One of the most popular Greek islands, Corfu, offers 229 square miles of fun and relaxation! There are beautiful beaches and rugged mountains, lively nightlife, a very long history, and interesting towns. Essentially, there are enough things to do in Corfu for everyone:
1. Chill Out on Corfu’s Beaches
The western side of Corfu generally boasts the best beaches. There’s long stretches of golden sands, warm waters, and a plethora of options for eating, drinking, and sleeping. The pebble beaches and rocky shores are picturesque too!
Sidari Beach is a hit with almost everyone. Swim through the Canal d’Amour and, according to local legend, you’ll soon find your soul mate! Kontokali has many facilities and offers an assortment of water sports. Glyfada also offers good amenities, and the surrounding olive groves and pine forests add to the holiday vibe. Other popular beaches on Corfu include Roda, dynamic Kavos, family-friendly Apraos, and scenic Agios Geordios. Myrtiotissa is a snorkeling hot spot and Halikounas is great for kite surfing enthusiasts.
2. Have Fun and Laughter at a Water Park
If you want to cool down and splash about without going back to your room with sand in your clothes, Corfu is home to several excellent water parks.
Aqualand is often said to be one of the best water parks in the whole of Europe! Right in the middle of the island, it features various pools. This includes a wave pool, a lazy river, and diverse slides and chutes. Some slides are suitable for younger visitors while others offer a thrilling ride. There’s a special kids’ area, a Jacuzzi, sunbathing areas, cafes, a bar, massage services, showers changing rooms, and more.
Sidari Water Park has pools, slides, water games, basketball, and a children’s play area. Hydropolis Water Park is within the Gelina Village Resort. It has sunbathing areas, pools, slides, chutes, a lazy river, water games, and kids’ activities.
3. Admire the Sights of Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa is often said to be one of the most scenic places on the entire island. Combining beaches, bays, cliffs, and monastic history, it’s well worth at least a day trip during your Corfu vacation. Orchards and olive groves line the slopes and you can visit the historic Theotokou Monastery.
4. Wander Around Corfu Town
A top thing to do in Corfu is to visit Corfu Town. The colonial heritage is easy to see in the architecture, and the narrow maze-like streets of the UNESCO-listed old town are very photogenic. There are several old churches scattered around the town, including the 15th-century Church of Ayios Spiridon, which honors the island’s patron saint. The town’s museums include the Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine Museum, and the Museum of Asian Art.
Two fortresses watch over the town: the Old Fort and the New Fort. Don’t be fooled by the name, though; the New Fort is still old, dating back to the 16th century. It was built by the Venetians. The Old Fort was constructed during the Byzantine era. Each offers great views of the area.
Spaniada is a picturesque square, surrounded by beautiful buildings. Shopping wise, you’ll find shops that sell trinkets and souvenirs, traditional workshops and stores that sell food.
5. Go Hiking and Explore Corfu’s Countryside
If you’re into hiking and exploring the great outdoors, one of the top things to do in Corfu is to walk at least part of the Corfu Trail. Stretching for almost 140 miles, the route is well signposted. The path leads through scenic landscapes, which encompass olive groves, gorges, and coastline, as well as past cute villages and historic sites.
If you’re feeling particularly energetic, you can climb Mount Pantokrator, the highest point on the island. Corfu’s oldest village can be found at the foot of the mountain and a monastery sits at the top. It is also possible to drive to the summit. Corfu, in general, is a pretty driver-friendly destination.
6. Visit the Grand Achilleion Palace
The opulent Achilleion Palace takes pride of place in the pretty village of Gastouri. It dates back to the late 1800s, having been built as a summer getaway for Empress Elizabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi. Beautiful inside and out, the palace has served many purposes since its construction. As well as having been used as a roadhouse and a hospital, it was the place where the UK’s Prince Philip was born. If you’re a die-hard James Bond fan, Achilleion Palace will likely be high on your list of things to do in Corfu; it was the shooting location for “For Your Eyes Only.”
7. Learn About Local Legends at Nymphes
An attractive village with lots of greenery and water, local folklore says that Nymphs used to come and bathe in the water in times gone by. Nymphs are figures from Greek mythology. Minor deities, the young, beautiful, and fun-loving women are often associated with nature; particularly water. Today’s visitors can admire the waterfalls and wells around the village.
Other terrific things to do in Corfu include visiting traditional villages, such as Lakones and Kynopiastes. It’s also recommended to take a trip to Gardiki Castle and snap pictures of Pontikonisi, AKA Mouse Island. Dine at local spots, like Pastitsada and Sofrito! Lastly, catch a cricket game and watch a lovely sunset.
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Holidays in Corfu appeal to various types of travelers. It’s an ideal destination for groups of friends looking for fun and families who want enough to keep everyone happy. Couples who are craving a romantic getaway will definitely be satisfied and solo travelers will discover an array of activities and attractions. Enjoy!