Trying to work out the best area to stay in Corfu for your next holiday? We’ve put together this comprehensive list of places to stay, to help you get the most from this beautiful Island.
The second largest of the Greek Ionian Sea islands, Corfu’s lush, green terrain benefits from the island’s Mediterranean type climate.
It is an island of magnificent contrasts, from busy tourist beaches to hidden picturesque coves, from dark green olive groves in the valleys, to rugged pine and cypress forested mountain sides.
The island’s heritage also is as varied as its terrain. Over the centuries it has been occupied by the Byzantines, Venetians, French, and the British, before finally becoming a part of Greece in 1864.
Now, many of its villages, towns, and cities have remnants of different architecture dating back as far as the 8th century BC. Read on, for our list of the best places to stay in Corfu.
Where to stay in Corfu: 18 Best Areas
1. Corfu Town (Kerkyra), the capital of the island
Kerkyra, (Greek for Corfu Town), is the capital of the island, and high on the list of everyone’s places to stay in Corfu. It is a town where architecture and monuments tell of the history of Corfu Island.
In this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can find examples of the Byzantium, Venetian, French, and British influence during their respective occupations.
The town is full of tall, Italian style terraced homes and businesses which line the hundreds of winding narrow cobbled streets. It has museums, Georgian mansions, and grandiose palaces that house its mysterious past.
It has fashionable shopping malls and arcades for that retail therapy. It has local Greek coffee shops and tavernas, international eateries, and romantic little bistros offering traditional Corfiot cuisine.
On the north side of the Esplanade you can find a little British influence, in the Georgian style Royal Palace of Corfu.
Built in 1820, and also known as the St. Michele and St. Giorgio Palace, it was originally used by the English royal family and then the Greek royal family, before becoming the home of the Museum of Asiatic Art, and the Historical Archive and Classic Relics Authority of Corfu.
Greek dancing is famous the world over, and a number of events are held throughout the year on the large Spianada Square. Even when not filled with dancers, it is the hub of Corfu Town’s social life.
The square provides views over the Old Fortress, The Contrafossa, and The Municipal Gardens; and is close to some of its most popular monuments,
Under the Arches of the French Liston Arcade, you can relax and do a little people watching as you unwind with a coffee, snack or evening meal.
Evenings can be as quiet or as active as you like, with all manner of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes.
If you choose Kerkyra for your stay in Corfu, accommodation ranges from self-catering apartments and villas, through to hotels to suit all tastes and pockets.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORFU TOWN
2. Gouvia, a great place to stay in Corfu for all ages
Nestling halfway down the east coast of the island, Gouvia has developed from a small local fishing village, into one of Corfu’s major marinas and tourist destinations. Close to both the airport and Corfu Town (8km), the resort is popular with families, couples, and young singles.
The two main streets in this attractive village are the centre of its commercial activities with a myriad of shops, tavernas, and restaurants.
Gently shelving into the blue Komeno Bay, the main beach is a long sandy stretch with parasols and sunbeds. Water-sports are available, as well as a large selection of boat trips around the island and beyond.
Night-time has something for everyone. You can enjoy a relaxing evening sampling the local cuisine, or choose one of the large international eateries complete with entertainment.
Tavernas offer everything from a quiet beer on the terrace, to karaoke and live music, with many open until the early hours of the morning.
If you would like to spend time at Gouvia during your stay in Corfu, there is an excellent choice of apartment and hotel complexes from the large tour operators, as well as privately owned self-catering apartments, villas, and cottages.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN GOUVIA
3. Dassia, a resort with that exotic Mediterranean feel
Being just a 30 minute journey by bus, or 10 minutes by car from Kerkyra, a stay at Dassia offers visitors the option of relaxing beach days, combined with trips to explore the island’s capital and surrounding areas.
The main coast road runs along the back of the beach, and a number of mid-range hotels are located there.
With landscaped gardens that blend into a large grassy area that stretches to the beach, there is plenty of space to get your towels down amongst the parasols and sunbeds.
A blue flag beach suitable for children, it has a good selection of shops, tavernas, and restaurants along the front, and a comprehensive range of water-sports are available on the beach.
If the beach front water-activities are not enough, a 20 minute drive to Agios Ioannis, on the main Glyfada road, will get you to Aqualand Water Park, with its pools, Jacuzzis, waterslides, bouncy castles, and adventure playground.
Although Dassia is very family friendly, there is plenty to enjoy in the evenings whether your tastes are quiet and relaxed, or active and party mode, but don’t expect to find all-night bars and beach parties.
If Dassia appeals to your taste for your stay in Corfu, there is an excellent choice of hotels at all levels, as well as self-catering apartments and villas. There is also a popular campsite one kilometre up the road, for those backpacking around the island.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORFU IN DASSIA
- ($$$) Ikos Dassia
- ($$) Tryp by Wyndham Corfu Dassia
- ($) Tina Hotel
4. Ipsos, where to stay in Corfu for the young and young at heart
If your holiday preference is all about culture and local cuisine, then Ipsos is probably not for you.
Situated on the east coast, around 15km from the capital, Ipsos has a long narrow pebble and sand beach, with the main coast road running parallel behind it.
