How to Spend 4 Perfect Days in Corfu, Greece [The Ultimate Guide to the Ionian Capital]
Corfu Old Town
Corfu is celebrated as one of Greece's most popular islands, renowned for its easy accessibility during the summer months. But this lush, wild Ionian gem offers much more than just vibrant beach clubs and tourist-filled eateries in the old town. With this carefully crafted 4-day itinerary, you'll uncover the hidden charms of Corfu, giving you the confidence to explore beyond the typical tourist trail. From the best times to visit and where to stay, to must-try restaurants and unique activities, this guide will help you experience the full spectrum of Corfu’s breathtaking beauty and rich culture.
Best Time to Travel to Corfu
Like most of Greece, the Ionian Islands and Corfu have their warmest weather in July and August, with beach temperatures starting in late May and lasting through September. While these months are the busiest and most exciting, they also bring intense heat and big crowds, especially in August when many locals go on holiday.
For me, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season. We went at the end of May, and it was perfect, warm enough for swimming without the heat or the crowds. It was a great balance, and you could enjoy the island without dealing with the summer rush.
How Many Days are Enough for Corfu?
Corfu is the second-largest of the seven Ionian islands. While it's larger compared to the other five, it remains a relatively manageable size, making it easy to explore. You don’t need a long time to experience the highlights of Corfu.
If you’re mainly interested in relaxing on the beach and exploring the charming Old Town, a visit of one or two days will be enough.
However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, wish to visit additional beaches, perhaps take a day trip, and fully enjoy the island’s vibe, I recommend planning for a stay of at least three or four days.
Where to Stay in Corfu
Best for / Without a Car & First Timers
If it’s your first time in Corfu, staying in the heart of Corfu Town is a no-brainer. You’ll be within walking distance of Venetian alleyways, waterfront cafés, and lively markets. Plus, with great public transport links, you won’t need a car in Corfu to explore.
Best for / Families
This laid-back fishing village on Corfu’s northeast coast has everything families need: calm, shallow waters, plenty of kid-friendly tavernas, and a relaxed vibe. There’s enough to keep little adventurers entertained without the chaos of bigger resort towns.
Best for / Water Sports & Nightlife
A lively resort with a yacht marina, Gouvia is a top pick for thrill-seekers and party lovers alike. Spend your days kayaking, diving, or trying out jet skis, then hit the beach bars and clubs that keep the energy high after dark.
Best for / Couples & Solitude
If you’re after long, lazy beach days and a bit of seclusion, Barbati is the spot. Tucked between olive groves and the sparkling Ionian Sea, it’s perfect for couples looking to unwind, with just enough stylish beach bars and tavernas to keep things interesting.
Getting To & Around Corfu
Getting to Corfu
Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (Corfu International) offers year-round flights from Athens and Thessaloniki, alongside seasonal routes to a wide range of destinations across Europe and the Middle East, operating from May to September.
For those travelling to Corfu from the UK, Corfu is easily accessible during the summer months, with various flights departing from numerous UK airports, making it one of the most convenient Greek islands to visit.
If you're travelling to Corfu from Athens or elsewhere in Greece, you have two great options: flying directly to Corfu from Athens or Thessaloniki, or driving to the port of Igoumenitsa on the mainland’s northwest coast, where you can catch a ferry to the island in just over an hour. While flying is the quickest and often the most affordable option, renting a car in Athens can be more economical. Plus, this gives you the chance to drive through the scenic mainland, allowing you to extend your Greek adventure with a more immersive road trip.
Getting Around Corfu
Arriving at Corfu International Airport, you’ll be just under 2 miles from the Old Town, easily reachable by public transport or taxi. Take bus number 15 from the terminal for a 15-minute ride to the town centre. If you prefer a private transfer to your accommodation from the airport or port, you can book here.
Renting a car is a great option if you’re comfortable driving, or you can use the island’s two bus systems: blue buses for central areas and green buses for more remote destinations.
For reliable car rentals across Europe, we consistently turn to Discover Cars. Over the past four years, it's been our go-to platform for finding the best deals and most competitive rates when exploring European destinations.
Taxis cost between €10-15, or you can walk to the Old Town in 25–30 minutes. Corfu is also connected by ferry to nearby islands such as Kefalonia, the mainland, Italy, and Albania. The port is a 10-minute drive from the Old Town, with bus connections available.
4 Day Corfu Itinerary
Corfu (Kerkyra in Greek) is one of those places that has it all, stunning beaches, rich history, and a lively atmosphere all year round. Unlike many Greek islands that quiet down in the off-season, Corfu stays vibrant, with locals keeping the island’s culture and traditions alive.
Of all the Greek islands I’ve visited, Corfu was my favourite because it strikes the perfect balance. You can spend your days exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or enjoying a meal that reflects the island’s rich history. Whether you're here for history, food, or just a great island vibe, Corfu delivers.
Day 1 - Old Town of Corfu
Begin your Corfu adventure in the island’s historic heart: the Old Town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its roots stretch back to the 8th century BCE, shaped by Byzantine, Venetian, French, and British influences. This layered history is reflected in everything from the architecture to the island’s distinctive cuisine.
In the heart of the Old Town lies Spianada, Greece’s largest square. Surrounded by Venetian-style buildings, this green, open space is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You might even spot a cricket match, an unusual sight in Greece but a lingering tradition from British rule. Nearby, the imposing Old Fortress overlooks the Ionian Sea, a stunning 15th-century Venetian stronghold offering breathtaking views and occasional cultural exhibitions.
For lunch, make your way to O' Gyros, where you'll experience what’s arguably the best gyro wrap I’ve had since living in Greece, a bold claim, but one I stand by. What truly sets this gyro apart from others I've had in Greece is their signature "Corfu red sauce." This unique blend of tomato and spices, inspired by Corfu’s rich culinary heritage, adds a flavourful twist that takes the sandwich to another level.
