3 Days in Corfu Itinerary: How I Spent 3 Amazing Days in Corfu 2025

Last Updated on June 17, 2025 by Oliver

I’ve probably said this in every single article I’ve written about Corfu, but I love it. It’s genuinely one of my favorite Greek islands and still feels a bit underrated if you ask me. Corfu has stunning beaches, some really great (and surprisingly affordable) hotels, loads of culture, and way fewer crowds than the usual suspects like Santorini or Mykonos.

If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’ve already decided to visit, which is a great call. And while three days in Corfu isn’t exactly a deep dive, it’s definitely enough time to get a proper feel for the island. I’ve done quick weekend trips like this before, and with the right plan, you can squeeze in a lot without feeling rushed.

So here it is: my personal take on the perfect 3 days in Corfu itinerary. This is based on how I like to travel, laid-back but not boring, a bit of beach, a bit of exploring, and definitely some good food. Feel free to tweak it or add your own stops, but I think this is a pretty solid place to start.

3 Days in Corfu – My Experience

So, full disclosure: I’ve never done this exact itinerary start to finish because I’ve been to Corfu a few times now, each trip slightly different. This 3-day Corfu itinerary is more like a “best of”, a bit of a highlights reel or, honestly, a Frankenstein version made up of my favorite parts from recent trips.

I’ve always loved Corfu Town. I’ve spent quite a bit of time there, and no matter how long you’re staying on the island, I’d always dedicate at least one full day to it. The old town is gorgeous with narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, little markets, boutique shops, and an old fortress overlooking the sea. It’s just full-on European summer vibes.

But I also really love getting out of town and exploring the island. I’m a big fan of renting a car in Corfu (seriously, just do it, it’s necessary if you actually want to explore properly). Driving along the coast, heading to beaches like Porto Timoni and all those other little hidden coves, is one of my favorite things to do here.

On my most recent trip, I added something new, a boat trip around Corfu and over to Paxos. And it was honestly amazing. It was a proper sailing boat, they had snacks and drinks, and the water was ridiculously beautiful bright turquoise. It was so good I knew I had to include it in this itinerary too.

3 Days in Corfu Itinerary

Day 1: Wander Through Corfu Town – Cafés, Markets & Views

Morning:
I love starting slow, and my go-to breakfast spot in Corfu Town is Favela No 17. It’s located in a little alley in the old town and has a super cozy vibe. They serve really good coffee, amazing pancakes, and great sandwiches.

After breakfast, I’d head over to the market in the old town and do a bit of shopping. There are loads of cute boutiques and souvenir stalls. Last time I was there, I bought some really beautiful beach towels for only 5 euros.

Midday:
Around midday, I’d make my way to the Old Fortress of Corfu. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in town, massive, historic, and with some pretty amazing views from the top. I’ve never done a guided tour (not really my thing), but if you’re into history, it’s definitely worth it.

For lunch, I always go to Di Santo, a proper Italian deli just a few minutes from the fortress. Their sandwiches are on another level: fresh focaccia, buffalo mozzarella, mortadella… just ridiculously good.

Afternoon / Evening:
In the afternoon, it depends on the vibe. I’ve done an olive oil tasting before at The Governor’s Olive Mill, they have a tasting room right in Corfu Old Town (or you can visit their olive farm just outside the city). It’s actually a fun thing to do if you want something a little different.

Otherwise, I’d just grab a drink somewhere scenic. Imabari Corfu is perfect for that, it’s a super cool little bar and restaurant right on the waterfront. Great cocktails, good views, and a super chill way to end your first day.

Day 2: Road Trip Along the Coast – Porto Timoni Beach & La Grotta Bar

Morning:
We’re starting early today because we’ve got a lot to fit in and trust me, this day’s all about making the most of Corfu’s coast. I’d recommend renting a car either the night before or first thing in the morning. It makes the whole day smoother.

First stop is Porto Timoni Beach, one of the most beautiful (and busiest) spots on the island. It’s about an hour’s drive from Corfu Town, so I leave around 7:30 AM to get there by 8:30. That way, I beat the heat and the crowds, and I can actually enjoy the beach before it turns into towel-on-towel chaos.

Midday:
By around 11 or 12, Porto Timoni usually gets packed, so that’s my cue to head out. Next stop: La Grotta Bar, one of the coolest cliffside bars I’ve been to. It’s built right into the rocks with a diving platform and a an absolutely incredible view.
Food-wise, it’s pretty simple here but does the job, Greek salad, club sandwich, cold beer. Nothing fancy, but exactly what you want after a morning at the beach.

Afternoon / Evening:
In the afternoon, I like heading over to Rovinia Beach. It’s another beautiful spot but way more low-key than Porto Timoni. You’ll need to walk down a short path to get there. It’s a pebbly beach with crystal-clear water and usually fewer people.

On the way back to Corfu Town, if I’m not too exhausted, I like making a quick stop at the Achilleion Palace. It’s not ancient, it was built in the late 1800s for Empress Sisi of Austria, but it’s still super impressive, with beautiful gardens and panoramic views over the island.

