Where to Stay in Corfu

Greece › Corfu Best Places to Stay
By Santorini Dave

See Also
• Our Favorite Beaches in Corfu

Corfu, known to Greeks as Kerkyra, stands as the seventh-largest island in Greece, with its bustling capital, Corfu Town, serving as the island’s vibrant heart. Renowned for its incredibly scenic landscape of forested hills and stunning turquoise-water beaches, Corfu offers a diverse array of accommodations tailored to suit a wide spectrum of travelers. Along its eastern coast, resort areas such as Dassia and Ipsos cater particularly to families, with Ipsos providing a slightly more pronounced nightlife scene. The island’s western coast, in contrast, is characterized by long stretches of golden sand beaches, including the celebrated Paleokastritsa Beach, a favored destination for couples and romantic retreats.

Corfu Town itself, more akin to a dynamic small city than a tranquil island village, presents a captivating fusion of historic architecture, a wealth of museums, centuries-old palaces, contemporary boutique shopping, and an abundance of excellent traditional tavernas. The town also boasts the largest harbor in the Ionian Sea, equipped with two distinct ferry passenger terminals—one for domestic routes and another for international connections, which also serves as a cruise ship port.

For those intent on exploring the full breadth of Corfu’s diverse landscapes, renting a car is the most practical approach. However, if your itinerary is focused solely on Corfu Town, navigating the city on foot, by local bus, or taxi proves far more convenient. The capital’s roads are frequently congested, and its narrow, bustling thoroughfares can present a considerable challenge for drivers.

Corfu experiences its peak tourist season during July and August, when its Mediterranean climate delivers consistently hot, sunny summers and invitingly warm seas. For travelers seeking a more temperate experience, the shoulder seasons of May, June, September, and October offer pleasantly warm conditions, ideal for island exploration without the intense summer crowds. It’s worth noting that Corfu Town, with its permanent population of approximately 40,000 residents, maintains a year-round vibrancy, with many hotels remaining open outside the primary tourist season.

The Best Places to Stay in Corfu

• Best Luxury Hotels on Corfu
  Akrotiri Beach Resort • Grecotel LUXME Daphnila Bay
• Best Boutique Hotels on Corfu
  Bella Venezia • Siora Vittoria
• Best Hotels for Couples on Corfu
  Akrotiri Beach Resort • Bella Venezia
• Best Hotels for Families
  Kastraki Epavlis • Grecotel LUXME Daphnila Bay
• Best Beach Hotels on Corfu
  Agios Gordios Beach Resort • Domes of Corfu
• Best Midrange Hotels on Corfu
  Arcadion Hotel • Cavalieri Hotel • TRYP by Wyndham
• Hotels closest to the Corfu airport
  Mon Repos Palace (adults-only) • Corfu Palace
• Hotel closest to Corfu Town port
  Corfu Mare Hotel (adults-only)

Best Places on Corfu for…

• Where to Stay on Corfu for First-Timers: Corfu Town
  Corfu Town distinguishes itself through a unique architectural heritage, a labyrinth of charming alleyways, and a broad array of excellent dining establishments. Its Old Town holds the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to its historical significance and preserved beauty. Newcomers to the island will also find much to explore in the city’s numerous cultural institutions. Notable among these are the Archaeological Museum, which illuminates the island’s ancient past; the Corfu Museum of Asian Art, housed within the stately Palace of St. Michael and St. George; and the formidable historic structures of the Old Fortress and New Fortress, each offering insights into centuries of Corfiot defense and governance. Beyond its cultural offerings, Corfu Town embraces a lively social scene, characterized by abundant al fresco eateries and bars, contributing to a distinctly vibrant nightlife.
  

  The elegant 1800s French architecture of The Liston in Corfu Town sprawls a full city block and faces a portion of Spianada Square.

