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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Ionian Islands, Greece

Accommodation Types

A full spectrum of lodging options from hostels to luxury hotels.

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Limited in number, mainly found in Corfu Town, offering dormitory beds and basic private rooms. A good choice for budget travelers and those seeking a social atmosphere.

  • Hotels

    Range from small, family-run guesthouses and charming boutique hotels within Corfu Town's Old Town to large 3, 4, and 5-star resorts spread across the island, especially along the coast.

  • Luxury Hotels & Resorts

    High-end properties include extensive amenities, like private beaches, spas, gourmet dining, and multiple pools. These are often located in exclusive areas like Kommeno, Dassia, or along the picturesque north-east coast.

  • Unique local accommodation types

    Traditional Guesthouses (Archontika): Restored historic mansions, specifically found in Corfu Old Town. They present a charming and authentic stay, immersing guests in the island's heritage.

Vacation Rentals and Alternative Stays

  • Studios & Apartments

    Very common across the island, with self-catering facilities. They are popular with families and travelers seeking more independence and a home-away-from-home experience.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Widely available through platforms like Vrbo, as well as local agencies. Options range from city apartments in Corfu Town to beachfront studios and large villas with private pools in rural or coastal areas. They present flexibility, especially for longer stays or groups.

  • Homestay and community-based tourism

    Formalized homestay programs are less common, but some guesthouses create a similar personal experience, with hosts often sharing local insights and hospitality.

  • Camping and outdoor accommodation

    A few organized campsites are available on the island, mainly located near coastal areas like Paleokastritsa, Dassia, or Messonghi. These sites include pitches for tents and RVs, and sometimes bungalows or glamping options for an outdoor experience.

Neighborhood Guide

Choosing where to stay on Corfu depends heavily on your interests. Each area features a distinct character.

Corfu Town Kerkyra

Pros
  • Central location for exploring history and culture.
  • Wide range of dining, shopping, and nightlife.
  • Good public transport hub.
  • Walkable to Old Town attractions, close to the port and airport.
Cons
  • Can be crowded, especially during high season.
  • Parking is difficult.
  • Limited direct access to beaches, requiring a bus or taxi.
  • Generally safe, but be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Paleokastritsa

Pros
  • Very scenic, excellent for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and boat excursions.
  • A relaxed atmosphere.
  • Beaches are the main attraction, with Green Bus connections to Corfu Town.
Cons
  • Can be very crowded in high season.
  • Limited nightlife compared to other resorts.

Sidari

Pros
  • Good range of restaurants, bars, and shops.
  • Many activities suitable for families.
  • A self-contained resort, with Green Bus connections to Corfu Town.
  • Known for the Canal d'Amour rock formations and sandy beaches.
Cons
  • Can be very touristy and less authentically Greek, notably during peak season.

Further Neighborhoods

Kassiopi

A picturesque fishing village in the northeast, opposite the Albanian coast. Features a charming harbor, Byzantine castle ruins, and pebble beaches. More upscale and tranquil than Sidari, popular with families and couples. It contains good dining options. Can get busy during peak times. Beaches are pebbly. Green Bus connections to Corfu Town and boat trips to nearby coves.

Agios Gordios

A west coast village with a long sandy beach backed by lush green cliffs. It is a relaxed and scenic environment. Features a beautiful beach, good restaurants, and a laid-back vibe. It can be a bit isolated. Access involves a winding road. Green Bus connections to Corfu Town.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation bookings strategically for the best experience.

Advance booking recommendations by season

  • High Season (July-August): Book 3-6 months in advance. This is notably important for popular areas or specific properties like villas. Last-minute availability is rare and expensive.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Book 1-3 months in advance for best selection and prices. Last-minute deals might be found, but choice may be limited.
  • Low Season (November-April): More flexibility exists. Booking a few weeks in advance is usually sufficient, as many properties are closed during this period.

Trusted booking platforms

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, and Hotels.com are widely used and feature a broad selection.
  • Vacation Rentals: Vrbo are popular platforms for apartments and villas.
  • Direct Booking: Many hotels and villas present better rates or special packages when booking directly through their official websites. This can sometimes bypass OTA fees.
  • Local Agencies: Some local real estate or tourism agencies specialize in villa rentals and may have unique listings.

