Unmissable Corfu
Our guide to the local secret gems...
Towns & Villages
SAN STEFANO
This pretty little horseshoe shaped harbour village has some good boat hire options and a handful of tavernas and bars. Also known as Agios Stefanos, its relaxed vibe makes it particularly well suited to families with younger children (adults and older teens will prefer the attractions of nearby Kassiopi). See and be seen here during the day and at night under the twinkling lights. (Not to be confused with its much more touristy namesake on the north west coast.)
KASSIOPI
Once an isolated fishing village in north east Corfu, Kassiopi is now a busy but enchanting little harbour town. A good centre for shopping, entertainment and excursions, here tradition and tourism meet with happy results. Teenagers love Kassiopi for its lively nightlife; parents love it because it keeps the older children happy. For a lovely evening walk, venture round the ruined castle above the town, taking in the little church along the way (it’s about 1km).
CORFU TOWN
With its warren of narrow streets, graceful Venetian facades and wonderful main square, Corfu Town is more Italian than Greek to look at. Many of the narrow alleyways are pedestrianised and venerable buildings have been sensitively restored. The Old Town is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most notable buildings is the Liston, a French-built arcade lined with cafés and restaurants – perfect for coffee and people watching.
PERITHIA
Known for Old Perithia, high in the mountains and one of Corfu’s oldest villages. It was abandoned by its residents in the 1960s, leaving 130 hand-built medieval stone houses deserted; today you can tour these relics imagining times gone by. It’s cooler, greener and quieter than much of the island, with views over the Ionian archipelago and Albania. A great place to buy delicious local honey.
+30 6988 712 885 | old-perithia.com
SINARADES
A lovely hill top village on the west coast. Children play in the square, old men sit gossiping on the bandstand, and cats sun themselves outside cute houses coated in a profusion of potted geraniums. The village boasts peaceful lanes, dappled squares and some delicious food.
Dining & Drinks
In August, the best tavernas can get booked up, so we would advise groups of 6 or more to book when you arrive in Corfu (or even from the UK). Not all restaurants take credit cards so ask when booking.
La Cucina, Moustoxidi
A long-established favourite, open during the evenings for elegant Italian dinners – a wonderful treat.
Corfu town | +30 2661 045799 | lacucinacorfu.com | Dinner only
The Venetian Well, Kremasti Square
For fine dining, this Mediterranean restaurant is hard to beat. Hidden amongst the lanes of the Campiello district, you can dine outside at one of the clothed tables surrounding the ancient well. Expect creative dishes and a predominantly Greek wine list.
Corfu Town | +30 2661 550955 or +30 694 4282123 (mob) | venetianwell.gr | Mon-Sat, Dinner only
Salto Wine Bar, Donzelot
Another excellent restaurant. Dine on the lower ground floor during the evenings. Only looking for a light bite? Combine their cheese and charcuterie boards with a bottle from the impressive wine list.
Corfu Town | +30 2661 302325 | saltowinebar.gr | Sun 12.30-16.30 and from 18.30, Mon-Sat evenings only
Bakalogatos, Prossalendou
Hidden down a narrow street near the Old Port, “The Grocery Cat” (in Greek) is a welcoming, traditional taverna.
Corfu Town | +30 2661 301721 | mpakalogatos.com | Cash only
Corfu Sailing Club, Mandraki
Located beside the yacht club jetty, in the atmospheric old Venetian fortress, this elegant restaurant has views of Vido Island. Dine on Mediterranean and Greek dishes, with plentiful seafood and fresh fish, while watching boats bob on the water and waves lap the shore.
Corfu Town | +30 26610 38763 | corfu-sailing-restaurant.com
Akamatra, Prossalendou
Delicious, traditional Greek cooking in a relaxed taverna atmosphere.
Corfu Town | +30 26610 40101 | facebook.com/AkamatraCorfu | Dinner only
Cavalieri Hotel Rooftop Restaurant, Kapodistriou
A wonderful roof garden restaurant with fortress views and Med-Greek cuisine – probably the best view in Corfu Town and perfect at sunset.
