Luxury Corfu Holidays

Corfu, the best known and 2nd largest Ionian island, is covered with slender cypress trees, millions of olive trees and an abundance of fresh produce including tomatoes, herbs, lemons, kumquats and olives. Due to its strategic importance, it is steeped in history from successive occupations by Romans, Sicilians, Venetians and the French, plus the British who left behind a fascinating legacy of brass bands, cricket and ginger beer.

With a succession of occupiers putting their own signature on the area, the island enjoys a rich and interesting culture, which visitors can explore. With a variety of culinary delicacies, lively entertainment and astounding architectural accomplishments, the mix of diverse cultural influences within the Greek way of life is evident.

Corfu’s coastline stretches for more than 200km, with fabulous sweeping bays, secluded coves, and beautiful golden sand, shingle or pebble beaches leading to crystal clear azure waters; Blue Flag Glyfada on the west coast is considered to be the top beach in the whole of Greece. For more information read our Best beaches in Corfu blog post.

Explore the north of the island, with its welcoming pebble beaches and panoramic mountains. In the south you’ll find sandier beaches, and a quieter more restful atmosphere, free from the main tourist attractions.

Take a trip to the traditional fishing village of Benitses where you’ll find ancient, picturesque streets, or the beautiful village of Nymfes surrounded by hills and waterfalls. Visit the impressive public space that is the Spianáda Park, or wander around the Old Fortress to soak up some more history.

The island is the ideal place to take a holiday of any kind, whether you’re looking for a group, family or couple’s getaway. Its natural resources lend themselves to adventure and exploration from diving to mountain climbing, while its beaches are perfect for long days and sunbathing punctuated by delicious seafood at the many high-quality eateries. For kids, there are plenty of fun-filled days out to enjoy, such as water parks, pony trekking and spotting colourful marine life on a glass-bottomed boat. Both fun and relaxation await you on the island of Corfu.

Corfu Town

Corfu Town is the capital of the island from which it takes its name. For those on holiday looking for things to do in Corfu the capital is definitely worth a visit. With its two castles and the glorious World Heritage Site old town it is a fascinating city to visit. The British Cemetery which opened in 1814 is located here and is home to the graves of the Anglicans who were once in Corfu. It is also an exceptionally beautiful old garden containing an abundance of orchids. Another popular site to visit, on sunny days out is the New Fortress, which offers stunning views over Corfu Town from its hillside location.

Kassiopi

The summer social centre of Kassiopi is a popular tourist destination although recent development means that it is now more modern than it is traditional. For things to do in Corfu, Kassiopi is worth a visit with its gorgeous beaches, fantastic harbour and wealth of other amenities.

Paleokastritsa

Surrounded by olive groves and backed by verdant hills, the island’s most treasured beauty spot, Paleokastritsa, comprises spectacular scenery, gorgeous beaches with crystal clear waters and plenty of watersports, secluded coves set around numerous bays, an array of delightful seafood tavernas and a 17th century cliff top monastery.

Mount Pantokrator

The highest peak on the island of Corfu, Mount Pantokrator, boasts splendid views. Dominating the northern part of the island at over 900m, and occasionally snow capped in winter, the spring is the best time to visit when the slopes are covered with beautiful wild flowers.

Achilleion Palace

Built as a summer palace for the Empress of Austria, Elizabeth (Sissi) in 1890, the Achilleion Palace near Gastouri features beautiful interiors, wonderful gardens and magnificent sea views; James Bond Film aficionados may recognise it from For Your Eyes Only.

Paxos

Take a day trip across to the tranquil, unspoilt island of Paxos. For those wondering what to do in Corfu, these trips are an excellent way to spend a day. Just south of Corfu on this, the smallest of the Ionian Islands, life is set at an unhurried pace and there are beautiful coves, pebbly beaches, three charming main villages, and numerous breathtaking sea caves set into the cliffside along the rugged west coast. 

Aqualand

This vast water park is Corfu’s largest, and ideal for family things to do in Corfu, with numerous exciting waterslides, a giant whirlpool, lazy river and activities pool, an adventure playground and mini cars for the youngest, plus food and drink zones, a boutique and mini-market.

Museums

There are a number of interesting museums in Corfu Town including the impressive Archaeological Museum, the Asian Art museum with its splendid collection of Chinese porcelain, Japanese Samurai knights’ armour, religious paintings and sculptures, and Mon Repos Palace with its fascinating exhibits dating from Roman times through to the 19th century.