Beaches, Nature and Cuisine
Why is late summer the perfect time to visit Corfu?
1.1 Less hustle and bustle, more relaxation
1.2 Ideal for nature and activities
1.3 Experience authentic island flair
2.1 Paleokastritsa: Picturesque and versatile
2.2 Glyfada Beach: Golden sand and turquoise blue water
2.3 Sidari and the Canal d’Amour
2.4 Quiet bays in the south of the island
3.1 The Corfu Trail
3.2 Short, enjoyable hikes for in between
4.1 Discover regional dishes
4.2 The treasures of the island
4.3 Special tavernas off the beaten track
6.1 What excursions away from the beach and hiking are worthwhile on Corfu?
6.2 How sustainable is a holiday in Corfu compared to other destinations?
6.3 Are there any offers for families with children in Corfu in late summer?
Why is Late Summer the Perfect Time to Visit Corfu?
Less Crowds, More Relaxation
If you want to escape the big summer rush while still enjoying sun, beaches, and nature, late summer is the ideal time for your Corfu vacation. From mid-September onwards, the island becomes quieter – perfect for anyone who values relaxation and authentic island charm.
These are the advantages of visiting Corfu in late summer:
-
Pleasant temperatures: With an average of 24 to 28 degrees, it’s warm enough for swimming but not too hot for excursions. The sea also remains comfortably warm.
-
Fewer tourists: Beaches, tavernas, and sights are much less crowded – making your vacation more relaxing.
-
More attractive prices: Many accommodations and car rental companies lower their prices in late summer, giving you more value for your money.
-
Romantic light: The late-summer sun bathes the landscape and sea in especially warm colors – perfect for taking photos or simply enjoying the view.
Ideal for Nature and Activities
In addition to relaxation, late summer on Corfu also offers the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. While many plants suffer from the heat in midsummer, nature often shines again in rich green in September. Olive trees are laden with fruit, and there is also a wide selection of seasonal fruit and vegetables at the weekly markets.
The mild temperatures are ideal for:
- short hikes or longer tours,
- cycling trips through hilly landscapes,
- relaxed boat trips along the coast.
Experience Authentic Island Charm
In late summer, you can get a glimpse of a more authentic Corfu – without the tourist crowds. Many locals have more time for conversation again, the beaches fill up with Greek families, and cultural life seems more down-to-earth.
These authentic impressions will make your holiday in Corfu special:
- Regional festivals: Many villages hold local celebrations in September – with music, dancing and traditional food.
- Markets without crowds: You can stroll leisurely through the alleys and discover genuine craftsmanship.
- Insights into everyday life: In smaller towns, you can experience the rhythm of the island – from the morning bakery to the evening taverna visit.
Why is late summer the perfect time to visit Corfu?
1.1 Less hustle and bustle, more relaxation
1.2 Ideal for nature and activities
1.3 Experience authentic island flair
2.1 Paleokastritsa: Picturesque and versatile
2.2 Glyfada Beach: Golden sand and turquoise blue water
2.3 Sidari and the Canal d’Amour
2.4 Quiet bays in the south of the island
3.1 The Corfu Trail
3.2 Short, enjoyable hikes for in between
4.1 Discover regional dishes
4.2 The treasures of the island
4.3 Special tavernas off the beaten track
6.1 What excursions away from the beach and hiking are worthwhile on Corfu?
6.2 How sustainable is a holiday in Corfu compared to other destinations?
6.3 Are there any offers for families with children in Corfu in late summer?
Beaches on Corfu
Paleokastritsa: Picturesque and Versatile
Paleokastritsa is one of the most famous places on the island – and rightly so. Here you will find several small bays, crystal-clear water and a breathtaking backdrop of green hills and rugged cliffs. Especially in late summer, you can:
- swim in complete relaxation, without large crowds,
- explore the underwater world while snorkelling, or
- discover caves and hidden bays by kayak.
Despite its popularity, Paleokastritsa is pleasantly quiet at this time of year – perfect for those who want to combine nature and relaxation.
Glyfada Beach: Golden Sand and Turquoise Water
The popular Glyfada Beach is located on the west coast of the island. The expansive sandy beach offers comfortable sun loungers, gentle access to the water and cosy bars near the beach. In late summer, you can enjoy the sun, swim or simply listen to the sound of the sea in a relaxed atmosphere – without the hustle and bustle of the high season.
Sidari and the Canal d’Amour
In the north of Corfu, you will find the small village of Sidari with a unique rock formation: the Canal d’Amour. According to legend, anyone who swims through this canal will find true love. Whether you believe it or not, the view of the bizarrely shaped sandstone rocks is definitely worth seeing. The bays in the area are sheltered from the wind and ideal for swimming or taking photographs.
Peaceful Bays in the South of the Island
If you like it particularly secluded, it’s worth taking a trip to the south of Corfu. Beaches such as Issos, Halikounas and Gardenos offer wide sandy areas, dune landscapes and natural surroundings. Here you can swim between lagoons, pine forests and the sea – often almost alone. Especially in late summer, these places feel like little retreats far away from mass tourism.
