Corfu, also known as Kerkyra, is the second largest of the Ionian Islands in Greece. It is located in the northwestern part of the Ionian Sea, just off the coast of Albania. Corfu is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and rich history.
Here is an ultimate guide to Corfu, Greece:
- When to go: The best time to visit Corfu is during the summer months (June-September), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the island can be crowded during this time, so if you prefer a quieter vacation, you may want to consider visiting in spring (May-June) or fall (September-October).
- Getting there: There are several ways to get to Corfu. You can fly into Corfu International Airport, which is located in the town of Corfu. There are also ferries from mainland Greece and Italy.
- Where to stay: There are a variety of accommodation options on Corfu, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and apartments. If you are looking for a traditional Greek experience, you may want to stay in a small village or town.
- Things to do: There are many things to do on Corfu, from relaxing on the beach to exploring the island’s rich history and culture. Here are a few of the top things to do:
- Visit Corfu Town: Corfu Town is the capital of Corfu and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old town is full of narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and charming squares.
- Explore the beaches: Corfu has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Some of the most popular beaches include Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, and Paradise Beach.
- Go hiking: Corfu has a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the Mount Pantokrator trail and the Angelokastro trail.
- Visit the Achillion Palace: The Achillion Palace was built in the 19th century for Empress Sissi of Austria. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
- Take a boat trip or Corfu Cruises: There are a number of boat trips available from Corfu, including trips to the Paxos and Antipaxos islands, the Blue Caves, and the Corfu coastline.
- Food and drink: Corfu has a wide variety of restaurants serving traditional Greek cuisine as well as international fare. Some of the most popular dishes include moussaka, souvlaki, and grilled octopus. Corfu is also known for its wines, which are produced from local grapes.
- Budget: The cost of a trip to Corfu will vary depending on the time of year, the length of stay, and your budget. However, in general, Corfu is a relatively affordable destination.
- Currency: The currency in Greece is the euro.
- Visas: Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Greece for stays of up to 90 days.
- Language: The official language of Greece is Greek. However, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
- Electricity: The voltage in Greece is 220 volts. You will need a converter if your appliances are designed for 110 volts.
- Time zone: Greece is in the Eastern European Time (EET) zone. This is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
- Travel insurance: It is always a good idea to travel with travel insurance. This will protect you in case of medical emergencies, lost luggage, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Taste – What to Eat in Corfu
Here are some of the best dishes to eat in Corfu:
- Sofrito: This is a traditional Corfiot dish made with pork or veal, garlic, onions, and wine. It is slow-cooked until the meat is tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful.
- Pastitsada: This is another traditional Corfiot dish made with beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce. It is often served with grated cheese.
- Bourdeto: This is a fish stew made with octopus, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold day.
- Bianco: This is a fish dish made with white wine, potatoes, and herbs. It is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer day.
- Kumquat marmalade: Kumquats are a small, orange citrus fruit that are native to Corfu. They are used to make marmalade, which is a sweet and sour spread that is often served with pastries.
- Tsoureki: This is a traditional Greek sweet bread that is made with eggs, sugar, and spices. It is often decorated with red and white stripes, which represent the Greek flag.
- Yaourtloukoumades: These are fried dough balls that are dipped in a honey and walnut sauce. They are a popular dessert in Corfu and are often served warm.
We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Corfu!