Cheaper than Mykonos: Why travelers are choosing Corfu instead
Corfu Island, Greece (photo: Magnific)
Corfu (Kerkyra), an island in the Ionian Sea, is an ideal alternative for travelers looking for a mix of Venetian elegance, crystal-clear beaches, and lush natural scenery.
Here's why this destination is worth choosing for your next vacation.
A vacation with royal flair
Corfu's unique architecture and natural beauty have attracted aristocrats for centuries. Austrian Empress Sisi, German Kaiser Wilhelm II, and Prince Philip (the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, who was born here) all loved the island.
For lovers of landscape design and nature, the stunning hanging gardens of Achilleion Palace, the former residence of Empress Sisi, are a true highlight.
A walk beneath the century-old trees at the Mon Repos estate or watching the sunset from the Kaiser's Throne, Wilhelm II's favorite meditation spot, is equally worthwhile.
Corfu's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will impress visitors with its maze of cobbled streets, where Byzantine, French, and British influences intertwine.
Hidden bays and beaches for every taste
The western and eastern coasts of Corfu are dramatically different, offering locations for every preference, from wild cliffs to ideal conditions for family vacations.
Paleokastritsa
The island's most famous beach is surrounded by green cliffs. It is an ideal place for snorkeling and exploring sea caves by boat.
Canal D'Amour
Unique sandstone formations near Sidari, surrounded by romantic legends.
Dassia
A beach with excellent infrastructure, a gentle entry into the sea and calm waters, making it one of the best choices for a safe family vacation.
Porto Timoni
The island's most "Instagrammable" location, featuring two mirror-like bays separated by a narrow strip of land.
A budget paradise or luxury destination?
Unlike many of Greece's popular resorts, Corfu is considered a very affordable destination. Visitors can find both luxury villas and boutique hotels (such as the elegant Bella Venezia in a restored 19th-century building) as well as budget-friendly family guesthouses.
Dining also won't break the bank if you choose traditional family-run tavernas serving huge portions of local dishes.
For those who appreciate the "slow food" concept, the Ambelonas restaurant, hidden among vineyards in the island's interior, is worth a visit. It prepares dishes exclusively from local organic products.
To save as much as possible and avoid the crowds, experienced travelers recommend planning a trip for May-June or September-October.
