Is Corfu Worth Visiting? My Honest Review in 2025

Last Updated on June 17, 2025 by Oliver

Corfu, Greece is one of my personal favorite islands and since you’ve landed on this article, I’m guessing you’re wondering why. Or maybe you’re just overwhelmed by the sheer number of Greek islands and trying to figure out which one is actually worth your time. Either way, you’re in the right place.

There are a lot of islands in Greece. And when you’re planning your summer trip, trying to figure out which one suits you best can feel like a full-time job. So let me make things easier: Corfu is definitely one of the best islands to visit. It’s got a beautiful landscape, great food, a bit of culture, and some fantastic places to stay.

But is Corfu worth visiting and is it the right Greek island for you? That depends on a few things, so let’s dive in.

Is Corfu Worth Visiting? My Quick Answer

Alright, I’ve been to Corfu a few times now, and clearly, I love it. Otherwise, I wouldn’t keep going back, right? Let me start this off with a quick answer, just in case you can’t be bothered reading the whole thing.

Yes. 100%. Corfu is worth visiting.
(But it’s not quite that simple.)

Here’s why I keep coming back: Corfu is genuinely beautiful. It has golden sand beaches, pebbly coves, crystal-clear water, vineyards, olive farms, rolling hills, good food, and actual culture. That’s the kind of island I want to spend time on.

And compared to other Greek islands, Corfu is a bargain. It doesn’t have the flashy, overpriced energy of Mykonos, and it doesn’t get packed to the brim like Santorini. It’s big enough that it never really feels overcrowded, even in summer. So if you’re after an affordable European summer beach holiday that still feels a little under the radar, Corfu is probably your island.

What is it Like Visiting Corfu Greece

Like I mentioned above, Corfu is big. And because it’s so big, it never really feels overcrowded or overly touristy, at least not to me. Sure, there are hotspots where people gather, but there are also tons of little beach towns, from Acharavi in the north to Corfu Town to Gardenos Beach way down in the south.

There are countless small towns, countless beaches, and plenty of options when it comes to accommodation with everything from big resorts to charming family-run boutique hotels and apartments.

I always rent a car when I’m in Corfu. It just makes life easier. Don’t like the beach you’re at? Drive to another. Want to eat at that one little tavern in the hills? Just go. Having a car gives you the freedom to actually explore the island properly, and I 100% recommend it if you’re planning to see more than just your resort.

Corfu also feels way more low-key than a lot of the other Greek islands. There are luxury resorts and adults-only hotels if you want that vibe, but there are also beautiful, affordable villas with private pools, perfect for a relaxed family holiday. 

There aren’t many overpriced beach clubs or “scene-y” places here either. Just cute little taverns, relaxed beach restaurants, and that classic Greek island charm. It all feels much more like real Greece and a lot less like some overhyped Instagram playground.
(Yes, I’m looking at you, Mykonos.)

What I Loved About Corfu:

Options: Because Corfu is such a big island, you’ve always got alternatives. If one beach is packed, just drive ten minutes to the next one. It never feels crowded or claustrophobic.

Affordability: Compared to places like Mykonos, Santorini, or even Italy, Corfu is surprisingly cheap. Food, accommodation, rental cars, everything’s way more budget-friendly.

Exploring: There’s so much to see. Rent a car and just go. Hilltop villages, olive farms, hidden beaches, wineries, you won’t run out of things to do anytime soon.

Corfu Town: I love this place. It’s charming, walkable, and full of life. Lots of cobblestone alleys, tiny restaurants, cafés, markets, it’s just super atmospheric without feeling too touristy.

Romantic Resorts: Some of the adults-only and couples resorts here are amazing. If you’re planning a honeymoon or just want to treat yourself, there are plenty of options that still feel laid-back, not flashy.

What I didn’t Like About Corfu

Driving Everywhere: On one hand, I love having the freedom to explore, but on the other hand, Corfu is big. Sometimes it feels like you’re spending half your day in the car just getting from one beach to the next.

Cruise Ships: When cruise ships dock in Corfu Town, things get chaotic fast. Streets fill up, restaurants are packed, and it all feels a bit too much. If you can, check the cruise schedule and time your visit accordingly.

Overhyped Spots: Places like Porto Timoni are stunning, yes, but also kind of a nightmare if you get there late. Crowds, limited parking, and a hike that’s suddenly filled with flip-flops and Bluetooth speakers.

Too Quiet (Sometimes): While I love peace and quiet, some beach towns were dead even in August. Great if you’re looking to disconnect, but if you’re hoping for a bit of energy or nightlife, you might need to stay somewhere else.