Corfu Town | +30 26610 39283 | +30 2661 039041 | Dinner only | cavalieri-hotel-corfu-town.com | Open May-October
Taverna Stamatis, Viros
If you fancy something more rural, this little taverna is 15 minutes’ drive from Corfu Town. Run by a local artist, it has a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere. You’ll be served salads and veg from the garden, along with their own wine.
Corfu Town | +30 26610 39249
Pane e Souvlaki
Arguably the old town’s best value budget option, with outdoor tables on the town hall square, this quick-fire restaurant does exactly what it’s name suggests, serving up to three skewers of chicken, pork and beef with chunky potatoes, dipping sauce and warm pita in individual metal trays.
Corfu Town | + 30 26610 20100
Pane e psaraki
Fresh seafood platters located on Corfu’s most beautiful spot in the historic center.
Corfu Town | +30 26610 26004
Taverna Galini
Great waterside taverna with an enjoyable atmosphere and a strong following among the locals - fabulous for fresh fish. It’s San Stefanos’ most popular taverna, so worth booking ahead.
San Stefanos | +30 26630 81492 | galinitaverna.gr
Eucalyptus
Located at one end of San Stefanos, slightly away from the other restaurants with a lovely view of the bay, this secluded beachfront taverna serves fresh fish and home cooked Greek fare, including baklava.
San Stefanos | +30 26630 82007 | eucalyptustaverna.com
Wave Bar
Great for snacks and pre-dinner cocktails.
San Stefanos | +30 26630 81744
Kochili Taverna
Located just up the hill, this taverna has lovely views over the harbour; serves lots of fish and gluten free options.
San Stefanos | +30 26630 81700 | kochilitaverna.com | 1 May - end Oct
Damianos Lounge cafe and cocktail bar
Renowned for its excellent cocktails made only with fresh fruit and the finest branded spirits.
San Stefanos | +30 26630 81516
Pignata Patisserie
Wonderful cafe and superb home-cooked takeaway meals. Give them a minimum of 24hrs notice for roast chicken, moussaka, meatballs, and lasagna. They also sell home-made ice cream... what could be better?
Sinies | +30 2663 081342
Limani Bar
The go-to place for older teenagers, where the action only really starts at about 1am. For excellent salads and light meals.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081766 | facebook.com/limani.bar.90
Little Italy
Wonderful fresh pasta and pizzas made by the Italian owner. Unassuming on the outside, wonderfully welcoming on the inside.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081041 | facebook.com/littleitalykassiopi | Dinner only
Petrino
Great food and a lovely roof terrace overlooking the water.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081644
Porto Restaurant
Inexpensive, family friendly harbourside restaurant serving classic Greek and Mediterranean food.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081228 | portokassiopi.com
Tavernaki
A harbourside gem serving seafood and Mediterranean dishes - booking essential if you want to eat early.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081529
Trilogia Plous Restaurant
A romantic setting, with sea views and amazing sunsets. The scallops, taramasalata and lobster pasta are all worth a mention. One of the most popular restaurants in the area, so book ahead.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081589 | trilogiacorfu.com
Imerolia Fish Taverna
Greek and Mediterranean food.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081127
Vasilikos Taverna
New in town, offering good wood-fired pizzas.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081032
Janis Taverna
It has been in the Janis family more than 20 years and it has earned an excellent reputation.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081082
Melina Bay Restaurant and Wine Bar
A peaceful haven in North East Corfu.
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081030
Taverna Archontariki
Quiet and away from the crowds, this taverna’s short and simple menu focuses on using fresh vegetables and herbs from the garden. The house wine is from their own vineyard.
Sinarades | +30 26610 54007
The Old Perithia Taverna
Delicious traditional food and homemade ginger beer.
Perithia | +30 2663 098055
Taverna Capricorn
Delicious traditional meals, coffee and cakes.
Perithia | +30 2663 098504
Foros
Lovely traditional restaurant serving Greek dishes: tzatziki, spinach pies and lamb chops. Consider booking ahead.
