17 day trips from Corfu

To perfect your stay on the northernmost of the Ionian Islands, here are some ideas for day trips from Corfu!

Corfu is one of the largest Greek islands. Located at the crossroads of various maritime routes, it has over the centuries been a strategic center for trade. Thus, it still keeps track of the various Mediterranean cultures that have crossed them in different eras. Today, its seduction power is intact and attracts a host of visitors every year.

It must be said that its deep waters, its wooded mountainous terrains and its cultural riches make it a small edifice. However, in places, mass tourism has squeezed the place and gives it an air of paradise lost. However, it must not deter exploring this sublime island.

Indeed, as long as you take its small roads, you will discover wild landscapes and typical villages preserved. So don’t hesitate anymore: follow the guide and go for adventure outside the capital of the island! We have concocted a selection of the best day trips from Corfu.

1. Kanoni and Pontikonissi

At the southern tip of the city of Corfu is one of its most visited attractions. This is the island of Pontikonissi, a name that means “small mouse”. This cute toponym is well deserved since the islet offers one of the most beautiful views of Corfu! In addition, this place is loaded with legend, and more particularly related to the myth of Ulysses.

To reach the islet, a short boat ride is enough. And to enjoy it before it is crushed with heat and invaded by the crowd, we advise you to visit it morning . The bravest can even admire the sunrise...

You can then discover the monastery of Vlacherna, whose immaculate walls and the small bell tower are truly picturesque. And this, especially since it is perched on a small rock connected to the island of Corfu by a narrow dam.

Then relax in one of the beautiful hotels with a view of the Kanoni Peninsula. By the way, admire the cannon Napoleon who gave his name to the place. Finally, we invite you to stroll a little by walking back to the centre of Corfu. You will thus enjoy a quiet and relaxing trip to Corfu without even leaving the city!

2. Around Paleokastritsa

Head to the west coast of the island for a day rich in emotions with this trip from Corfu. Paleokastritsa is one of the most beautiful seaside resorts on the island, but also one of the most frequented. The beach, comfortable and ideal for diving, attracts many tourists, just like the monastery. However, even if you fear the crowd, a tower in the region is required, because it is full of treasures.

First of all, not far from Paleokastritsa, you will discover the beautiful village of Lakones and its historic houses. Perched on the cliff, it offers a superb view of the bay. Then, after three kilometers more, you can admire the Byzantine fortress of Angelokastro and climb the hill to visit it. At the top of this massive fort dating from the 13th century, you can enjoy a magnificent view.

On the way back, make a detour by Liapades, beautiful traditional and picturesque village with its colorful houses. Two kilometers from the village, the beach of Liapades is a nestled in a bay and perfectly equipped. Finally, hiking enthusiasts can explore this beautiful corner of Corfu by its trails!

3. Gastouri, the palace Sissi and Petriti

Over the centuries, Corfu has attracted merchants, travellers and great writers from Goethe to Lawrence Durell. But the island was also a refuge for Empress Sissi. Suffering from neurasthenia, it was built a sunny summer palace in the village of Gastouri, south of Corfu.

Called Achilleion, this cossy and colourful home is surrounded by lush gardens. It is one of the most important monuments of the island, and therefore a perfect excursion from Corfu!

After the visit, take the time to stroll through the alleys of Gastouri. Then take the road south, direction Petriti. With its colorful boats, this small marina nestled in a pretty bay is a pleasure for the eyes. In this relatively quiet village, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy a more peaceful beach than elsewhere.

4. Vatos, Pelekas, Agios Mattheos and Gardiki Castle

For this trip from Corfu, start crossing the island from east to west to reach Vatos. This quiet little village is perched in height and surrounded by a fertile valley. Fans of greenery can enjoy it to stroll around, while fans of beaches will turn to Ermones.

Then take the road to the south and the village of Pelekas, also authentic and traditional. It offers breathtaking panoramic views, as well as a pleasant beach.

After this step, continue south to reach Agios Mattheos. It is a beautiful mountain village where the colorful houses cleave the stone buildings. Still today, most people practice agriculture. Close by, you can make a detour through the busy beach of Agios Mattheos or the more secret beach of Halikounas.

And to finish the day in beauty, go to the discovery of Gardiki Castle. This Byzantine fortress, like Angelokastro, served to monitor and protect the island.

5. Porto Timoni

Porto Timoni is probably one of the most spectacular beaches on the island. It is therefore widely worth a day trip from Corfu. Imagine two years of rock covered with dense vegetation and burying turquoise waters... You will understand, the place is idyllic!

To reach the beach, there are two options. The first is follow a path from the village of Afionas. The second is join her in pedalo from nearby seaside resorts. In both cases, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of this incomparable setting.

6. Argirades, Perivoli and Lefkimi

Here is a peaceful day trip from Corfu to explore the south of the island and the interior of the land. To start, take a step in Argirades. In this large village, we discover pretty Venetian buildings loved to the hollow of the hills.