• Where to Stay on Corfu for Couples or Honeymooners: Paleokastritsa
  On Corfu’s northwest coast, Paleokastritsa boasts natural beauty and dramatic scenery, offering a blissful escape for couples or honeymooners. Paleokastrita has a variety of beaches nestled between its dramatic cliffs; some are fully serviced with amenities, others are pristine, secluded, and peaceful. Rent or hire a boat to experience secluded coves (great for snorkeling) or explore sea caves – such as Nausica cave and Blue Eye Cave. Walk or drive to the clifftop location of the Monastery of Paleokastritsa for gorgeous views over the island and the Ionian Sea.

• Where to Stay on Corfu for Water Activities: Dassia, Glyfada
  The best beach for water activities on the island of Corfu is Dassia Beach, located on the east coast, offering parasailing, wake-boarding, water-skiing, SUP (stand-up paddle boarding), inflatable rides, and boat rentals. Dassia Beach is well-protected from the strong west winds in the summertime; its surface is a mix of sand and small pebbles. Dassia Beach is easily accessible and only 12 km north of Corfu Town. Glyfada Beach (on the west coast) is known for its consistent wave-action and is a better location for windsurfing and kite-boarding
• Where to Stay on Corfu for Families: Dassia
  Dassia is a great family-holiday destination, featuring sandy beaches and a shallow seabed with a gradual slope. It’s popular with families of all ages and has a relaxed atmosphere. Water sports are available and there’s a good mix of accommodation options. To simplify the planning and prepping of a family holiday, stay at the luxury all-inclusive Grecotel LUXME Daphnila Bay Hotel, located amidst an olive grove on the shores of a Blue Flag beach. Dassia is conveniently located 12 km north of Corfu Town, and 14 km north of airport.
  

  Overwater sun loungers at Dassia Beach Restaurant.

• Where to Stay on Corfu without a Car: Corfu Town
  Travelers who don’t rent a car are best placed to stay in Corfu Town, the island’s capital. The airport is 4 km away and is within walking distance of hotels located at the south end of the city, such as the Mon Repos Palace Hotel (1.5 km). The ferry port is on the north end of the city, 2.7 km from Corfu Town. Staying near Spianada Square and the Liston is an ideal central location, convenient to the Old Fortress, museums, many eateries, cafes, bars, shopping, buses, and taxis. Stay at the historic Bella Venezia, or the Arcadion Hotel — both are very central and great for couples or solo travelers. For the best views, try Cavalieri Hotel.

The 7 Best Areas of Corfu for Tourists

1. Corfu Town

The island’s capital, Corfu Town, features the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its narrow streets, elegant architecture, and lively squares. It offers a rich taste of the island’s history through sites with a range of influences that include Venetian (Old Fortress and New Fortress), French (Liston promenade), and British (Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George). The Church of Saint Spyridon dates back to the 16th century, with an impressive bell tower and an exquisitely gilded ceiling. The Corfu Museum of Asian Art, located on three floors in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, displays an extensive collection of Chinese and Japanese artwork.

A moat separates Corfu Town from the Old Fortress, which is accessed by a bridge. Inside the fort is a church, music school, the Historical Archives of Corfu, the Public Library, tourist shop, and a restaurant.

Corfu Town’s Spianada Square is the largest square in Greece and is a popular hub for locals and tourists, boasting historical buildings, an expansive green space lined with palm trees, and the Liston arcade with its elegant colonnades and delightful cafes.

Corfu Town has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and lively restaurants. The historic Old Town and the Esplanade are popular spots for evening entertainment, offering a mix of trendy cocktail bars, traditional tavernas with live Greek music, and cozy wine bars.

• Best Hotels in Corfu Town
  Bella Venezia • Cavalieri Hotel • Corfu Palace • Arcadion Hotel • Siora Vittoria • Corfu Mare Hotel • Mon Repos Palace

2. Paleokastritsa

Picturesque Paleokastritsa on Corfu’s northwest coast is the island’s most popular resort area, with stunning beaches nestled amidst lush green hills covered in olive trees and cypress. Paleokastritsa is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, and boasts a series of curved bays and secluded coves. It’s ideal for water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, exploring hidden coves, and boat tours/rentals to access secluded and pristine beaches.

