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Planning a trip to Corfu? Good news – you’re in the right place!
Corfu is one of the most captivating Greek islands, and making the most of your time here is a must! So after exploring its scenic coastlines, vibrant Old Town, and hidden gems, we’ve put together this guide to help you experience the very best of Corfu.
From sailing on a classic wooden boat to thrilling paragliding experiences, there are so many ways to soak in the beauty and culture of this magnificent island. We wish we could go back and experience Corfu again for the first time, but we’ll settle for helping you discover its magic instead. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our favorite thing we did in Corfu was this full-day cruise on a classic wooden vessel. It takes you to beaches only accessible by boat, with stops at charming villages along the way. Plus, feast on a BBQ lunch between swims in crystal-clear waters!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Corfu, Greece
- 1. See the best of Corfu on a private sightseeing tour
- 2. Enjoy a full-day cruise on a classic wooden boat
- 3. Try Greek olive oil and tour the famous Governor Olive Mill
- 4. Relax on a private yacht cruise
- 5. Dive into Corfu’s history and culture on a food tour in the Old City
- 6. Go paragliding
- 7. Visit Paleokastritsa and Glyfada beaches
- 8. Spend a day exploring Paxos Antipaxos Blue Caves
- 9. Discover the coastal town of Parga and the Sivota Islands’ Blue Lagoon on a day trip
- 10. Get outside on a fat bike tour in Corfu
- Where to Stay in Corfu, Greece
- Thanks for reading!
- Travel Like a Local, Not a Target.
- Travel Like a Local, Not a Target.
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Corfu, Greece
1. See the best of Corfu on a private sightseeing tour
- Duration: 4 – 7 hours
- Time: Range of departure times from 8 am onwards
- Highlights: Achillion Palace, Paleokastritsa village, St. Spyridon Church, Old Fortress, Palace of St. Michael and St. George
- Inclusions: Corfu hotel or port pickup and drop-off, professional driver, private guide
- Rating: 5 stars (check 160+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you want to see the best of Corfu in just one day, this private sightseeing tour is the way to go!
Whether you choose a half-day or a full-day option, you’ll get a personalized and stress-free adventure. This tour is perfect for cruise passengers with limited time or anyone wanting a deeper dive into Corfu’s rich history and stunning landscapes. We did it on our first day in Corfu, and it was the ultimate introduction to this gorgeous Grecian gem!
We started out by visiting the breathtaking Achilleion Palace, where we wandered through the lavish gardens, discovering legends about Achilles and the palace’s history. Then, we visited Paleokastritsa, Corfu’s famous fishing village. We instantly fell in love with its deep blue waters, white cliffs, and Bohemian vibe!
Finally, we explored Corfu Town. We loved learning about its Venetian heritage and had a blast exploring its iconic Old Fortress. Then, we wrapped up the day with a coffee at a cute spot along the elegant Liston promenade.
We absolutely loved this tour and we’re so glad that we went for the full-day option. Booking a private tour meant we didn’t have to deal with any crowded buses or follow a rigid schedule. Instead, we got to relax and explore Corfu at our own pace. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to get to know the island!
Book your private Corfu sightseeing tour here, with FREE cancellation!
2. Enjoy a full-day cruise on a classic wooden boat
- Duration: 6.5 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Sailing on a traditional wooden kaiki, swimming at Agios Stefanos Beach, enjoying a barbecue lunch on board with white wine, visiting the Peristeres Lighthouse
- Inclusions: Boat cruise, captain and crew, white wine, lunch, bottled water, soft drinks, free WiFi
- Rating: 5 stars (check 190+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sailing on a traditional wooden boat is a must while you’re in Greece, and this full-day cruise was our favorite way to discover Corfu! We explored the island’s hidden beaches, swam in crystal-clear water, and saw a super historic lighthouse.
