Are you planning a trip to Corfu and unsure where to stay? My aim is that you’ll no longer be in doubt once you’ve read my guide here.
Corfu is a fantastic island with beautiful beaches, charming Venetian towns and lush green nature. In this guide, you’ll get an overview of the best areas to stay in, whether you’re into historic town centres, family-friendly beach holidays or authentic Greek villages.
So let’s just get started with the guide: where to stay in Corfu?
Best Areas in Corfu
Here is a quick overview of the best areas to stay in Corfu:
- Corfu Town (Kerkyra) – Historic centre with Venetian charm 🏛️
- Paleokastritsa – Dramatic cliffs and beautiful bays 🏖️
- Kassiopi – Authentic fishing village with charm ⛵
- Sidari – Family-friendly with Canal d’Amour 👨👩👧👦
- Benitses – Relaxed coastal town with tradition 🌊
- Agios Gordios – Backpackers and young travellers 🎒
Click on the area’s name to see the best hotels in the area.
The guide on where to stay in Corfu continues below.
1. Corfu Town (Kerkyra) – best area for first-time visitors ⭐️
Corfu Town is the perfect base for your first Corfu experience. Here you get the island’s best cultural experiences, Venetian architecture and a wealth of dining options right on your doorstep.
Quick Info: Corfu Town 📍
Distance to centre: 0 km (you ARE in the centre!)
🚌 Transport: Central bus station to the whole island
✈️ Time to airport: 10-15 minutes
🏪 Supermarket: Everywhere in town
💰 Price level: €€€€ (4/5)
👮 Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Corfu Town – or Kerkyra as the locals call it – is simply magical. Imagine narrow streets with tall pastel-coloured buildings that remind you of Venice and Naples at the same time.
UNESCO has put the town on the World Heritage list for good reason! The two fortresses (the old and the new, although both are quite old…) tower over the town and provide fantastic views over the sea.
The great thing about staying in Corfu Town is that you wake up in the middle of history. You can take a morning walk on the Spianada – Greece’s largest square – whilst the locals play cricket (yes, cricket! It’s a remnant from the British occupation).
The old town is a labyrinth of alleyways where you suddenly find yourself in front of a small church or a cosy taverna that has been there for generations.
See the best hotels in Corfu Town here.
The Liston arcades along the Spianada are perfect for a morning coffee or an evening ouzo. Here you sit in the shade under the French arches (yes, Corfu has had many masters through time) and people-watch like a professional.
Speaking of food – here you’ll find everything from Michelin level to authentic little tavernas where mama still makes pastitsada every day.
The only downside to staying in Corfu Town? The prices are a bit higher than the rest of the island, and in high season it can be very busy. But trust me – the authentic town atmosphere is worth it all. Plus, you have the whole island within 30-60 minutes’ drive.
Places to stay in Corfu Town
Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hidden in the heart of the old town, you’ll find this charming boutique hotel in a renovated Venetian building from 1823. The 10 rooms are individually decorated with authentic details, high ceilings and original wooden floors. The roof terrace with views over the town is perfect for an evening drink. Here you literally stay in the middle of history – the UNESCO World Heritage site starts right outside the door.
A guest recently wrote: “Like staying in a museum, but with all modern comforts. We loved the sound of the church bells in the morning and could walk to everything.”
See more photos and book here.
Bella Venezia ⭐⭐⭐
This family-run hotel in a neoclassical building offers fantastic value-for-money in the middle of town. The rooms are clean and comfortable, the staff are incredibly helpful, and breakfast is served in a cosy courtyard. Perfect location a few minutes from the Spianada and the old town. It’s not fancy, but it’s authentic and charming.
Guests especially love: “Fantastic location and the staff treated us like family. The little garden is an oasis after a day in town.”
See more photos and book here.
2. Paleokastritsa – best place for nature lovers 🌳
If you dream of turquoise water, dramatic cliffs and green hills, then Paleokastritsa is your paradise in Corfu.
