Corfu In May: Is May A Good Time To Visit Corfu? (2024)
Are you planning a trip to Corfu and wondering if is May a good time to visit Crofu?
I visited Corfu in May, so I’ve got you covered!
Before traveling to Corfu, I couldn’t find much information about spring in Corfu. I am Croatian, so I know that summer and spring are very different seasons when it comes to tourist destinations.
Many towns and villages can feel completely abandoned, with all the restaurants closed and beaches not yet prepared for summer.
Luckily, May in Corfu is already lively and a fantastic place to visit! The weather was perfect for sightseeing, hiking, sunbathing, and even swimming!
Let’s see if you should book a trip to Corfu this May!
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Is May A Good Time To Visit Crofu?
Yes, May is a great time to visit Corfu!
Corfu is located in Greece, and it belongs to the Ionian Islands. Thanks to its many pristine beaches, it is a popular summer holiday destination.
Yet, if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sun before the high season, May is a fantastic time to go to Corfu.
If you’re worried about the temperatures, don’t be.
Even on the days when it said it was 17°C, the sun was so strong that I was wearing short sleeves and regretting packing long jeans.
First tourists are already here, so the island feels lively, especially the main town of Kérkyra.
I loved the atmosphere on the island – as it wakes up from winter slumber, and the locals are enthusiastic and friendly.
If you’re wondering is Corfu expensive to visit, you’ll gonna like the answer. The prices in the low season are unbeatable!
I rented a car in Corfu for a week for less than 15€ per day and stayed in amazing hotels for under 40€ per night!
Weather In May
So, what is the weather in Corfu like in May?
Spring in Europe is unpredictable, and Corfu is not an exception.
The average temperature in May is 18°C, and it often goes up to 23°C. The sun is strong in Corfu, and it can feel much hotter on sunny days!
It is not supposed to rain much in May. The average monthly rainfall is about 8 days in May.
Best Things To Do In Corfu In Late Spring
So, what should you do in Corfu if you visit in May?
The possibilities are endless and there are so many reasons to visit Corfu! You can do everything you’d do in the summer, just with fewer crowds.
I love visiting coastal destinations in low season, as you get to discover more than just the beaches and it is an easy way to keep the cost of travel in Europe lower.
1. Swimming In Corfu In May
So, the real question is can you swim in Corfu in May? I know that was my main issue when planning a trip to Corfu!
The general answer is yes! You can swim in Corfu in May.
If it is a warm and sunny year, it is already possible to swim in early May. However, late May is almost guaranteed beach days.
I visited Corfu in mid-May on an exceptionally rainy year- the locals said they don’t remember such a rainy May!
Still, I managed to go for a dip almost every day of my 1 week Corfu trip!
However, I’ve heard people say they found the beaches on the East Coast cold even in June, so I guess it depends on your preferences.
The sea was definitely not warm, but compared to Bordeaux beaches on the Atlantic coast in mid-July, it was fantastic.
One thing to note is that the long sandy beaches in the south didn’t look ready for swimmers yet when I visited.
Unlike the coves in the north where people were swimming, most people only chilled on the sand in the south.
Beaches are not yet crowded in May, but you could also join one of Corfu boat tours and discover more secluded beaches.
2. Explore Corfu Town
If you visit Corfu in spring, you’ll have a fantastic opportunity to admire the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Corfu without crowds.
Stroll the cobblestone streets, visit the unique Vlacherna Monastery, and admire the view of the city from the Old Fortress of Kerkyra.
3. Hike To Porto Timoni Beach
Porto Timoni is probably the most impressive beach in Corfu, and you won’t even be disappointed if the weather is not hot enough to swim.
This double cove beach looks like it belongs on Thai islands or some other tropical island in that region.
You don’t need to be super sporty to do the hike. I saw several people in their 60s on the trail, but it can be slippery and takes double the time to climb up than to go down.
Remember to bring water and apply sunscreen even in May!
4. Visit Old Peritheia
It is quite a drive up to the Old Perithia, but it is well worth it if you’re a history lover.