The boat itself was beautiful, and the crew was super friendly. They really went above and beyond to make sure we had an amazing day! And we’re not the only ones who had a blast—read all of the 5-star reviews here!
Our first stop was Agios Stefanos Beach, a secluded paradise only accessible by boat. Stepping onto the untouched shore felt like a VIP experience—no crowds, just the clear blue water and plenty of time to snorkel and soak it all in. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to the day!
Then, after working up an appetite in the water, we enjoyed a delicious barbecue lunch on board. The meat was grilled to perfection and perfectly complemented by fresh Greek salads and plenty of crisp white wine. Yum!
In the afternoon, we visited the striking Peristeres Lighthouse, which is perched on an island of the same name. We had fun exploring the grounds while our crew taught us about Corfu’s maritime history.
A boat cruise is always fun, but riding around Corfu on a traditional kaiki felt really special. Meanwhile, thanks to the friendly crew, amazing food, and abundance of swim stops, we didn’t stop smiling all day. We would do this tour again in a heartbeat!
Book our favorite Corfu tour here and enjoy FREE cancellation!
3. Try Greek olive oil and tour the famous Governor Olive Mill
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Time: 10:30 am
- Highlights: Touring ancient olive groves at the Governor Olive Mill, learning how to taste and recognize quality olive oil, snacking on island delicacies, sipping local wine
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, food and olive oil tasting, expert guide, water, all taxes and fees, participation certificate
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 460+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Greece is famous for its exceptional olive oil, but did you know that Corfu is home to one of the finest olive oil estates in the entire country? Yup, the Governor Olive Mill is world-renowned for its quality products, so we couldn’t pass up the chance to check it out for ourselves on this guided tour!
When we arrived at the estate, we enjoyed a guided walk through the ancient olive groves while our guide, Maria, taught us about Lianola olives. We loved seeing centuries-old olive trees and were impressed to learn just how much care goes into cultivating and maintaining them. Best of all, we even had the chance to get hands-on with the harvesting process!
Then, it was onto the mill itself, where we were guided through the ultimate olive-tasting lesson. We had learned how to distinguish high-quality olive oil from the supermarket stuff. Of course, the downside of that is that we’ll never want to use lower-grade olive oil ever again.
After the lesson, we enjoyed a more relaxed tasting and paired the award-winning olive oils with local snacks like tomatoes, feta, handmade crackers, and a crisp glass of local white wine. It was such a treat!
This tour was a blast, and judging from hundreds of outstanding reviews, we’re not the only ones who had a great time. Just be aware that it’s very in demand and frequently sells out, so don’t hesitate to book this one early!
Grab your spot on this tour here before it sells out!
4. Relax on a private yacht cruise
- Duration: 2 – 8 hours
- Time: Various time slots available between 10 am and 6:30 pm
- Highlights: Relaxing on a private sailboat cruise, Old Town Corfu, the Old Fortress, Garitsa Bay, Vido and Pontikonissi Islands, swimming and snorkeling sessions, open bar on board, complimentary snacks
- Inclusions: Private sailboat cruise, sandwiches, bottled water, beer, wine, soft drinks, beach towels, skipper, Bluetooth speaker, noodle floats, fuel, use of snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Sailing around Corfu on this private yacht was the ultimate way to experience this beautiful Greek island! And honestly, if you’ve got a decent-sized group, it’s really great value for money, too.
We chose the 5-hour cruise to make the most of every moment—soaking in the stunning scenery and taking full advantage of the swim stops.
As we set sail, Corfu’s Old Town and its Venetian fortresses looked straight out of a postcard. Cruising through Garitsa Bay, we couldn’t stop snapping photos of the ridiculously scenic Mouse Island. Watching planes land at Corfu Airport from the water was an unexpected highlight. It felt like we had front-row seats to a show!
While all of this was going on, we enjoyed playing our own music through the Bluetooth speaker and took full advantage of the boat’s open bar. The crew also offered us plenty of yummy sandwiches so that we could refuel between swim stops.
