Corfu Town is the cultural and transport centre. Paleokastritsa, Kassiopi and the north-west coast sit in different directions, so one-day island circuits spend too much time on bends and traffic.
A split stay gives the old town proper attention and leaves several slower days for beaches, villages and viewpoints.
Begin with Corfu Town
The fortresses, Liston and dense old-town streets explain the island’s Venetian and later history.
Choose one coast at a time
Paleokastritsa and Kassiopi are both rewarding, but they do not form a quick loop.
Drive for the road, not the distance
Narrow lanes, village traffic and limited beach parking slow island journeys.
A practical itinerary
- Days 1 to 2: explore Corfu Town.
- Days 3 to 4: use a west-coast or north-coast base.
- Days 5 to 6: add villages, a walking route and one unhurried beach day.
Getting there
Corfu airport sits just south of Corfu Town. Ferries connect the town with mainland ports and selected international routes.
Getting around
Urban and intercity buses serve many settlements. A car helps with remote coves and villages, but parking and narrow roads need patience.
Food to look for
Corfiot cooking includes pastitsada, sofrito, bourdeto and kumquat products, reflecting local ingredients and Venetian influence.
When to visit
May, June and September suit coast and walking routes. July and August are busy. Winter is wetter, greener and much quieter.
Accessible travel
Corfu Town and modern resorts vary in access. Historic lanes, steep beaches and boat boarding require exact local confirmation.
Practical limits
Small-boat trips depend on wind and sea. Coastal parking fills early, and cross-island journey times increase in summer.
Nearby places
Paxos and Antipaxos are boat destinations with weather-dependent schedules. Mainland Epirus needs a separate ferry and road plan.
Places to add to your map
- Corfu Town: Main airport, ferry and cultural hub.
- Paleokastritsa: West-coast coves and viewpoints.
- Kassiopi: Northern harbour town.
- Mount Pantokrator: Highest island area with mountain roads.
Open the route planner to place these stops in a wider Greece trip.
Continue planning
Questions about Corfu Island
How long should I stay on Corfu?
Five days cover the town and one coast. A week supports two bases and slower village routes.
Can I explore Corfu by bus?
Yes for Corfu Town and many main resorts. A car adds flexibility for remote beaches and villages.
Where should I stay on Corfu?
Corfu Town suits history and transport. Add a north or west-coast base if beaches and rural routes are priorities.
Sources and updates
This guide was last reviewed on 28 August 2026. Transport, access and opening arrangements can change, so check the official source before travel.
- Official Greek islands visitor information, Greek National Tourism Organisation
- Official Ionian Islands visitor information, Greek National Tourism Organisation
- Old Town of Corfu World Heritage record, UNESCO World Heritage Centre