The village itself is essentially a narrow winding road lined with hotels, restaurants, villas, and summer homes; at the road’s end lies the area’s most popular beach, Paleokastritsa Beach, and the historic Paleokastritsa Monastery perched on a cliff above.

• Best Hotel in Paleokastritsa
  Akrotiri Beach Resort

3. Agios Gordios

Nestled on the island’s west coast, 26 km south of popular Paleokastritsa, Agios Gordios is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, golden sand, and azure waters. Its tranquil beach, surrounded by olive groves and cypress trees, offers a serene retreat for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts, with breathtaking sunset views. A favored location for families.

• Best Hotel in Agios Gordios
  Agios Gordios Beach Resort

4. Dassia

Located on the east coast of Corfu, about 5 miles north of Corfu Town, Dassia is a popular resort town known for its beautiful shoreline and lush surroundings. The beach features a mix of pebbles and sand, with crystal-clear, shallow waters in forested coves – perfect for families and swimmers. Dassia has a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking a tranquil beachside holiday with convenient access to hiking, horseback riding, and Corfu Town. Watersports are popular in this area—parasailing, waterskiing, SUP rentals and tours, wakeboarding, and inflatable rides.

• Best Hotels in Dassia
  TRYP by Wyndham • Grecotel LUXME Daphnila Bay (nearby)

5. Gouvia

Located on Corfu’s east coast, Gouvia is a low-key village with a marina – a 10 min drive to Corfu Town. The modern town somewhat lacks the character found in other villages, and the small but pleasant beach area is comparatively lackluster (there is sometimes minor flooding on the beach as the tide comes in). Still, it offers a range of restaurants and an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like the Venetian Arsenal and Corfu Town.

• Best Hotel in Gouvia
  Molfetta Beach Hotel

6. Ypsos (aka Ipsos)

Ypsos is a seaside holiday town with a procession of restaurants, shops, and bars arranged along a long stretch of narrow beach with golden sand. The water at Ypsos Beach is shallow and offers good swimming, and there are kids’ activities along the beach’s north end. Although Ypsos can be lively in the evening and has some nightlife, it’s not party central like the island’s famous south coast village of Kavos.

• Best Hotel in Ypsos
  La Maison Corfu (adults only)

7. Pelekas

Perched on a hilltop, Pelekas is a traditional village with panoramic views of the island. A short drive from Corfu Town, this charming hamlet is known for its cozy tavernas, narrow streets, and nearby Glyfada Beach. The legendary sunset at the Kaiser’s Throne viewpoint is a short walk uphill from the town.

• Best Hotel in Pelekas
  Jimmy’s Pelekas

More Great Areas in Corfu for Tourists

• Kassiopi: Located on the northeastern coast, Kassiopi is a charming fishing village with a rich history. It offers a mix of relaxation and culture, with Byzantine castle ruins to explore, cobbled streets to wander, a bustling harbor, and several pebble beaches nearby.
  Best hotel: Melina Bay Boutique Hotel
• Sidari: A popular resort town in the north, Sidari boasts vibrant nightlife, a range of water sports, and the renowned Canal d’Amour. The main strip features numerous bars, clubs, and pubs, where younger-leaning crowds enjoy cocktails, music, and dancing until the early hours of the morning.
  Best hotel: Sidari Beach Hotel
• Kavos: Situated in the south, Kavos is famous for its high-energy nightlife, attracting a young and energetic mix. The beach town offers a wide range of bars, clubs, and party venues, often hosting famous DJs and themed events throughout the summer.
  Best hotel: Konstantina Apartments
• Issos Beach: Located on the southwest coast, Issos Beach is a haven for beach lovers, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the distant Albanian mountains. With sand dunes and the Korission Lagoon nearby, it’s perfect for sunbathing, windsurfing, and birdwatching.
  Best hotel: Aris Seaside