Wandering Corfu’s winding alleyways, you’ll find charming boutiques, cafés, and markets nestled among pastel-hued buildings. A refreshing stop at Papagiorgis Patisserie-Gelateria for artisanal gelato is a must, especially on a warm day. Just a short walk away, the Church of St. Spyridon stands as the island’s most significant religious site. Built in the 16th century, it houses the relics of Corfu’s patron saint and features the tallest bell tower in the Ionian Islands.
As the sun sets, head to Veranda Taverna for a seaside dinner featuring Corfu’s unique cuisine, which blends Greek flavours with Venetian influences. Dishes like pastitsada, a slow-cooked meat dish in a rich tomato sauce, and stoufado, a fragrant beef stew, offer a taste of the island’s history. With views over the harbour and the sound of waves in the background, it’s the perfect way to end your first day in Corfu.
Day 2 - Western Corfu Beaches
Tucked away on Corfu's west coast, Gialli Beach is a peaceful spot with crystal-clear waters and no crowds, making it feel like a secret escape. It’s the perfect place if you're looking to get away from the usual tourist hotspots.
But getting there isn’t straightforward. The beach isn’t accessible by car or a quick walk, so you’ll need to hike or take a boat. The hike starts near the Chapel of Prophet Elias and takes about an hour. It’s steep, with loose rocks and some ropes to help you down, so only attempt it if you're fit and wearing proper shoes. Since there are no services at the beach, bring water and snacks if you plan on staying a while.
If you'd rather skip the hike, you can hire a boat taxi from Liapades, the nearest village port, which is just a 10-minute ride each way. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with a quiet, stunning beach that’s hard to leave.
After a day of sun, head to one of the nearby villages like Giannades or Ermones for a delicious meal at a local taverna, and enjoy the laid-back vibe.
Day 3 - Wine Tasting and Glyfada Beach
Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tour
Corfu's vineyards are scattered across the island's rural villages, making them a bit off the beaten path, especially if you're not travelling by car. However, with a little planning, you can easily dive into Corfiot wine country and discover the island's rich winemaking traditions.
One of the best ways to experience the vineyards is by joining a guided tour. Many tours offer convenient pick-ups from the Old Town or your accommodation, and they’ll take you through local wineries for tastings. Some even include olive oil tastings, allowing you to savour both of Corfu’s iconic products in one trip. You can find great options, such as a wine-tasting tour or a private full-day tour, to fully immerse yourself in the island’s flavours.
If you're travelling without a car, don’t worry, buses from the Old Town can take you to several nearby villages with wineries. However, if you're driving, your options expand significantly. For a more flexible experience, I recommend visiting Pontiglio Winery, a lovely family-run vineyard in Lefkimmi, or Nicoluzo Winery in the north, known for its unique wine varieties. Either way, you're sure to find a new favourite wine on Corfu.
With the lovely owners of Pontiglio Winery, Athena and Konstantina
Glyfada Beach
After a day of wine tasting, there's no better way to unwind than by heading to one of Corfu's stunning beaches. The island offers a variety of beaches, each with its own vibe. One standout is Glyfada Beach, which is perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
The water here is crystal-clear, and the beach is spacious. You’ll find a selection of restaurants catering to different budgets right on the shore. Whether you want to rent a chair at one of the beach clubs (prices range from €15-20) or just throw down a towel and enjoy the sun, Glyfada is an excellent choice. It's located on the opposite side of the island from Corfu’s Old Town, but it's easy to reach by bus, making it convenient if you're already nearby after a wine tour.
If you're up for exploring a bit more, Agios Gordios Beach is just a little further south, offering a similar sandy beach vibe, and it’s also within easy reach.
Day 4 - Day Trip to Paxos & Antipaxos
One of the perks of visiting Corfu is its proximity to other stunning Ionian islands, making it easy to explore beyond just Corfu itself. If you’re on the island for a few days, I highly recommend taking a day trip to Paxos and Antipaxos, two beautiful islands known for their crystal-clear waters and unspoiled charm.
There are a couple of ways to visit these islands. The first is through a guided day tour, which typically includes everything from transport and island exploration to lunch or local experiences. While this is an easier option, it can be pricier. For instance, a full-day boat cruise is a popular choice that covers both Paxos and Antipaxos.
If you’d prefer a more independent approach, you can catch a ferry from Corfu's New Port to Paxos. The ferry ride takes about an hour, and there are regular departures with services from “Kamelia Lines.” If you’re traveling by car, “Kerkyra Lines” also offers ferry routes.
Paxos is a small, quiet island where the best thing to do is simply wander around, enjoy the beaches, and savor some local Greek food. Gaios, the capital, is where the action happens, with charming streets to explore, local cafés to relax in, and delightful tavernas like Mambo where you can sample fresh, flavorful dishes.
If you want to add Antipaxos to your trip, it's just a short boat ride away. You can either rent a small boat or take a water taxi—expect to pay around €20 for a return ticket. On Antipaxos, the beaches are tranquil and the water inviting, perfect for a swim or some quiet time in the sun. Votoumi Beach is particularly popular.
Alternatively, for a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, you can head north to Sidari, where you can catch a ferry to Erikousa. This lesser-known island is a quiet escape, offering a laid-back vibe and minimal crowds, perfect if you’re looking for a more secluded adventure.
Antipaxos
Year after year, Corfu proves why it’s one of the Greek islands’ standouts. Spend just a few days here, and you’ll get it, this is the kind of place that keeps pulling you back.
This post contains affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission, which helps keep our content free.
