The Best Airbnbs and Holiday Rentals in Corfu, Greece

Located in the lively village of Gouvia, Corfu Club is a 13-apartment complex with a beautifully landscaped garden, a huge outdoor pool, and a barbecue area for alfresco dinners. The apartments (sleeping two to six) include a sheltered veranda facing the pool, and a private kitchenette. Splash out on the Executive Suite, and you’ll get a sauna, too. There are local shops, restaurants and bars just a couple of minutes away, and theme parks such as Aqualand are just a short drive.

You probably wouldn’t expect to find contemporary, sleek accommodation in the crumbling hillside village of Kato Korakiana (12km (7.5mi) from Corfu town), yet Villa Al’Azraa is just that. This fully-furnished, four-bedroom villa comfortably sleeps eight over two levels, and disguises chic, contemporary interior design with a stone exterior that blends in among the village’s ancient architecture. The two upper rooms share a balcony with a view to the mountains and the blue foil of the sea ― just 3km (2mi) away. Other amenities include a large living room, a fireplace and barbecue grills.

Found in the cute, family-friendly coastal settlement of Barbati, 19km (12mi) north of Corfu town, Akti Barbati has some of the best sea views found anywhere on the island. That’s because these one- and two-bedroom, light-filled apartments are just a minute’s walk from the long, sweeping stretch of talc-white sand of Barbati Beach. And, in the unlikely event you get bored of the sea, there’s a generous pool, enfolded within a lush, landscaped garden. Inside, the apartments are simple, soothingly decorated with pastel colours and come with a private balcony.

This chic, four-person apartment is so close to the water that, from certain angles (like reclining on the sofa while looking out the balcony doors), it appears to be floating on it. The classic Corfiot architecture and chic, white decor give this holiday house an authentic, home-away-from-home feel. It’s intimate, yet airy, with a generous double bedroom, a double sofa bed in the lounge and a fully equipped kitchen. The excellent Roussos seafood restaurant is just a seven-minute walk away, and Corfu International airport is just over an hour’s drive.

If you fancy holidaying like a true Corfiot, this unassuming but lovely four-sleeping cottage in Kato Korakiana feels like an authentic village home, complete with lime-green shutters and a huge olive tree in the front garden. It also comes equipped with a kitchenette and furnished patio for sipping sundowners. Paleokastritsa beach, with its cool, clear waters and dramatic rocky landscape, is just 14km (8.7mi) away, and the airport just 15km (9.3mi). Don’t miss the Italian Etrusco Restaurant, or its divine slow-cooked duck ragout with handmade pappardelle and black truffle.

Just a 3km (2mi) hop from Paleokastritsa beach, in the scenic village of Doukades, you’ll find Villa Secret Paradise. Surrounded by olive groves and fruit trees, it lives up to its name. Perfect for a multi-gen family getaway, you’ll find a fully-furnished patio with a built-in barbecue, and a landscaped garden with a raised, teardrop-shaped infinity pool, big enough for putting in some laps. Sleeping 10 in total, the villa is split into five bedrooms and three bathrooms. There’s also a dedicated play area for toddlers and small children.

If you’re looking for the royal treatment, you won’t find a more prestigious property than this – nestled right in the heart of the forest beside Achilleion Palace. One of the most famous royal mansions in Europe, Achilleion served as Elisabeth of Austria’s private sanctuary, following the loss of her only son. Accommodating up to four, these luxurious apartments and studios feature fully-equipped kitchens and private balconies, while the outdoor pool comes with its own pool bar, so you can indulge as much as you deserve.

On the eastern side of Corfu, Villa Chrysoula offers a relaxing escape from the demands of modern life. The villa is traditionally furnished, with a warm colour scheme and a homey feel. The highlight is the spacious pool that overlooks the Aegean Sea. Such a tranquil setting makes it easy to unwind. The hosts are extremely friendly and accommodating, full of recommendations about where to go on Corfu and how to make the best of the island.

For a relaxing getaway, head to Villa Alexandros, a luxurious spot with its own rooftop pool and panoramic views across the Ionian Sea. The villa is unique in Corfu, in that it has no immediate neighbours. For guests, this means real relaxation and tranquillity. Visitors will enjoy interiors inspired by classic Greek island design, while ample outdoor space makes for the ideal al fresco dining experience.