With its shallow shelving beach into the calm water it is safe for young children, while for older children and adults there is a large selection of water-sports to choose from.
Along the beachfront are plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants to keep the browsers happy, while sun loungers and parasols are available along most of the beach.
It wasn’t that many years ago that Ipsos was considered a resort for the 18-30 party people. Now it is morphing into a resort more for families with older teenage children, young singles, and older couples who still enjoy the odd late night.
Although there are still plenty of English style bars about, there are a growing number of small, intimate restaurants and tavernas, where romantic meals can be enjoyed. And cocktails consumed while you sit on the terrace and watch the sun set.
The couple of small marinas along the beach offer boat trips to various destinations, boat hire, and scuba diving for both beginner and experienced divers.
In the town you will find all the food shops you require if you are self-catering, and plenty of bars and restaurants if you decide to eat out. Behind the flat town area, the terrain rises steeply, to densely packed hillsides full of forests and olive groves.
If you fancy Ipsos for your stay in Corfu, accommodation is plentiful across all areas, with self-catering being a popular option.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN IPSOS
- ($$) BELLA De LUX APTS
- ($) Hotel Yannis Corfu
- ($) Valentino Corfu
5. Barbati, explore the interior or relax on the beach
Sitting below Corfu’s largest mountain the Pantokratoras, Barbati is a resort village of two halves suitable for visitors of all ages.
Situated 20km north of Kerkyra on the island’s north-east coast, strip of white pebbles, which shelves gently into the beach area is a one-kilometre long the blue Ionian Sea.
The beach has plenty of sunbeds, parasols, water-sports, and boat trips, while along the front you will find beach shops, souvenir shops, mini-marts, eateries, and bars.
Also along this half of the resort, you will find a selection of self-catering apartments and hotels amongst the cypress and pine trees.
At the top of the slope is the main east coast road, which has to be crossed to reach the higher half of the resort. Here you will find more holiday complexes, shops, bars, and restaurants along the roadside, as well as scattered about behind the main street.
With the majestic Pantokratoras mountain overlooking the resort, and the cypress and pine forests that almost reach the beach, it is an impressive area of natural beauty.
If you want time away from the beach there are various ways you can explore the rugged Corfu countryside and local villages.
Days can be as busy or relaxed as you like, and the same applies to the evenings. Barbati has plenty of tavernas and restaurants offering quiet evenings wining and dining, to bars which offer some form of light entertainment. What you won’t find here are loud music bars open till the early hours.
If you think Barbati is where you want to stay in Corfu, the resort has a good selection of self-catering apartments and complexes, mid-range hotel accommodation, and luxury villas.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORFU IN BARBATI
6. Nissaki, where to stay in Corfu to sample the simple Greek way of life
Just a couple of kilometres north of Barbati, the small, sprawling coastal village of Nissaki offers the simple pleasures of Greek living, yet draws a surprising number of well-heeled visitors.
From the village set back off the coast, a gentle stroll through the olive groves will get you to the small main beach area. A picturesque cove of pebbles and sand, it has crystal-clear water, and lava rocks rising out of the sea at both ends, making it particularly popular with scuba divers. There are also a limited number of other water-sport activities available.
As one of Corfu’s less commercialised areas with fewer tourist facilities, it is more popular with older couples and groups, than the young.
From the main beach you can enjoy coastal strolls in both directions, where you will find secluded little coves. Some with small pebbly beach areas, and others where you can swim straight off the rocks.
If you want to explore Nissaki’s surrounding countryside, there are olive groves, traditional Greek villages and old properties to be found, or further afield, the deserted village of Old Sinies, sits on the slopes of Mt Pantokrator.
Along the village road you will find the main area for shops, mini-markets, cafes, bars, and restaurants. While around the beach area there are just a couple of tavernas and beach shops.
Nissaki is definitely a destination for those looking for rest and relaxation. Lunch can be enjoyed from the terraces of beachfront bars overlooking the bay. While enjoyable dinners with family and friends can be had in the local or international restaurants, enjoying traditional Corfiot cuisine and sampling the local wines.
If Nissaki piques your interest as the place where to stay in Corfu, there is an excellent selection of luxurious apartments, villas, and hotels, as well as a number of self-catering and mid-range hotels available.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN NISSAKI
- ($$$) Atlantica Nissaki Beach – Adults Only
- ($$) Krouzeri Beach Apartments
- ($) Salt & Sun Apartments by Konnect
7. Kalami, a quiet, friendly fishing village
A few kilometres further up the north-east coast from Nissaki, lays the blissfully quiet village of Kalami. Although a resort area welcoming all age groups, there is little to keep young children occupied other than the water-sports and what your hotels have to offer.
Situated in a horseshoe shaped bay, with a backdrop of green cypress trees and pine forests climbing the hillsides, Kalami has built its reputation offering relaxing holidays in tranquil, un-commercialised surroundings.
The curving white pebble beach is probably the most commercialised part of it, with sunbeds, parasols, and water-sports on the beach, and tavernas and small shops along the front.