13 Best Hotels in Corfu

• Corfu Town Hotel Map

1. Akrotiri Beach Resort – Paleokastritsa

The best hotel in Paleokastritsa, Corfu’s picturesque west coast village famous for its dramatic scenery and dreamy sunsets. Romantic and stylish property perched above a cliff overlooking the sea. All rooms have terrific views, large balconies, and luxurious bathrooms with rainfall showers, lighting options, and designer tiles. The Panorama suite adds a king-sized bed, separate lounge and desk area, and huge 16 sqm balcony. Akrotiri Beach Hotel features an expansive bar, swimming pool, and pool bar area with stunning clifftop views; the in-house restaurant offers a daily buffet breakfast. Nestled beside Agia Triada Beach, which has a diving center and the wonderfully friendly Akron Beach Bar. Children 12 and older are welcome.

2. Bella Venezia – Corfu Town

Housed in a restored neo-Classical mansion, the hotel’s 30 rooms and 1 suite are elegantly decorated, and feature exceptionally comfortable, orthopedically designed beds. Rooms are light and airy with crisp-white walls, blue accents, and warm woods. Luxe bathrooms are decked out in marble and gold accessories. Complimentary breakfast buffet is enjoyed in their lovely garden house. Other amenities: pillow menu, secured parking, complimentary wine, and 24-hour reception. Friendly staff and excellent service. Located on a leafy side street, its an easy walk to a plethora of charming tavernas and cafes in Corfu’s capital.

3. Mon Repos Palace – Anemomylos (near Corfu Town)

Adults-only hotel with old-world elegance, stylish lounge, and sunny indoor/outdoor street-side restaurant that’s situated at the far end of the promenade on Garitsa Bay. Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable – upgrade to a sea view room if you can. Cool off in their small outdoor pool or walk across the street to the town’s quaint windmill pier where locals enjoy sea swimming. Walkable to historic Corfu Town, and the island’s international airport is a 6-minute drive away. Buffet breakfast included in the room rate.

4. Grecotel LUXME Daphnila Bay – Dassia

This all-inclusive hotel sprawls across a hillside with its own private furnished beach. Accommodation consists of superior rooms, suites, and family rooms located in the main building, and bungalows nestled in a grove of olive trees. All rooms are bright and airy, with open plan and Ionian island décor style throughout. Armchairs, modern amenities with stocked mini-bars, and large comfortable beds are standard; more expensive rooms have balconies. Two swimming pools (one pool is indoor). Five restaurants, pool & snack bar, spa, fitness room, children’s pool, and seven tennis courts. A kids’ club is available for ages 4 to 12 years. Located an easy 14 km (approx 30-minute drive) from the airport.

5. Arcadion Hotel – Corfu Town

Excellent central location in Corfu’s Old Town across from Spianada Square and the Old Fortress, steps to dozens of restaurants and bars along the area’s charming narrow alleyways. Guest rooms have been renovated and are stylish and modern. Twin rooms, double rooms, and top-floor Junior suites can sleep 2. Superior rooms add sofa bed and sleep 3. The lobby restaurant has a charming street-side patio; a rooftop restaurant/bar is seasonal, open from June to October. Breakfast is included in room rate. Arcadion is convenient to bus stop and taxis, and open year-round.

6. Corfu Palace – Corfu Town

This hotel with old-fashioned flair was one of the island’s original resorts, built in 1958. Splendid waterfront location with easy access to the Old Fortress and the seaside promenade. All rooms are spacious and offer sea views with marble-clad bathrooms. Connecting rooms are available and can sleep 5. The hotel’s best feature is its huge and beautifully landscaped sea-water swimming pool and surrounding gardens. Two restaurants are on site. Excellent seafront location, easily walkable to all the attractions in Old Town.