Later in the day, we enjoyed snorkeling at Vido Island and gorgeous views of the Pontikonissi islet before heading back. Floating in the calm waters with Corfu’s stunning coastline in the background was the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable day on the water.
This tour is an unbeatable way to spend a day in Corfu. By the end of the day, we were sun-kissed, slightly tipsy, and already talking about booking this tour again the next time we visit Corfu. Trust us—you don’t want to miss this one!
Check out all the details and book this private sailing tour here!
5. Dive into Corfu’s history and culture on a food tour in the Old City
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am or 6 pm
- Highlights: Visiting Corfu’s top cafés and restaurants, exploring the island’s former Jewish quarter, tasting artisan produce in specialty stores, meeting and chatting with local vendors, seeing iconic sights like the Old Fortress and the Holy Church of St. Spyridon
- Inclusions: Certified tour guide, all food samples, seated lunch or dinner, olive oil tasting
- Rating: 5 stars (check 210+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If there’s one thing we love about traveling, it’s experiencing a new place through its food, and Corfu was no different. In fact, Greek cuisine is a firm favorite for both of us, so there was no way we could resist booking this walking food tour, especially after we read all of the glowing reviews!
We met our guide, Ariti, near Corfu’s Old Fortress, and we were immediately impressed by her enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the island’s history. We followed her through the charming alleyways of the Old Town and stopped to visit a mixture of family-run eateries, cafés, and local specialty shops along the way.
As we explored, we sampled everything from freshly baked koulouri to rich, velvety Greek coffee—and even enjoyed an olive oil tasting! Along the way, we met and chatted with local vendors and restaurateurs, adding a personal touch that made the tour feel even more special.
Towards the end of the tour, we enjoyed a sit-down meal of pastitsada, a yummy braised meat pasta dish that originates from right here in Corfu! And, of course, we had to finish with a shot of the island’s famous kumquat liqueur.
This food tour really blew us away! It felt like such an authentic way to explore Corfu’s Old Town and discover the island’s cuisine. Just make sure you come hungry because there is a TON of food, and you won’t want to miss a single bite!
Grab your spot on this top-rated food tour here!
6. Go paragliding
- Duration: 15 minutes
- Time: 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, or 3 pm
- Highlights: Exciting paragliding flight, aerial views of Corfu’s west coast
- Inclusions: All paragliding gear, professional instructor
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 160+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We had a blast on this paragliding adventure over the west coast of Corfu! The scenery was stunning, and the flight delivered an incredible adrenaline rush.
Honestly, everyone should try paragliding at least once. It’s thrilling but not as scary as something like bungee jumping, and it’s an amazing way to get a new perspective on a destination.
After a short drive to the launch site, we received a quick safety briefing before we took flight. Then, we suited up, and before we knew it, we were running with our instructors. After just a few steps, we were flying!
Lift-off happened effortlessly, and then we were free to relax as we glided through the sky. We were amazed as we saw miles of turquoise water stretched out below us and golden beaches lined along the shore, while on the other side, Corfu’s lush green hills rolled into the horizon.
The flight lasted for around 15 minutes in total, although this does depend on the wind conditions. Honestly, though, that’s plenty of time in the air, and the peaceful, weightless sensation is hard to beat.
Landing back on earth was pretty smooth, and we were both on such a high! Paragliding over Corfu isn’t just a thrill—it’s the kind of adventure that sticks with you long after your feet are back on solid ground. If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to see the island, this is it!
Check availability and book your paragliding flight here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Visit Paleokastritsa and Glyfada beaches
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Time: Flexible time slots between 8 am and 5 pm
- Highlights: Paleokastritsa Beach, Glyfada Beach, private experience, stress-free shore excursion
- Inclusions: Private tour, professional driver, all taxes, Corfu port pickup and drop-off
- Rating: 5 stars (check 120+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This private tour was the perfect way to experience Corfu’s breathtaking beaches without any hassle. While it’s an ideal excursion for cruise passengers, it’s also a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a laid-back day exploring the island’s best coastal spots.
