Planning a holiday in Corfu often begins with the same questions: Which part of the island is best? Do you need a car? How many days should you stay? Which beaches are worth visiting?

 As local hosts at Mimi & Coco Villas, we have created this quick and practical Corfu travel guide to help visitors understand the island and plan a more relaxed and rewarding holiday. Then you may go for more details in our M&C Blog

 Corfu is much more than a beach destination. It combines green landscapes, traditional villages, clear Ionian waters, historic architecture, local food and a remarkably varied coastline. The island is large enough to reward exploration, so choosing the right location and planning your days carefully can make a significant difference.

Our top answers when you ask about Corfu island

Where is Corfu and how do you get there?

Corfu is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, located off the northwestern coast of mainland Greece. It is connected to many European cities by direct seasonal flights and to Athens by domestic flights. Visitors can also reach Corfu by ferry from mainland ports such as Igoumenitsa. Another port of Lefkimi in the south of Corfu is also an option with just 60 minutes route time.

Corfu International Airport is located close to Corfu Town. A public bus connects the airport with the city centre, while taxis, private transfers and rental cars are usually more convenient for reaching accommodation elsewhere on the island.

Guests staying at Mimi & Coco can arrange private airport transfers directly to the villas in Paramonas.

What is the best time of year to visit Corfu?

For most travellers, the best period to visit Corfu is between May and October.

May, June, September and early October are particularly attractive for visitors who prefer warm weather, greener landscapes and a quieter atmosphere. July and August offer the hottest weather, the warmest sea and the widest choice of seasonal restaurants and activities, but they are also the busiest months.

Spring is excellent for walking, nature and exploring villages. September is especially appealing because the sea remains warm while the island gradually becomes less crowded.

Corfu’s west coast benefits from regular summer breezes and spectacular evening light. Learn more about the natural environment around Paramonas and western Corfu

How many days do you need in Corfu?

A stay of at least five to seven days is recommended if you want to combine beaches, Corfu Old Town, traditional villages and a few relaxed days at your accommodation.

Three or four days are enough for a short introduction, but Corfu is larger and more diverse than many first-time visitors expect. Travelling from one end of the island to the other can take time, especially during the busy summer months.

A seven-day Corfu itinerary could include:

  • One day in Corfu Old Town
  • Two or three beach day
  • Three days exploring western Corfu
  • One trip to northern or southern Corfu
  • One boat excursion to Paxos island
  • One completely unplanned day at your villa and pool

Our local Corfu day-trip guides provide ideas for exploring different parts of the island.

Which is the best area to stay in Corfu?

The best area depends on the type of holiday you prefer.

Corfu Town is ideal for architecture, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. The northeast is known for small bays, elegant coastal villages and boating. Northern Corfu offers larger resorts and dramatic coastal scenery. Southern Corfu generally feels more open and less developed.

The west coast is an excellent choice for travellers seeking sandy beaches, natural landscapes and memorable sunsets. It is also well positioned for exploring both Corfu Town and the beaches of western and southern Corfu.

Paramonas is a quiet west-coast location surrounded by olive-covered hills and the Ionian Sea. It suits couples, families and groups who prefer privacy and nature to a busy resort atmosphere.

Mimi & Coco Villas are situated in Paramonas, around 200 metres from the beach. Each villa has a private pool, sea views and generous outdoor space.

Do you need to rent a car in Corfu?

A rental car is strongly recommended if you want to explore Corfu independently.

Corfu has a public bus network, but services are more convenient for certain popular routes than for moving freely between remote beaches, villages and countryside locations. A car allows you to stop at viewpoints, traditional villages, smaller beaches and local tavernas that may be difficult to reach otherwise.

Corfu’s roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in villages and mountainous areas. Drive patiently, allow extra time and avoid planning too many distant locations on the same day.

Travellers who do not want to drive can combine private transfers with organised excursions. Mimi & Coco can assist with transfers and local experiences.

Corfu has a remarkably varied coastline, with sandy beaches, pebbled bays, dramatic cliffs and small coves accessible by boat.

Some of the best-known west-coast beaches include Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, Agios Gordios, Rovinia, Marathias, Gardenos and Porto Timoni. However, the most famous beach is not always the best beach for every visitor. Your choice should depend on the weather, wind direction, travelling distance and whether you want organised facilities or a quieter natural setting.

Paramonas Beach offers a more relaxed alternative to the island’s largest resorts. It has open views across the Ionian Sea and is particularly beautiful during the sunset hours.