Old Perithia is the oldest village in Corfu, dating back to 1357. Today, you can walk around the village admiring the old houses and churches, and imagine what it was like to live here hundreds of years ago.
I’m a sucker for the historic villages, so I absolutely loved exploring Old Perithia.
There are several restaurants in the village, serving traditional Corfu dishes, and it was even possible to have vegan options!
You can also go for several hikes from the village, just remember to bring enough water.
5. Go On A Hike
I think May is one of the best months for hiking, and Corfu offers many trails to explore.
There is even a trail around the whole island along the coastline, but that would probably take more than a week!
6. Watch The Sunset At Logas Sunset Beach
Logas Sunset Viewpoint is one of the most popular sunset viewpoints in Corfu.
It was an unexpected and the most beautiful sunset I’ve seen in a long time.
Firstly, it was cloudy all day and I didn’t really expect much of a sunset.
Secondly, I was mesmerized by the cliffs, and the water was the most beautiful shade of turquoise blue, blending with the blue and purple shades of the sky.
Honestly, it was as magical as going for the famous Santorini sunset cruises!
7. Visit Palaiokastritsa Monastery
Palaiokastritsa Monastery dates back to the 12th century, and it is a cool place to visit if you’re heading to Paleokastritsa.
It is completely free to visit, but you can donate.
Your knees and shoulders should be covered when visiting the monastery, but they have skirts and scarves you can use.
You can explore the area more, there is a fantastic viewpoint along the trail.
After visiting the monastery, go for a dip on Paleokastritsa beach! I loved the beach, one of my favorites on the island for sure!
8. Grab A Drink in La Grotta Bar
If the water is not warm enough to swim, you can still grab a drink in one of Corfu’s trendiest bars.
I loved La Grotta Bar, nestled in the cliffs of Corfu’s west coast. The view is stunning, and the setting is quite unique.
9. Admire Cape Drastis
Cape Drastis is another spot that looks like it doesn’t belong on Corfu!
This stunning landscape is a dramatic contrast to the seafront villages along the east side of the island.
It is worth the visit, especially for sunset!
If you’re driving here, park your car before the steep descent starts. The dirt road is not suitable for most basic rental cars!
10. Visit the Byzantine Fortress of Gardiki
Corfu is home to several fortress ruins, as the island was significant due to its strategic position.
If you end up in the southern part of the island, take a little detour and visit the Byzantine Fortress of Gardiki.
While there’s not much of the Fortress left, it is free to visit and a fun stop if you’re in the area!
Where To Stay In Corfu In May
May is not yet the top tourist season in Corfu, so many places are not fully running as they are still preparing for summer.
That means that some of the most popular summer destinations will have a different vibe than you might expect reading other Corfu travel guides.
I stayed in 4 different Corfu towns while visiting – Corfu Town, Sidari, Kavos, and Dassia.
Even though I rented a car, I found it easier to stay in different parts of the island, as driving around Corfu takes more time than it might seem on the map.
I highly suggest you consider staying in several towns if you want to spend a week in Corfu.
However, if you’re short on time, and only visiting Corfu for a weekend, stay in Corfu Town or nearby.
Here are some of the best towns to stay in Corfu in low season.
Corfu Town / Kérkyra
Corfu’s capital is overall the best place to stay in Corfu without a car or on a shorter trip.
Also, it is the most lively place in May, as this is where most locals live and where you can observe local life.
Even if you spend a longer time on the island, I think you should spend at least a day or two days in Corfu Town.
The only downside is there are no exactly nice beaches in the town and it is pricey compared to staying a bit further.
Also, if you’re a backpacker coming to Corfu, there is a hostel where you can stay and meet other travelers!
Budget-Friendly Option: Local Hostel and Suites Corfu
Mid-range Option: The Monastery Apartment
TOP Pick: Vittori Corfu Rooms
Dassia
If you want to be close to Corfu Town, but in a more budget-friendly area with more beaches, Dassia is a fantastic choice.
Dassia is slightly closer to the city than Ipsos, which is also a good option!