Quick Info: Paleokastritsa 📍
Distance to centre: 25 km northwest of Corfu Town
🚌 Transport: Regular bus departures from Corfu Town
✈️ Time to airport: 35-40 minutes
🏪 Supermarket: Small local shops
💰 Price level: €€€ (3/5)
👮 Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Paleokastritsa is the area that graces all Corfu postcards – and with good reason. Here, the green mountains meet the deep blue Ionian Sea in the most spectacular way. The coastline consists of six smaller bays, each with its own clear water. It’s like seeing different shades of blue you didn’t know existed.
See the best hotels in Paleokastritsa here.
The Theotokos Monastery sits on top of the cliff with a view that simply… I’m lost for words. The monks have lived here since the 1200s, and you can understand why – the place is magical.
You can visit the monastery (remember to cover shoulders and knees), see the small museum and buy the monastery’s own olive oil.
The area is perfect for you who love activity. Snorkelling here is first-class – the water is so clear that you can see the seabed at several metres’ depth. There are several dive centres if you want to explore caves and underwater grottos. Kayak hire is popular, and you can row into the small, hidden beaches that are only accessible from the water.
The beach in the main bay can get quite crowded in high season (July-August), so I recommend taking a boat to one of the more secluded bays – boats depart all day.
Or come early in the morning, before the tourist buses arrive. The water temperature is a bit cooler than on the east coast, but on the other hand it’s refreshing and incredibly clear.
The food scene is cosy with tavernas along the beach. Try the local speciality bourdheto (spicy fish soup) – it’s fantastic. Just be prepared that the prices are a bit higher than other places on the island due to the touristy location.
A little warning: the road here from Corfu Town is winding mountain roads. Beautiful? Absolutely. Easy to drive on? Not if you get carsick. But the view along the way is spectacular!
Places to stay in Paleokastritsa
Akrotiri Beach Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This boutique resort is located secluded on the Paleokastritsa peninsula with its own private beach and views that make you forget everything else. The 130 rooms are modern and elegant, many with a private pool or jacuzzi on the balcony.
The hotel has four pools, an excellent spa and several restaurants. It’s one of those hotels where you actually consider not leaving the area – but of course you should, because Paleokastritsa is too beautiful!
Previous guests particularly highlight: “We’ve travelled a lot, but this hotel combines luxury with authenticity perfectly. The sunsets from our room were indescribable.”
See more photos and book here.
Odysseus Hotel ⭐⭐⭐
This budget-friendly hotel offers basic but clean rooms, many with balcony and sea view. The location is super – a few minutes’ walk to the main beach. The pool area is simple but cosy, and the owners are incredibly hospitable. Perfect if you want to spend your money on experiences rather than fancy hotel facilities.
Guests especially love: “Can’t beat the relationship between price and location. Breakfast on the terrace with views over the bay started each day perfectly.”
See more photos and book here.
3. Kassiopi – best place for authentic Greek atmosphere ⛵
Kassiopi is a charming old fishing village on Corfu’s northeast coast that has retained its authenticity despite its popularity amongst tourists.
Quick Info: Kassiopi 📍
Distance to centre: 36 km north of Corfu Town
🚌 Transport: Good bus connection to Corfu Town
✈️ Time to airport: 45 minutes
🏪 Supermarket: Several well-stocked supermarkets
💰 Price level: €€€ (3/5)
👮 Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Kassiopi has something that many other tourist areas in Corfu lack: genuine charm. Yes, there are tourists, but the town has retained its character as a working fishing village.
In the morning you can still see the fishermen coming in with the day’s catch, and the locals still meet in the square for a coffee and a chat.
See the best hotels in Kassiopi here.
The small harbour is the heart of the town. Here the tavernas sit side by side with views over the water and the colourful boats. In the evening, it’s the place to be – choose a restaurant, order fresh fish and enjoy the atmosphere.
