Corfu is an absolutely superb island that has retained its charm despite intense tourist activity. But be sure to choose the right place to sleep in Corfu, depending on what you’re looking for and how you’d like to spend your vacation. Because the seaside is very touristy, and sometimes a little too built-up for our taste. And frankly, it’s very busy in summer. In this article, you’ll find all the practical information you need about where to stay in Corfu.
But don’t worry, you can rediscover the island’s charm and authenticity just by getting off the beaten track.
We are regularly asked for advice on choosing accommodation or a hotel in Corfu. Personally, we book via Booking or Airbnb, and prefer to avoid crowded seaside resorts in summer. We think it’s best to visit either Corfu’s old town or its wooded mountains and remote villages.
So here are four options we love for staying in Corfu: in the heart of the old town, in the quiet of the mountains, in a small village in the middle of nowhere or on the heights next to the town.
Choosing accommodation in Corfu’s old town
We took advantage of the last Easter vacations to go to this island. We chose a hotel in Corfu, in the heart of the old town, and didn’t regret it.
Corfu is the jewel of the island. It has a lot of charm and a cheerful atmosphere, a mix of Greece and Italy.
Staying in Corfu’s old town is an interesting choice. This allows you to visit the city and enjoy its lively atmosphere, of course. But it’s also an excellent starting point for exploring the island and setting off in a different direction each day, without having to travel too far. What’s more, it’s great for dinner and drinks in the evening.
And if you come to Corfu at Easter (during the Orthodox Easter), don’t hesitate and stay in the old town to enjoy the festivities. You’ll have a front-row seat.
Ideally, choose a hotel in Corfu town near the Esplanade (Spianada) or the port. The offer is relatively limited, so book well in advance.
Some suggestions for Airbnb accommodation and hotels in Corfu in the town
- Bella Venezia Bella Venezia: certainly one of Corfu’s best addresses. This neoclassical building is located in a quiet area, a stone’s throw from the Spianada and Liston rivers. It once housed a girls’ school. The place seduces with its old-fashioned charm and refined Italian decor. As a bonus, a lovely garden where you can enjoy a breakfast prepared with local produce.
- Siorra Vittoria Siorra Vittoria: a new hotel in a renovated manor house. Lots of charm, in the heart of the old town, close to the center but quiet. Here too, breakfast in a pleasant garden
On the Airbnb accommodation side, we spotted:
- The Fan Studio for 2 people, in a 17th-century building: the apartment is a little gem and the location is top-notch.
- Maryhope’s Flat (3 pers.): welcoming owner, very well-placed accommodation in Corfu’s old town with a lovely balcony
- Old Town Apartment Ideal for groups of friends and families (up to 6 people)
- Chic new build studio (sleeps 5): contemporary apartment in the heart of the old town
Sleeping in Corfu in the peace and quiet of the mountains
One of our friends recently went to Corfu and chose to stay in a quiet place in the mountains. She highly recommends this solution. Indeed, as soon as you head inland from Corfu, you’ll find picturesque villages, citrus groves, olive groves and lush green valleys.
Our friend had chosen a Corfu hotel in the small village of Makrades: the Hotel Spiti Thea.
The benefits:
- Quiet location to avoid the horde of tourists
- The small village of Makrades with just one restaurant. The village café-grocery becomes the travelers’ canteen. A few tables under a large tree. The boss who offers to choose the menu in the morning for the evening.
- Affordable prices
- Great walks from the village to the beach.
- A hidden tavern a few kilometers away by the sea: The fisherman, excellent! A well-kept secret among locals and regulars alike.
Negative points:
- Away from the hustle and bustle
- A bit of driving in the morning and evening
- The village is moderately accessible
And here are some quiet Airbnb accommodations:
- Cosy eco-cottage in Liapades: a comfortable, authentic place far from the tourist hustle and bustle
- A house in the trees A tree house: you’re sure to fall in love with this charming tree house. The perfect place for an off-the-beaten-track experience.
- Centuries-old guesthouse A pretty, comfortable cottage in Corfu. Friendly and welcoming owner.
- Villa Senses: a superb house with swimming pool
Stay in a Corfu hotel in the heart of an ancient village
In Corfu, don’t hesitate to get off the beaten track to discover the island’s authenticity.
If you want to discover a wild and authentic place, we recommend Merchant’s House Bed & Breakfast in the “suspended in time” village of Old Perithea. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. An authentic village and a Bed & Breaffast with a soul. We love it!
Accommodation in Corfu in the hills surrounding the town
Finally, another of our friends who went to Corfu last summer chose to rent a large house with friends in the hills near Corfu town: Casa Elisabetta.
Located just 10 minutes by car from Corfu’s old town, this beautiful villa with swimming pool offers a quiet, hilltop location and superb views.
Another option: Villa Nautilius, 10 minutes from Corfu’s old town, near Aqualand. It is equipped with a beautiful swimming pool.
Find out more about Corfu
See also our articles
- Top 10 things to do on vacation in Corfu Our best-of list of things to do in Corfu. What to do? What to see?
- Practical information to plan your vacation in Corfu What’s the best season to go to Corfu? What to bring back from Corfu How to get to Corfu How do I get around? etc.
- Flavours and traditions of Corfu, Easter Island to find out all about the island’s culinary traditions
Laure M.