Even if you visit Corfu without a car, a bus regularly passes through Dassia!
I stayed in Dassia as it was significantly cheaper than Corfu Town, but still just a short drive away. However, there is not much to do in the city apart from the beach, bars, and restaurants.
Budget-Friendly Option: Villa Karmar by Go4sea (I stayed here and loved my stay!)
Mid-range Option: Senses Suites
TOP Pick: Rodostamo Hotel & Spa
Benitses
Another alternative to staying in Corfu Town is Benitses. It is also on the public bus line, so it is easy to get around.
I visited on a drive from Kavos to Corfu Town, and I thought the town was quite charming, with several cobblestone streets to explore and a beach in the city center.
Budget-Friendly Option: Olive Grove Poolside Apartments
Mid-range Option: La Soffitta
TOP Pick: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
Sidari
Moving on to the north of the island, Sidari is one of the most popular summer destinations in Corfu.
You can see that the town was made for tourists, as there are many bars, restaurants, and beaches along the coastline.
I stayed in Sidari as it was a great base to explore the northern part of the island, and it was a great place to stay if you have a car.
Budget-Friendly Option: Jasmine Apartments (I stayed here! Basic, but great if you’re on a budget!)
Mid-range Option: Del Mare Beach Hotel
TOP Pick: Akron Seascape Resort
Kassiopi
I was debating between Sidari and Kassiopi, and honestly, I think you can’t go wrong with either.
In the end, I only visited Kassiopi on a day trip around Corfu, and I found it cuter and more authentic than Sidari.
It is a great spot if you want to stay close to all the beaches in the north and the hiking around Old Perithia.
Budget-Friendly Option: Sunflower Apartments & Studios
Mid-range Option: Limani Apartments
TOP Pick: Melina Oasis Boutique Hotel
Kavos
Finally, we have Kavos, known as the party hub of Corfu.
It was not my favorite place on the island, so you might wonder why I recommend it.
Fair question!
Forget about partying till morning, Kavos is very quiet in May.
I spent two nights there, Friday and Saturday, and if I didn’t know it was supposed to be a party town, I would have never guessed!
Also, the Kavos area had some of the best value-for-money luxury accommodations on the island! Especially if you compare it to prices in the Cyclades like Santorini or Paros!
If you want to stay in an upscale hotel for the price of a budget accommodation in Corfu Town, Kavos is the place to go in May!
Budget-Friendly Option: Secreta Vista
Mid-range Option: Sirocco Hotel
TOP Pick: Ekati Mare Boutique Resort (I stayed here and it was fantastic!)
FAQ: Visiting Corfu In May
Yes, May in Corfu is warm and sunny enough to sunbathe. Whether you chill by the pool at your hotel or go to one of Corfu’s beaches, it is a great time to soak in some sun!
No, I did not find Corfu particularly windy when I visited in May. Even on the days when it rained, it was not windy.
Yes, Corfu tends to be quite warm already in early May. Even on days when the temperatures seem lower, it feels warm thanks to the sun. Depending on the year, it might already be warm enough for swimming!
Yes, it is worth visiting Corfu in April. Spring is a fantastic time to explore Corfu without crowds, see the attractions in the Old Town, and hike popular hiking trails like Porto Timoni or Mount Pantokrator. However, April is unpredictable, and likely you won’t get to swim unless your hotel has a heated pool.
No, Corfu is not yet busy in May, especially early to mid-May. You can find great accommodation for a fraction of the high season price and explore tourist attractions without crowds.
Summary: May In Corfu
Corfu is a beautiful island and one of the most underrated destinations in Greece. It should be on your radar this year, especially if you visit in the low season.
Visiting Corfu in May is also a fantastic way to explore the island on a budget, as you avoid the crowds and get to enjoy the more upscale accommodation options for half the summer prices.
I love going to popular destinations off-season, so I also visited the Cyclades in September and had a great time exploring and swimming there!
Now that you know that Corfu is worth visiting in May, see how many days to spend in Corfu for a perfect getaway!