Our driver greeted us at the port and whisked us away in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Our first stop was the spectacular Paleokastritsa Beach, which is home to turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and lush greenery. It felt like something out of a postcard!
Happily, we had plenty of time to explore Paleokastritsa as we pleased. We decided to check out the charming 13th-century monastery perched on the hilltop, and then we went for a refreshing swim. Floating in the clear blue water with the cliffs around us was the perfect way to cool off!
After soaking up the beauty of Paleokastritsa, we headed to Glyfada Beach, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. This beach had a livelier vibe with beach bars, restaurants, and water sports available. Here, we just enjoyed relaxing on sunbeds, sipping cocktails, and listening to the waves.
If you’re short on time in Corfu, then this tour is the best way to explore its beautiful beaches. We really appreciated the contrast between the dramatic beauty of Paleokastritsa and the chilled-out vacation vibes at Glyfada. Everything was well-organized, and the flexibility made it easy to enjoy the day however we wanted.
Book this private beach tour here, with FREE cancellation!
8. Spend a day exploring Paxos Antipaxos Blue Caves
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 8:25 am or 10 pm
- Highlights: Island hopping, visiting Paxos and Antipaxos, sailing into sea caves, exploring Voutoumi Beach and Gaios at your leisure
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected), coach transfers to port, full-day boat trip, English-speaking guide
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Island hopping is a must while you’re in Greece, and this full-day tour makes it oh-so-easy!
We opted for the hotel transfers, so we didn’t have to worry about getting ourselves to the port first thing in the morning. After a comfy coach ride, we hopped on board our vessel and left Corfu’s Old Town behind, cruising past landmarks like Mon Repos Palace as we went.
First up, we visited the stunning Blue Caves of Paxos, a series of breathtaking sea caves carved into towering white cliffs. The water here is an almost unreal shade of blue—I honestly can’t overstate how incredible it looks!
Next up, we stopped at Voutoumi Beach in Antipaxos. This island is famed for its insanely clear waters. Honestly, the sea here is almost invisible—it literally looks like the boats are hovering in the air!
Then, our final stop of the day was Gaios, the charming main village of Paxos. We checked out the little beaches and wandered along the cobblestone streets before heading back to Corfu.
The entire day was well-organized, the crew was fantastic, and the atmosphere on the boat was so fun and relaxed. There was a cash bar on board so we could purchase drinks along the way, and the DJ kept the vibe high with his fun music.
Whether you’re into sightseeing, swimming, or just soaking up the beauty of the Ionian Sea, this island-hopping tour is an absolute must!
Book this island-hopping tour here before it sells out!
9. Discover the coastal town of Parga and the Sivota Islands’ Blue Lagoon on a day trip
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 8:25 am (select dates)
- Highlights: Sailing to mainland Greece, exploring Parga’s Venetian castle, shopping, swimming stop at the Sivota Islands’ Blue Lagoon
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, boat cruise, hotel transfers (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 80+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
We loved our time in Corfu, but there were still a couple of gems in mainland Greece that we were very keen to see. So we booked this boat cruise to see the picture-perfect town of Parga and Sivota Island’s breathtaking Blue Lagoon. We had an amazing time!
Our first stop of the day was the Blue Lagoon, and it was every bit as stunning as we’d hoped! The water shimmered in vibrant turquoise, and we had about an hour to enjoy it. With its calm, crystal-clear surface, it was perfect for swimming—or just floating and soaking it all in.
Next, we sailed to Parga, a charming seaside town on the mainland. As soon as we arrived, we fell in love with its colorful Venetian buildings and lively waterfront area.
There was plenty of free time to explore and really soak in the atmosphere. Making the most of it, we wandered through the cobbled streets, browsed the town’s little boutiques, and enjoyed a fresh seafood lunch at a local taverna.