The price is reasonable, and the quality is top. The atmosphere is relaxed – no stress, no fancy dress code, just good food and pleasant company.
Kassiopi Castle (or the ruins of it) is worth visiting. It was built by the Byzantines and sits dramatically on a clifftop by the harbour. The view over Albania on the other side of the sea is impressive – on clear days you can almost see the mountains over there. It’s free to visit, and it takes about 20 minutes to walk around.
Beaches? There are several good options. Kassiopi Beach right by the town is a mixture of sand and pebbles with crystal-clear water. Bataria Beach on the other side of town is also great, less commercial and with cosy tavernas.
The area is perfect for day trips. You can easily explore the north coast, visit Mount Pantokrator (Corfu’s highest point) or take a boat to the small islands off the coast. There are also jet skis and kayaks to hire if you’re into that.
Kassiopi attracts many British families (it has done for decades), so you hear quite a bit of English. But compared to Kavos or Sidari, it’s much more sophisticated and relaxed.
This isn’t a party area – it’s a place to relax, eat well and enjoy the real Corfu.
- I don’t have any particular hotels in Kassiopi that I recommend, but check the best-rated hotels in the area here.
4. Sidari – best place to stay for families with children 👨👩👧👦
Sidari on Corfu’s north coast is the family area par excellence with shallow water, plenty of activities and the famous Canal d’Amour.
Quick Info: Sidari 📍
Distance to centre: 36 km northwest of Corfu Town
🚌 Transport: Good bus connection to Corfu Town
✈️ Time to airport: 40-45 minutes
🏪 Supermarket: Several large supermarkets
💰 Price level: €€ (2/5)
👮 Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Sidari is the area where you see the most pushchairs and inflatable flamingos – and that’s meant as a compliment! This is the family area in Corfu, where everything is arranged so that both children and parents have a good holiday.
The main beach is perfect for small children with shallow, calm water and a sandy beach. You can walk 20-30 metres out, and the water still only reaches your knees – perfect for the little ones.
See the best hotels in Sidari here.
Canal d’Amour is the area’s main attraction. It’s a natural formation of sandstone cliffs with tunnels and small lagoons. Legend says that if you swim through the canal, you’ll find your true love (my children just thought it was cool to climb on the cliffs…). It’s really beautiful and completely free to visit – come early in the morning to avoid crowds.
The town itself is quite touristy with restaurants, bars, mini-golf, go-kart tracks and various activities. It’s not authentically Greek, but it’s practical when you have small children.
- There’s a large Lidl, pharmacy, doctor – everything you need.
Many places have children’s menus and high chairs. It may sound boring, but trust me – when your child spills juice everywhere for the third time, you appreciate that sort of thing.
Day trips? Sidari is a good base for exploring the north coast. Peroulades with its sunset spot is a 10-minute drive away. Roda and Acharavi beaches are close by. And if the children need even more entertainment, there’s Aqualand Waterpark about 30 minutes’ drive south.
Is it the most picturesque area in Corfu? No. Is it perfect for families with children under 12? Absolutely yes. You get practical, child-friendly and stress-free – which is worth gold when you’re travelling with kids.
Places to stay in Sidari
Sidari Beach Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Classic family hotel right by the beach with pool, children’s pool and playground. The rooms are clean and functional (not fancy, but they don’t need to be). Breakfast and dinner are buffet with many options. The location is perfect – the beach is 50 metres away, and you can walk to Canal d’Amour along the coastal path.
A guest recently wrote: “Third time we’re returning. The staff know us now, and the children have found their regular friends by the pool. Good value for money.”
See more photos and book here.
5. Benitses – best place for relaxed coastal holiday 🌊
Benitses is a charming little coastal town on the east coast that has transformed itself from a party destination in the 80s to a relaxed family place.