Perithia | +30 2663 098055
Jelatis Restaurant
A warm welcome, superb meals - fresh and hearty.
Perithia | +30 2663 098550
Gabriel’s Steps
Grill restaurant with a shaded terrace.
Perithia | +30 6986 041094
Piedra del Mar
Pre-booking is essential at this fabulous beach bar. Sunbeds can be booked and towels can be hired for the day. (Handy if you’ve got an evening flight home.)
Barbati Beach | +30 2663 091566| piedradelmar.gr
Taverna Glyfa
Drive 5 minutes north for lunch or dinner at family run Taverna Glyfa, which serves good Greek food in a breath-taking beachfront position.
Between Nissaki and Barbati | +30 26630 91090 | tavernaglyfa.com
Mitsos Taverna
Good honest food, but the fabulous wide sea view sun terrace is the real draw.
Nissaki Bay | +30 2663 091240 | mitsostaverna.gr
Taverna Agni
A popular taverna perfect for relaxing over a leisurely meal of fresh fish – try the pickled octopus and the courgette fritters. (This is most expensive of the bay’s tavernas.)
Agni Bay | +30 26630 91142 | taverna-agni.com
Toula’s Seafood Restaurant
Another popular seafood restaurant and probably the best of the three tavernas (but there’s very little in it). There are always Greeks at the tables which is a good sign. It’s worth booking ahead.
Agni Bay | +30 26630 91350 | toulasagni.com
Korina’s
Cocktails and drinks, snacks and ice creams. It stops serving food at 6pm.
Agni Bay
Nikolas Traditional Taverna
This taverna has the best position on Agni Beach and is great for relaxed lunchtime mezze.
Agni Bay | +30 26630 91243 | agnibay.com
The White House Taverna
Lawrence Durrell and his wife lived here. Great for a coffee overlooking the water - or spend a little longer over lunch or dinner. If you’re arriving by boat, you’re welcome to use the restaurant’s jetty.
Kalami Bay | +30 2663 091251 | thewhitehouse.gr/greek-cuisine
Taverna Kouloura
A family run restaurant since 1960, serving some of the best food on the island – basic yet beautifully prepared. Great for coffee or lunch.
Kouloura | +30 26630 91253 | tavernakouloura.com
Taverna Kerasia
It’s worth tying your boat up to the jetty and having a delicious lunch at this simple crowd-pleasing fish taverna (great salads). As the only eatery on the beach, it does get popular during the summer months, so book ahead if possible.
Kerasia | +30 26630 81521 | tavernakerasia.com
Cavo Barbaro
This relaxed taverna has delicious seafood, lovely views, shaded tables and is often brimming with young families. It is very popular in peak season so worth booking ahead, especially for dinner.
Avlaki | +30 2663 081905 | facebook.com/cavobarbaroavlakibeach
Pyramid Restaurant
An upmarket Greek restaurant and cocktail bar.
St Spyridon Bay | +30 2663 098 495 | corfupyramid.com
Beaches
As a general rule, the north east coast has pebbly beaches (bring jelly shoes for children), whereas the sandier beaches are on the west coast. To discover the best and most private beaches, explore by boat. Heading North from Corfu Town on the main road:
BARBATI BEACH, NORTH EAST COAST
Just 30 minutes north of Corfu Town, this lovely mile long white pebble beach is hugged by green woodlands and hills. The popular bay has sunbeds and a couple of tavernas, and Barbati village is a 10-minute stroll up the main road.
NISSAKI VILLAGE, NORTH EAST COAST
A necklace of pebble beaches, linked by olive tree clad promontories, characterise one of Corfu’s loveliest regions. They still have their own particularly friendly atmosphere, and are fantastic for families, with lots of family run tavernas on, or close to, clean Blue Flag beaches, excellent water sports, and some lovely hillside walks.