7. Corfu Mare Hotel – Kefalomantouko (near Corfu Town)

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood near the port, Corfu Mare offers spacious rooms in seven categories (including some that are wheelchair-accessible). Jacuzzis are offered in superior suites. Onsite restaurant overlooks the swimming pool, with a poolside bar that doubles as an outdoor Lounge in the evening. A few tavernas are nearby, or 3 km drive to Spianada Square and Old Town. Onsite gym and complimentary parking. Corfu’s main ferry port is a 15-minute walk; ideal for travelers wanting to stay in a quieter area with easy access to the harbor.

8. TRYP by Wyndham – Dassia

A relaxing and welcoming oasis amid the busy Dassia beach scene. Rooms are simple and comfortable, with balconies available in twin rooms, double rooms, and connecting rooms. Superior suites are on the top floor and add a living room and separate bedroom. Beautiful outdoor pool in a quiet and lush garden with sun loungers, lots of shade, and a pool bar. At the front of hotel there is a generous bar and restaurant area. The beach is a 5-minute walk and there are excellent local tavernas within walking distance.

10. Cavalieri Hotel – Corfu Town

This historic mansion-turned-boutique hotel is on the doorstep to Old Town’s bustling cobblestone lanes lined with eateries and shops. Singles, Twins, Superiors, and Family rooms are offered, some with balconies. Family rooms feature a loft and can sleep 5. Hotel has a lovely rooftop bar/restaurant with terrific panoramic views. Buffet breakfast included. Hotel is open year-round.

9. Kastraki Epavlis – Barbati

Occupying four and a half acres of lush hillside 18 km north of Corfu Town, this lovely and luxurious rental villa enjoys perhaps the best views in Corfu. There are four bedrooms on different levels, a large communal lounge overlooking a pool, a billiards/games room, wood oven, and BBQ area with hammocks and an outdoor jacuzzi. It comes pre-stocked with food items, but it’s not far to local stores for additional supplies. A perfect Greek island haven for large families or groups of friends.

11. Domes of Corfu – Glyfada Beach

This family-friendly resort nestled below a forested hillside and facing a beautiful beach offers rooms and suite with either sea, mountain, or garden views. Rooms are modern with private balconies; opt for a sea view room to watch the sunset. Beautiful swimming pool overlooks the Ionian Sea, and their adults-only pool is a quiet retreat near their spa, or enjoy the sun loungers and umbrellas on Blue-flag Glyfada Beach. Kids Club available for toddlers to teens. Wheelchair accessible rooms are available. The hotel is set in a quiet and secluded location, a 30-minute drive from the airport and Corfu Town.

12. Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel – Corfu Town

A boutique hotel set in a restored mansion, offering 9 traditional guest rooms with antique furniture and wooden floors, tucked away from crowds but an easy walk to many great restaurants and shops near Liston Square in Old Town. Complimentary breakfast available in their peaceful garden courtyard. Most rooms (classic, deluxe, or junior suite) sleeps 2; Two-bedroom family suite with private terrace can sleep 4. Fortress View suite is perfect for honeymooners with extra privacy located on the top-floor.

13. Molfetta Beach Hotel – Gouvia

In the village of Gouvia, the Molfetta Beach Hotel is a small family-run hotel with traditional-style accommodations; one luxury suite features a jacuzzi bathtub. Some rooms feature sea views and breakfast is standard in all. There’s a casual restaurant and cocktail bar next door with several tavernas within a 5-minute walk. A small beach with limited amenities is nearby. Located 9 km north of Corfu Town.

Summary: My Favorite Hotels in Corfu

My Favorite Corfu Hotels

• Luxury: Akrotiri
• Boutique: Bella Venezia
• Beach (Families): Grecotel-LUXME Daphnila Bay
• Beach (Couples): Akrotiri
• Corfu Town: Arcadion
• Dassia: TRYP
• Paleokastritsa: Akrotiri
• Ypsos: La Maison Corfu
• Budget: Molfetta Beach

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