Patchy Public Transport: If you’re not renting a car, good luck. Buses exist, but they’re not super reliable or frequent, especially if you’re trying to get off the beaten path.

Who Corfu Is For and Who Corfu Isn’t For

Corfu is definitely not the place you come for wild nights out or beach clubs blasting house music till 3am. This island is slow, scenic, and relaxing and that’s exactly why I love it.

• For Families: Corfu is perfect for family holidays. There are loads of affordable, family-friendly resorts, as well as big villas with private pools that are ideal if you’re coming with kids or a big group. It’s one of the few places in Greece where you can still travel as a family without maxing out your credit card.
  
• For Couples: If you’re planning a honeymoon or a couples getaway, Corfu’s got you covered too. There are some beautiful adults-only hotels and luxury resorts around the island. It’s romantic without trying too hard, no heart-shaped bathtubs or cheesy honeymoon packages, just really nice places in beautiful settings.
  
• For Slow Travelers: If you like the idea of renting a car, driving through olive groves, stopping in little villages for lunch, and reading a book by the beach without a schedule then this island is for you.
  
• Not for Party People: If you’re looking for the next Mykonos or even the next Ios, Corfu probably isn’t it. Sure, there’s some nightlife in certain areas, but it’s definitely not a party island.
  
• Not for People Who Hate Driving: If you don’t want to rent a car or prefer everything within walking distance, Corfu might be a bit frustrating. It’s big and spread out, and the public transport doesn’t really cut it.

Where I Recommend Staying in Corfu

Corfu’s got quite a few little towns, and honestly, many of them are worth staying in. It’s one of those islands where picking the right base can really shape your trip. Personally, I love Acharavi—laid-back, local, and not too overrun. Agios Georgios Beach is another favorite for beach days and chilled nights. And I’ll admit, I actually do like staying in Corfu Town too, but just for a night or two to explore the old streets, have a nice dinner, and move on.

Here are a couple of my favorite spots to stay:

Ilena Hotel Acharavi Corfu

This is one of my favorite hotels in Corfu, especially if you’re into the whole boutique hotel vibe (and not the big resort thing). It’s a lovely little hotel on the north coast, with cozy rooms that feel properly Greek with natural stone walls, whitewashed charm, and a lot of character. The pool area is just so beautiful, surrounded by palm trees and a garden full of flowers.

Book Here: Ilena Hotel Acharavi Corfu

Dreams Corfu Resort & Spa

If I was going to splurge, this is where I’d do it. Dreams Corfu is a full-on luxury 5 star resort in Corfu, modern, elegant, and everything just feels next level. There are multiple swimming pools, huge rooms, great food, and a really calm, upscale atmosphere. It’s ideal for a honeymoon or if you’re doing a couples getaway and want to treat yourself for a few nights.

Book Here: Dreams Corfu Resort & Spa

Is Corfu Better Than Other Greek Islands?

This is a bit of a loaded question, and obviously it depends on what kind of holiday you’re after. But I’ll give you my take based on my own experience.

Corfu isn’t necessarily better than every other Greek island, but it is better for certain types of trips. If you’re into calm beach towns, beautiful landscapes, affordable boutique stays, and an overall relaxed vibe without the crazy crowds or €25 cocktails, then yes, Corfu wins.

Compared to places like Mykonos, it’s way more down to earth. You’re not going to find luxury beach clubs with minimum spend rules and influencer energy on every corner. Instead, it’s a bit more real, more Greek, and definitely easier on your wallet.

Compared to Santorini, Corfu doesn’t have the dramatic caldera views, but it also doesn’t have cruise ship chaos 24/7 or overpriced cave hotels. You can actually relax here and swim at a beach without needing a shuttle, a hike, and a reservation.

So… is Corfu better than the other Greek islands? If you ask me, for what I personally look for in a holiday? Yes, for sure.

Would I Come Back to Corfu? My Final Thoughts

I’d come back to Corfu in a heartbeat. No question. But I also get that not everyone’s looking for the same kind of trip. Corfu is relaxed, low-key, and pretty family-friendly. It’s not the island for wild nights out or flashy beach clubs and personally, I love that. But I also know that sometimes you just want a bit more buzz, and I’ve been that person too.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, I’d honestly suggest mixing it up. If you’ve got two weeks to play with, do five nights in Corfu to enjoy the quiet beaches, explore the cute towns, and eat your way through the island. Then head off to Santorini, Naxos, Athens, Mykonos or wherever else catches your eye.

Hopefully this little guide helped answer your question: Is Corfu worth visiting? For me, it’s a solid yes. And I’d bet it might be for you too.

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