For those with a love of nature, there are hiking and cycling trails to get to local villages and up into the hillsides. Coastal walks in the warm Mediterranean climate are also popular, to seek-out the small picturesque coves around the headland.
One place of interest well worth a visit is The White House. Sitting on the waterside and now a taverna, the White House was once the home of British author Lawrence Durrell in the 1930s. It was where he penned a number of his books, including one of his most well-known, ‘Prospero’s Cell’.
Evenings in the main are quiet friendly affairs in the restaurants and bars dotted around the village, as guests contemplate another relaxing day soaking up the sun.
If Kalami sounds like your kind of place to stay in Corfu, there are self-catering rooms and apartments available, as well as apartment complexes and adult only hotels.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KALAMI
- ($$) San Antonio Corfu Resort (Adults Only)
- ($$) Erkina Villas Kalami Corfu
- ($) Votsalo Kalami Apartments
8. Kassiopi, a destination for the whole family
Around an hour’s drive from the island’s capital and the airport, Kassiopi is the largest village situated on the north-east coast. Built to complement its attractive working harbour; bars and restaurants can be found around the quayside, from where you can watch the day’s catch being landed.
Kassiopi is a resort for families, couples, and singles of all ages, although don’t expect to find late-late night bars, or all night beach parties.
The village only has its harbour, but close by are a number of pretty beaches, including Avlaki beach and Kerasia beach. On the larger beaches sunbeds and parasols are the norm, and you will find shops, bars and eateries for all your beach time needs.
Around the village you will find shops selling everything required for your week or two week self-catering visit, with plenty of restaurants to cater for all tastes from local lamb dishes to Chinese, Italian, or Mexican cuisine.
In the bars you can quench your thirst with the local Kumquat, Ouzo, or Metaxa Brandy, or stick with the better known international brands of wines and spirits.
The quieter bars around the village are a good starting point for your nights out, working your way down to the quayside where you will find a selection of late night karaoke and music bars.
If you think Kassiopi ticks the boxes for your family stay in Corfu, it has a good selection of apartment complexes and self-catering villas, as well as boutique and mid-range hotels.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORFU IN KASSIOPI
- ($$) Aria Suites
- ($$) Melina Bay Boutique Hotel
- ($) Katia Beach Hotel
9. Acharavi, a popular area to stay in Corfu for all ages, couples, and families
Situated on the northern-most tip of Corfu, Acharavi is not just a popular tourist resort, but also the main town in the north, where locals arrive from the surrounding areas to arrange their day-to-day domestic affairs.
The village has seamlessly blended its old traditional buildings with modern tourist facilities, to provide a modern resort with traditional vibes.
Acharavi is a flat resort with a safe sand and pebble beach stretching seven kilometres along the coast. Plenty of sunbeds and parasols are available.
A good selection of water-sports equipment can be hired on the beach, and bars, restaurants, and shops stretch along the front.
Acharavi is divided into the old and new, with streets lined with olive trees, and an interior of lush Mediterranean vegetation. It is a resort popular with both beach lovers, and those who enjoy hiking or cycling to explore the surrounding coast, villages and old Roman remains.
Although a large town by Corfu standards, Acharavi still retains its friendly Greek hospitality. A trait that comes to the fore when you enjoy an al-fresco Coviot lunch of local olives, garlic bread, and moussaka; all washed down with the local schnapps or rosé wine at one of the many small beach-front tavernas.
There is little in the way of alternative entertainment at Acharavi, but there is a good selection of coach and boat trips available to other parts of the island for those who like to get out and about. The capital and airport can be reached in around an hour, and local public transport is pretty reliable.
If Acharavi sounds like the place where to stay in Corfu, it has an excellent selection of holiday apartments and villas, boutique hotels and international hotel complexes.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ACARAVI
- ($$$) Almyros Beach
- ($$) Acharavi Beach Hotel
- ($) Marie Hotel
10. Roda, a great resort with that traditional village vibe
Sitting on the northerly coast of the island, a few kilometres west from Acharavi, Roda is another resort that has managed to retain much of its traditional fishing village appeal.
Popular with families and couples, the blue flag beach stretches four kilometres along the coast, with sunbeds, parasols, water-sports, and shops, bars, and restaurants spread along the front. You can also test your driving skills at the mini go-kart track.
Laying on the beach on a sunny day, you can look across the Ionian Sea to the mountains on the Albanian coast. Inland, there is a good selection of trails for hiking, cycling, and horse trekking through the countryside.
Whether self-catering or half-board, the village has everything you need for your break, including souvenir and bric-a-brac shops for those quirky gifts for friends and family. In the village, you can visit the church of Saint Goerge and the Temple of Apollo on your walk-about.
Evenings can be as relaxed or active as you like, with restaurants offering plenty of local fresh seafood, traditional cuisine, and international dishes. While the local bars and tavernas provide everything from quiet conversation to karaoke and live music.
If you feel the need for a change of scenery with the kids, the Sidari Water Park, and Aqualand Resort Waterpark are easily reached via tour coach, hire car, or public transport.
