Things to Do in Corfu
We’ve compiled a page packed full of things to do in Corfu for couples, groups, or solo travelers. Whether you love lounging on the beach or you prefer something a little more adventurous, there are Corfu activities for every occasion.
Below, you’ll find information regarding an array of activities, including snorkeling, water sports, hiking, golf, tennis, and various boat trips around the island. Some excursions may be booked directly with the reception at Bella Vista Hotel and Studios – just ask us for advice! Come see a lovely staff member for further help with maps and details regarding any of the following attractions!
And if you haven’t yet reserved this summer’s stay at Bella Vista, you can reserve here.
Nature
Visitors to Corfu island are often lovers of natural beauty. The island is adorned with sprawling pine forests that blanket the mountains that often draw in the outdoorsy type. Marked hiking trails give visitors the opportunity to experience these lush green areas and reconnect with nature. Nearby, agencies that provide rental cars and motorcycles offer total freedom to explore the many villages and monasteries located inland.
The Sea
The surrounding calm waters of the Ionian Sea are equally attractive to those who love to swim and explore the many facets of sea life. Underwater, guests can gaze for hours at the abundance of rich marine life that exists in the clear waters of Corfu and the surrounding Greek islands.
Evening Entertainment
There are many options for travellers that seek evening entertainment, both in Benitses and in Corfu as a whole. A traditional “Greek Night” generally consists of a 3-course meal accompanied by wine, and is complete with traditional Greek music and dance! These dances are usually sirtaki (Zorba the Greek) and there are often fire dancers or local dancers.
For a reasonable price–starting at about 18 euro per person, travellers can reserve a place at many of the local tavernas that offer this service. With help with reservations, visitors can speak to our lovely staff members at reception!
Bella Vista Hotel & Studios makes an active effort to keep our guests informed of activities and events that occur in Benitses and the rest of Corfu. We love our island and it’s one of our highest priorities to share with you the place we love the most!
WATER ACTIVITIES IN CORFU
SNORKELLING & SCUBA DIVING
The crystal-clear waters that surround Corfu are alluring to travellers that appreciate marine life. Both beginners and experienced divers alike come from across the globe to enjoy the rich, colourful Mediterranean sea life found in Corfu.
Businesses that distribute snorkelling and scuba diving equipment are scattered across the island along the coast. Some even offer lessons! The excellent instructors at the Achilleon Diving Center are highly recommended by Bella Vista Hotel & Studios.
For more information, check their website or contact our friendly reception staff!
AQUALAND
Aqualand, located in the middle of Corfu, is widely regarded as one of the best waterparks in Europe. With more than 36 different water slides, 15 adventure pools, a jacuzzi and more, it’s no wonder that so many believe it to be the best waterpark in the Mediterranean.
The park is divided into three sections: the children’s area (ages 4-8), the family area (ages 8+), and the extreme area (ages 12+). Aqualand is open from May until mid-October, and hours vary.
Please visit reception for more details and for directions to the park!
WINDSURFING & KITESURFING
Windsurfing and kitesurfing are quickly becoming two of the most popular activities here in Corfu. Our adventurous guests can partake in both windsurfing and kitesurfing throughout the summer months.
While the Ionian Sea does not have the same constant winds that the Aegean Sea is so famous for, it does have a consistent wind pattern. 7-10 days of calm are generally followed by 2-4 periods of strong winds. It’s important for our guests to keep this in mind when planning trips concerning water sports.
Please contact Bella Vista’s reception for information regarding these wind patterns, the best places to rent equipment, and directions to various beaches!
BOAT TRIPS & SAILING
POPULAR EXCURSIONS
Excursions from Corfu are incredibly popular. Some of the most-frequented destinations include the Blue Lagoon, the Ionian Islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, and various mainland destinations like Syvota beach, and Albania.
Corfu’s harbours have been the first step in many journeys over the years, and they continue to provide daily ferries all over the surrounding area! Naturally, due to Corfu’s central location, there are a large number of private boat companies that offer tours and charters.
Boats typically depart from Benitses, Lefkimi, or the port of Corfu Town. Wherever you’re headed, expect a beautiful Mediterranean experience: beaches untouched by modernity, sprawling cerulean waters, and towering cliffs that line the sparkling coast.
If you’re near Paleokastritsa, it’s also possible to get a little-known boat trip to Paradise Beach, one of the most beautiful secluded beaches on the entire island. The main beach is only accessible by boat as it’s surrounded by sheer cliffs. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever lay eyes on.
UNDERWATER CRUISE
Corfu Sea Discovery was established in 2008 and is the most unique way to view Corfu’s underwater world. Through a submarine’s wide, spanning windows, visitors gawp at the vibrant sea life present in underwater caves. This boat trip lasts 50 minutes and the submarine reaches a depth of up to 30 metres.