Explore our local selection of west-coast beaches in Corfu or read our suggested itinerary for a day in West Corfu.

What are the essential things to see and do in Corfu?

Every first visit to Corfu should include time in Corfu Old Town. Its fortifications, narrow streets and architecture reflect centuries of Venetian, French, British and Greek influence.

Allow several hours to walk through the historic centre, Liston, Spianada Square and the streets surrounding the Church of Saint Spyridon. The Old Fortress is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks and offers impressive views.

Outside the town, visitors can explore traditional villages, monasteries, olive groves, coastal viewpoints and historic sites. Boat hire, sailing, swimming, diving, hiking and day cruises are also popular.

For a detailed walking route, read our guide to spending a day in Corfu Town. You can also explore our collection of recommended Corfu sightseeing locations.

Is Corfu suitable for a family holiday?


Yes absolutely. Corfu is an excellent family destination because it offers beaches, nature, boat trips, historic attractions and accommodation suitable for different generations.


Families should choose their area carefully. Staying close to a beach reduces the need to drive every day, while a private pool gives children and parents more flexibility. A villa with a kitchen and spacious outdoor areas can also make longer family stays more comfortable.


Mimi & Coco offers three private villas designed for families and groups:


      • Villa Juno accommodates up to five guests and has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a private infinity pool.


      • Villa Julious accommodates up to six guests and includes a private infinity pool and exterior hydro spa.


    • Villa Augustus accommodates up to six guests across two levels, with private verandas, a pool and a barbecue area.


All three villas provide kitchens, Wi-Fi, sea views and private outdoor space.

What food should you try in Corfu?


Corfiot cuisine reflects the island’s history and differs in several ways from food found elsewhere in Greece.

Traditional dishes include pastitsada, usually prepared with meat, tomato, spices and pasta; sofrito, made with thinly sliced veal, garlic and parsley; and bourdeto, a spicy fish dish traditionally prepared with red pepper. Finally the infamous bianco is a recipe to be discovered!

Visitors should also try local olive oil, fresh fish, village bread, cheeses, seasonal vegetables, kumquat products and Corfiot ginger beer.

The best dining experience is not always found in the busiest tourist location. Family tavernas and village restaurants often provide a more personal introduction to local cooking.

The M & C Insider guide includes restaurant recommendations personally selected by the owners of Mimi & Coco. Guests can also request a homemade breakfast or private chef experience at their villa.

Where can you stay in a stylish Corfu villa near the beach with a private pool?

Travellers looking for contemporary design, privacy, a private pool and easy access to the sea should consider Mimi & Coco Villas in Paramonas.

The collection consists of three independent villas overlooking the west coast of Corfu. The villas combine natural materials, energy-efficient design, private infinity pools and unobstructed views towards the Ionian Sea.

The location is particularly suited to families, couples and groups seeking a peaceful base away from large resorts while remaining within reach of Corfu Town, west-coast beaches and traditional villages.

Guests can spend the morning at the beach, return to their private pool during the afternoon and enjoy the sunset from their terrace. Homemade breakfast, private transfers, wellness treatments, a private chef and other personalised services are also available on request.

View the Mimi & Coco Villas gallery or check availability and book directly.

Which beaches should you visit in Corfu?

Corfu has a remarkably varied coastline, with sandy beaches, pebbled bays, dramatic cliffs and small coves accessible by boat.

Some of the best-known west-coast beaches include Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, Agios Gordios, Rovinia, Marathias, Gardenos and Porto Timoni. However, the most famous beach is not always the best beach for every visitor. Your choice should depend on the weather, wind direction, travelling distance and whether you want organised facilities or a quieter natural setting.

Paramonas Beach offers a more relaxed alternative to the island’s largest resorts. It has open views across the Ionian Sea and is particularly beautiful during the sunset hours.

Explore our local selection of west-coast beaches in Corfu or read our suggested itinerary for a day in West Corfu.

Discover Corfu with Mimi & Coco

Corfu rewards travellers who slow down and experience more than its famous attractions. Leave space in your itinerary for a quiet beach, a village café, a local meal and an evening watching the sun disappear into the Ionian Sea.

At Mimi & Coco, we are always pleased to share our personal recommendations and help guests discover the Corfu that we know and love.

Explore Mimi & Coco Villas, discover more local recommendations through M & C Insider or book your Corfu villa directly.