Greece is always going to be a good time. If exploring a city steeped in rich history and culture is what you’re after, head to Athens. Pining for a weekend of fun and boujee partying? Mykonos has you covered. Craving a fly-and-flop beach break with a side of sightseeing? Hello, Corfu. Just a three hour plane journey from the UK, the island is home to more than 50 beautiful beaches, a stunning Old Town with quaint cobbled streets and pastel-hued buildings, traditional Greek tavernas serving hearty homemade dishes, and an abundance of idyllic seaside resorts that service your every need. Sound like your idea of your next dream European destination? Then read on for tips on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat in Corfu – and more specifically the vibrant north of the island.
Where to stay in North Corfu
Ikos Odisia
Two words immediately spring to mind when it comes to Ikos: big and bold. If you asked me two years ago, pre-kids, if I’d ever heard of the luxury hotel brand, I would have said no. But fast forward two years and one stay later, and I’m already pencilling in a visit next year. It’s a luxe all-inclusive catering largely to families, but also couples, food lovers and wellness enthusiasts, and it never misses a beat when it comes to style and service.
We’re a sucker for small details, so a seamless transfer from the airport followed by a chilled glass of champagne at check-in, a bag of toys for my toddler and a thorough and friendly introduction by one of the many attentive and incredibly warm staff was a welcome touch to kick off our stay. Like the other Ikos resorts dotted around Greece and Spain (there are eight in total), when it comes to the size and layout, Ikos Odisia is pretty mind-blowing.
Everyone’s clicking on…
Situated 20 minutes northeast of Corfu Airport in a secluded sandy bay, there are 10 pools across four villages, eight restaurants with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs, and just under 400 rooms. There’s also a sumptuous spa with treatment rooms directly overlooking the Ionian sea, a theatre, a kids club and pretty much every sports facility you can think of – including a football pitch. The hotel was almost at max capacity when we visited, but it never once felt crowded, with ample space around the pools and by the beach.
If you’re wondering how practical it is to navigate the resort and getting your daily steps in isn’t your current vibe, golf buggies are just a phone call or WhatsApp message away. We never waited more than five minutes for one to whisk us to wherever we needed to go if we didn’t fancy walking. They also have bikes if you’d prefer to cycle.
When it comes to the Ikos decor, think calming stonewashed walls, elegant smooth blonde wood, mood-boosting airy rooms and perfectly manicured garden borders, brought to life with bright pops of bougainvillea, geraniums, citrus groves, and other vibrant, thriving flora. Unsurprisingly, all the grounds are immaculate. We stayed in a one-bedroom balcony suite which provided plenty of space for a family of four, and had a bed so luscious it was like being hugged by a sea of feathers.
Ikos Odisia is home to eight restaurants, with favourites being Greek restaurant Ouzo, Asian restaurant Anaya (please order the crispy banana with caramel and vanilla ice cream, you won’t be disappointed) and Spanish restaurant Oliva. But, honestly, they’re all fabulous. Even restaurant bar Flavors – the buffet located just by the main reception – boasts the most romantic backdrops, with sweeping views of the sea below. Ouzo was especially a hit with my toddler who thoroughly enjoyed the live music, Corfiot dancing and a lot of plate smashing during one memorable lunch. This was all alongside some of the tastiest food we had during our visit – think juicy grilled prawns, succulent pork gyros, piles of fluffy flatbread, and endless bowls of oregano-drenched Greek salad.
But the biggest Ikos Odisia selling point? The hospitality. From the moment we stepped foot in the resort, no request was too big, and whether at one of the restaurants, by the pool, beach, or back in the suite, service was always quick and extraordinarily friendly, and the Ikos e-concierge WhatsApp service made every request super seamless. Basically, it’s everything you could want from a joyful, relaxing trip abroad.
While you’re encouraged to leave the hotel to visit the rest of the island (you can hire a complimentary Tesla for the day), with a mini market also on the property, you’d easily be forgiven for wanting to stay cocooned in Odisia’s comfy confines.
Tips and extra info:
- Download the Ikos app well ahead of your visit to pre-book restaurant visits and your Tesla hire.
- Make sure you add the hotel on WhatsApp after your arrival as it acts as an e-concierge service, which sends daily info on what’s on, plus it’s also an easy way to book your activities or amend restaurant reservations.
- While family-friendly, there’s also an adults-only pool.
Nightly rates at Ikos Odisia start from €346 (£295 approx) on an all-inclusive basis. Head here for more info.
