Corfu is a classic. It has the logistical allure of direct European flights (a rarity on Grecian islands) and a beautiful 217km coastline. Yet, for those staying in Corfu Town, there are some compromises — for one, in summer, heavy crowds descend. Instead of battling thick throngs of tourists, it’s wise to widen your search from the confines of the Venetian-influenced “capital.” The island has plenty of quieter corners if you know where to go; that’s where Kassiopi comes in.
Among those in the know, Kassiopi, Corfu, is hailed for its romantic appeal. The fishing village is perched on Corfu’s affluent northeastern coastline. Life rotates around an aesthetic-yet-working harbor, where visitors dine on the waterfront while gazing at Albania’s headlands on the horizon. Think tavernas and fresh catch — not international chains and unfamiliar menus. It leans self-catered rather than hotel-based. Most visitors treat themselves to private villas and the liberation of a car rental.
This guide contains all the insights you need for the best Kassiopi Corfu holidays (you’ll definitely be returning). From where to stay to what to do, here are the non-negotiables for your Ionian itinerary.
Best Things to Do in Kassiopi
Not everyone has the luxury of time to waste: let’s dive straight in. These are the best things to do in Kassiopi, plus some honorable mentions at the end.
1. Wander Kassiopi Fortress
Amidst cypress and olive trees, Kassiopi Fortress is an alluring landmark in the heart of the village. Yet Byzantine architecture is far more important than aesthetics alone; it marks one of Corfu’s oldest ruins, with links to the 12th and 13th centuries. It predates the Old Corfu Fortress (historical rumors actually suggest materials were stolen from Kassiopi to build its wall). Walk the ruins and admire the scenery from the once-strategic vantage point. It’s free.
2. Refresh and Refuel in the Harbor
Life in Kassiopi centers around the harbor, so head there to refresh and refuel. The horseshoe-shaped waterfront is lined with bars, restaurants, and cafes — draw up a chair and enjoy the ocean views. Harbour Bar, Tavernaki, Petrino Restaurant, and Katoi Bistrot Wine Bar are good options. Don’t miss the old cannons; the ancient protective measures make fun photographs.
3. Visit the Church of the Panagia Kassopitra
In the village center, the Church of the Panagia Kassopitra is a religious landmark that nobody should miss. It’s thought to date back to the 16th century and is free to visit. The external architecture is simplistic and understated, with whitewashed walls and a stone-arched entrance with metal bells. Yet inside is kitschy, with a sky-blue ceiling and gold-adorned icons hung on every inch of the wall.
4. Hit The Beach
We use “the” lightly; Kassiopi offers more than one. Perched at the base of a small headland, visitors have ample choices for beach-day locations. The best are Kanoni Beach, Paralia Mpataria, and Paralia Piptos. All three are less than a 15-minute walk from central Kassiopi: take your pick or combine them as a trio. Skip ahead to the next section for in-depth insights.
5. Take a Boat Trip
Unsurprisingly, with so much fishing culture and history, Kassiopi has lots of boats. Cosmic Kassiopi is the village’s primary tour operator. Spend a day on the water: cruise the East Coast while spotting dolphins, sail leisurely down to Corfu Town, or try your hand at fishing.
Kassiopi has bundles of attractions and activities for such a small village. Whittling it down to just five recommendations was challenging, so as promised, these are a few other ideas:
- Old Perithia: an abandoned medieval stone village in central Corfu.
- Megali Ano Grava: a colossal cave that hikers explore.
- Pantokratoras: a scenic viewpoint with an adjacent monastery.
- Albania: take an organized day trip to Sarande or Ksamil (stunning beach towns on the Albanian coast)
- Horse riding: canter on nearby beaches at Arena Horse Riding in neighboring Karniaris.
Beaches in and Around Kassiopi
There’s good news for “beach day” enthusiasts. Kassiopi sits on the bend of a small headland, creating ample strips of coastline for lowkey days on your itinerary. These are the best of its accessible beaches.
1. Paralia Mpataria
Mpataria is the beach that people envision when picturing Kassiopi. Just minutes from the village center, the pebbled beach has abundant amenities and shallow waters for snorkeling. Watch out for octopus and tiny silver shoals of fish.
2. Kanoni Beach
Mpataria is renowned for its snorkeling and clear waters, while Kanoni is a little more hidden — a pebbled beach sunken into coastal cliffs. Perch yourself on the rock shelving or clamber down to sea level. Kanoni is a beautiful spot for sunset, with expansive views of the Albanian headland on the horizon. Get lucky, and you might even see dolphins.
3. Paralia Piptos
As for Paralia Piptos? Hidden east of the headland, it is backed by bursting greenery and undergrowth with quiet waters and clean sands. It’s a peaceful option.
Activities & Experiences in Kassiopi
Deciding how many days to spend in Corfu and what to see and do? The two go hand-in-hand. If you’re staying in Kassiopi, though? Prepare to add a few extra days to your stay. The village really demands at least three days to appreciate its unique offerings; use Kassiopi as a launchpad for the rest of the island afterward.
We might have already touched on the best things to do in Kassiopi, but let’s highlight the most important experiences. Don’t overlook these three things.
1. Proximity to Albania
Albania isn’t exactly a distant concept when visiting Kassiopi. Some of the best experiences hinge on this horizon-based connection. Bask in the views from Kanoni and Mpataria Beach. And, if possible, plot a day trip to Sarande, Ksamil, and Butrint — located just across the waters.
2. Fishing Culture
Ultimately, fishing culture is at the heart of Kassiopi’s identity. That down-to-earth quality impacts every inch of the village, from its bobbing boats in the working harbor to the fresh food in its waterfront restaurants. Sample seafood, spend time around the harbor, and consider booking a fishing tour through Cosmic Kassiopi.
3. Nature and Ocean Living
Embrace the slower pace of life. After all, that’s why you’ve escaped the clutches of Corfu Town, right? Rent snorkeling gear and spot aquatic life at Paralia Mpataria. Go hiking through rustling olive trees at Kassiopi Fortress. This village is where you can experience authentic, semi-rural Ionian living.
Where to Stay in Kassiopi
Accommodation can make or break a trip — but you don’t need us to tell you that. Fortunately, Kassiopi has a wealth of catered and self-catered choices. These are the primary contenders.
Melina Bay Boutique Hotel
This 3-star property has sky-high ratings for good reason. The harbor-front hotel is perfectly located for easy sightseeing and has a medium-sized pool.
Kassiopi Bay Hotel
Another 3-star contender, Kassiopi Bay Hotel, provides apartments with a large outdoor pool. Where it really comes into its own, though, is its expansive sea views. Maisonettes with windows that open out onto endless blue? Sign us up.
Go Completely Private
Kassiopi is all about slowing down. As an upmarket destination, it treads an intriguing line: prioritizing luxurious yet self-catered experiences. Book one of the Corfu luxury villas nearby for the most private-feeling stay. Rent a car, book a private villa, and unwind with complete serenity. A pool to yourself makes all the difference.