Corfu holidays

Things to do

Take a late afternoon drive inland, through beautiful mountains and scented olive groves. Visit the picturesque village of Perithia and enjoy the wonderful scenery of the Ropa Valley and cliffs of Paleokastritsa. Take a scenic boat trip to the neighbouring islands of Paxos and Antipaxos and see the breathtaking views from the ruins of Angelokastro. Alternatively, splash around in the island's Aqualand waterpark in Agios Ioannis.

Explore your destination

Here's a little taste of what's on offer: for more excursion ideas, speak to your Rep.

Aqualand
For a wild day out, Corfu's largest waterpark is home to thrilling slides and great family fun. You'll float down the lazy river, chill in the giant whirlpool and try waterslides like the daredevil Black Hole.

Island Tour
A fabulous way to explore the island, this jeep safari gives you the chance to get to know Corfu's beautiful sights and fascinating landmarks.

Greek Night
Eat, drink and dance the night away on this authentic Greek night, complete with delicious food, great music and lively traditional dancing. After a shot or two of ouzo, you may want to join in!

Highlights

• Wandering around the pretty streets of Corfu Town's old quarter is a holiday highlight, with its Venetian buildings and famous old forts
  
  
• Finding peace and quiet in the deserted 'ghost village' of Perithia, between Kassiopi and Acharavi: a perfect place to get out your camera for some rustic snapshots
  
  
• Seeing Medusa, the famous Greek mythology villain with snakes for hair, on the Gorgon Pediment, a huge carving at Corfu Town's Archaeological Museum
  
  
• Savouring a cool drink at the top of Mount Pantokrator, whether you've driven through mountain villages or survived the hike, the views are worth the climb alone
  
  
• Enjoying beautiful interiors, gardens and amazing sea views at the Achilleon Palace, near Gastouri; a great outing even if you're not a history buff
  
  
• Pretending you're in ancient Japan with a visit to the Asiatic Arts museum, in Corfu Town, where history fans can see a unique collection of items from the Far East
  
  
• Seeing where Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh was born, at Mon Repos villa, just outside Corfu Town
  
  
• Strolling along the Spianada in Corfu Town, a public square and park where you can occasionally catch a game of cricket
  
  
• Stumbling across a Greek village festival, with dancing, food and live music and all the villagers having a bit of a knees-up
  
  
• Spending the day at Paleokastritsa, Corfu's most important beauty spot, with three turquoise bays backed by green hills and inviting seafood tavernas in the town centre

Food and drink

If you're after a taste of real Greece, Corfu's got it in huge portions. The island's specialities are the naughty-but-nice cheesy Pastitsada, a beef version of our macaroni cheese; the hot and spicy fish dish, Burdeto and the flavoursome Sofrito, which is lamb or veal seasoned with garlic, vinegar and parsley.

If you don't get distracted by all the people-watching, on Corfu Town's main cafe strip, the Liston, you can tuck into Mezedes, little appetisers like Keftedes, spicy meatballs; Potopoulo, chicken portions; and wild vegetables tossed in oil and lemon juice, dipping them into fishy Taramasalata and cooling Tzatziki.

Mezedes are perfect when served with fresh bread and a glass of Theotoki, the local red or white wine, and finished with Koum Quat, a very sweet orange liqueur.

If you're missing home, you can find British favourites, like a mean fry-up, in all the main resorts, especially Kavos.

Evening Flavour

Corfu Town's a popular place to spend the evening, whether you're watching the world go by from pavement cafes, enjoying the occasional summer concerts on the esplanade or looking for a bit more action in its discos.

A good choice if you're a party animal, the beach resort of Kavos is famous for its choice of nightclubs, like Future and Atlantis, which hosts top DJs from Cream and Ministry of Sound. From cocktail to karaoke, there are also so many bars you won't know where to begin.

Gouvia and Dassia have lots of upbeat bars and clubs along the main strips if you're looking for thumping baselines, but there are also plenty of restaurants to kick back and relax in.

Shopping

If you love shoes and bags, Corfu Town's heaven, and you might find something to wear with them in the town's international boutiques.

If you'd rather bring something local home, look out for baskets, handmade lace and carvings made from olive wood in Corfu Town's traditional craft shops and bring home honey and olive oil.

For something a little more special, you'll find gold and silver jewellery in most gift shops, especially if you're in Acharavi or Sidari.

Local weather

Information

Language: Greek. Currency: Euro. Standard GMT: +2hrs. Greek Tourist Office: 4 Conduit Street, London W1S 2DJ. Tel: 020 7495 9300. www.gnto.co.uk

Travel money

Euro

You can get commission-free foreign exchange on currency notes and travellers cheques at most First Choice Travel Shops and Holiday Hypermarkets.