If Roda touches the spot for your stay in Corfu, the area has an excellent selection of hotels, apartments, and villas available.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORFU IN RODA
- ($$) Ibiscus Corfu Hotel
- ($) Hotel Coral Beach
- ($) Pegasus Hotel
11. Sidari, where to stay in Corfu for a mix of beach and nightlife
A few kilometres west of Roda, on Corfu’s north coast, sits Sidari. A resort boasting over 14,000 beds, it is unashamedly aimed at the young package holiday makers.
It has a reputation for lively, late bars favoured by young beach-and-bar holiday visitors, so if quiet and culture are your holiday things, Sidari is probably not for you.
Sidari is blessed with three beaches. The main blue flag beach, which is the most popular, is a long stretch of sand and shingle, which shelves gently into the shallow blue sea.
Bars, restaurants, and shops fill the beach walkway, while sunbeds and parasols take up most of the beach. Water-sports of all kinds are available, as are various boat trips around the island.
If you want a little time away from the crowds, you can walk round to Megali, a smaller cove with plenty of rock pools for the kids to do a little shrimping.
A short car drive or cab ride away is the Canal D’Amour, or Tunnel of Love. A picturesque cove with its tunnel and interesting rock formations, it is popular with young romantics who want to stroll through the tunnel and enjoy a little time on the beach, or a drink on the terrace of one of the local tavernas.
The main village area is a hive of activity with plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants to keep you occupied during the day, while in the evenings bars and restaurants of all descriptions keep visitors busy until the early hours.
If you’re looking for busy daytimes and lively night-times for your stay in Corfu, Sidari has a large choice of economical apartments, villas, and mid-range hotels.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SIDARI
- ($$) Sidari Waterpark
- ($$) Amour Holiday Resort
- ($) Panorama Sidari
12. Agios Georgios Pagi (North), restful, relaxing, and tranquil
To add a little confusion, there is another Agios Georgios further down the west coast. To clarify your choice, the name ‘Pagi’, the nearest village to Agios Georgios in the north, is often added to the name.
Agios Georgios is located in a beautiful curving bay, and a holiday destination for families and all age groups who enjoy quiet and tranquil.
The resort is a few kilometres off the beaten track, down a narrow, twisting lane which wends its way through the countryside to the coast.
With over five kilometres of sand and shingle beach, and a backdrop of forest covered volcanic hillsides, it is the chosen destination for many looking for a totally relaxing beach holiday.
The beach area has the usual sunbeds, parasols, and water-sports; with shops, bars, and eateries along the front catering for all your day-to-day beach needs.
Away from the beach, accommodation tends to be privately owned, helping the resort retain much of its original charm. Most accommodation, and the majority of shops, bars, and restaurants, lay to the rear of the road, where you can sample a different menu every night of your stay.
For those odd days exploring away from the beach, the countryside is a mix of cypress and pine forests, olive groves, and working Greek farms.
If Agios Georgios Pagi sounds like your place to stay in Corfu, accommodation is primarily locally owned small apartment complexes, farm houses, and small hotels.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN AGIOS GEORGIOS
13. Paleokastritsa, one of the most picturesque resorts to stay in Corfu
A sprawling resort that includes six attractive beaches, Paleokastritsa has managed to retain much of its original charm, in-spite of the increased number of hotels, restaurants, and bars that have sprung up over the years.
A resort for all age groups, it stretches along the coast road taking in six of the island’s most attractive small coves. Each pretty sandy shingle beach, has its own sunbeds, parasols, water-sports, bars, shops, and restaurants to cater for its visitors.
At the end of the coast road is the main harbour, where you can catch water taxis, book boat tours, and hire boats and canoes.
Overlooking the port and village, and surrounded by cypress and olive trees is the 18th century Monastery of the Virgin, which now houses a fascinating collection of post-Byzantine artefacts and books for you to browse.
With the number of diverse restaurants around the resort, every night can be a different experience. You can enjoy Italian, Chinese or English meals in the many international restaurants, with or without entertainment. Or you can choose a quiet meal for two in a local taverna, or a full Greek dinner, complete with dancing and plate smashing.
Although you won’t find late night bars and all night beach parties, many of the local tavernas are open until after midnight, for those who enjoy late nights when on holiday.
If you think Paleokastritsa ticks all the boxes for your stay in Corfu, there is a good selection of self-catering options, and a number of popular hotels.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PALEOKASTRISTSA
14. Liapades, a popular resort for nature and beach lovers
Halfway down the west coast, at the northern tip of the Ropa Valley, and overlooking Gefyra beach, sits Liapades village. An old, traditional village of Ionian and Venetian buildings, narrow cobbled streets and colourful, stuccoed houses, it remains an area largely untouched by mass tourism.
The small shingle and sand main beach is just 100 metres long, and well equipped with sunbeds, parasols, water-sports, bars, restaurants, and shops.
Gefyra beach is one of six small coves that make up the resort, with over a dozen others that can only be reached by a boat tour, or by hiring a boat off the beach.
Most of the hotels and apartments, along with shops, bars, and eateries, are built along the road that leads down to the beach, and make up the ‘new’ area of Liapades village.
