Mpataria beach, Kassiopi
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3 Days In Corfu: Best Things To See And Do

Are you planning to travel to Corfu for 3 days and looking for an itinerary?

In this article, I will show you the itinerary for 3 days in Corfu and much more.

I’ve recently visited Corfu and fell in love with the island. It has beautiful landscapes, stunning beaches, delicious Italian and Greek cuisine, and an Old Town full of contrasts.

In this article, you’ll find answers to questions like ‘When is the best time to visit Corfu?’, ‘Are 3 days enough to see Corfu?’, ‘Where to stay in Corfu?’, and an itinerary based on my experience in Corfu.

I can’t wait for you to visit Corfu!

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How Many Days in Corfu?

The ideal duration of your stay in Corfu depends on your travel goals and preferences, but I would suggest at least 3 days to have an overview of the Old Town and some day trip excursions.

If you have more time, spending 5 to a week in Corfu will allow you to explore more of the island. You can visit more beaches, take day trips to nearby islands, and slow travel.

Getting Around Corfu

Corfu's streets at night
Corfu’s streets at night

By Car

To make the most of your time in Corfu renting a car is highly recommended.

My experience in Corfu was by car and I wouldn’t change it for anything as it gave me the freedom and comfort I was seeking for.

For the cheapest car rental check out Discover Cars. It compares more than 500 trusted suppliers for the best option for you.

Make sure you bring your driver’s license and credit card for the rental process.

Booking your car in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Check out a comparison between car, scooter or four-wheeler here.

By Public Transport

Corfu has an extensive bus network that connects major towns and popular tourist destinations. It’s definitely an economical option.

Mind that buses may not run as frequently in smaller places, schedules can be less predictable, and lastly, they are not the fastest way to travel.

Walking

Walking through Corfu Town is a great way to explore the town at your own rhythm.

It’s easy to walk everywhere, although not so much if you have mobility difficulties as there are stairs, cobbled stone streets and small hills.

Guided Tours

If you prefer a structured schedule, there are many guided tours available for various attractions and activities.

Consider a combination of these transportation methods based on your itinerary. For example, renting a car for countryside exploration and using public transportation or walking in Corfu Town.

When is the Best Time to Visit Corfu?

Anemomilos Windmill sunset
Anemomilos Port

The peak season goes from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for beach activities. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time.

The shoulder seasons (April, May, September and October) are less busy, and you still get the nice weather and fewer tourists. I visited at the beginning of September and the island was full of tourists but it was easier to find places where to stay on the spot at better prices.

During winter, Corfu is quieter and some businesses may close. However, if you prefer a quieter experience without the crowds, this can be a great time to visit.

Are 3 Days Enough to See Corfu?

sunset in Corfu
Sunset in Corfu

Three days in Corfu can give you an overview of Corfu but it’s important to manage your expectations.

The pros are that you get to explore a bit more than the city centre and take day trips, and you’ll have an overview of the Corfinian way of living and some of the highlights.

The cons are that you won’t have much time to see many of the things Corfu can offer, you may feel rushed to cover multiple attractions and lastly, you have less time to discover remote villages and beaches.

Day 1 in Corfu: Old Town

Plakada t' Agioú Square
Plakada t’ Agioú Square

Did you know that the Old Town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town and explore the Venetian architecture, visit the Spianada Square, and don’t miss the Liston Promenade.

The centre is easy to walk so you can have an overview of the city.

Alternatively, you can take a hop-on hop-off bus or a walking tour to make the most out of your day.

Make sure you visit the Old Fortress and the New Fortress. Climb up to the New Fortress for panoramic views of the town and the sea.

Go to Vlacherna Monastery, which is built on an isolated islet connected to the rest of Corfu by a footbridge. Don’t miss the Corfu Airport Planespotting Spot next to it!

Lastly, reach the Royal Palace of Achilleion which used to be the summer residence of Empress Sisi.

First-day wrap-up:

  • Corfu Town
  • Spianada Square
  • Liston Promenade
  • Old Fortress
  • New Fortress
  • Vlacherna Monastery
  • Corfu Airport Planespotting Spot
  • Royal Palace of Achilleion

Day 2 in Corfu: Paleokastritsa

Paleokastritsa from above
Paleokastritsa Area

Now that you know Corfu better, it’s a great idea to explore it by boat.

Head to Paleokastritsa and get a boat tour to see all the amazing beaches on the west side of the bay. You’ll swim and snorkel in turquoise waters.

I suggest you hike the cliffs of Paleokastritsa close to the Monastery for views of the beach.

Other popular options include day trips to Paxos and Antipaxos just south of Corfu.

Second day wrap-up:

  • Paleokastritsa
  • Monastery of Paleokastritsa
  • Day trip to Paxos and Antipaxos

Day 3 in Corfu: Canal d’Amour & Old Perithia

Cape Drastis in corfu
Cape Drastis

For your third and last day in Corfu, visit Cape Drastis up north of the island. This is a place with tall limestone cliffs sculpted by the sea over time.

Next, head to Canal d’Amour. This place has narrow sandstone canyons and crystal-clear waters. Legend has it that couples who swim through the canal will be blessed with everlasting love.

Continue your day to Old Perithia, a mountain village that was abandoned but part of it has been restored.

Conclude your day at Avlaki Beach, located on the northeastern coast of Corfu. This tranquil and less crowded beach is an excellent place to relax.

Third day wrap-up:

  • Cape Drastis
  • Canal d’Amour
  • Old Perithia
  • Avlaki Beach

Where to Stay in Corfu?

Corfu's buildings
Liston Arcades

If you want to be close to all the attractions you could stay in Corfu Town. The city is well located, close to the port and airport, the many museums, old and new fortress.

You could also pick the west side where you’ll find the Paleokastritsa beach or the northern side for the rock formations on Canal d’Amour.

Below, you can find a few city hotels that are easy to reach from the airport divided by type of budget in Corfu Town, although there are many more you can choose from.

  • Mid-range: Acanthus blue is another great place to stay in Corfu town. It’s close to the Ionio University and Municipal Gallery and with great reviews. Check prices and availability here.
  • Luxury: Arcadion Hotel is an excellent hotel with an on-site restaurant overlooking Spianada Square and the arcades of Liston in the heart of Corfu Town. Check prices and availability here.

Conclusion

From the historic of Corfu Town’s cobbled streets to the beaches like Paleokastritsa and Avlaki, from the timeless Old Perithia to the dramatic vistas of Cape Drastis and the romantic whispers of Canal d’Amour, this island will make you fall in love.

I hope you enjoy your holidays in Corfu!

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