Guided by a SCUBA diver outside the submarine that will point out many different aquatic species; visitors view jellyfish, sea urchins, and starfish up close! This trip allows for excellent photographs and is entertaining for guests of all ages. A knowledgeable tour guide adds supplementary information to the tour regarding the area’s marine life and history.
It’s a wonderful way to view the magical underwater nightlife of Corfu, and it’s an opportunity that should absolutely be seized!
Please ask for more information at our reception desk!
CALYPSO STAR BOAT TRIPS
Calypso Star is a boat designed specifically for underwater cruises. This boat, 18 meters in length easily accommodates 50 passengers and features a glass bottom that grants guests an incredible view of the endlessly fascinating ocean floor.
In addition, guests are treated to a special show featuring sea lions and their trainers. The sea lions perform tricks, flips, and dives that are sure to wow any guest!
For more information, please contact the staff at Hotel Bella Vista reception.
CORFU SAILING
A number of private sailing companies located in Corfu offer courses off the shore of the island. A professional, certified crew provides training for day skippers, coastal skippers, and yacht masters.
Pickups are generally organized at the recently constructed yacht marina in Benitses. These lessons are highly coveted and spots fill up quickly, so please speak with Bella Vista’s reception staff in advance!
DAY TRIPS
Day trips from Corfu Island to one of many nearby destinations are incredibly popular among Bella Vista’s guests. These trips give guests the chance to experience the stunning islands surrounding Corfu — or even the chance to travel to Albania for the day!
The following are the most frequently booked excursions. For more detailed information, or help with reservations, please contact the reception desk!
ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS
The Island Highlights day trip begins at 8:30 and finishes at 18:30 (6:30pm). From a coach, guests will view the sights as a tour guide provides travelers with detailed information regarding the attractions visited.
ACHILLEION PALACE
The Achilleion Palace was built by Queen Sissi of Austria at the end of the 19th century. This neoclassical palace houses a splendid collection of antiques from former owners and boasts stunning views of the mountains and the sea. You can hike there from Benitses, or get a bus if you don’t fancy a guided tour. You’ll pass gorgeous olive groves, and depending on which way you go, the traditional village of Gastouri.
PALEOKASTRITSA
Paleokastritsa is widely regarded as the most beautiful spot on the island! The pristine bay draws in many swimmers, but for history buffs, the 13th century Byzantine Monastery is equally appealing and charming. From the cliffs, snap a picture of mainland Greece or Albania!
When swimming around this place, you’ll come across several small secluded coves. It’s an idyllic setting for relaxing the day away, and the bay provides a stunning backdrop for postcard pictures.
Corfu Town
Looking for what to do in Corfu Town? Both the Old Fortress and the New Fortress are located in Corfu Old Town, a short 25-minute bus ride from Benitses. The entire old town is a UNESCO world heritage site – a testament to its rich history!
Liston, the Asiatic Art Museum (featuring a huge collection of Asian art), the archaeological museum, the St. Spyridon Church, are also found in Old Town Corfu. Equally appealing are the many charming side streets, lined with quaint boutique shops and gelaterias!
If you want to make sure you hit all the best spots, you can take the hop-on hop-off bus tour. Regular buses run from Corfu Town.
You can also visit night clubs, bars, and bask in the Corfu Town nightlife. It’s one of the best things to do in Corfu for young adults.
Mouse Island and Vlacherna Monastery
Vlacherna Monastery and the nearby Mouse Island are well-known symbols of Corfu. Both are historically significant landmarks that travelers should not miss the opportunity to visit!
From this ancient monastery, you can watch planes fly directly overhead before landing in Corfu airport. Mouse Island, a beautiful island that’s stereotypically placed on the majority of Corfiot postcards, is worth a short ferry trip to visit.
Albania Day Trips
A one-day trip to Albania departs from Corfu Town at 9:00 and returns at 18:00. A valid passport is needed for entry to Albania, and ticket prices are usually about €50 for a round-trip ticket, not including an additional €10 entry fee. The boat docks at the port of Saranda and includes a guided tour of the city.
Our guests tell us how delighted they are to experience the culture of Albania; they find the many heritage sites intriguing and thought-provoking. Saranda is a beautiful city, but if you want to get away from the tourist crowds, you can take an independent trip via ferry and stay overnight. This way you can visit some destinations that are further afield, such as: Gjirokaster, Ksamil or Butrint National Park.
For further information regarding Albania, contact our receptionists!
PAXOS & ANTIPAXOS TRIP
To spend time in Corfu and to miss these two incredible islands would be a real pity! We highly recommend sightseeing in Paxos and Antipaxos. On the boat ride, you can also pass by the ethereal blue caves. Read below for more details!