Day 3: Explore Corfu from the Water – An Amazing Boat Trip

Day 3 might just be the highlight of this itinerary, at least it was for me. We’re getting out on the water, and if you ask me, that’s something you have to do when you’re in Corfu. The coastline is packed with hidden coves, beaches you can only reach by boat, and stunning turquoise water that looks just stunning in the sun.

Most of the boat tours here do a really good job. The one I did was on a beautiful sailing yacht with just a small group. We had beers, wine, a full-on cheese board, and some great snacks. It just fit the whole Greek island vibe so well, laid-back, sunny, and low effort.

You’ve got a few options here:

• Join a shared boat tour that’ll take you to hidden beaches around Corfu.
  
• Pick one that heads out to Paxos and Antipaxos and the water there is next level beautiful.
  
• Or if you want something more private, you can charter your own boat for the day to enjoy as a couple or with your family.

If you go the private route, you can kind of decide where to go, but most skippers have their favorite secret spots and will usually take you somewhere special.

Either way, spending a day on the water is the perfect way to wrap up a trip to Corfu. It’s relaxing, it’s beautiful, and it gives you a whole different perspective on the island.

Where to Stay in Corfu Greece

Corfu’s a pretty big island, so where you stay does matter, don’t just pick a random spot and hope for the best. If you’re only here for three days, you’ve got two options:

You can base yourself in Corfu Town and do day trips from there, or stay somewhere up north by the coast, which is what I personally recommend. Places like Agios Georgios Beach, Acharavi, or even Agni Bay are great options with a more relaxed vibe and beautiful beaches.

If you don’t stay in Corfu Town, I highly suggest renting a car the moment you arrive, either at the airport or ferry terminal. It’ll make your life infinitely easier, trust me.

Here are a couple of places I recommend:

Corfu Imperial

If you’re after luxury, this is the place. Corfu Imperial is one of the best 5 star resorts in Corfu. It’s got a private beach, a gorgeous pool, spacious rooms, and the service is top-notch. Everything about it feels upscale without being over the top.

Book here: Corfu Imperial

Ilena Hotel

This one’s more my style, small, boutique, and family-run. Ilena Hotel has a really lovely garden full of flowers, a cute little pool, and a relaxed vibe that just fits the whole Mediterranean setting. It’s not a resort, but that’s what I love about it. Proper European summer energy.

Book Here: Ilena Hotel

What to Pack for a Week in Corfu

Packing for Corfu is actually pretty easy. You don’t need much, this is a relaxed island trip, and most days you’ll be in swimwear anyway. But here’s what I always make sure to bring:

• Swimwear (x2 or 3)
  You’ll be swimming a lot, so having a couple of swimsuits makes life easier.
  
• Beach Towel or Turkish Towel
  Most beaches are either rocky or pebbly, so a good towel makes a difference. I usually bring a lightweight Turkish towel, it dries quickly and doesn’t take up space.
  
• Comfortable Walking Shoes or Sandals
  Especially for places like Porto Timoni or Rovinia Beach where you’ll need to walk or hike a bit.
  
• Something for the Evenings
  A light shirt or a dress for going out to dinner. The island vibe is casual but cute.
  
• Sunscreen & After-Sun
  The sun here is no joke, especially if you’re out on a boat all day. I always pack reef-safe sunscreen and something like aloe vera gel for the evenings.
  
• Water Shoes (optional)
  Not essential, but helpful for pebble beaches or if you’re jumping off rocks at La Grotta Bar.
  
• Reusable Water Bottle
  You’ll need it, especially during hikes or beach days. It’s hot, and you don’t want to be buying plastic bottles constantly.

FAQs About 3 Day Corfu Itinerary

Is 7 days in Corfu too much?

Not at all. It really depends on what you want out of your trip, but honestly, 7 days is kind of ideal. You’ll have time to see different parts of the island, explore beaches, do a boat trip or two, and still chill by your hotel pool with a book. If you’re after a proper summer holiday, a full week is perfect.

Can you swim in Corfu in May?

Yes, for sure, but just know it’s going to be cold. The water around Corfu is always a little chilly, even in July and August it gives you that little shock when you first jump in. In May, it’ll be colder, but totally doable (and honestly refreshing if the sun’s out).

What are the best trips to do in Corfu?

Boat trips, 100%. There are some nice cultural tours too, but the boat days are always the highlight. The water is so pretty, and most of the boats are super nice, sailing yachts, drinks, snacks, and good music. It’s the perfect way to see the coastline.

What to do in Corfu?

There’s loads. Go for a boat trip, do a wine or olive oil tasting, visit the Old Fortress or Achilleion Palace, and of course, check out the different beaches. You can explore Corfu Town, hike to hidden coves, or just relax. It’s a mix of culture, nature, and beach time.

Final Thoughts on Corfu Itinerary 3 Days

I think 3 days in Corfu is a great little trip. I’ve done it a few times myself, especially when I was in Albania and came over from Sarandë, it’s such an easy trip to do. If you’re already in Albania right now, I’d totally recommend adding Corfu to your itinerary. Or if you’re island hopping around Greece or doing some kind of European summer trip, then definitely try to fit in 3 days here. Corfu’s beautiful, underrated, and surprisingly affordable.

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