For those times away from the beach, the old village square is the centre of activity with long-established bars, shops, and restaurants – and traditional Greek hospitality.
For the nature lovers, inland there are old tracks to be explored on foot or by cycle. Worn down by working donkeys and carts loaded with olives and grapes, these trails will lead you to little hidden coves, or up into the hills for some fabulous panoramic views across the village and beyond.
If Liapades sounds like your place to stay in Corfu, there is a good selection of both self-catering and hotel options available.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LIAPADES
15. Glyfada, where to stay in Corfu for an away from it all beach holiday
Continuing down Corfu’s west coast, Glyfada’s claim to fame is its beautiful blue flag golden sand beach, set off with a backdrop of steep volcanic cliffs and dense, deep green vegetation. It is a resort for all who just want to relax in the sun and explore the countryside.
Small local tavernas, shops and eateries can be found scattered along the beachfront, with a couple of hotels and apartment blocks close by. The beach is well equipped with sunbeds and parasols, with a number of local beach bars offering waiter service to your sunbeds.
A good selection of water-sports are available, and for the strong swimmers, a 40ft high rocky outcrop can be reached from the beach, and is popular with cliff jumpers.
Close by is the pretty Mirtiotissa beach, popular with visiting naturists, and a little further out is Pelekas, a traditional Corfion village which has become popular as a stopover by visiting backpackers.
For the nature lovers and walkers, behind the resort there are some great trails to be explored, full of native flora and fauna.
Evenings are generally quiet affairs, sampling the local cuisine and excellent local wines and beers in the restaurants and bars. For those occasional evenings where you want a little more, the capital, Kerkyra, is just a 30 minute drive away by cab or hire car.
Glyfada is ideal for those who just want to recharge the batteries, with a good selection of mostly self-catering apartments and a couple of hotels.
BEST HOTELS IN GLYFADA
16. Agios Gordios, busy family beach days and relaxing evenings
Being less commercialised than many Corfion resorts, Agios Gordios (south) still relies heavily on fishing and agriculture for its main source of income.
Nestling in a bay south of Glyfada, it has over a kilometre of golden sandy beach, backed by high, forested hillsides.
With bars, tavernas, and restaurants along the front, a good selection of water activities including pedalos and canoes, and plenty of sunbeds and parasols, it provides all you need for those enjoyable days on the beach.
The village also has a good selection of facilities including ATMs, pharmacies, and car hire offices. Quiet bars and restaurants can be enjoyed during the evenings or you can head toward the beach front, where a number of tavernas and cocktail bars keep later hours.
What makes Agios Gordios so appealing to returning visitors, is its close proximity to other attractions away from the beach. Just a few minutes drive will get you to the villages of Kato Garouna, Pentati and Sinarades, with its Folklore Museum furnished with everything from the 19th century.
Aqualand Water Park is just a 20 minute drive away for somewhere different for the kids. The Kaisers Throne, one of Corfu’s highest viewpoints, is around a 30 minute drive.
The Corfu golf club and its 18 hole course is around the same distance, while Corfu Town is just 15 kilometres away.
If Agios Gordios is your kind of place for your stay in Corfu, it offers a good selection of self-catering apartments, villas, and mid-range hotels.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORFU IN AGIOS GORDIOS
17. Benitses, a popular resort where to stay in Corfu for all ages
Situated on the east coast, and just 12 kilometres south of Corfu Town and the airport, Benitses was one of Corfu’s first tourist resorts back in the 1960s.
Surprisingly, although the resort has massively expanded, most of the old traditional village has been retained, with new construction undertaken along the coast road running behind the beach.
At one time a main draw for the young party crowd, today Benitses is a destination for all age groups, families, and couples. Gone are the late night party bars, to be replaced with friendly restaurants to suit all tastes, and bars where the vibe is social and relaxed.
The resort has one main sand and shingle beach with its working harbour at one end, and a number of smaller sandy coves within easy reach. Plenty of the usual beach equipment and facilities are spread along the front, and trips and boat hire is available from the harbour.
You will find beach and souvenir shops, pharmacies and mini-markets, to supply all you need for your stay. But be sure to spend some time exploring the original Benitses village with its narrow streets, and local bars and shops, to get a real feel of traditional Corfu.
For the nature and history lovers, at the rear of the village you will find well-worn paths to take you into the countryside and some interesting attractions such as the Achillion Palace, the Corfu Shell Museum, the Laopetra Rock, and the ruins of the old Roman Baths.
The resort also holds a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Agia Marina Festival, and the Sardine Festival.
If Benitses sounds like where you want to stay in Corfu, the resort has an excellent selection of all types of accommodation.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BENITSES
- ($$$) Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
- ($$) Lido Corfu Sun Hotel 4 Stars All-inclusive
- ($) Hotel Kaiser Bridge
18. Kavos, a resort where you can party 24/7
Situated on the southern edge of the island, Kavos sprang to life in the 1980s, as Corfu’s leading resort for the young and young at heart party people. It has remained there ever since.
The pretty village of Kavos has a two kilometre long white sandy beach, with every facility you could wish for. Bars, restaurants, shops, and mini-marts stretch the length of the beach, as do parasols and sunbeds.