PAXOS
Legend has it that Paxos was formed when Poseidon severed the south tip of Corfu island with one mighty blow of his trident; he later dragged it south in order to create an idyllic retreat for his beloved wife, Amphitriti. This island is absolutely enchanting.
It’s famous for its selection of wines, but its heavenly white sand beaches and crystal clear waters are impossible to overlook. There are plenty of sea caves nearby for you to explore too
Antipaxos
Antipaxos is located 1.5 miles away from its larger sister island, Paxos. Only 5 kilometres long, Antipaxos is a small, green island swathed in olive groves and vineyards. It’s a great place to do olive oil tasting if that’s on your agenda.
Antipaxos is home to some of the most dazzling beaches in the Ionian Sea: one (Voutoumi Beach) is even referred to as the “beach of paradise” by the locals.
LAND-BASED ACTIVITIES IN CORFU
If you have an adventurous spirit, a walking tour might not cut it. Luckily, there are ample hiking trails lined with cypress trees that wind up and down the hilly countryside. If you want to get off the beaten track, Corfu has plenty of secluded beaches, caves, and green areas.
We hope that this page has provided valuable information concerning Corfu and the many activities Corfu has to offer guests. From hiking to museums, golf to water parks, paragliding to boat trips—Corfu has something for everybody!
HIKING
With a 222km trail, the island of Corfu is an absolute dream for hikers. Discover the stunning views of Mount Pantokrator, either with help from a local guide, or entirely on your own. There are a variety of trails to choose from, all of which provide excellent opportunities for guests to take in jaw-dropping views of the Ionian Sea, the Northern Straits of Corfu, and the mountain ranges on the nearby coasts of Epirus and Albania.
Paths are lined with colourful, blooming wildflowers, hidden citrus groves, sprouting olive trees, fig trees, and a wide variety of other flora. Discover Corfu’s charming chapels, historic monasteries, and ancient Roman baths. Maps and routes are provided by our staff!
Bella Vista Hotel is situated at the foot of several hiking trails. If you’re staying here and you’re up for a good hike, heading to Stavros is one of the best things to do in Corfu. Just avoid midday heat and take lots of water!
CYCLING
Cycling is an excellent way to explore Corfu! The island has many different businesses that rent bicycles and other necessary equipment like helmets and knee guards. Many also offer guided tours along the coast and through the mountains that are sure to enrich your biking experience!
Tour bikes and mountain bikes are both available for rent as well, and should guests choose to travel alone, the road signs along trails are written both in Greek and English.
Please visit reception for our recommendations on rental companies and our favourite trails!
CORFU GOLF
Only thirty minutes from Benitses, in Ropa Valley, a full golf course stands, awaiting avid golfers! This course was constructed by highly-esteemed Swiss architect, Donald Harradine; he managed to create a golf course that has exquisitely integrated Corfu’s beautiful natural surroundings, which makes for an experience that is both fun and gorgeous!
The Corfu golf course is one of the nineteen greatest championship courses in Europe — it’s actually been referred to as one of Europe’s best-kept secrets! In Corfu, Golf is played all year round, so any time is golf time! There are three different sets of tees, which provide enjoyment for players of any skill level. Additionally, the course is open seven days a week.
Please stop by reception for further details on booking and fees!
CRICKET
Cricket is incredibly popular in Corfu, as it is the home of the Hellenic Federation. It attracts players from all over the world.
Corfu has five cricket pitches. One is located at the marina in Gouvia, one is located in the centre of Corfu Town, and the remaining three are located in the Ropa Valley, a short distance from Corfu’s golf course.
PARAGLIDING
For our most adventurous guests, we encourage paragliding! Fly like the wind during an experience that will leave you floating free over Corfu, light as a feather!
The paraglide itself is a wing, rather than a parachute, so instead of descending vertically, visitors glide forward. It’s no mystery that paragliding is growing increasingly popular on the island; it’s probably the most exciting and unique way to see Benitses and the neighbouring villages.
Generally, the paragliding season begins in the middle of June and continues onward into the summer. Guests can embark on their journey directly from Benitses! Paragliding bookings can be made at a stand only 50 metres from Bella Vista.
EATING LOCAL FOOD
The cuisine in Corfu is utterly unique. If you want a special experience, head to a local restaurant and try our homemade delicacies for yourself. From sofrito to bourdeto, stifado to pastitsada, nothing beats Corfiot food.
As Benitses is a fishing village, the food here is ready to dazzle your taste buds. Whether you want to try the Corfu seafood specials, bourdeto or bianco, or something more classic like octopus, calamari, or mussels.