In the same spirit, go to the discovery of Perivoli, surrounded by valleys and vineyards. Finally, explore the alleys of the second largest city of Corfu, Lefkimi. Don’t miss visiting the beautiful churches of Agioi Theodoroi and Agios Arsenios.

7. Lake Korission

Do you dream of a relaxing day away from the city and crowded beaches? In this case, this trip from Corfu to Korission Lake will be perfect. Separated from the sea by a fine strip of land, this freshwater lake offers a soothing decor.

It is indeed a place little frequented by tourists , although it goes away. You'll take some nice walks between olive trees, orchids, shrimp farms and other white flamingos. In addition, specialists may recognize the scenery of the twelfth James Bond, Only for your eyes .

8. Kasiopi and Palea Perithia

For this day trip from Corfu, we will head north this time. The first stop is in Kasiopi, a busy port village. Do not miss the Panajía Kassopítra church, close to the remains of the temple of Zeus. Also enjoy the beautiful view of the mountains of Albania and continental Greece.

In a second time, you will discover the “brand of the show” of this tour: the old village of Palea Perithia. You will discover the remains of a typical agricultural village, built centuries before the rash of tourism. Suspended in time, this is a beautiful testimony of the island mountain life.

Finally, this trip has the interest of taking you back a different route from going. So, don’t hesitate to let yourself be tempted by other stops at the turn of small mountain roads.

9. Skripero, Avliotes and Sidari

At 18 kilometers north of Corfu, we invite you first to discover the village of Skripero. With its Venetian buildings and picturesque small houses, it invites to the stroll. Over the centuries, cultural life has been particularly rich. Among other things, philharmony was founded in 1909 and still active.

After this stop, go back to the north and make a little hook by Avliotes. This traditionally classified village is worth a look, just like its pleasant green beach.

Finally, join the tourist village of Sidari, which is one of its own excursion Corfu. Indeed, it houses the famous beach of the Canal d’amour, surprisingly nestled between two rocky arms.

10. Benitses and Kavos

Lovers of tranquility, go your way! This day trip from Corfu is made for lovers of lively villages and festive seaside resorts. To begin with, make a stop in the pretty village of Benitses, located on the east coast. With its picturesque fishing port, it has become a popular destination where you will enjoy a host of restaurants.

After a good lunch on the terrace, join the southern tip of the island and the busy city of Kavos. At first you can admire the beautiful view of the bay and lizard on the living beaches. And to finish the day on a festive note, go to the city's multiple bars!

11. Strinilas and Ano Korakiana

Here is a day-trip programme that will delight lovers of authenticity, beautiful landscapes and good wines. This one will take you on small tortuous roads full of charm in the heart of the mountains of Corfu.

We offer you a first step in Strinilas, beautiful rural village perched on a high mountain. You will discover traditional stone houses and pleasant taverns where to taste local wine.

Then head to Ano Korakiana, a traditional village that still bears the trace of its medieval past. In her bosom, there are no less than thirty-seven churches! Between the paved alleys and the olive trees and orchards around it, you will be charmed by the landscapes.

12. Dassia

This day trip from Corfu is among the easiest access and will make the happiness of the athletes. Dassia is a friendly seaside resort that offers a large well equipped beach. From paddle to water-skiing, you will only have the embarrassment of choice side activities.

You can also take a boat ride or walk to the nearby beaches and coves. Finally, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the Albanian coast throughout the day!

13. Aqualand Water Park and Ermones Golf

Do you want to enjoy a day trip from Corfu to do different activities? Then you may be tempted by the great water park on the island, one of the largest in Europe. For this, you will just have to wait for its official opening, planned for June 2021 . Not far from there, you can also spend a great time in the golf of Ermones.

14. Boat trip around the island

What if you enjoy a quiet day to go on a boat ride from Corfu? Sailboat, motor boat, yacht or off-board: you will only have the embarrassment of choice, which you wish to sail alone or with a guide.

15. Paxos and Antipaxos Islands

Do you want to enjoy your stay in Corfu to make a beautiful cruise? This is probably the most popular boat excursions. Offered by various operators, it will take you to discover the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, south of Corfu.

The highlight will certainly be the exploration of the famous "blue caves" dug into the rock. But you will also have the opportunity to dive into crystalline lagoons or enjoy paradise beaches.

16. Parga, Sivota and the blue lagoon

Here is another cruise option, just as idyllic, which will take you this time to continental Greece. Specifically, you will take a step in the beautiful coastal village of Parga. You will thus have the opportunity to stroll through the charming streets of the village and admire the bay.

The route will then take you to Sivota and its islets. You will bathe in a heavenly setting and explore the famous "blue lagoon", before returning to Corfu.

17. Cruise to theAlbania

For this last idea of a day trip from Corfu, we offer you a change of country! Direction l’Albania , country unknown and yet exciting.

After the crossing to the seaside resort of Saranda, you will discover the beautiful natural park of Butrint. But also, and above all, of its impressive archaeological site founded at the age of bronze.

The possibilities of day trip from Corfu are not missing and there are for all desires. Nature, beach, party or culture, we hope that this list will give you some ideas!