Water-sports include banana rides and doughnut rings, jet skis and para-sailing, and windsurfing and water-skiing.
Popular with young Brit tourists, in high season the resort is extremely busy. For those who want a little respite from the crowds, a short drive will get you to the quieter Arkoudilas and Katoulla beaches just along the coast.
Although popular with Brits, Kavos is a cosmopolitan resort attracting young visitors from all over Europe and beyond.
International restaurants, big brand fast-food outlets, and local Greek tavernas cater for the various tastes of the visitors, while many bars appear to be open all day and all night, the only thing changing being the staff serving the drinks.
For those who want a little downtime, organised trips and tours are available to other areas of the island, and hiking paths in the countryside will help clear the head and focus the mind.
If Kavos sounds like your kind of place to stay in Corfu, accommodation from self-catering studios to luxury hotels is available to suit all pockets.
So there we have it, 18 of the best places to stay in Corfu, we hope they’ve helped make your holiday decision a little easier.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KAVOS
- ($$$) Capo Di Corfu
- ($$) Ekati Mare Boutique Resort
- ($) Mediterranean Blue
Hi there heading to Corfu for 5 days and looking for a place where there’s nice beaches and some night life/restaurants (not like kavos). We are late 30s, originally was thinking Palokastritsa but wasn’t sure if it was too quiet. Any suggestions would be great!
Hi. Maria. Some other lively destinations are Ipsos, Benitses and Sidari. Renting a car allows you to explore the island, visit the best beaches, and enjoy the bars and restaurants of those areas.
Hello ,
Thank you very much for your great article – I am after some suggestions on the best part of Corfu to stay for my wife and I. We have ten days in Corfu in early June, and want somewhere quiet and relaxing, with good access to a range of restaurants and tavernas. We don’t want the young night-life crowd ( we are in our 40’s). We have a car so we are happy to base ourselves somewhere and do day trips, or perhaps start with a few nights in Corfu Town and then move somewhere else. We’d like to avoid large resort-type locations, and are after more of a traditional Corfu experience – visit a variety of places and sites rather than sit on a beach for days and days. Perhaps a place with more villas or small scale accommodation. Is there somewhere you can suggest. Thank you very much!
Hi Aaron. Having car the choice is easier. One place that could suit you (and I really love) is Paleokastritsa
Hi, What a delightful article!
We are heading to Corfu for 5 nights in May. We love outdoors, exploring villages, beaches, windy streets, and food (of course!). We are planning to stay in Corfu for 2 nights. Where would you recommend using as a base for the rest of the trip and explore around. We will rent a car for the duration of the trip.
Thanks!
Hi Dovile. I would choose any of the North destinations. Myself, I really like Paleokastritsa
Hey this is an fantastic list. About 10 friends and myself (mid 20s) are planning on going to Corfu in May for about about a week and are looking for the best area for hanging out at the beach during the day, exploring the sites, great greek food options and a mix of nightlife. Some nights we’ll go out to dinner and come back, some nights we want to party with loud music. Some nights we’ll do in between.
Where would you recommend we stay?
Hi Antohony. If you are looking for nightlife then Kavos is the place to stay in Corfu. Sidari could also be a good option.
What a fantastical detailed description of options in Corfu. As a writer, I am planning to rent a place for six months. I want to work on a current book while getting to know the island, as a potential part time residence. On my breaks from book, I would like to engage in an arty social scene, low key cafes versus drinking party scene. Looking to meet like minded ex-pats, of all ages with open spirit (I am a 66 year old woman) seeking to explore a new life adventure, with a passion for life and developing independent creativity. Live music, dancing (under the stars which I imagine are spectacular!) food fusion, simple, relaxed, beautiful and delicious traditional/healthy cafes to meet people and share, curious about life conversation. Easy access to walking around town to meet friendly people, to experience, being part of community- local farmers markets, town squares for seeing the same faces, etc. Would be great if also, yoga classes and celebration events around nature and seasons. Since I will be solo, would like easy, out the door, social interaction. Inter-active classes, independent films to watch with discussion, original versus famous artist shows and mix of small, informal venues for artist passing through or international living and performing would be wonderful to feel sense of social connectivity. As another option, I wonder is there is an area to live or neighborhood in a part of Corfu, that attracts people doing individual artistic creations yet wanting a sense of like minded community to share free time and explore the island and life together. With appreciation, Ellen Instagram whitebirdfriend
That’s a very helpful information.
We will take a couple vocation for one week maby, any recommendation about a place for young couple but not very partying place, with many people and tavernas/bars, beautiful beach? near with other places so we can visit not only one.
Thank you!
Hi Klau. You could check Sidari and Ipsos. Both are lively
Hi!
What a well written guide! Really thanks for that!
Myself and two friends, all in ours 30s, are planning to go to Corfu in early August.
Where would you recommend us to stay if we are looking for good food, close to nice beaches and the right amount of party?
Hi Eric. Kavos is famous for its nightlife but it is a bit far away from everything. Other good options are Sidari and Ipsos.