The cruise back to Corfu was incredibly relaxing. We grabbed a few drinks from the onboard bar and took in the stunning Ionian views. The entire day had a laid-back vibe and gave us the chance to explore hidden Greek gems we might have missed otherwise.
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, this cruise is a must!
Check availability and book this tour here!
10. Get outside on a fat bike tour in Corfu
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Time: Various times between 9 am and 6:30 pm
- Highlights: Freedom to explore independently, fat bike to provide stability across a range of terrains, electronic guide to navigate for you, Temple of Apollo Roda, Kassiopi Castle
- Inclusions: Use of electric fat bike, helmet, lock, gloves, electronic guide
- Rating: 5 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This self-guided cycling tour was the perfect way to explore northern Corfu at our own pace. Electric fat bikes made the ride effortless, with pedal assistance helping us cover more ground in half a day. Plus, the fat tires provided stability on all kinds of terrain, from sandy paths to rocky trails.
We decided to stop at Old Perithia first, where we had fun exploring the abandoned Venetian village. The stone houses and overgrown pathways were the ultimate Insta backdrop, not to mention a really peaceful place to explore away from the crowds.
Next, we rode to the Temple of Apollo in Roda to check out the ruins and visited Kassiopi Castle for breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. It’s a Byzantine-era castle that actually predates Corfu’s Venetian buildings, so it was really cool to uncover a different epoch of the island’s history.
After exploring, we parked our bikes in the fishing village below and grabbed a coffee at a cute local café before heading back to base. Sitting by the water, sipping a rich Greek coffee, and watching the boats gently bob in the harbor was the perfect way to wrap up the ride.
Northern Corfu is much quieter than the rest of the island, and we loved being able to explore it independently! If you’re an adventurous traveler who appreciates freedom and flexibility, you’re going to love this tour.
Book this self-guided bike tour here before it sells out!
Where to Stay in Corfu, Greece
Corfu is an incredible island with plenty of great places to stay, no matter your budget or travel style. Whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or something more affordable, you’ll find the perfect spot to call home while exploring this stunning destination.
To make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Corfu, so you can spend less time searching and more time soaking up everything this beautiful island has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
Set in a restored neoclassical building, New York Luxury Suites is a 5-star boutique hotel in Corfu’s Old Town, just steps from the Liston Promenade. The hotel’s stylish suites blend historic charm with modern elegance, featuring high-end furnishings and city views. With a prime location and refined atmosphere, it’s an ideal base for exploring Corfu in style.
Prices range from €250 – €400 per night, depending on the season and suite. Check availability and book on Booking.com!
Mid-range – $$
Arcadion Hotel is a fantastic mid-range option in the heart of Corfu Town, offering a stylish and comfortable stay. Overlooking the iconic Spianada Square and just a short walk from Corfu’s Old Town, it’s an ideal base for exploring the island’s history and culture. The hotel features elegant, well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, a cozy lounge, and a breakfast area serving a delicious morning spread with local flavors. Some rooms even offer stunning views of the Old Fortress!
Prices range from around €100 – €150 per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget-friendly accommodation in Corfu, Joseph Apartment is a great choice! This cozy and well-appointed apartment offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a private balcony. Located in a quiet area yet close to local attractions, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat while staying within budget. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, making it a convenient option for both short and extended stays.
Rates start at around €60 per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and make your reservation!
For more options, see all of Corfu’s hotels listed here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
That’s our full guide to the best things to do in Corfu! Whether you’re sailing to hidden beaches, tasting world-class olive oil, or soaring above the island on a paragliding adventure, Corfu is packed with unforgettable experiences. We loved every moment of our time here, and we’re sure you will too!
Whether you’re planning more adventures or just looking for travel inspiration, check out all our blogs about Greece here! You’ll find plenty of tips and recommendations to make your trip even better.
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