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Where to stay in Corfu

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Best areas to stay in Corfu

The Mediterranean island of Corfu has long been a popular destination: there’s no faulting its golden sand beaches, family-run tavernas and glistening waters. Despite its popularity, Corfu retains a low-key, mellow feel, which is reflected in its accommodation options, from secluded resorts to smaller hotels. It’s a mountainous region too, meaning that if you get fed up with sunbathing or swimming, you can head out on a hike to discover the unending natural beauty of this stunning Ionian island. Interested in more travel ideas? Check out our all inclusive holidays to Corfu for another incredible experience.

  1. Kerkyra Town
  2. The South
  3. North of Kerkyra Town
  4. The Northeast
  5. The North and Northwest
  6. The West
  7. Paxi
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1. Kerkyra Town

Kerkyra Town (Corfu Town) has a cosmopolitan atmosphere, but fewer tourists tend to stay here because they want a slower pace in Corfu. That said, if a range of architectural styles and lively bars sound up your street, you’ll enjoy your stay in Kerkyra Town. Along with elegant arcades there are French and Georgian-English style buildings which tell the island’s ruling history. It’s regarded as the commercial heart of Corfu, which is ideal for shoppers!

Holidays to Corfu Town

Best for: Cosmopolitan folk.

While you’re here: Visit the Archaeological Museum and Museum of Asian Art.

2. The South

Once seen as a party area, the South region of Corfu has revamped itself as a quieter part of the island with a slicker feel. Benitses boasts a smart marina while the beaches on the southwest boast soft golden sands: the resort of Agios Gordios is a popular choice with many tourists. If you’re looking to get into your watersports, head down to Halikounas beach, where you can give kitesurfing and windsurfing a go.

Holidays to Agios Gordios

Best for: Watersport fans.

While you’re here: The Korission Lagoon may be artificial, but there’s plenty of nature to observe here, particularly birds.

3. North of Kerkyra Town

To the north of Kerkyra Town makes for one of the best areas to stay in Corfu, thanks to its array of lively resorts. The area is made up of former fishing villages, where small roads lead onto large marinas and there are plenty of sand and pebble beaches to enjoy. Consider staying in Gouvia with its sheltered bay, while the likes of Ypsos and Pyrgi are having a moment with families.

Best for: Families.

While you’re here: Check out the pretty little church of Ypapanti that sits just across Gouvia’s bay.

4. The Northeast

If it’s constant scenic vistas you’re after during your Corfu holidays, you couldn’t choose a better spot to stay in than the Northeast. With cliffside roads, foot-only beaches and tall mountains, you won’t know where to start in this area of Corfu – so book a stay here to soak up every last view! After you’ve passed by enough whitewashed cottages, 13th century fortresses and almond trees to your heart’s content, enjoy the buzzing nightlife or watch the local fishermen hard at work in the harbour.

Holidays to Kassiopi

Best for: Photographer-wannabes.

While you’re here: Head to the ‘ghost town’ of Palea Perithia, which became abandoned in the 1970s.

5. The North and Northwest

The North and Northwest areas of the island are also pleasant areas to stay in Corfu, thanks to their array of holiday complexes and low-key resorts. Note that some areas, like Erikousa and Mathraki, are so small that you’ll have to reserve well in advance for summer stays! While you’re here, take the journey to the balcony-village of Lakones, which you can access via a twisting road; the views looking out to sea are some of the finest in Corfu, if not Europe.

Holidays to Sidari

Best for: Off the beaten track.

While you’re here: Visit Makrades, where you can lose yourself in the souvenir stalls, tasty tavernas and clusters of whitewashed houses.

6. The West

Looking for the local life in Corfu? You can’t go wrong with staying on the west side of the island, which is home to an abundance of villages and hill-towns; base yourself here and visit each of them in turn to really make the most of this part of the island. Stop for lunch in Pelekas, admire the sunset at Kaiser’s Throne or rest up on the beach in Kontogialos; you can also while away part of a day in Sinarades’s History and Folklore Museum of Central Corfu for an extra insight into the island’s cultural traditions and heritage.

Best for: Local life.

While you’re here: Make the most of the 450m-long Glyfada beach.

7. Paxi

Okay, so Paxi might not be on the island of Corfu, but it’s only 10 miles south of the island and is the smallest of the Ionian islands. It’s a clean, quiet place with irresistible waters. You can visit it as part of a day trip, but stay a night or two here and you’ll find it hard to leave...

Holidays to Paxos

Best for: Peace and quiet..

While you’re here: Sit at a taverna on the waterfront square and take in the yachts entering harbour.

Holidays to Corfu

FAQs: Best areas to stay in Corfu

  • What are the most beautiful regions to explore in Corfu?

    Corfu boasts scenic regions like Paleokastritsa, known for its turquoise bays and lush hills, and the Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Venetian architecture and charming streets. The north offers mountainous views in areas like Kassiopi, while the south features peaceful beaches around Agios Georgios.

  • Which area in Corfu is known for its vibrant nightlife?

    Kavos, located at the southern tip of the island, is widely recognised for its vibrant nightlife, attracting a youthful crowd with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties throughout the summer.

  • Where can you find the best beaches in Corfu?

    Paleokastritsa has some of Corfu’s most beautiful beaches with clear waters and stunning views. Other notable beaches include Agios Gordios, Glyfada, and Issos, each offering a unique coastal experience.

  • Where should first-time visitors consider staying in Corfu?

    First-time visitors often enjoy staying in Corfu Town for easy access to historical sites, restaurants, and shops. Alternatively, areas like Dassia and Gouvia offer resorts and good connections to other parts of the island.

  • What is the location of the main entertainment strip in Corfu?

    The main entertainment strip is located in Kavos, where visitors find a variety of clubs, bars, and beachside venues along the central road.

  • Which areas of Corfu offer a more tranquil experience?

    For a quieter experience, areas like Agios Georgios North, Arillas, and Pelekas provide peaceful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and nature lovers.

  • Is it feasible to navigate Corfu without a car?

    Yes, it’s possible to explore Corfu without a car, especially if staying in Corfu Town or other well-connected areas. Public buses serve major towns and beaches, and taxis or organized tours can reach more remote locations.

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