Hiking on Corfu
Der Corfu Trail
If you want to discover Corfu away from the typical holiday routes, the Corfu Trail offers just the right adventure. The approximately 220-kilometre-long long-distance hiking trail takes you from the wild cliffs in the north to the gentle beaches in the south. Especially in late summer, the climate is perfect for this type of active holiday – not too hot, but still sunny.
You can walk the trail in stages or choose individual day sections. Particularly worthwhile are:
- Mount Pantokrator in the north: panoramic views as far as Albania and spectacular sunrises.
- Central Corfu near Lakones: olive groves, cypress trees and traditional villages.
- Southern sections near Lefkimmi: flat paths, natural beaches and absolute tranquillity.
Whether you are ambitious or prefer a more leisurely pace, you will find your personal favourite route on the Corfu Trail.
Short Leisure Hikes for In Between
You don’t have to be an experienced long-distance hiker to discover Corfu on foot. Even shorter routes offer you intense nature experiences – ideal for half a day or as a change from the beach. Walks along the coast, through olive groves or to small chapels on the hills are particularly charming. Late summer brings pleasant coolness in the morning and fantastic light conditions in the late afternoon.
Many of the trails start directly in or near small villages, so you can combine your excursion with a relaxing coffee in a tavern or a swim in the sea. Especially at this time of year, the trails are almost yours alone – for a truly intense experience of nature.
Do you love outdoor activities? Then you’re sure to love Mallorca!
Discover the most beautiful outdoor experiences now – in our guide to Mallorca’s outdoor activities!
Mount Pantokrator
Lakones
Lefkimmi
Culinary Experiences
Discover Local Dishes
Corfu’s cuisine is characterised by Mediterranean flavours, fresh ingredients and Venetian influences. If you enjoy good food, you’ll be in your element on the island. Be sure to try these traditional specialities:
- Sofrito: Thin slices of beef in a spicy white wine sauce with garlic and parsley – a typical Sunday dish.
- Pastitsada: Spicy braised beef or chicken with tomatoes, cinnamon and cloves, served with pasta – a classic dish from the capital, Kerkyra.
- Bourdeto: A spicy fish dish with red peppers, usually prepared with freshly caught scorpion fish – for lovers of intense flavours.
- Kumquat liqueur: A sweet speciality that is only available on Corfu – ideal as a souvenir or digestif.
The Treasures of the Island
Corfu is not only known for its good food, but also for its centuries-old wine and olive culture. The harvest season begins in late summer – perfect for enjoying the products fresh. Many smaller wineries invite you to tastings where you can discover local grape varieties such as Kakotrygis or Skopelitiko.
Olive oil is also an integral part of the island’s cuisine. The oil from the ancient Lianolia olive trees is particularly aromatic. You can taste it at farmers’ markets or directly from producers, and often even take it home with you.
Special Taverns off the Beaten Path
While tourist centres often offer similar menus, it is worth taking a look at the more rural areas. There you will find taverns that still cook according to old family recipes – often with ingredients from their own gardens. The atmosphere is warm, the food authentic and the views often spectacular.
In late summer, it is easier to get a table spontaneously and enjoy your meal in peace. Whether on a hill overlooking the sea or hidden in an olive grove, the culinary experiences on Corfu are often the ones that linger longest in the memory.
Would you like more inspiration for relaxed travel away from the high season?
With LEAV to Corfu
If you want to start your late summer holiday in Corfu in a relaxed manner, LEAV Aviation is the right choice. With direct flights from Cologne, you can reach the Greek island quickly, easily and comfortably. LEAV offers the right flexibility, especially for those who travel spontaneously or specifically outside the peak season.
On board, you can expect a pleasant flight experience with modern service and a friendly crew. You don’t have to worry about overcrowded planes or confusing booking portals – at LEAV, your travel experience is the focus. So you can enjoy your time in Corfu right from the start – whether on the beach, hiking or sampling local delicacies.
Stay up to date with our promotions and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or LinkedIn!
FAQ
What excursions away from the beach and hiking are worthwhile on Corfu?
In addition to hiking trails and beaches, Corfu also has a lot to offer culturally: the old town of Kerkyra (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Achilleion with its magnificent gardens, and boat trips to the neighbouring islands of Paxos and Antipaxos are all worthwhile destinations. Monasteries, castle ruins and traditional villages also offer exciting insights into the history and way of life on the island.
How sustainable is a holiday in Corfu compared to other destinations?
Corfu focuses on sustainability in many areas – for example, through locally produced food, small family-run accommodation and nature-based activities such as hiking or cycling. If you travel consciously, support local providers and use public transport, you can significantly reduce your ecological footprint.
Are there any offers for families with children in Corfu in late summer?
Yes, many hotels and holiday resorts also offer family-friendly deals in late summer – often at lower prices than in the high season. In addition, beaches such as Agios Georgios and Glyfada are particularly child-friendly as they slope gently into the water. Zoos, boat trips and easy hikes are also great activities to do with children.
Stay up to date with our promotions and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or LinkedIn!