Corfu is an island of dualities. On one hand, it's got postcard-perfect beaches with azure waters, and on the other, a labyrinthine Old Town that whispers of Venetian and British pasts. Your choice of where to stay here is pivotal — it can be the difference between a holiday filled with cultural exploration or one spent reveling in beachside relaxation.

## Where to stay

**Old Town Corfu, not Paleokastritsa.** While Paleokastritsa is lovely for a day trip with its dramatic cliffs and sparkling sea views, Old Town Corfu is where the real soul of the island resides. Wander the narrow, cobbled streets lined with pastel-colored Venetian buildings, shop at the Corfu Town Market for local produce, and grab a coffee at Café Liston on the Esplanade.

**Kanoni, not Kavos.** For a serene experience with unbeatable views, Kanoni is your spot. Overlooking the famous Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery, it's postcard-perfect without the crowds of Kavos, which thrums with nightlife that rarely sleeps. Kanoni offers a more refined Corfu, with the Mon Repos estate and its gardens just a stroll away.

**Kassiopi, not Gouvia.** If you want a taste of local life with a splash of cosmopolitan flair, head to Kassiopi. This fishing village on the northeast coast offers intimate tavernas and a lively harbor. Gouvia, on the other hand, feels more like an artificial resort town catering to package tourists. In Kassiopi, get your fill of authentic Greek flavors at Trilogia restaurant.

## When to go

Late May to early July is prime time: warm weather and just ahead of the tourist surge. September is also blissful as the sea remains warm but the crowds thin.

Chat with your hotel concierge or browse local stays to find the perfect base for your Corfu adventure. The island's charm lies in its mix — let them guide you to the pockets of originality and relaxation that define this Ionian jewel. Skip the obvious and explore deeper.