When is The Best Time to Visit Corfu? A Guide for All Seasons in Corfu
Corfu is a beautiful island in the Ionian Sea, just off the northwest coast of Greece. Known for its natural beauty and great food, this place is a popular choice for those wanting to spend their holiday in Greece.
While not as famous as other Greek islands like Santorini or Crete, Corfu offers equally stunning landscapes, adventure opportunities, and plenty of fun things to do!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.
What is the Best Time to Visit Corfu?
The island is fairly large, and plenty of spots are worth visiting. Regardless of the season you choose for your holiday, there is something you can enjoy in Corfu.
While the late spring and summer months are the most popular times to visit, I would say that the island’s charm is just as present during the quieter season. What is the best time to visit Corfu? Let’s take a look at different seasons and what they offer so you can decide for yourself!
Corfu’s Seasons
Corfu in Spring
Greece in spring is a beautiful sight, and Corfu is no exception. While March and April may be a bit cooler with occasional rain showers, it still is a season of the island coming alive. It is still too cold to swim (unless you are a brave soul or book a hotel with a heated pool), but the landscapes already make for a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploring.
The sky will get cloudy, so pack a light rain jacket and an umbrella. Sure, the weather might not be the warmest, but the lack of crowds and lower prices make it a great time for a budget traveler to choose.
You won’t have to wait in lines to get to the museums or popular attractions, and you can easily find discounted accommodations and cheaper flights. If you are not interested in suntanning or swimming in the sea, visiting during the off-season can be a smart choice.
Late April and May get a bit more busy with tourists, as the temperatures start to rise and the rain showers become less frequent. This is the perfect time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking without the risk of heavy rainfall. The mild weather makes it perfect for walking tours and exploring the charming towns and villages.
Special Events in Corfu in Spring
Visiting during the last two Sundays of March will give you a unique chance to see (and participate in) the carnival celebrations. In Corfu Town, animated parades take place, music is played in the streets, and locals and tourists alike dance and have fun.
Tsiknopempti, a Greek celebration of the last Thursday before Lent in the Greek Orthodox Church, centers on… grilling and feasting on delicious meats with friends and family. Why not join the celebration? If you’re a foodie, it’s something you will definitely like.
Greek Independence Day on March 25th is also a great time to visit, fully immerse yourself in the festivities, and see what the Greek culture is like. In Corfu Town, marching bands and parades fill the streets, and traditional Greek dances are performed. It is truly something worth experiencing!
Corfu in Summer
Of course, the sunny days and warm summer temperatures make Corfu the most popular during this time of year. The island’s beautiful beaches are packed, and the flights are usually the most expensive.
You will need to book your accommodation well in advance to secure a spot, especially if you want to stay in one of the popular hotels, like Stefanos Place ApartHotel or the Archontiko Petrettini Boutique Hotel. Less expensive places, like AirBnBs and hostels, will also fill up quickly, so it’s best to plan at least a few months ahead.
However, June to August gives you the opportunity to enjoy the seaside attractions and participate in watersports and other beach activities. The clear blue waters are the warmest during these months, so they are perfect for swimmers and snorkelers. If you like to relax on a lounger and soak up the sun, it will be the ideal time for you to visit Corfu.
In the summer, you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Corfu, from horseback riding and diving to hiking and sailing. The wide variety of outdoor activities that the island has to offer is probably the most appealing aspect of the season.
Special Events in Corfu in Summer
Summer is also full of smaller festivals and events on the island, offering a chance to experience the local culture and traditions.
While most of them, like Saint Onofrio’s Day celebrations in Pelekas on June 12th and the Festival of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Corfu Town in August, are religious occasions, they are still celebrated with great enthusiasm and worth attending.
Don’t forget the Varkarola, an event that takes place in August and is a recreation of a historic sea battle.
Corfu in Fall
Is October a good time to visit Corfu? It absolutely is. While most of Europe is largely cooling down in the fall, the island still enjoys pleasant temperatures and many sunny days.
In September and early October, average temperatures in Corfu range from 68–77 °F (20–25 °C), making it an ideal Fall destination for those who prefer warmer weather. It’s still a perfect time to enjoy a swim without the scorching heat and less competition for the sun loungers.
In November, Corfu becomes much less crowded with tourists and becomes perfect for long seaside walks, as the beaches are not crowded with sunbathers.
Additionally, the cooler temperatures during the fall months make it more comfortable to explore Corfu’s historical sites and landmarks. Make your way to the beautiful villages as the residents get into the slower, more relaxed pace of life after the busy summer season.
Special Events in Corfu in Fall
Fall months are not as full of celebration and festivities as the spring and summer months, but there are still a few events to be enjoyed in Corfu during this time.
Corfu’s wine festival takes place in the fall each year. Here you can sample wine from the wineries in Corfu, and enjoy food and celebrations!
Ohi Day, observed on October 28th, commemorates the day that Greek politician Ioannis Metaxas refused the Axis powers’ demand to be allowed into Greek territory. It is often celebrated with military parades, and buildings are decorated with national flags.
Corfu in Winter
Winter is the least expensive season to visit Greece, as hotel and flight prices tend to go down when the weather gets colder. Despite the cooler temperatures, islands like Corfu still have a lot to offer. If you seek the authentic Greek experience, winter is a great time to visit.
During the off-peak season, Corfu is less tourist-focused, and you can observe the real, local way of life without the hustle and bustle of pleasing the vacationers. It is also one of the best seasons for hiking!
Lower temperatures and less sun make it more comfortable to wander around the island, where dozens of hiking trails await exploration. From short walks around the main Corfu Town to long, challenging hikes from village to village, Corfu will satisfy every hiker’s desire for adventure and exploration.
Check trails like the Cape Drastis Loop, which starts in the traditional settlement of Peroulades, and the Erimitis Beaches Hike, where you can soak in the natural beauty of the Greek coastline.
Winter is also great for foodies – with restaurants and cafés less crowded, you can easily find a table in almost every place. Try the freshly caught seafood, discover the local wine selections, and indulge in delicious Greek desserts.
What Is the Best Time for Corfu Holidays?
Corfu is such a great spot that it can be visited year-round, depending on your preferences. The versatility of this holiday destination makes it perfect for almost every type of traveler.
Officially, the high tourist season lasts from late April to October, with July and August being the busiest months. What time will be the best for you to visit depends on your preferences and what experience you are looking for.
Spring is full of celebrations and festivals, as well as pleasant weather with blooming flowers and lush green landscapes. In summer, the peak tourist season, the island is crowded but offers the best conditions for swimming and sunbathing. Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it great for exploring the important landmarks and places that are usually full of tourists. In winter, you can immerse yourself in the slow, peaceful pace of life, and while you won’t be able to swim or snorkel, you can still enjoy the beautiful landscapes and tasty food.
Regardless of which month you book your trip for, you can expect your holiday to be full of memorable experiences. With great food, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Corfu offers something for every season, for everyone.
Corfu: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Corfu safe for solo travelers?
Corfu is considered as safe as the rest of the popular tourist destinations in Greece. It is one of the best greek islands for solo female travel. As long as you take the usual precautions, like avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings, you should be safe.
Remember to always bring copies of your documents with you, in case you lose the originals. I also recommend getting travel insurance just in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Better safe than sorry!
Do people speak English in Corfu?
Many young people on the island speak English, and those working in the hospitality and tourism industries are usually quite fluent. The older residents might not be as proficient though, so learning how to say a few basic phrases (like asking for direction) in Greek can be helpful. Many British expats live in Corfu, so you may come across English speakers in the community.
What town to stay in on Corfu?
Where you should stay depends on what your plans are – Corfu Town is the easiest to get to and offers a variety of accommodations and places to explore. However, the smaller towns and villages offer a much more authentic experience, and can also be found for a lower price.
Some places to consider staying in Corfu include Paleokastritsa, Kassiopi, and Agios Gorgios. If you stay in Sidari, Villa Spyridoula is a great accommodation, just a short walk from the beach.
How to move around Corfu?
While Corfu has several public bus services (city and intercity ones), many routes are only available during the high season.
Renting a car or a motorcycle guarantees you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, so consider this option if you don’t want to be tied down to bus schedules. There are also plenty of organized tours that take you around the island all year round.
Do I need a visa to go to Corfu?
You may need a visa to visit Corfu if you are not an EU citizen. It is important to check the visa requirements for your country before planning your trip. US citizens can stay in Greece for up to 90 days without a visa. However, you need to ensure that your passport is valid for the entirety of your stay in Greece.