KAMINAKI, NORTH EAST COAST
Almost invisible from the main road high above, Kaminaki has remained relatively undiscovered, and still has a refreshingly natural village atmosphere – it does get busier in August, but the evenings remain quiet. Being exceptionally clean, the beach is ideal for families with young children. Equally, teenagers love the fact that their friends return every year. It is also a lovely hideaway retreat for couples, especially in spring, early summer and autumn, with wonderful walks in the vicinity.
AGNI, NORTH EAST COAST
This enchanting little bay has a small, pretty beach, and three exceptionally good waterside restaurants, which are well worth a visit. The area has comparatively few villas and no hotels, plus the road down to Agni is easy to miss – all of which contributes to it remaining agreeably quiet for most of the year. That said, it does become a popular lunchtime rendezvous spot for smart boats during July and August. Wonderful rock bathing can also be found just a short walk or boat ride away.
GYALISKARI, NORTH EAST COAST
A few minutes walk along a footpath from Agni will bring you to a sheltered cove. The beach bar serves drinks and food and there are super comfy sunbeds. A great spot for those who know.
KALAMI, NORTH EAST COAST
A beautifully curved shingle bay fringed by cypress and olive trees. The village is very popular for boat excursions and there is a fantastic couple, Harris and Louise, who run SAKIS Watersports.
KOULOURA, NORTH EAST COAST
Taking its name from the Greek word for a round biscuit, Kouloura bay is an almost perfect circle and has one of Corfu’s trademark views – a tiny harbour overlooked by a grand Venetian house. This house is where English writer Lawrence Durrell wrote one of the best memoirs of Corfu, Prospero’s Cell. It is here that the north east coastal road reaches its highest point and looks down upon a series of exquisite bays and coves that once could only be reached by sea.
KERASIA, NORTH EAST COAST
Looking down from the highest point of the northeast coastal road, the eye is caught by the magnificent bay of Kerasia lying below, a long straight stretch of pale pebbles edged by a sea of vivid colours. It looks inaccessible, but in fact there is a road from St Stefanos harbour. Still an escapist’s dream, it is quiet and beautiful, with one of the loveliest beaches in the north east for swimming. It does become noticeably busier in high season and on Sundays, when it fills with locals.
AVLAKI, NORTH EAST COAST
This horseshoe shaped bay has a shingle beach and lovely views of the Albanian mountains. The shallow waters are great for families wanting to swim and snorkel; further out, it’s possible to scuba dive. At the point where the Corfu Channel opens out to the north, the coastline undergoes a subtle change – the sea deepens, the winds freshen, and wide bays provide ideal conditions for windsurfing and sailing.
KALAMAKI BAY & ST SPYRIDON BAY, NORTH COAST
Up beyond Kassiopi, Corfu’s northern coastline changes again - the lower slopes of Mount Pantokrator drop gently down to the shoreline, creating a succession of long, sandy bays and low-lying headlands, while the upper slopes fold protectively about some very old, very beautiful villages. The bays of Kalamaki and St Spyridon are just two of the magnificent beaches in this area. Fringed with tamarisk trees and ancient olive groves, these bays exude a nostalgic seaside atmosphere – long days on the beach, fresh fish for lunch, simple pleasures. They’re great for families with smaller children, as the sand banks ensure calm, very shallow waters and (rare in North East Corfu) a sandy beach.
PALEOKASTRITSA, NORTH WEST COAST
Go early to visit the radiantly peaceful monastery, built on top of a hill, it gives gorgeous views of the island and sea. By 10am the tourist buses roll in and it’s not peaceful any more, but there are beach activities for older kids. Afterwards take a boat from the harbour to your own secluded island or to the pebbled Limni (isthmus) Beach.
AGIOS GORDIOS, WEST COAST
Within walking distance of Sinarades, this resort village has a spacious beach with bars lining the promenade. It’s a wonderful beach for young children and there is a small playground in town. Gee Bees Supermarket is run by Angela, a real-life Shirley Valentine: she came from Liverpool, stayed and married Georgios. Try their homemade red wine – “If you drink it and don’t like it, bring it back”.
