Corfu - Greece

The island of Corfu is located just off the West coast of Greece. Corfu enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate along with excellent beaches making it a popular destination for holiday makers. The island is very green compared to other Greek islands: hot and dry summers along with winter rain creates lush vegetation dominated by over 2 million olive trees. These olive trees on Corfu are the main cultivation, although Corfu's tourism now provides the most income.

Corfu - Location

Corfu is just off the West coast of Greece and is one of the most Northern Ionian Islands. Many are surprised to learn that the coast directly opposite Corfu is not Greece, but in fact Albania. The narrow channel between Corfu and Albania, in places, is less than 2km. Generally, the sea on the East and North of Corfu is shallower (light blue) whereas the sea on the Western Corfu coast is very deep.)

Corfu - Statistics

Corfu Population: 109,512
Capital: Corfu Town
Island Size: 597km² (Aprox 63km Long and 28km Wide)
Highest Mountain: Mount Pantokratoras (906m)
Coastline: 217 km
Number of Beaches: 92 (Sandy and Shingle)
Language: Greek (English commonly spoken)

Getting to Corfu

Airport: Corfu's International airport (Kapodistrias) is located on the edge of Corfu (Kerkyra) town, it is modern and compact. During the summer months (May to October) there are regular charter flights from most European countries to Corfu. Domestic flights (from Athens) operate all year round.

Port: Corfu's port is at the edge of Corfu (Kerkyra) town. Ferries from Greek mainland (Igumenitsa and Patra) offer a regular service as well as ferries from Italy (Venice, Ancona and Brindisi). Corfu port is also a popular stop for visiting cruise ships.

Driving: Some drive to Corfu, the regular ferries from  Italy and the Greek mainland to Corfu make the trip easier to plan.

Corfu - Climate and Weather

The tourist season is from early May until the end of October.  The hottest (and driest) months being July and August where the temperature will often reach 35c. Some tourists do visit during the winter months and although mild, it can often be wet.

The following weather websites can help you choose when to visit:

1. www.windguru.com

2. www.meteo.gr

3. www.poseidon.ncmr.gr

4. www.wetter.de 

Corfu's mild weather, low crime and friendly people has attracted many to move or retire to Corfu. Some estimates say that over 10,000 foreigners live on Corfu, but there are no official statistics.

Before choosing a place to live, many, quite rightly, question the safety of the area. You will please to know that Greece is the safest place in Europe. Many single visit and feel safe at night. The local Corfiots are a tight community and will immediately investigate a suspicious person! Corfu is a safe holiday destination, the locals honest and you need not worry about walking on your own at night. If there is any danger at all, it would be from other tourists! Tourist resorts often attract individuals who are looking for an opportunity to steal easily. Crime and theft is very rare. Many locals do not lock their car or homes.

The most important part of any Greek island, and Corfu is no exception, is the food and wine. Corfu's Tavernas will not disappoint. Modern Greek food is fresh and exciting. Gone are the soggy Mousakas served with chips. Now days you will find Modern Greek food - fresh and exciting. Holidays on Corfu are all about food and wine! Eating to Greeks is life itself. It is a time for Greek families to get together and socialize. The traditional highlight of the week is Sunday lunch - long drawn out affairs - often lasting many hours. Find out what Greek delights, on Corfu, are typically on offer, and what the local Greeks eat. 

The Greek isles mean beaches. Corfu is no exception and has many varied beaches for you to choose from and enjoy. Sandy, Rocky coves, quiet or hidden.

 The main holiday resorts and beaches on Corfu are: Acharavi, Agni, Arilas, Avlaki, Barbati, Benitsas, Dasia, Ermones, Saint Georgios (North and South), Glyfada, Agios Gordios, Gouvia, Ipsos, Kalami, Kaminaki Kassiopi, Kavos, Kerrasia, Kontokali, Messonghi Agios Nikolas, Nissaki, Paleokastritsa, Pelekas, Roda, Sidari, Agios (Saint) Stephanos (NE) Agios (Saint) Stephanos (NW)

Corfu - What to see and visit 

• 'Corfu town' is Venice and Naples, a touch of France and more than a dash of England, apart of course from being Greek' - well worth a visit:

• Mt Pantokrator dominates the Northern part of the Island and is over 1000 meters high. During the winter months, it is occasionally 'snow capped'. There are several villages to stop and see on the way such as Srinilas, which are well worth a visit:

• Perithia is a deserted village. It is located high up, off the main road between Kassiopi and Acharavi. It is strange driving in the mountains,  coming across this deserted village with a few sheep and a couple of  Tavernas in the middle!

• Achillion Palace is definitely a place to take your camera. This beautiful building in picturesque gardens overlooking the sea and Corfu town is one of Corfu's top attractions.

• Palaiokastritsa is famous for being the islands most treasured beauty spot, and becomes busy with day trippers throughout the season. Luxury yachts sail in to admire the back drop of the beautiful green hills, while coaches clog up the narrow roads leading into town!

•  Corfu has several water parks, but aqualand is the largest. A must for children of all ages!

• During your stay on Corfu, do not miss out on the opportunity to visit at least one of the many Greek Churches and Monasteries.