Paleokastritsa: A Complete Guide to Corfu’s Most Beautiful Bays
If you see one stretch of coast in Corfu, make it Paleokastritsa. On the northwest coast about 22–25 km from Corfu Town, this is the island's most photographed resort – a string of six bays and coves of mixed sand and pebble, wrapped in cliffs and olive-green hills, with water so clear it looks lit from below. Add a clifftop monastery, a Byzantine castle, sea caves and one of Greece's great viewpoints, and you have a place that deserves a full day (at least). Here's everything you need to know. It's one of the highlights in our guide to the best beaches in Corfu.
The six bays
Paleokastritsa is really a cluster of coves separated by wooded headlands:
- Agios Spiridon – the main, most accessible beach, with sunbeds, tavernas and boat moorings.
- Agia Triada – a pretty, sheltered cove popular with families.
- Agios Petros – a quieter pebble bay below the cliffs.
- Platakia – a small beach near the harbour, handy for the sea-cave boats.
- Plus two smaller, harder-to-reach coves best explored by boat or kayak.
The water here is the clearest and coldest on the island, thanks to deep, spring-fed bays – superb for snorkelling and swimming.
Paleokastritsa Monastery
Perched on the headland above the bays, the Monastery of the Theotokos dates from the 13th century. Inside you'll find a peaceful courtyard draped in bougainvillea, a small church with old icons, and a little museum, plus jaw-dropping views down to the sea. It's typically open in the morning and again in the late afternoon (roughly 07:00–13:00 and 15:00–20:00 in season); entry is free but modest dress is required – cover shoulders and knees (wraps are usually available at the door).
Boat trips to the sea caves
From the small harbour at Alipa and the main beach, boats run regular trips to the sea caves along the coast – grottoes and arches in colours that shift from emerald to deep blue. It's the classic Paleokastritsa experience and well worth an hour. You can also hire a small self-drive boat or a kayak to reach the hidden coves at your own pace. Browse boat trips and tours to book.
Angelokastro
High on a cliff to the north stands Angelokastro, a ruined Byzantine fortress that was one of the most important strongholds in the Ionian. The short climb to the top rewards you with a breathtaking 360° panorama over the whole northwest coast – arguably the best view in Corfu.
Bella Vista at Lakones
For the postcard shot of Paleokastritsa's bays from above, drive up to the village of Lakones and the Bella Vista ("beautiful view") balcony. The road is winding but the view – the green headlands curling into the turquoise sea – is unforgettable, especially in the morning light. The nearby villages of Lakones and Doukades are lovely stops; see our Corfu villages guide.
Practical tips
- It's hilly. The resort sprawls up and down steep slopes between the coves – comfortable shoes help, and some walking is unavoidable.
- Parking fills by midday. Arrive early (before 10:30) to get a space and a good sunbed, especially in July and August.
- The water is cool. Refreshing on a hot day, but noticeably colder than the south – a wetsuit-free swim is fine in summer.
- Bring snorkel gear. The clarity here is exceptional.
Getting to Paleokastritsa
The easy DIY option is the green bus A9 to Paleokastritsa from Corfu Town, which drops you near the main beach. For flexibility to reach Lakones, Angelokastro and the quieter coves, hire a car or book a transfer – see our getting around Corfu guide and the car hire & transfers directory. Want to stay overnight to enjoy the bays after the day-trippers leave? Browse accommodation in the area. For more sandy options nearby, see our west coast beaches guide, and to fit Paleokastritsa into a wider trip, our Corfu day trips guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paleokastritsa worth visiting?
Absolutely – it's widely considered the most beautiful part of Corfu, combining six turquoise coves, a clifftop monastery, sea-cave boat trips and the Angelokastro fortress. It's a must for any first visit to the island.
How do you get from Corfu Town to Paleokastritsa?
The green (KTEL) bus line A9 runs from Corfu Town directly to Paleokastritsa in roughly 45 minutes to an hour. A hire car or private transfer gives you more flexibility to also reach Lakones, Bella Vista and Angelokastro.
What is there to do in Paleokastritsa besides the beach?
Visit the 13th-century monastery on the headland, take a boat trip to the sea caves, hike or drive up to Angelokastro castle, and enjoy the Bella Vista viewpoint at Lakones. Kayaking and snorkelling in the clear bays are also popular.
Are the beaches in Paleokastritsa sandy?
They're a mix of sand and pebble, with the main Agios Spiridon beach being the most accessible. The water is exceptionally clear but cooler than elsewhere on the island, as the bays are deep and spring-fed.
When is the best time to visit Paleokastritsa?
Early morning is best to beat the crowds and secure parking and sunbeds, especially in July and August. May, June, September and early October offer the same beauty with far fewer people.
