The Greek islands are on the top of many travelers' dream destinations–que the Mamma Mia and Sisterhood of the Traveling pants fans! As a budget, mindful, and often solo traveler, I’m always in search of hidden gem and off the beaten path destinations. If you're looking for something beyond the busy crowds of Santorini or Mykonos, the Ionian Islands, especially Corfu, offer an unforgettable experience.
How do I know this? Well, this September my best friend and I joined 6 other 20-30 somethings aboard a MedSailors catamaran boat for an epic 7-day sailing vacation across the Ionian sea. Starting from Corfu (Marina Gouvia) we set sail to explore the hidden sea caves, lush coastlines, and turquoise waters of San Stefanos, Plataria, Lakka, Parga, and Gaios. After our adventure packed week on the Greece Corfu Discovery route, I can confidently say that with stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture, this cluster of islands off Greece’s northwest coast feels like a hidden paradise waiting to be explored.
Here are five compelling reasons why you should add Corfu and the Ionian Islands to your Greece🇬🇷bucket list!
Unspoiled Beaches for Every Taste
The Ionian Islands are home to some of Greece's most pristine and breathtaking beaches. Corfu, the crown jewel of the Ionians, boasts a diverse coastline that stretches for miles. Whether you want a long sandy stretch or a quiet cove, you’ll find your perfect spot.
My personal favorite beaches of the trip were:
Faliraki Bathing Beach: Located just on the water’s edge of the Old Town in Corfu, this magical swimming spot completely took my breath away. The large cement sitting area accommodated tons of sun seekers and provided entry into the sparkling turquoise waters 30 seconds away. Its adjacent cafe and proximity to the Old Town's shops, restaurants, and cultural sights made it the perfect spot to take an afternoon dip.
Syvota Islet: Known colloquially as The Blue Lagoon, this stunning area gets its name from being the filming site of the famous 80s film “The Blue Lagoon” starring Brooke Shields. When you close your eyes and imagine the stunning waters of Greece, this is what comes to mind. One of my favorite aspects of the MedSailors life is that living aboard a yacht affords you the opportunity to enjoy gorgeous bays that are only accessible by boat. We spent an unforgettable afternoon here paddleboarding to explore the island’s caves and basking in the luminous Greek sunshine.
Plakes Beach: Located in the town of Gaios of the small island of Paxos, here you will find even more tranquil beaches. Looking out to the distance you can see the shores of mainland Greece while you enjoy this secluded spot. My friend and I brought some bread, salami, cheese, olives, and white wine down to the beach and ended up having a private lunch and swimming area all to ourselves!
Delicious Food That Celebrates Tradition
The Ionian Islands bring something special to the table when it comes to food. With a unique blend of Greek, Venetian, and Italian influences, the cuisine in Corfu and its neighboring islands is unlike anywhere else in Greece. The region is known for its use of fresh, local ingredients, including abundant olive oil, fresh seafood, and a variety of herbs.
On a MedSailors trip your Skipper not only expertly navigates the boat for the guests, but also cooks fresh and varied breakfast and lunch everyday. These meals as well as tea, coffee, snacks, and drinking water are included in the trip price. Our Skipper Manu completely wowed us with his culinary skills, crafting a particularly memorable and mouthwatering blue cheese gnocchi accompanied by a fruitful charcuterie board.
One must-try dish in Corfu is pastitsada, a slow-cooked stew made with beef, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, often served over pasta. Another local favorite is sofrito, tender slices of beef cooked in white wine and garlic, reflecting the Venetian influence on the island. And don’t forget to sample the fresh seafood, especially octopus, grilled to perfection and served with lemon, olive oil, and parsley. Whether dining in a small family-run taverna or a seaside restaurant, you’ll enjoy some of the best food Greece has to offer.
Malia’s Corfu Discovery Route Dining Recommendations
Plateria - If you like fresh seafood and amazing traditional eats, Olga’s Taverna is the one
Parga - Simple is the spot for fresh, hearty, and affordable gyros
Lakka - Lakkaki Restaurant has a delicious option for every taste. From grilled meats to traditional Greek dishes and seafood, they have it all; Gelato Italiano for scrumptious pistachio gelato
Gaios - Taka Taka is a gorgeous restaurant that serves fabulous seafood
Corfu Port Gouvina - Vergina's is perfect for simple, classic, and traditional Greek dishes
Rich History and Cultural Heritage
While the Ionian Islands may be famous for their beaches, they are equally known for their fascinating history. Corfu, in particular, has a rich past shaped by multiple civilizations, including the Venetians, French, British, and Greeks. This blend of influences has left behind stunning architecture, cultural traditions, and historic sites that make every corner of the island a joy to explore.
If joining a MedSailors trip, I would recommend leaving a day at the beginning and end of the sailing adventure to explore the city the route is based around. Start in Corfu’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the narrow cobblestone streets are lined with colorful Venetian buildings. Visit the 15th-century Old Fortress, which offers spectacular views over the town and the sea. Another must-see is Achilleion Palace, a grand villa built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria in the late 19th century, which is dedicated to the hero Achilles and filled with beautiful art and gardens. Your designated Guest Experience Leader can provide you with detailed and personal recommendations on what to see and do in your departure city.
Less Crowds, More Tranquility
While the Cycladic islands often feel overwhelmed by tourists, especially during the summer, the Ionian Islands offer a more laid-back and tranquil experience. Even in the height of summer, you’ll find that the crowds are thinner and the atmosphere more relaxed. Corfu has its popular spots, but it’s easy to escape into nature and find peaceful beaches or secluded hiking trails.
For those who love the idea of exploring without the hustle and bustle, islands like Paxos, Antipaxos, or Kefalonia provide that extra sense of seclusion. On these smaller islands, you can still experience traditional Greek village life, stroll through olive groves, and sip wine at local tavernas with the sound of the sea in the background. My favorite village on the Greece Corfu Discovery route was Gaios. There, a slower pace of life gives you the chance to unwind and truly appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
Adventures in Nature and Outdoor Activities
The Ionian Islands are a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to water sports, these islands offer activities that cater to both the adventurous and the leisurely traveler. Corfu is a hiker’s dream, with trails leading through olive groves, lush forests, and stunning coastal cliffs. The Corfu Trail, a 220-kilometer route that spans the length of the island, is ideal for those who want to experience Corfu’s diverse landscapes on foot.
One of the best aspects of a MedSailors trip is they are the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. If you’re a thrill seeker looking for a bit more of an adrenaline rush than swimming, you can enjoy an array of optional activities organized by your Guest Experience Leader. On the Greece Corfu Discovery route you have your pick between the free activities of paddleboarding, Tripitos Arch hike, and Venetian Castle Parga hike as well as paid activities of paratriking in Plataria, scuba diving in Gaios, and various water sports in Parga or Iggly Beach.
If you prefer the sea, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. Snorkeling and diving are popular here, thanks to the clear waters and interesting underwater landscapes. Windsurfing and sailing are also excellent, especially around the island of Lefkada, where the wind conditions are ideal. Kayaking along the dramatic coastline of Paxos or paddleboarding in the calm bays of Corfu are also perfect ways to enjoy the islands' natural beauty.
A Greek Island Escape Like No Other
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of untouched beaches, mouthwatering cuisine, fascinating history, or the desire to escape the crowds, Corfu and the Ionian Islands offer a perfect mix of everything that makes a Greek island vacation magical. With so much to see and do, this part of Greece invites you to experience a side of island life that is both rich in culture and stunningly beautiful. The Ionian Islands are waiting—add them to your bucket list, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with MedSailors.
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