CORFU

Only 3kms off the coast of Albania, this north-western most island of Greece has something for everyone. It’s a sizable place, some 64 kms from north to south and 32 kms at its widest. Around the 217 kms of coastline you’ll find some glorious beaches with great tavernas and restaurants. You’ll find cultural sites and sights, and Corfu Town is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site – in large part for its architectural heritage. 

But for the most part Corfu is a holiday playground. Discovered early by tourists, it has developed a sophisticated yet friendly customer-focussed ‘user experience’. That is in no way to play down the excellence of what you will find here – Corfiots do tourism and do it well, valuing their visitors and taking care of the island’s resources.  

Food here is a particular delight. Corfu town centre is a fantastic place to eat, crammed with al fresco restaurants for outdoor dining. All the beach resorts are lined with tavernas and bars. If you venture up into the hills inland, you’ll find more rustic hospitality in tiny village squares.  

Pick your port of call or resort carefully. Kavos, at the southern tip of the island, is party central. In the north small harbours like Kassiopi and Paleocastritsa are more ‘genteel’ and refined. In between you’ll find a sliding scale of sophistication. From a full-English breakfast to grilled octopus Corfiot-style for dinner, all the world is here. 

Our recommendation: Corfu is a brilliant party island, a place to let your hair down (even if you haven’t got any!). If you’re cruising there are any number of places around the coast to drop anchor, go ashore and enjoy the sophisticated holiday vibe. If you’re coming to stay for a week or two then do your research – if you’re young, the great thing is you can go multi-centre and combine a week’s big chill with a full-on party.