North Corfu Travel Guide – Beaches, Villages & Essential Tips
North Corfu is a world apart from the package holiday resorts of the south. Greener, wilder and more authentically Greek, this is the part of the island that the Durrell family fell in love with in the 1930s — and it is easy to see why. This guide covers everything you need to know to plan your visit.
Getting to North Corfu
Corfu International Airport (CFU) is on the southern edge of Corfu Town and receives direct flights from most European cities, particularly in summer. From the airport, North Corfu is approximately 40–50 minutes by car. Hire cars are available at the airport — a hire car is strongly recommended, as public transport in the north is limited. The drive north takes you through Corfu Town and then along the beautiful northeast coast road with its views across to Albania.
When to Visit
May, June and early July are the ideal months — warm sunny weather, wildflowers still in bloom, quieter roads and beaches, and lower prices. September is equally good, with warm sea temperatures and golden light. August is the busiest month, with higher prices and crowded beaches — perfectly enjoyable if you book ahead and avoid the popular spots at peak hours. North Corfu is generally quieter than the south year-round. Most accommodation closes from November to April.
Where to Stay in North Corfu
The north has a range of accommodation, from small family-run hotels to private villas and traditional houses. For an authentic experience, staying in a traditional stone house in one of the inland villages is unbeatable. Pouglia in Loutses is one such option — a restored 1812 stone house with private yard, sea views and two bedrooms, sleeping up to four guests. Staying in the interior gives you easy access to both coast and mountains without the noise and traffic of a resort.
The Best Beaches in North Corfu
North Corfu has some of the finest beaches in Greece. Loggas Beach at Peroulades is world-famous for its clifftop sunset views and golden sand. Avlaki near Kassiopi is a sheltered bay with calm, clear water ideal for families. Agios Stefanos Sinion has a long sandy beach and a relaxed village atmosphere. Akharavi and Roda on the north coast are wide sandy beaches with shallow water — excellent for children. For seclusion, the small coves around Kalami and Kouloura are perfect for snorkelling.
Villages Worth Exploring
The hill villages of North Corfu are among its greatest treasures. Old Perithia, a perfectly preserved medieval village on Mount Pantokrator, has been slowly coming back to life with restored houses and traditional tavernas. Strinilas is a cool, forested village at altitude — ideal on a hot summer day. Spartilas offers sweeping views over the northeast coast. Loutses itself is a quiet agricultural village surrounded by olive groves, with a genuine local community.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
North Corfu is outstanding for outdoor enthusiasts. Mount Pantokrator (906 m) can be hiked or driven to the summit for extraordinary views. Lake Antinioti is a protected nature reserve with rare birdlife and gentle walking paths. The Corfu Trail — a 220km route crossing the entire island — passes through the north, with the northern section offering some of the most dramatic scenery. Sea kayaking, cycling and horse riding are all available through local operators.
Food and Drink
North Corfu is not short of good food. Corfu’s cuisine is distinct from mainland Greek cooking — influenced by centuries of Venetian rule. Look out for sofrito (veal in white wine and garlic sauce), bourdeto (fish in red pepper sauce) and pastitsada (pasta with rooster or veal in tomato sauce). Local olive oil, honey, kumquat products and Corfiot beer are all worth trying. The villages of the interior have small family tavernas that serve honest, inexpensive food with fresh local ingredients.
Day Trips from North Corfu
Corfu Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is 40 minutes away and deserves a full day. The Achilleion Palace at Gastouri — built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria in 1890 — is fascinating. Boat trips run from Kassiopi to the nearby Albanian Riviera. The neighbouring island of Paxos is reachable by ferry from Corfu Town and has extraordinary beaches of its own.
Practical Information
Currency: Euro. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory — 5–10% in restaurants is standard. Most larger establishments accept cards; carry cash for smaller tavernas and markets. Petrol stations are less frequent in the north — fill up in Corfu Town before heading north. Emergency services: 112. The nearest hospital is in Corfu Town. Pharmacies are well stocked and pharmacists are knowledgeable.
Looking for a base in North Corfu? Pouglia is a charming traditional stone house for rent in Loutses, in the heart of North Corfu. Check availability and book direct.