Corfu: An Island I Return to Year After Year

Easter celebrations

I was lucky to be in Corfu Old Town for Easter, when the long-held tradition of throwing red clay urns from balconies fills the street with sound and color. Being there among the locals, packed into narrow streets, felt immersive and unforgettable—a moment where Corfu’s history and daily life truly came alive.

Sailing

I sail my own boat to Corfu each year, and the island’s east coast is especially rewarding from the water. The conditions are calm, the distances between anchorages are easy, and the coastline reveals a slower, more intimate side of Corfu.

For clients, chartering a skippered or fully crewed sailboat is a wonderful way to experience the island—relaxed, flexible, and deeply connected.

Kalami

Kalami is a favorite stop for long lunches at the White House, with views stretching across the bay and out toward the Ionian Sea. The village’s connection to Laurence Durrell adds a literary layer that deepens its sense of place. It’s a quietly special setting that rewards those who take their time.

Garitsas

Walk along the esplanade from Corfu Old Town down the hill to the windmill. You will find locals taking their afternoon swims here in the Ionian Sea.

Stop for a drink or a meal at Nautilus.

Wander through Mon Repos Park to see the palace that Prince Phillip was born in.

Don’t forget your swimwear—there is a wonderful hidden beach here.

Take a stroll through the narrow streets to admire the local gardens.

Kassiopi

Kassiopi is a fishing village in the North part of the island. It is a lovely little town, perfect for a night or two, and you must visit the nearby Avlaki Beach for a swim and a hike.

Take a break at one of the seaside bars and restaurants.

• Faliraki Cafe Restaurant Corfu: Enjoy a morning coffee or fresh-squeezed juice while admiring the view of the Old Fortress set above Mandraki Marina. Faliraki Square is open for sunbathing, with a swim ladder leading into the crystal clear water.

• Veranda Taverna: Wonderful for an afternoon aperitivo with views of the sea and an amazing place to see the sunset.

• Stazei Meli: Enjoy a plate of warm, fresh Greek donuts (loukamedes) drenched in hot honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. These delicious morsels are like warm hugs, and if honey and cinnamon are not your flavors, try chocolate, biscoff, icing sugar, or ice cream with yours.

• To Tsipouradiko: Great family atmosphere, very popular, and centrally located in Corfu Old Town. Mezze/shared plates.

• Solo Gelato: Wonderful selection of gelato and sorbet centrally located in Corfu Old Town. I can recommend dark chocolate and lemon. Order a cone or cup to take as you wonder the streets and alleyways.

• Mythos and Grill: You have to have gyros while in Greece. Traditional pork gyros are my go-to with salad and fries, or try the Haloumi or falafel gyro for a vegetarian option.