Do & See
Kokkokilas Village, inland north east
Tne of the ancient stone hamlets built high on the slopes of Mt Pantokrator, with superb views of the sea and Albania. This is real ‘get-away-from-it-all’ country, perfect for walking, but not by any means cut off. The amenities of St Stefano and Kassiopi are only 15 minutes’ drive away.
Porta Village, inland north east
High on the uplands overlooking the northeast coast of Corfu, this is small mountain village where life remains largely unchanged. It is easily accessible by car but forms the starting point for some wonderful walks, some of them quite demanding and a test for serious ramblers.
Etrusco, Kato Korakiana
Corfu’s top gourmet choice, Etrusco achieved Two Golden Chef’s Cap Awards and was voted Greece’s best restaurant in 2019 by Athinorama. Corfiot Italian head chef Ettore Botrini creates contemporary twists on Greek classics and it’s a wonderful place to try the Corfu speciality of pastisada (slow-cooked casserole with tomatoes, herbs and spices).
+30 26610 93342 | etrusco.gr | Dinner only
Lake Korission, south west
A coastal lagoon located in the southern part of the island, attracts bird-watchers from all over the world. Here, amid cedar and juniper forests, are egrets, purple herons and many more. Bring a bird book. Nearby is Halikounas, a beach that appears so long you feel you could walk along it all day.
Corfu Golf Club, Ropa Valley
Golf in Corfu is golf as it should be: gorgeous weather, quiet and in a totally relaxing environment. The course is flat and very easy to walk with no long walks between holes. Tee times are easy to come by and there are none of the dreaded course rangers. The course is a good but fair test, suitable for both intermediate and handicapped players.
+30 26610 94220 | corfugolfclub.com
Horse Riding, St Spyridon
Ride on the beach and swim with horses, or through quiet countryside along unspoilt paths.
Katerina +30 698 7337101 or Ilias +30 698 4686774 | horseridingcorfu.com
Kapodistrias Museum, Koukourisa
Born in Corfu in 1776, Ioannis Kapodistrias was one of Europe’s most distinguished politicians and diplomats. His summer home in Koukourisa has been converted into a museum commemorating his life and accomplishments. The building was donated by Maria Desylla Kapodistria, the grandniece of Ioannis Kapodistrias, former mayor of Corfu and first female mayor of Greece.
capodistriamuseum.com/en
Aqualand Waterpark
Have fun at Aqualand in Agios Ioannis, near Corfu Town.
aqualand-corfu.com | +30 26610 58351
Vidos Island
Take younger children to feed the rabbits and watch the peacocks on tiny Vidos Island, 10 minutes by boat from Corfu Town.
Mount Pantokrator, north east Corfu
At 90m Mount Pantokrator is the highest mountain on the island. Walk up and enjoy the amazing views of Corfu and across to Albania.
Albania Day Trip
Visit for a day or more – Butrint is one of the Mediterranean’s finest archaeological sites whilst the medieval Ottoman town of Gjirokastra is famed for its castle. Ferry’s to Saranda depart from Corfu Town, remember to take your passport. Best to research any trip fully before you go as you will need a guide.
On the Water
George Boat
Water taxis from anywhere on Corfu.
corfuboat.gr
Powerboat Training, Gouvia Marina
Corfu must be seen from the sea to be truly appreciated. Spend a day exploring the north east coast’s secluded coves, then boat home and dine on your villa terrace in the silky night air. If you plan on hiring a boat over 30HP (termed as speedboats), you’ll need a license. This can easily be gained in the UK, by taking a 2-day RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling course. Alternatively, if you book well in advance, you could learn during your trip, with Corfu Sea School. All UK/European licences are valid in Greece.
rya.org.uk | corfuseaschool.com
Filippos Boat Hire, Kassiopi
Filippos and his son Nicholas are reliable and professional, their service extends to coming round in the early hours of the morning to fill the boat up with petrol. They are also safety aware - if the sea conditions change (which they can occasionally) one of the team is out there to help in a moment. Speedboats are available for more competent drivers, it’s also possible to book a skipper. Water skiing is not permitted from hire boats. Book your boat in advance during high season.
