Corfu holidays

Up in the island’s north, the beach at San Stefanos is backed by dramatic mountain scenery. While you can sunbathe and enjoy watersports here, one of the most popular activities is mud bathing. Locals smother themselves in the mineral muds to heal and rejuvenate the skin. This beach is very laidback and very inclusive. Anything goes here, which is why you’ll find that part of the beach is dedicated to nudists.

On the east coast of Corfu, you’ll find Dassia beach. While the beach is more stony and pebbly than soft and sandy, it does offer incredible views over to the Albanian coast. Much of the beach is covered with olive trees, so there’s plenty of shade when you need it. It’s backed by tiny tavernas offering up traditional Greek specialities. You can hire a boat here, and explore some of the bays along the coast.

Over on the west coast is Agios Gordios Beach. Backed by thick olive groves and vineyards, sunbathing on this beach makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a jungle. Turn your gaze to the coast and you’ll notice a large rock jutting out. That’s Ortholithos, and it’s one of the most well-loved sights in Corfu. It rises up more than 20 metres above sea level, and is surrounded by a labyrinth of underwater cave systems.

At the beachside gift shops and marketplaces in Corfu’s coastal resorts, there are many low-cost trinkets and souvenirs available. Jewellery is popular across the island. Some features ‘mati’, or the evil eye, which is said to ward off evil spirits. Another type of popular jewellery is Greek worry beads or kombolo. These are said to have a calming and soothing effect during hard times.

Marble souvenirs, such as statues, carvings, and even drinks coasters, are among some of the most popular mid-range buys in Corfu. Greek ceramics are another good choice, along with cosmetics made with local olive oil. Olive wood is often carved into picture frames, trays, and kitchen utensils. And if you’re looking to bring some local produce back home with you, pick up some Corfiot honey and ouzo.

While Corfu isn’t particularly famous for being a shopping hotspot, it does have its fair share of well-known retailers and big-name brands. Corfu Town is the best place to find upmarket stores. As you stroll around, you’ll find familiar names like Marks and Spencer and Sephora, along with the Hondos Center. This is a Greek department store selling high-end cosmetics. There are lots of little Greek boutiques, too.

Dinner time in Corfu isn’t just about satisfying hungry stomachs. It’s an experience. One of the best ways to enjoy an authentic laidback night on the island is to chat with your travelling companions over a long dinner in a traditional taverna. If you're still raring to go after that, hit the local bars. Even in major resorts such as Corfu Town, you’ll be able to find quiet lounge bars and cosy cafés with all sorts of music and all sorts of vibes. In Corfu Town, Liston Square is one of the most popular places for quiet late-night drinks after dinner.

While Kavos has earned a reputation as the nightlife hotspot of Corfu, you don’t need to travel all the way down to the south coast to have a good time. Dassia offers some great bars and clubs which are frequented by young travellers. These often stay open long into the morning. Corfu Town is another good option. For a lively party scene, head away from the winding streets of the Old Town into the openness of the port area. The bars and clubs here attract a young crowd looking to let loose.

Corfiot cuisine is quite the blend of flavours. It combines Greek and Mediterranean tastes with a touch of Italian flair, left over from the island’s Venetian rule. You’ll find many of the traditional dishes here are very Italian, like pastitsada. This is meat cooked in spices and red wine, served with cheese and pasta.

If you’re travelling with kids who love something sweet, there are a few traditional Corfiot desserts that they might want to sample. The first is fogasa. This sweet brioche bread is traditionally enjoyed at Easter, but you’ll find it in bakeries throughout the year. Another is a sweet jam tart known as pasta flora.

At dinner, be sure to order a Corfiot wine. Under local laws, only wines that contain 60% Kakotrygis grapes can be labelled as a Corfu wine. Practically anything can make up the remaining 40%, although local varieties such as Robola and Moschato are very popular.

Where you decide to stop for dinner will largely depend on what you’re looking for. The greatest variety can be found in large resorts like Corfu Town, which has all sorts of traditional Greek places and international cuisine. Smaller resorts, like San Stefanos, are mainly about beachside bistros and tavernas.