Corfu is one of those islands that makes you slow down : a perfect mix of turquoise bays, mountain roads, and Greek charm that feels local and easy to love. I didn’t plan much before going, and that’s probably what made this trip so good. Between beach hopping, sunset drinks, and exploring the old town, I ended up finding some incredible places : from cliffside bars to hidden beaches you can only reach by boat.
It’s worth noting though: for a backpacker destination, Corfu is on the pricier side : especially when it comes to accommodation and eating out. The good news is that flights from most European cities are frequent and surprisingly affordable, making it an easy island escape without breaking the bank.
If you’re dreaming of a chill Mediterranean break, here’s my full 4-day itinerary with all my favorite spots in Corfu 🇬🇷
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My 4-Day Chill Itinerary in Corfu
Day 1 : Arrival & Paleokastritsa Vibes
- Transport : Flight France → Corfu (6am → 10am local), bus to Green Terminal in Corfu town (€2), bus to Paleokastritsa (€2.5)
- Accommodation : Apollon Hotel, double room €70/night, sea view !
- Activities:
- Drop off luggage and swim at the main beach
- Lunch at Yialos : Greek salad, fried calamari, tzatziki (~€50 for 2)
- Back to the hotel for terrace relaxation
- Dinner at Nikos : lamb shank, octopus, glass of wine (~€50)
Day 2 : Monastery & Village Stroll
- Breakfast: Takeaway coffee at Zefiros Traditional Hotel (~€8 for 2)
- Activities:
- Visit the Paleokastritsa Monastery (free)
- Walk around the village, grab a gyros at Andreas (~€6)
- Drink at La Grotta (~€12)
- Dolphin Beach : take the small path from the Belvedere Restaurant to avoid crowds
- Dinner: Back at Nikos, moussaka and whole sea bream (~$50)
Day 3 : Chill & Beaches
- Breakfast: Again at Zefiros (~€8)
- Beaches: Ampelaki, Agios Petros, Paleokastritsa
- Relax: Read a book, enjoy slow travel vibes
- Sunset: Agios Petros Beach
- Dinner: Andreas, octopus & beef salad with tomato sauce and pasta (~€40)
Day 4 : Boat Day & Corfu Old Town
- Boat rental: Michalas Boats, €80 for 3h, no license required!
- Navigation zone: between Ampelaki Beach and Stelari Beach, crystal-clear water, secret caves
- Afternoon: Corfu Old Town, luggage storage €10, explore streets and buy souvenirs
- Dinner: Mythos and Grill, maxi gyros €7
- Sunset: From the old town
My 4-Day Budget in Corfu
- Transports : Flights (€170) from Nantes to Corfou, Buses (€18) = €188
- Lodging : Hotel (€213) for 3 nights with see view included!
- Food & Drinks : Restaurants (€145), Gyros (€34), Drinks (€54) = €233
- Activities : Boat Tour with Michalas Boat Rental (€80), Beach days & exploring (free) = €80
- Extras : Souvenirs (€30), Water & Groceries (€20) = €50
- Total trip coast for 2 people : €765
My Favorite Beaches in Corfu (West Coast)
- Paradise Beach : Only by boat, pure blue water and peace
- Agios Petros Beach : Calm, clear, and best sunset views
- Dolphin Beach: Wild, local, and tucked away from crowds
- La Grotta Bar: Swim, dance, and cliff jump between cocktails
Getting Around
If you stay in Paleokastritsa, you can totally skip the car : buses connect all the main spots. The Green Buses app exists (in theory), but it doesn’t really work. Thankfully, timetables are posted pretty much everywhere, and it’s €5 for a round trip, compared to €10 for parking at the beach. Easy choice.
As for the little boats between beaches, they’re harder to find off-season but still around if you know where to look : La Grotta Bar, the main beach, and the port are your best bets. In summer, it’s a whole vibe with boats coming and going all day; in shoulder season, it just feels quieter (and honestly, kind of perfect).
✨Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨
Corfu isn’t about rushing : it’s about savoring slow mornings, turquoise water, and sunsets that make you wish for one more day.
Corfu is perfect if you’re after chill vibes, nature, and a touch of local charm; though it’s not exactly the classic backpacker bargain. Some areas are pricier, others more low-key… guess I’ll have to go back to find them all !
- Go slow. Don’t try to see everything : Corfu’s beauty is in the pace.
- Mornings are best. Calm water, soft light, fewer people.
- Boat days = best days. Freedom, laughter, and hidden beaches.
- Local buses work. Budget-friendly and authentic.
- Bring your GoPro or drone! The island is insanely photogenic : underwater or from above, every shot looks like a dream. (I use this drone and this gopro)
- Stay flexible. Island life runs on Greek time.
BISOUS