The island of Corfu is one of the most loved in Greece, possibly because it really is one of a kind. Situated so close to Italy that it shares their pleasing climate, many Greeks joke that it isn’t really a Hellenic island at all. However, the culture is true to its homeland with the same laid-back attitude, strong sense of hospitality and incredible culinary traditions.

Historical Corfu has quite a story behind it. Once occupied by the Venetians, the fortified capital city withstood three Ottoman Empire sieges, and throughout the island, the pride in their regional heritage is clear. You’ll see all sorts of beautiful chapels, castles and ruins on your way between beaches and pools, cities and villages. If you’re looking for a Greek holiday on a budget, consider a cheap Corfu holiday for all the beauty, history and culture you could want without breaking the bank.

To get the best Corfu holiday deals, the shoulder season of late spring and early autumn make for a great time to bag a bargain – plus, it tends to be less busy at these times too, so you can avoid the crowds.

Eating out the Corfiot way

Corfu’s fertile landscape has harnessed the warm climate to grow bigger, juicier and tastier ingredients than other Greek islands, including incredible fruit and veg. The tavernas in Corfu stick to their traditional Greek recipes, and the results are unlike anything you’ve ever tasted. Corfu holidays are all about trying new flavours and new dishes to get the full experience.

Every single resort on the island has its own selection of Corfiot restaurants to choose from, and authentic, family-owned establishments welcome you in with great local wines and tasty specials. Gouvia and Pelekas undoubtedly lead the way, however, with Pelekas’ Sunset Restaurant atop Kaiser’s Throne considered by many to be the best restaurant on the island.

If it’s international cuisine you’re looking for then Corfu Town, Kavos and Aghios Georgios North are your best bets. The capital city has the higher class affairs, with fusion food, pizzerias and reputable chefs. Whereas, the more tourist-heavy resorts will do you all the home comforts – a Sunday roast or full English – as well as a curry or even a Chinese takeaway.

Whether you’re staying All Inclusive or planning a cheap Corfu holiday, be sure to dine out at least once or twice so you can experience new flavours and soak up the charming atmosphere of Corfu.

Bronzing on the beaches

As one of the larger Greek islands, Corfu has more beaches than many of its neighbours. A trip around the island will take you from busy Blue Flag award-winners to cosy secret coves or nudist havens. However you like to enjoy the seaside, it’s guaranteed to be covered on this island.

For those who love an exciting beachfront getaway with watersports and activities, Aghios Georgios North is one of the largest strips of sand, and has water-skiing and para-sailing opportunities up for grabs. Kavos too, as the home of young clubbing culture in Corfu, has plenty of opportunities to speed across the surface of deep blue.

If you’re a more laid-back type then Corfu holidays can still be for you. If you just want to settle down with your book and sun yourself, then Nissaki should be top of your list. Its white pebbled beach is small and understated, with an accompanying village and handful of tavernas that serve excellent local dishes.

How to party on the island

For nightlife in Corfu you’ll find that every village, town and resort has its own offerings, from karaoke to traditional Greek dance floors. However, if you’re looking for a real blow-out then there are two main contenders. Kavos is the first, which rages all summer long and is great for cheap drinks, clubs and boat parties.

If you’re looking for a night out with more elegance and style, Corfu Town is the place. The bars here are modern and fashionable, with hundreds of people from all over gathering to enjoy cocktails and live music. You’ll find anything from jazz to electro, swing to metal, and the bars often don’t close until the last customer calls it a night.

Roda and Sidari can both be quieter options too, with a lot more laid back options and delicious cocktails by the sea. Head to Aquarius in Sidari to enjoy a sunset dinner with some background rock music, or Nikos restaurant in Roda offers a night of family fun with plate smashing and fire dancing. Corfu holidays hold plenty of options all day long and all throughout the night, so whatever your holiday needs entail, rest assured you’ll find it here.

Where to buy your souvenirs

Depending on what you’re looking for, there are plenty of excellent opportunities to shop until you drop on holiday in Corfu. For the high-end jewellers and fashion boutique stores it’s got to be Corfu Town, the trendy capital. The marble and granite streets are lined with shiny window fronts selling watches, figure-hugging clothes and state-of-the-art electronics. If you’ve spent your cheap Corfu holiday tanning on the beach this could be a whole new side of the island to see – even if you just stick to window shopping.

However, if it’s authentic, handmade Greek goods you’re after, head to the Old Town district of the capital, and browse the many market stalls. From here, visit one of the traditional little Corfiot villages. Every one of these will have their own silversmith or sandal-maker, and you really can’t beat the real deal if you’re looking for leather goods.