo Garden here you walk among flowers. Nice for a morning walk, book with you.

And then there's the Garden of the People, best known for the 'Instagram ladder'. And yes, it is photogenic, but the garden itself is also just a nice green place to chill.

Day trip Paros

In Paros you really want to stay a week, but if you have the time to make a day trip, do it! Think whitewashed villages, azure bays, and streets that smell of fresh oregano. Start your day in Naoussa, the fishing village with real fishermen, real octopuses on the line, and terraces. After that? Rent a scooter or hop a taxi to Lefkes, the charming mountain village. Fancy the sea? In the late afternoon, head to Kolymbithres Beach, a bay with crystal clear water and sun that colours everything golden.

And if you think: “Hey, maybe I should stay here for a night after all?” Seesoo Paros is your answer.

DON'T: These Disappointing Places

Astrakeri Beach
Straight to the point: Astrakeri Beach is a waste of your morning. There is little charm to this messy stretch of coast. No atmosphere, no beach feeling, and certainly no reason to linger here. So do yourself a favor: turn around and drive straight to Rovinia or Kassiopi. Much better.

Ksamil
Yes, Ksamil is located in Albania. And yes, it is increasingly appearing in lists such as “Maldives of Europe.” But we say: leave it. Read why here.

Hotel Denoel & Restaurant
In the category could really be better: Hotel Denoel & Restaurant. It wasn’t terrible, but on an island like Corfu “okay-ish” is a big no. A shame.

Tips on what to do and especially what not to do in Corfu