+30 69447 50888 | +30 69931 85904 | filippos-boats.com
Avlaki Boats
A new boat company set up by Filippos’ son Nicholas. Their skippers come highly recommended.
+30 699 3185904 | info@avlakiboats.com | avlakiboats.com
Corfu Boat Hire, Dassia
Good value and good quality powerboats from 25HP to speedboats.
+30 26610 93300| corfuboathire.com
Gianni’s Boats, St Stephanos
Hire boats from 25HP to 175HP, with or without a captain, plus taxi boats available.
+30 26630 81532 | giannisboats.gr
Sotiris Boats, St Stephanos
Hire boats from 30HP to 175HP with or without a captain, plus taxi boats available.
+30 6944 795 955 | +30 26630 81174 | sotirisboathire.com
Agni Boats, Agni Bay
Good for large boats over 100HP, they will deliver to wherever you want and supply tackle for fishing.
George +30 69480 83897 | Alex +30 6973836433 agniboats.com
North Corfu Boats, St Spyridon
Hire boats from 30-60HP with or without a captain.
Manos +30 6944 833 263 | Petros +30 6944 642 069 | northcorfuboats.com
Dinghy Sailing & Windsurfing, Avlaki Beach
Corfu Sailing Centre is the place to go for any watersports that rely on the wind. There is dinghy sailing, windsurfer hire and tuition on the beach. Please check before you visit, we understand the owner has plans to sell this year.
+30 6934 305047 | corfusailingcentre.com
Balos Yachts, Kassiopi
Day cruises, multi-day cruises and skippered yacht charter.
+ 30 266 1099 992/698 8712 384 | balosyachtscorfu.com
Supermarkets
There are many on the island, but Corfu Town, Acharavi, Ipsos and Gouvia have large, well stocked options.
Yannis Supermarket
In Sinies, Yannis Supermarket is open 7 days per week and will deliver, he has a good selection of wines too.
+30 26630.29230 | www.yannismarket.com
Aphrodite’s Supermarket
In Nissaki, Aphrodite’s Supermarket is open 7 days per week (8am-11pm) and can deliver. They’re located on the main road, at the top of the hill to the left. There is also a bakery next door. Nissaki also has an excellent fresh fruit and veg shop nearby.
+30 697 1542833 | aphrodite-corfu.gr
Dimitra’s Supermarket
(8am – 9pm) - no delivery
Kassiopi | +30 2663 029221
Pandora Supermarket
(7:30 am - 10 pm) - delivery
Kassiopi |+30 26630 81714
Nikolas Bakery
(6am -11 pm)
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081433
Nikos’s Market
(8am - 9 pm) - delivery
Kassiopi | +30 2663 081130
Super Marios Supermarket
In Kalami, Super Marios Supermarket is open 7 days a week. Free delivery in Kalami, San Stefanos, Kassiopi, Kalamaki. The shopping list can be sent on their telephone number/WhatsApp.
WA 0030 697 7890019 | +30 2663029287 | (07:30 am -11:30 pm)
Wine
Local wine is surprisingly good – Greeks have been making wine longer than the French. We recommend:
Rosé - Zinomavro, Amethystos or Boutari (sec)
White - Athiri Tsandilis, Boutari (sec)
Red – Amethystos, Alfa Pinot Noir
Cava Tzortzatos is an excellent wine shop, with a wide range of wines and spirits, and they can deliver.
+30 26630 29240 | cavatzortzatos.gr | shop@cavatzortzatos.gr
Money & Exchange
There are 6 cashpoints in Kassiopi, situated on the main street and harbour. Many more can be found in Corfu Town and some of the larger towns.
Taxis
Radio Taxis
+30 2661033811/2 | All areas
Miltos Mario
+30 699 777 5788
Alfa Taxis
+30 26630 32400 | alfataxicorfu.net | All areas
Alexis
+30 6944 331 568 | Nissaki
Please call first to check restaurants and museums are open, and check the relevant government guidance before travelling.
No responsibilty can be accepted by Scott Williams for any issues that may arise as a result of the enclosed recommendations and information.