Corfu
With thanks to guest contributors Anna and Patrick Lau
A LONG WEEKEND IN CORFU
Just miles from northwestern Greece and southwestern Albania, Corfu is the second largest of the Greek Ionian Islands and the best known. There is something for everyone here, and adventure seekers will enjoy hiking the dry, mountainous interior and history buffs will appreciate the UNESCO World Heritage old town within Corfu Town. Families and sun-seekers in search of a Mediterranean beach holiday will not be disappointed by the eastern shore’s calm waters and bleached, pebble beaches.
Most major cities in Europe have direct flight’s into Corfu’s Ioannis Kapodistrias Corfu international airport. Those traveling from further afield can transfer through Athens. Unless staying at a resort, we recommend hiring a car to explore on your own.
The high season (and busiest time) on the island is June through August, but the Corfu sun can be oppressive in summer. While we visited at the end of August, we would also recommend the shoulder season. The beaches will be no less beautiful in May or September!
Check out our top tips for how to spend a long weekend in Corfu.
EAT
Al’s Taverna Quiet, beachside taverna at Ipso’s Beach.
Aphrodite’s Grocery and Bakery Hands down, this family-owned grocery and bakery in Nissaki was the best. Order groceries in advance and throughout your stay directly from Aphrodite who can arrange delivery. Definitely go into the bakery and patisserie. They make incredible baklava!
Papagiorgis Patiserie-Gelateria The spot for gelato in Corfu Town. They also have vegan options.
Porta Remoundaj Classic Greek taverna in Corfu Town.
Salto Wine Bar and Bistro A friend coined it the best meal she had in Corfu Town! Also a wine bar.
Yiannis Taverna Krouzeri Friendly taverna with tasty eats on Nissaki Beach. Also a good spot for sundown drinks.
DRINK
Mikro Cafe Super cute cocktail bar in Corfu Town.
Nicoluzo Winery This boutique cellar door once held the title for Greece’s smallest winery. While the humble abode is not much to look at, winemaker Anastasio Nicoluzo is an excellent storyteller and makes damn good wine. You won’t find his bottles really anywhere else - he only sells direct to drive-by visitors, a handful of restaurants and private yachts. Call in advance before stopping by. Tastings are not available here.
Theotoky Estate This organic, family-owned winery is the most prestigious and well-known on the island. They produce a white, rose and red variety (highly recommend the white). Tours and tastings are available.
PLAY
Nissaki Beach A lovely beach on the northeast shore facing Albania. Parking is available as are umbrella and beach chair hires.
Old Venetian Fortress Worth a poke around while spending the day in Corfu Town. Lots of history here and great views of the city.
Palaiokastritsa This village on Corfu’s northwest coast makes for an excellent day trip. Visit the Monastery Paleokastritsa and stop by Akron Beach Bar and Restaurant for a beach swim and lunch.
Yacht Hop Explore Corfu by water for the day. We hired a large vessel with Yacht Hop and spent the day cruising and swimming around the island. Also check out Corfu Yachting.
STAY
The northeast beaches are some of the nicest on the island with smooth, bleached pebbles and calm waters. Our group stayed in a large villa in the hillside above Nissaki beach. MyVilla Corfu had gorgeous views of the water and was well equipped for a group of 15.
Friends spent a few nights in Corfu Town and loved the Siorra Vittoria Boutique Hotel, an 1832 converted mansion next to the town square.