A Relaxing Week in Corfu: Old Town, Paleokastritsa, and Beyond

I recently spent a week in Corfu, and it was such a cute little island! We flew into Corfu Airport, and as we visited in October, it was off-season, so it was much quieter everywhere, which we really appreciated.

What We Did and Where We Stayed

We split our time between Corfu Old Town and this town in the north of the island called Paleokastrisa.

My adventure began in Corfu Old Town, where I stayed for two nights at Markora Lofts. This place was perfect for a short stay, featuring a TV with streaming services and being just a short walk from the main attractions while still quiet at night. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a blend of stunning Venetian architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and a rich history. I spent my days wandering through the charming alleys, exploring the impressive Old Fortress, and indulging in local cuisine at cozy tavernas. The views from the fortress were breathtaking, especially at sunset.

Visiting in October meant we experienced the island during the off-season, so it was much quieter everywhere. The little towns all have the basics, such as simple grocery stores, a couple of bars, and a few restaurants. Since we weren’t in the party area (Kavos), it was pretty quiet after dinner, which was perfect for us as we wanted to chill and relax. Compared to Paleokastritsa, where we later stayed, Old Town had a lot more going on, especially on weekends, with more young people out and about and several bars open until late. There were also many more food options, offering a variety of cuisines.

One of the highlights in Paleokastritsa, where I stayed for five nights at Rhea Complex, was the lovely monastery perched on a hill, which offered stunning views overlooking the main beach. We loved the flat at Rhea Complex; it was spacious, well-equipped, and cleaned daily. Plus, it was just a short walk to different beaches, local restaurants, and bars. And as cat lovers, we enjoyed spotting the adorable cats roaming around the area!

We didn't hire a car during our stay, but many people on the island do. We traveled between places using the island's bus service, which was super convenient, especially from Old Town, as it has the most bus links to other towns.

What We Ate

During our stay, we indulged in lots of delicious Greek food. We feasted on many gyros, plenty of feta and halloumi, and other popular dishes like moussaka and pastitsio when available. Food was generally cheap and affordable, and the wine and drinks were reasonably priced compared to the UK.

Our favourite restaurant in Paleokastritsa was a cute spot called Petrino Garden. We enjoyed it so much that we went there three times during our five-day stay! We were gutted we didn’t discover it earlier, as we would have visited even more. The food was not only delicious but also affordable. We loved the cheese saganaki, the village sausage with pork in a red wine sauce, and their special chicken dish in a creamy feta sauce.

If you're looking for a tranquil getaway filled with beautiful sights, amazing food, and a laid-back atmosphere, Corfu is the perfect destination. I can’t wait to return and discover even more of this beautiful island!

FAQ

1. What is the best time to visit Corfu?
The best time to visit Corfu is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. October, when I visited, is especially lovely as it’s off-season, so you can enjoy a quieter experience.

2. Do I need to rent a car in Corfu?
While renting a car can be convenient for exploring more remote areas, I didn't hire one during my trip. The island has a reliable bus service that connects many towns, especially from Corfu Old Town, which makes it easy to get around.

3. What are the must-try foods in Corfu?
You should definitely try local favourites like gyros, moussaka, pastitsio, feta cheese, halloumi, and cheese saganaki. The food is generally cheap and delicious, and there are many restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.

4. Is Corfu Old Town worth visiting?
Absolutely! Corfu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture, charming streets, and plenty of dining options. It’s a great place to soak in the local culture and history.

5. Can I take day trips from Corfu?
Yes! From Corfu Old Town, you can take boat trips to nearby islands like Paxos and even venture to Albania. It’s a fantastic way to explore more of the region in a day.