9 CHARMING VILLAGES TO VISIT IN CORFU.
Corfu is often thought of for its beaches and resorts, but when we recently walked the length of the island, we were surprised to find so many delightful villages. Each with a particular charm and pace – some more lively, others pleasantly sleepy.
Here are nine villages in Corfu that are worth your time to visit.
You can find all these villages on the map below.
1/ Pelekas
Around 13 km west of Corfu Town, Pelekas is a hill village with long views over the coast. The climb to Kaiser’s Throne, once a lookout for Kaiser Wilhelm II, is a popular hiking spot close by. We walked into the village at sunrise, and it really was spectacular.
The main square has a few simple cafés and tavernas that stay lively in the evenings.
2/ Sokraki
Perched 500 metres up Mount Pantokrator, Sokraki is a typical mountain village with steep access roads and impressive views. It’s known for kumquat liqueur and spoon sweets, which you can try in the small square.
Away from the main square is Taverna Kapilio – an excellent spot for lunch with mountain views.
Buses don’t run here regularly, so driving is the most practical option. We arrived here on foot towards the end of our Corfu Trail adventures.
3/ Lakones
Above Paleokastritsa, Lakones earns its nickname, the “Balcony of Paleokastritsa,” as the views over the bays are incredible. It’s a narrow, stone-built village with a handful of cafés overlooking the turquoise coast below.
Many tours visit here from Corfu, so you can visit without needing a car. If you are staying in Paleokastritsa, you can walk the Donkey Trail – a 30 minute path leading up to the village.
4/ Liapades
One of Corfu’s oldest villages, Liapades combines authentic village life with beach access just below.
It’s easy to reach from Paleokastritsa by road or on foot along the Corfu Trail. The old centre has a few guesthouses, tavernas, and a sociable main square.
5/ Lefkimmi
Down south, Lefkimmi is the island’s second-largest settlement but still feels like a big village.
The slow-moving river through its centre gives it character, and there are several riverside cafés. It’s well connected by bus and makes a good stop if you’re heading towards the ferry to the mainland.
6/ Old Perithia
Set high on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator, Old Perithia is mostly restored ruins and a few functioning tavernas.
It’s one of the oldest settlements on Corfu, dating back to the 14th century.
The drive up from the North or East coast is winding but manageable, and parking is available just below the village. It’s also a popular spot with hikers – an hour or so on hiking trails will take you to Pantokratoras Ipsilos (Wildlife Sanctuary).
Find out more about Old Perithia here in our short guide.
7/ Benitses (Old Village)
Skip the busy coastal strip and head into the old village behind Benitses. It’s small and atmospheric, with stone lanes and shaded squares that feel far removed from the seafront.
Easy to reach by bus from Corfu Town.
You can find our detailed guide to visiting Benitses here.
8/ Sinarades
A traditional inland village on the west coast, Sinarades is best known for its folklore museum and Venetian-style buildings.
The narrow streets make it better suited to walking than driving. But there are a few places to park if you arrive by car. Buses from Corfu Town stop nearby.
9/ Pagoi
In the northwest, Pagoi sits in a green valley surrounded by olive groves. It’s quiet, with one main square and a couple of tavernas.
Film fans may recognise it from the 1981 Bond film For Your Eyes Only.
The village is easy to reach from the west coast, from beach resorts like Agios Georgios Pagon.
Wondering where to base yourself in Corfu?
You can find our guide to the best areas and accommodation choices on the island here.
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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