Hi, lots of great advice and so much to choose. Intend to use Corfu town as initial base and then hire a car. Can you suggest another town other than Corfu town to base with a car and explore coast and inland from there. Love swimming, exploring, good food, not so much into late night parties. We have three weeks in June 2023.
Peter
Hi Peter. Three weeks is a long time to stay in Corfu. Best advice would be to split your time in 2 destinantios. Choose one in the northern part (e.g, Paleokastritsa or Liapades) and one in the middle or south of the island (e.g, Agios Gordios or Benitses).
Hello! Thank you for all these helpful information. If me and three other friends are looking to come to Corfu for two days end of August (age 23) where do you recommend us staying? We are looking for beach life during the day and exploring the nightlife as well.
Hi Shannon. Check Kavos, a lively beach destination. Other options could be Ipsos and Sidari.
Hello! Travelling with our 8 months old baby. We are hoping to spend some time at the beach, but also enjoy walks in little towns. What would be the best place to go? Thanks! Really good article.
Hi Victoria. You have plenty of good choices in Corfu. One place I can recommend you is Paleokastritsa
Hello,
My wife and I are looking for a quiet, one week break in Corfu in September. A smaller area ideally, with a sandy beach, walkable to some restaurants and the seafront – quiet and not full of children? Ideally with hotels to stay. Thank you!
Hi Joshua. That is quite easy to find in Corfu :). One nice area is Paleokastritsa.
Hello, can you tell me a village with tavernas and blue and white streets and houses? I cannot find them in Corfu. Thank you.
Hi Stefana. White streets/houses and blue domes are typical in the Cycladic islands. In Corfu you will not see the same type of villages as in Santorini.
Hi, thanks so much for this post.
I’m planning a week in Corfu and wondering where to stay as a solo traveler. Ideally I’d like a busy after beach life (bars/restaurants/shops) with possibility to take photos
I’m a solo traveler. Would it make sense to go there by motorbike? Thanks!
Hi Frank. As a solo traveler looking for a busy and lively places I would choose Kavos. Ipsos and Sidari can be good choices as well.
Hello,
Many thanks for your really useful website. We are a family of five who love the sea, want to experience traditional corfu and green leafy spaces. We are looking for beautiful beaches, pretty coves and local tavernas. Would you recommend a hotel that feels luxurious without compromising on character & surroundings?
Hi Amy. One of my favourtie places to stay in Corfu is Palokastritsa. Eventhough I recommend a few hotels in the post is better that you check availavility and prices for your dates in Booking.
Great Info wow!!! Super helpful.
Me and my boyfriend (both 24) are traveling to Corfu this July and wanted to stay in a nice area with pretty beaches and cliffs. We would like an area where there are some bars and fun places, without it being too ‘turisty’ and ‘internationalised’. Basically a somewhat quiet space but where we can still have a nice drink and enjoy a nice restaurant. Do you have any suggestions???
Thank you so much!!!
Hi Marta. Plenty of places to be recommended… Personally I think Paleokastritsa (one of my favourite places in Corfu) is a perfect choice.
Hello,
Your website is amazing and super informative. lots of information to sift through.
Myself and my two teenagers – Son 15 and Daughter 11, want to visit Corfu this summer and want to know the best place to go for some nightlife but not too noisy, some beaches for me and some water sports and activities to keep them entertained.What is your recommendations as I have listed from your website – Paleokastritsa, Dassia, Ipsos and Archaravi. I am very confused as to where to go and would love some assistance please.
Many Thanks Sarah
Hi Sarah. Ipsos could be the best option for you.
Hello!
This is an amazing site full of handy information 🙂
Bit of indecision here, myself and my son of 15 would love to visit Corfu’.
I have the following in my list: Gouvia, Dassia, Ipsos, Kassiopi, Paleokastrisa and Benitses!
What are your suggestions? I like sandy and not too dark beaches, to spend few hours on but not solely, we look for activities too (mostly for my son!), thinking of staying in a hotel that serves breakfast only so we can enjoy different local restaurants, mainly Greek cuisine, somewhere accessible to shops and villages to visit. Not animal party but some sort of evening entertainment :). Thank you!!
Hi Marina. I would say that Ipsos and Kassiopi are the most fun places of those 6. My favourite is Paleokastritsa but it is a more quite destination.
Hello, where would be the best place to stay as a base for exploring wildlife and local cuisine please?
Hi Leanne. To explore wildlife the place you chose is not that important as having a car. In terms of local cuisine you will enjoy in all the destinations. In the most busiest ones you will have more offer and maybe is easier to find more upscale restaurants.
Great website we are looking to rent a villa in Corfu in June and taking our kids 27 & 29 not quite kids ….looking for somewhere thats pretty and typically Greek not too lively would you have any suggestions please ?
Hi Maggie. I would look into Paleokastritsa, Kalami, Roda, Liapades, Glyfada, or Agios Georgios Pagi. They are great choices for a quiet family beach vacation.
Hi
Travelling solo in June, looking for a quieter beach resort but with bus links to visit Corfu Town or if you stay in Corfu town is there any access to a beach?