What to do in North Corfu
We know it’s easy to get swept up in the luxury of Corfu’s mega indulgent all-inclusive resorts, but if you can tear yourself away from the cocktails and snacks on tap to tour the local towns, idyllic beaches and traditional Greek tavernas, here are our top recs…
Enjoy a boat trip to Paxos and Antipaxos
With hidden caves and scenic shores, a coastal cruise easily ranks as one of the most fun ways to see the island and the smaller, neighbouring islands from afar. There’s no shortage of trips exploring various routes, but we recommend a visit to the Blue Caves, named after the electric blue and ultramarine sea water surrounding them, a unique Insta-grid worthy spot, located on the west coast of Paxos Island. Sailing past Cape Drastis at the very tip of the island and seeing the unique white cliffs of Erimitis Bay Beach – or stopping for a swim – is also a must.
Hit the beach
Some of the best beaches in the north include Bataria Beach in Kassiopi on the northeast coast and the beautiful bays lining the west coast in Paleokastritsa, including Liapades Beach. Bataria boasts crystal clear turquoise waters and a dramatic rocky backdrop, while the beaches in Paleokastritsa are surrounded by rugged mountains, lush greenery and feature a mix of pretty pebble and soft sandy shores (though you’ll find most sandy beaches in the south of the island, so don’t forget to pack swim shoes).
Porto Timoni, which is made up of two sandy bays backing onto each other, sits on the west coast, just under an hour drive from Paleokastritsa. With relaxing azure waters, sandy stretches of beach, and far less crowds than other seaside spots, it’s up there with one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The caveat? Unless approaching by boat, to get to the bays there’s a pretty steep hike which you can only really manage in trainers or other appropriate footwear. Sandals are a big no. But if you’re kitted out in the right gear, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Sightsee in Paleokastritsa
Located on the northwest coast of Corfu, Paleokastritsa is a laid-back, charming coastal village with so much to see and do. If culture is what you’re after, a must-see is Paleokastritsa Monastery, a 13th century building enveloped by lush, colourful vegetation with wholesome views of the picturesque village below. If a dip in the ocean is calling, Paleokastritsa is also home to some of the island’s most beautiful bays, pebble coves and caves, including Nausika’s Cave. Inaccessible by road, add a boat trip to your itinerary to check it out in style via the sea.
Visit Kassiopi Village
As well as a visit to Bataria Beach, the joyful fishing village features a lively harbour where you can feast on fresh seafood and enjoy cocktails overlooking the Ionian sea. There’s also a handful of traditional Greek tavernas you won’t want to sleep on, including Taverna Lavanda which serves up top-rated souvlaki, saganaki and lamb kleftiko. If you’re in the mood for immersing yourself in even more culture, enjoy a walk up to Kassiopi Castle to see the Byzantine-era remains – and to also enjoy unrivalled views of the village below.
Stroll around Corfu Town
If you can peel yourself away from the pool or beach, we’d also recommend a visit to the capital. With quaint cobblestone streets, elegant pastel-hued buildings and plenty of charming cafes to pop into for baklava or a glass of local wine, you can easily spend a full day in Corfu Town. If time allows, visitors also recommend a trip to the Old Fortress for a slice of history and spectacular views, and to also stop by the Museum of Asian Art – the only one of its kind in Greece.
Where to eat in North Corfu
Nikos Family Restaurant
With a mouth-watering menu and cosy atmosphere, it’s not hard to see why Nikos, situated in Roda on the north tip of the island, has earned well over 1,000 glowing five-star reviews on Tripadvisor. A family-run restaurant, Nikos is all that’s good about traditional Greek fare. While their authentic menu gets a well-deserved shout out, don’t skip the traditional Greek night with live music, Greek dancing and plate smashing. Plus, the sublime desserts are all made in-house by Mama Nikos. Book in advance as it’s a popular spot.
Katerina’s Taverna
Another restaurant being showered with love from visitors is Katerina’s Taverna, located on the northern coast, just under an hour from Corfu Airport. With plaid and gingham table cloths and country-style seating, guests can expect a warm, rustic homely feel while dining. Meanwhile, hearty highlights from the menu include soutzoukakia, moussaka, stifado and kleftiko. Dinner ends with a shot of their punchy homemade rakomelo – a traditional Greek drink made with raki and honey.
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Zoe Shenton is the Site Director at Cosmopolitan UK. As well as looking after the day-to-day running of the website, she oversees video, e-commerce and social for the brand. Starting out in teen magazines (RIP, Bliss), Zoe has worked in the media industry for almost 15 years and has a background in entertainment journalism, having interviewed the likes of Harry Styles and Taylor Swift. She also spent three and a half years living in Los Angeles where she covered red carpets and discovered all the best spots serving bottomless mimosas. Find her on