Quick Info: Benitses 📍
Distance to centre: 12 km south of Corfu Town
🚌 Transport: Frequent bus departures to Corfu Town
✈️ Time to airport: 20 minutes
🏪 Supermarket: Several good supermarkets
💰 Price level: €€ (2/5)
👮 Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Benitses has an interesting history. In the 80s and 90s it was one big party place filled with young Brits on the drink.
Now? It has developed into a cosy, authentic place with local charm and primarily families and couples. The old harbour with its traditional tavernas is really cosy, and the new promenade along the coast is perfect for an evening stroll.
See the best hotels in Benitses here.
The town is divided into two parts: the old fishing village by the harbour (super charming) and the more modern part along the main road (practical with shops and supermarkets).
- I recommend staying in the old part – this is where you find the authenticity. The harbour is small but beautiful with colourful boats and cats lying sleeping in the sun (standard Greece).
The beach is primarily pebbles with some sandy areas. The water is clear and perfect for snorkelling. There are both organised beaches with sun loungers and more natural areas. I like the flexibility – some days you just want a sun lounger and an umbrella, other days you want to put your towel on the stones and have peace.
The location is perfect for day trips. You’re close enough to Corfu Town to go there for a day. Achilleion Palace (Empress Sisi’s summer palace) is a 5-minute drive away and is absolutely worth visiting. And you can easily explore both the north and south coasts from there.
Benitses isn’t glamorous, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s an honest, cosy Greek coastal place where you can relax, eat well and enjoy life without spending a fortune.
Places to stay in Benitses
Potamaki Beach Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This hotel is fantastically located by its own small sandy beach just south of Benitses centre. Modern design meets Greek hospitality. The infinity pool with sea view is fantastic, the rooms are stylish and spacious, and the restaurant serves excellent food. A bit more expensive than average in the area, but the quality is high. Perfect for couples or adults who want luxury without Corfu Town prices.
Previous guests particularly highlight: “Calm, beautiful and incredibly relaxing. We could both walk to Benitses and just stay by the pool. The staff were attentive without being intrusive.”
See more photos and book here.
6. Agios Gordios – best place for backpackers and young travellers 🎒
Agios Gordios on the west coast is a relaxed beach resort with a cool atmosphere, popular amongst younger travellers and backpackers.
Quick Info: Agios Gordios 📍
Distance to centre: 16 km west of Corfu Town
🚌 Transport: Regular bus departures to Corfu Town
✈️ Time to airport: 25-30 minutes
🏪 Supermarket: A couple of smaller supermarkets
💰 Price level: € (1/5)
👮 Safety: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Agios Gordios has a chill vibe that reminds me a bit of the small surfer places in Bali – just with a Greek twist. The beautiful sandy beach lies in a bay surrounded by green hills (including the impressive Theokolepado cliff).
The beach is long, the water is lovely, and there’s enough space for everyone.
See the best hotels in Agios Gordios here.
Pink Palace is the area’s legendary backpacker resort. If you’ve travelled in Greece, you’ve guaranteed to have heard about it. It’s… an experience. Pool parties, cheap drinks, communal dining and a mixed crowd of young people from all over the world.
Is it for everyone? Absolutely not. But if you’re in your early/mid-twenties and want to meet other travellers, then it’s the place to be. They also organise trips to other parts of the island.
But Agios Gordios is more than just Pink Palace. There are several other hostels and budget hotels with a more relaxed atmosphere. The area also attracts families, especially amongst Greek tourists, so it’s not ONLY backpackers (although they’re very visible in the evening…).
The tavernas along the beach serve standard Greek food at backpacker prices. It’s not gourmet, but it tastes good, and the portions are large. Sunset from one of the beach bars with a Mythos beer in hand is pretty perfect after a day in the sun.
The area is a bit isolated – there’s not much other than beach, tavernas and a couple of shops. That’s the charm, but it can also feel a bit limited after a few days. On the other hand, it’s easy to take the bus to Corfu Town or hire a scooter and explore the west coast.
Agios Gordios is perfect if you’re young (or young at heart), want to relax by the beach, meet other travellers and don’t expect luxury. It’s authentic, relaxed and budget-friendly.
Places to stay in Agios Gordios
Alexandros Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Family-run hotel on the hillside with panoramic views over Agios Gordios bay. The rooms are simple but comfortable, the pool lovely, and the breakfast good. A few minutes’ walk down to the beach (it’s downhill, so come back uphill at your own pace…). Good balance between quality and price. More peaceful than the hotels directly by the beach.
A guest recently wrote: “Fantastic view and super friendly staff. We could relax by the pool or walk down to the beach. Perfect for us who want both peace and access to the beach.”
See more photos and book here.
Pink Palace ⭐⭐⭐
The legendary backpacker resort. Simple rooms (or sleep in a dormitory if you’re really budget-minded), pool, bar, restaurant and daily activities. It’s more than a hotel – it’s an experience. If you want to meet other young travellers, party and have fun, then this is where you should stay. If you want peace… well, then choose another place. You know what you’re getting, and it delivers exactly that.
Guests especially love: “Best hostel experience ever! We found friends for life and had the most insane evenings. Yes, it’s a bit chaotic, but that’s the point!”
See more photos and book here.
Where not to stay in Corfu? Areas you should avoid ❌
There are a couple of areas I’d recommend you think twice about before booking:
Kavos – The southern tip of the island has become synonymous with British party tourism. If you’re under 25 and want to party around the clock, then it’s perfect. But for everyone else? It’s noisy, cheap in the boring way, and far from all the beautiful things Corfu has to offer. There are much better beach areas elsewhere on the island. I’d recommend choosing Benitses or Agios Gordios instead – you get beach, good company and significantly better atmosphere.
Main road areas outside the towns – Some cheap hotels are located along the main road between towns without direct access to either beach or centre. It can look tempting because of the price, but you end up having to spend money on transport all the time, and it’s neither cosy nor practical. You get a better experience by staying in a proper town or coastal area.
The industrial area by the airport – Yes, there are cheap hotels here. No, it’s not a place to spend your holiday. It’s noisy, unattractive and without charm. Even if you’re flying in late, take the extra 15 minutes to Corfu Town or a coastal area.
Arillas in winter – Arillas is a lovely little beach in high season, but outside June-September almost everything closes. If you’re planning a spring or autumn holiday, then book Corfu Town or Benitses instead, where there’s life all year round.
Still unsure where to stay in Corfu?
So… where should you actually stay? It really depends on what you’re looking for in your Corfu holiday.
Corfu Town is the obvious choice for first-time visitors. You get culture, history, fantastic food and can easily explore the rest of the island. Perfect if you only have a week and want to see as much as possible.
Paleokastritsa is your choice if you dream of the perfect postcard Corfu with dramatic nature and turquoise water. Perfect for couples and nature lovers, but be aware that it can get busy in high season.
Kassiopi gives you the authentic Greek coastal town experience with good food, charming harbour and beautiful beaches. Fantastic balance between tourist facilities and local atmosphere.
Sidari is clearly the best choice for families with small children. Shallow water, safe beaches and plenty of child-friendly facilities make it stress-free to holiday here.
Benitses works well for all age groups who want a relaxed coastal holiday without spending a fortune. Good location for day trips and authentic atmosphere.
Agios Gordios is perfect for backpackers and younger travellers who want beach, fun and social experiences for little money.
My final advice? Consider splitting your stay between two areas – for example, a few days in Corfu Town for the culture and then a week by the coast for relaxation. Corfu is a small island, so it’s easy to move around.
Wherever you choose to stay, you’re going to love Corfu. The island has a magical blend of Greek hospitality, beautiful nature and fascinating history. Just remember sun cream – the Greek sun is stronger than you think.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇
• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• NordVPN is the only VPN I've ever needed for travel (it just works, everywhere)
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?