Interested to see your suggestions
Thanks so much – really helpful website
S
Hi Sara. Corfu Town is the main bus hub so if you are not renting a car and you are planning to visit different places is a good option. Check Glyfada, Benitses, Gouvia or Dassia. They are not far away from Cortu Town and are relatively quiet. Other destinations will take you a bit more time to reach Corfu Town.
Hi
My boyfriend and I are thinking of going to Corfu for a holiday, we are both 18 and would love to go somewhere lively with a good atmosphere, places to eat and nightlife but not some much a nightclub central zone! I have heard kavos is party central and can be quit messy? Also lovely beaches and picturesque zones with little day trips. Any ideas!!
Hi Ava. Kavos is the best place to stay in Corfu if you are looking for nightlife. Other good places are Sidari, Achavari and Ipsos.
Hi Alexandra – This has been the most helpful article ! I’m 24, looking to have a solo backpacking experience through Corfu in July . I’d love to meet other young people / travelers and just go with the flow / tag along. Keen to have a few drinks/ live music at a bar in the evening but won’t be going clubbing. Would love to see the greenest and most lushes coastline , go for hikes and stroll through beautiful streets of a village with some history. Could you recommend any places ?
Hi Brigitta. For a good mix of nature and beaches you will find plenty of places. I would recommend Liapades, Paleokastritsa and Agios Georgios area. It´s a convenient area to set up your camp base and explore the north part of the island.
So paleokastritsa or liapades to stay and have a few beers at the end of the evening and not walk to far home ?
Hello, Where is the best place to stay (villa for e.g.) and for partying, lively night out in Greece? I am turning 40 and my friends and I want to book a 4 days trip to celebrate all day and night. Thanks x
Hi Victoria. The best place for nightlife in Corfu is Kavos. Sidari has also a nice nighlife scene.
Hi,
I’m looking to visit in August with 2 teenagers who love water sports, beaches and nice food. We want to go somewhere pretty which feels Greek but also isn’t too quiet or remote. We don’t want nightclubs tho just nice hustle and bustle.
Thanks
Mel
Hi Mel. Some of the places you could check are: Paleokastritsa, Agios Gordios, Kalami, Acharavi and Kassiopi. All of them are perfect for what you are looking for.
Hi there, delighted I came a across your site! Great information. Myself and my husband are going to corfu in September for my 50th birthday, it will be our first time there but know nothing about it! We are looking for somewhere peaceful relatively private, but where we can walk I to picturesque bays for places to eat and a wee bit of life but not party central.
Hi Julie. One of my favourite places in Corfu is Paleokastritsa. Check that one. If you can, rent a car. Corfu is big and plenty of beautiful coves and beaches.
Which is best place with young kids
Hi Govi. Agios Gordios, Benitses, Gouvia, Kassiopi, Achavari… all are great places for families with kids.
Are those places good a sandy beaches as well? to take small kids?
Hi Cecilia. Some are sandy some sand-pebbles. Corfu is a very family-friendly island.
Hi, my sister and I are ages 17 and 21 and we are looking for a trip to corfu together. We’re looking for somewhere with shops and traditional greek food and tavernas, and also a beach or some coves we could hike to spend a day at. Do you have any recommendations?
Hi Lucky. For shopping the best town is Corfu Town. You can check also Gouvia, Ipsos, Kassiopi, Acharavi, Sidari or Kavos. All have certain degree of shopping and entertainment, and easy access to beaches and coves.
This has been the most helpful and impartial article I’ve read on Corfu. Every time I have googled “best places to stay “ etc it always pops up with trip advisor and booking .com
I’m so pleased I found you.
We are in our 60-70 year age bracket and ideally would like to be in a town or village with lovely restaurants and some shops. An upmarket hotel is our luxury and we’d love to find all this somewhere in Corfu as we’ve never been before. Night life and bars isn’t our scene. Can you suggest the best area for us please ?
Hi Edna. My favourite area in Corfu is Paleokastritsa. You could also check Agios Gordios, Agios Georgios, Kassiopi and Acharavi area. They all have nice restaurants and a limited offer of shopping. If good shopping is a priority then Corfu Town or the most lively resorts would be a better option for you. Corfu is a big island with plenty of great places to stay.
Hi I have been to Agios Gordios several times. I love it but want to go somewhere equally pretty with a good number of tavernas too. Any recommendations please. Thanks!
Hi James. Sidari and Kavos are great for nice beaches, entertainment and nightlife. You can check Kassiopi, great beaches and lively, and Paleokastritsa (really beautiful area but much more relaxed).
Where can the best sunsets be seen on corfu?
Hi Louise. In the North West coast. Places like Agios Gordios, Arillas, Peroulades and Cape Drastis, and even Paleokrastitsa are great spots.
Really helpful for my first look into Corfu family holiday – thank you!
Where is the best place to stay for hiking? Thank you for this wonderful article. Amazing.
Hi Alexandra. Corfu is plenty of hiking options. Some of the more popular trails are: Corfu Trail, Porto Timoni, Erimitis Beaches Hike, Cape Drastis Loop, Mount Pantrokator, and Mount Stravros loop.
Hi there – where is the place in the main pic? It’s beautiful!
Hi. That is Palokastritsa Bay