Thinking of a quick trip to Corfu? May to September is the best time to visit so if you’re planning a trip to the sunny destination, this is what you should see and do!

Popping to a Greek island for the weekend may not sound like the typical way to spend a couple of days off, but with its prime airport location, guaranteed sunshine, clean beaches and delectable cuisine, Corfu is an ideal destination for a rejuvenating short break whether you’re travelling on your own, with a partner or have the kids in tow.

Corfu’s Old Town is a thriving hub of shops and eateries adjacent to a picturesque harbour. It’s very accessible too, just a short walk from the airport and you can see some of the island’s best bits by bus. However, if you hire a car you’ll have the freedom to zip around the Corfu in a matter of hours giving you the full flavour of this dreamy island retreat.

If you fancy following in our footsteps, here are our recommendations for where to go and what to do with 48 hours in Corfu.

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Sleep in style 

The most picturesque hotel on the island, visible from the plane when you come into land is the five-star Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa. This picturesque destination, which opened in the summer of 2021, is nestled in the island’s hilltops. It’s one of the newest hotels on the island and provides a luxurious base for your adventures.

The resort has a private sandy beach, spa, several fine dining restaurants and cocktail bars and the largest infinity swimming pool in Corfu. Large spacious rooms with balconies are located in the main building or you can book one the hotel’s villas which are designed for one to four guests and come with private pools, kitchens and dining areas.

Track down the local yoghurt

Thick and creamy yet so light it melts in your mouth, Corfu yoghurt makes a satisfying breakfast. For toppings opt for honey and walnuts or seasonal fresh fruits. Try it at Rosy’s Bakery in Corfu Old Town. A small kiosk-style bakery with outdoor seating it specialises in local sweet treats including vegan and sugar-free baklava.

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Take in the island’s best views

If you do just one excursion in Corfu make it a visit to Kaiser’s Throne in the mountain village of Pelekas. Don’t be put off by the fact that you have to trek to the top, it takes just 15 minutes to climb and it’s worth every step. You can soak up 360-degree views of the island which from up high, is a lush green paradise.

Drink and dine alfresco

After Kaiser’s Throne, you’ll need a refreshment break. The idyllic views from Levant Hotel’s restaurant offers a perfect resting spot to stop and take stock while re-energising with a traditional Greek salad and bowl of cooling tzatziki.

For the best beach sundowner drive to Tayo, a chic beach bar at Chalikounas Beach, in the south-west of the island, where watching sunsets over cocktails is a way of life.

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Go for a dip

The most enjoyable part of hiring a car is beach hopping around Corfu. The western coast is home to long stretches of soft, sandy beaches while on the east you’ll find pebbles.

From intimate hideaways to popular tourist spots filled with gelato counters, though each beach has its own character, they’re all united by their clear warm waters calling you in for a swim. Head to Palaiokastritsa for a fun family-friendly beach atmosphere, or if you don’t fancy getting in the water, hire a pedalo and take to the sea. The hire costs 20 euros an hour.

Taste the local liquor

Every destination has its signature fruit and in Corfu it is kumquat. You’ll typically find it in salads and desserts but while here, it’s worth doing as the locals do, drink kumquat liquor.

The orange alcoholic staple can be drunk straight or in cocktails. If you’re sticking to soft drinks, order an iced coffee. Coffee culture is big in Corfu but the warm temperatures will probably have you reaching for a cooler option.

Discover Greek designers

Stock up on local fashion. Old Town Corfu is a haven of women’s clothing stores, many of which stock independent Greek designers. You’ll find jewellery, accessories and stylish dresses and as boutiques are open until 9pm you can fit in a spot of evening shopping when they’re much quieter.

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Mooch around the monasteries

Lovers of history and architecture will be in their element in Corfu as there are more than 250 churches and monasteries on the island. In 48 hours you won’t get to see them all, but before you head home, stop by the Vlacherna Monastery. It’s a 10-minute drive from the airport and located near the end of the runway. If you have an hour or longer left, jump on one of the frequent boats that go from the monastery to neighbouring Mouse Island. The journey costs just 2.50 euros each way and you’ll be transported to what feels like a secret garden. It’s so compact you can stroll the circumference of the island before climbing a flight of stairs where you’ll find a fairy tale chapel, the perfect last stop on your adventures in Corfu.

Written by Momtaz Begum-Hossain