Booking Considerations

Policies
  • Policies vary widely by property and booking platform. Always check the specific terms before booking.
  • Many properties mandate a deposit (often 30-50%) for direct bookings, with the remainder paid upon arrival.
  • Cancellation policies range from free cancellation up to a few days before arrival to non-refundable rates.
  • Travel insurance can cover non-refundable bookings in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Negotiation Customs
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is rare in established hotels and resorts.
  • In smaller guesthouses or studios during the low season, slight flexibility might exist, but it is not a common expectation.

Important Notes

House Sitting

For an alternative stay, explore TrustedHousesitters for house and pet sitting opportunities, exchanging care for accommodation.

Hotel Chains

For specific hotel chains, consider direct bookings with IHG Hotels for their various brands.

Budget Stays

Explore Hostelworld for budget-friendly hostel options, particularly if seeking a social atmosphere.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here is a general guide to accommodation options in Corfu based on budget and traveler style.

Budget-Friendly Stays

Accommodation Types

Hostels, basic studios, guesthouses, small apartments.

  • Very affordable
  • Social atmosphere (hostels)
  • Independent living (studios)
Pros & Cons

Limited amenities, shared facilities (hostels), basic comfort.

  • Best for solo travelers, backpackers, budget-conscious groups.
  • Common in Corfu Town (near San Rocco), Kavos, Sidari.

Mid-Range & Luxury Stays

Accommodation Types

Mid-Range: 3-star hotels, larger apartments, boutique hotels, well-equipped studios. Luxury: 4-5 star resorts, luxury villas, boutique hotels in Old Town, private estates.

  • Mid-range: Good balance of comfort and price, often including pool/breakfast, good locations.
  • Luxury: High-end amenities (spas, multiple pools, gourmet dining), privacy, exceptional service, stunning views.
Pros & Cons

Mid-Range: Can still be busy in high season, some may lack unique character. Luxury: Highest cost, can be isolated, requires transport for exploration.

  • Mid-range: Best for couples, families, travelers seeking comfort and good value.
  • Luxury: Best for honeymooners, luxury seekers, groups desiring privacy and premium services.

Top Picks by Traveler Style

  • Solo Traveler

    Hostels in Corfu Town facilitate social interaction. Small guesthouses or boutique hotels in Corfu Town offer convenience and safety. Resorts like those in Gouvia or Dassia are easy to navigate alone.

  • Family-Friendly

    Many resorts include family-specific amenities like kids' clubs, multiple pools, and family rooms (e.g., Grecotel Corfu Imperial, Ikos Dassia, Domes of Corfu). Villas or larger apartments with private pools are popular for families seeking space and self-catering options.

  • Long-Stay

    Apartments and villas with kitchens are ideal for longer stays, permitting self-catering and a more local experience. Discounts are often available for weekly or monthly bookings.

  • Cultural/Historical Significance

    Many boutique hotels and guesthouses in Corfu Old Town are housed in renovated Venetian or neoclassical buildings. These properties hold an unique historical ambiance (e.g., Cavalieri Hotel, Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel), making for a stay rich in character.

Specific Hotel Recommendations

  • Hotel Arcadion (Corfu Town)

    Excellent central location overlooking Spianada Square.

  • Dassia Chandris & Spa (Dassia)

    An established resort with good facilities.

  • Corfu Palace Hotel (Corfu Town)

    Offers luxury amenities at a sometimes mid-range price, depending on the season.

  • Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection (Glyfada)

    A large, luxurious beachfront resort.

Accommodation Types Comparison

Budget e.g., €20-€60/night

Accommodation Types: Hostels, basic studios, guesthouses, small apartments. Best For: Solo travelers, backpackers, budget-conscious groups. Common Areas: Corfu Town (near San Rocco), Kavos, Sidari. Pros: Very affordable, social atmosphere (hostels), independent living (studios). Cons: Limited amenities, shared facilities (hostels), basic comfort.

Mid-Range & Luxury e.g., €60-€150+/night

Mid-Range: 3-star hotels, larger apartments, boutique hotels. Best for couples, families. Luxury: 4-5 star resorts, luxury villas. Best for honeymooners, luxury seekers. Common Areas: Kommeno Peninsula, North-East Coast. Pros: Good balance of comfort and price (mid), high-end amenities (luxury). Cons: Can be busy (mid), highest cost, isolated (luxury).

Additional Premier Stays

Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa Benitses

Presents a high-end wellness and resort experience.

Kontokali Bay Resort & Spa Kontokali

Known for excellent service, a private beach, and its proximity to Corfu Town.

Variety for Every Journey

Corfu's diverse accommodation landscape promises a suitable stay for every visitor, whether seeking history, relaxation, or adventure.