Corfu is famous for its beautiful bays, olive groves, and charming town of Corfu. While many visitors flock to the northern part of the island for its fantastic hotels and stunning beaches – easily accessible from the airport – it is essential to explore South Corfu as well. Here you’ll find a quieter, wilder and more budget-friendly experience. Check out our tips for your trip to South Corfu!

Food and Dining in Southern Corfu

Greek salad, tzatziki, souvlaki, gyros – the food in Greece, especially in Corfu and the south of Corfu, is simply amazing! We especially enjoyed our meals in South Corfu. The locals were incredibly friendly, there were fewer tourists in the south, and the prices were a bit more affordable than in the north. (For dinner for two, complete with drinks, we spent about €20 in August 2024).

Here are some tavernas we recommend in the southern part of Corfu:

Ladókolla – This cozy tavern in the village of Lefkimmi serves fresh and delicious food. We loved the relaxed, dreamy atmosphere.

Taverna Bella Vista – After a day at the beach or exploring the area around Kavos, you must visit Taverna Bella Vista. Why? The view is simply stunning! Perched on a hill, you can gaze out over the sea while you indulge in delicious grilled specialties. Bruschetta is served with each main course, and refreshing melon is served for dessert. Be sure to reserve a front-row seat!

Fisheye – Enjoy garlic bread and Greek salad while listening to the soothing sounds of the sea at this charming beach taverna. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite during or after your day at Marathias Beach.

Cultural Highlights in South Corfu

Natural Monument Olive Tree – On your way from Corfu Town to the southern part of the island, don’t miss the impressive 1,000-year-old olive tree. This gnarled giant stands proudly inland and is truly awe-inspiring. Along the way, you’ll also pass lovely olive shops.

Nyssos Corfu Olive Oil – This olive oil bottling company not only produces its own goods but also sells olives, olive oil, skincare products, soaps, and more. The highlight was the tasting station—Corfu’s olive oil is simply divine!

Summer Grill Parties – One evening, after a day at Marathias Beach, we were surprised by the scent of grilling wafting through the air. A local festival was happening on the island’s main road (Road 23). Souvlaki was grilled for just €2.50, and lamb was available at €30 per kilo. For dessert, we enjoyed homemade loukoumades, while local musicians performed live on stage. It was wonderful to share this experience with the people of Corfu.

Kavos – This lively spot offers tourists plenty of affordable restaurants, bars, and activities. Just keep in mind that Kavos can get very loud, attracting many party-goers, which means you’ll hear party music throughout the day. The local beach isn’t the most inviting, as there are limited spots for a peaceful beach day, but sunbeds can be rented. The hotels and apartments in Kavos are budget-friendly and often come with pools, which we really liked. You can also rent a moped to explore quieter, wilder beaches.

The Wild Beaches of Southern Corfu

Sandy Beach – Located at the southern tip of the island, Sandy Beach is a hidden gem. It’s about a 12-minute drive or scooter ride from Kavos, offering plenty of space to find your own quiet spot. The sandy beach slopes steeply into the sea, and you’ll need to navigate some slippery rocks to access the water, so definitely bring some water shoes.

Marathias Beach – The water entry at Marathias Beach is gentle and easy. Located a bit further north, this expansive and beautiful beach quickly became a favorite for our seaside days. Check out our Top 5 favorite beaches in Corfu for more recommendations!

Our Conclusion: Plan for at least three days in South Corfu and be sure to rent a car or scooter. You’ll often find fig trees growing along the roads. A local shared with us that he enjoys picking the sweet fruits between June and August, and we did the same—it was delicious!

Additional reading suggestions for you: