For many days, my friends and I had been dreaming of a trip that would satisfy both our love for natural beauty and our foodie cravings. We wanted a complete packaged destination where we could immerse ourselves in stunning landscapes while indulging in delicious culinary experiences. We had heard about the delicious delicacies of Corfu Island and its Acharavi Beach, located on the North Eastern Coast, which piqued our interest. What ultimately convinced us to choose this destination was the promise of its vibrant street food, delectable snacks, and world-class wines. So, we thought, why not give it a try? Our trip turned out to be an unforgettable adventure, filled with flavors, scenic views, and the convenience of exploring with a rental car.
Corfu, a gem in the Ionian Sea, is renowned for its lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and a culinary tradition that blends Greek, Venetian, and Mediterranean influences. The island’s North Eastern Coast, where Acharavi Beach is located, offers a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, with sandy shores, charming villages, and a plethora of dining options. For a group of five food enthusiasts like us, Corfu promised a delightful escape, and it did not disappoint. In this review, I’ll share our journey, from renting a car to savoring the island’s best dishes, exploring its wine culture, and soaking in the beauty of Acharavi Beach.
Renting a Car from Royal Car Rental
We were a group of five friends eager to have a real-time, immersive experience during our stay in Corfu. To make this happen, we decided to rent a Nissan Evalia, a spacious and reliable car, from Corfu Airport Car Rental, operated by Royal Car Rental. Renting the car was a breeze—we visited their website, where all the details were clearly laid out, selected the Nissan Evalia, provided the necessary information, and confirmed our booking within minutes. The best part? Our Corfu Airport Car Rental was waiting to pick us up right after we landed at Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport, saving us the hassle of searching for transportation upon arrival.
The process was not only convenient but also economical, making it a perfect choice for our group. We didn’t have to worry about the discomfort of finding a good car rental service provider at the last minute or navigating complicated formalities. Royal Car Rental’s service proved efficient, affordable, and tailored to our needs. The Nissan Evalia was in excellent condition, with ample space for our luggage and enough room for all five of us to travel comfortably. Having our own vehicle gave us the freedom to explore Corfu at our own pace, making spontaneous stops to admire the scenery or sample local treats. For anyone planning a trip to Corfu, I highly recommend using a car hire Corfu service like Royal Car Rental—it’s a game-changer for a stress-free vacation.
The Amazing Food of Corfu
With Royal Car Rental’s Corfu Airport Car Rental service, roaming around the island felt like a breeze. As extreme foodies, we were on a mission to find interesting and tasty dishes that would satisfy our culinary cravings. With the help of friendly locals, we discovered some incredible dining spots that showcased the best of Corfu’s gastronomy. We visited places like “Tsipouradiko Ektos Shediou,” “Avli Restaurant,” and “Salto,” among others, each offering a unique taste of the island’s rich food culture.
At Tsipouradiko Ektos Shediou, a cozy taverna in Corfu Town, we savored Fish Bianco, a traditional Corfiot dish of white fish cooked with garlic, lemon, and white wine, creating a light yet flavorful meal that paired perfectly with the local tsipouro (a traditional Greek spirit). Avli Restaurant, which we had heard about in our research on delicious delicacies in Corfu, lived up to its reputation with its rooftop dining area and stunning views of the Old Fortress. Here, we indulged in Sofrito, a slow-cooked veal dish with a garlic and white wine sauce, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The dish was a revelation, balancing rich flavors with a delicate touch. At Salto, a modern eatery near Acharavi, we tried Greek Souvlaki—succulent skewers of grilled pork served with pita, tzatziki, and fresh tomatoes, bursting with Mediterranean freshness.
Reaching these dining spots was effortless with our rental car. While automatic cars were available, we opted for a manual drive, which added to the fun of navigating Corfu’s winding roads. We could easily park our ride near each restaurant, enjoy our meals, and then continue exploring the island’s beauty. Beyond these establishments, we also stumbled upon street food stalls in Acharavi, where we sampled local snacks like koulouri (sesame bread rings) and loukoumades (honey-drizzled doughnuts), which were perfect for a quick bite while strolling along the beach. Corfu’s food scene truly catered to our foodie nature, offering a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary flavors.
Corfu Wine Excursion
Our visit to Corfu was a truly intriguing experience, not only for its breathtaking views and delightful food but also for the chance to taste some of the finest wines produced on the island. We embarked on a wine excursion that began with a visit to a local winery specializing in Koum Kouat, a unique citrus fruit that grows exclusively in Corfu. This fruit, one of the island’s most renowned products, is rarely found elsewhere, making it a true Corfiot treasure. The winery offered Koum Kouat liqueur, a tangy and sweet drink that captured the essence of the fruit, as well as fruit-preserved sweets that we couldn’t resist purchasing as souvenirs.
The wine tour continued with tastings of local varietals, including robust reds and crisp whites made from grapes grown in Corfu’s fertile soils. We learned about the island’s winemaking traditions, which date back centuries and have been influenced by Venetian and French techniques. Some of the standout wines included Kakotrygis, a white wine with floral notes, and Petrokoritho, a red with hints of spice and berries. The experience was further enhanced by sampling local liquors, such as ouzo and tsipouro, which paired perfectly with salty snacks like olives and feta cheese. As we walked along the shore of Corfu Island, we also enjoyed Greek sweet delicacies like baklava, a layered pastry with nuts and honey, which added a sweet finish to our wine-filled day. The excursion was a real treat, offering a deep dive into Corfu’s culinary heritage.
Insignia of Delicious Delicacies in Corfu
One of the highlights of our trip was a visit to a renowned estate in the fertile Ropa Valley, a lush area known for producing some of Corfu’s best wines and olive oil. The estate offered a guided tour that showcased the winemaking process, from grape harvesting to bottling, giving us a newfound appreciation for the craft. We enjoyed a wonderful wine-sampling session, tasting a variety of reds, whites, and rosés, each paired with fresh bread baked on the island and the finest olives cultivated on the estate. The bread, with its crusty exterior and soft interior, was a perfect match for the robust, fruity olive oil, which we later purchased to bring home.
The panoramic drive around the Ropa Valley was a highlight in itself, with our rental car from Royal Car Rental providing a comfortable and relaxed experience. We passed through olive groves, vineyards, and rolling hills, stopping occasionally to take in the views or snap photos. The estate also offered a small shop where we bought additional bottles of wine, olive oil, and local honey, all of which made for perfect gifts. The combination of culinary delights and scenic beauty made this visit a true insignia of Corfu’s delicious delicacies, leaving us with a deeper connection to the island’s traditions and flavors.
Exploring Acharavi Beach and Beyond
Acharavi Beach, located on Corfu’s North Eastern Coast, was the centerpiece of our trip, and it did not disappoint. This long stretch of golden sand, fringed by clear turquoise waters, offered the perfect setting for a relaxing day by the sea. We spent hours swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach volleyball, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and the gentle sound of waves. Acharavi Beach is known for its family-friendly vibe, with shallow waters that are safe for swimming and plenty of beachside cafes serving refreshing drinks and snacks. We tried local favorites like spanakopita (spinach pie) and freddo cappuccinos, which kept us energized throughout the day.
Beyond the beach, Acharavi village itself is a charming spot to explore, with traditional tavernas, souvenir shops, and a small folklore museum showcasing the area’s history. We drove to nearby attractions like the Hydropolis Water Park, a fun spot for a group of friends, with thrilling slides and a lazy river. The Old Village of Acharavi, just a short drive away, offered a glimpse into traditional Corfiot life, with stone houses, narrow alleys, and a peaceful ambiance. Having our rental car allowed us to explore these spots at our leisure, making the most of our time in this beautiful part of Corfu.
Cultural Experiences and Shopping in Corfu Old Town
Every visitor to Corfu should take the time to explore the island’s cultural offerings, and Corfu Old Town is the perfect place to do so. With your Corfu car rental, drive to this UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll be transported back in time by its Venetian-style streets and historical landmarks. We spent an afternoon strolling through the narrow, cobblestone alleys, known as kantounia, which are lined with pastel-colored buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies. The Old Town is a vibrant hub of activity, with trendy boutiques, souvenir shops, and Greek accessory stores offering everything from handmade jewelry to olive wood crafts—perfect for picking up gifts for family and friends.
After shopping, we treated ourselves to a relaxing experience at a local spa, where we enjoyed a beauty massage and facial treatment that left us feeling rejuvenated. The Old Town is also home to numerous cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy meals, coffees, and interesting cocktails. We stopped at a quaint cafe in the Liston, an elegant arcade inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, and savored a freddo espresso while watching the world go by. For dinner, we dined at a traditional taverna, trying pastitsada, a Corfiot dish of pasta with spiced beef, and koum kouat liqueur as a digestif. The cultural immersion, combined with the convenience of our rental car, made our day in Corfu Old Town a highlight of the trip.
The Astounding Corfu and the Incredible Royal Car Rental Corfu
Words fall short when trying to describe the beauty of Corfu Island. Acharavi Beach is a spectacular sight, with its endless stretch of sand and emerald waters reflecting the sunlight in a dazzling display. But Corfu offers so much more—the green mountains that welcome hikers and nature lovers, the olive groves that dot the landscape, and the historical sites that tell the story of the island’s past. The Old Fortress, St. Spyridon Church, and the Achilleion Palace are just a few of the landmarks that showcase Corfu’s rich heritage, blending Venetian, French, and Greek influences into a unique cultural tapestry.
When a destination offers so much to explore, having your own conveyance is essential to enjoying every moment of its splendor and magnificence. Speaking from my own experience, I didn’t expect to enjoy our trip as much as we did, and I believe the main reason was the convenience of our rental car. The Nissan Evalia we rented from Corfu Royal Car Rental was perfect for our group of youngsters. It was in pristine condition, with plenty of space to accommodate our belongings, and handled the island’s winding roads with ease. The car allowed us to visit remote spots, stop for impromptu photo sessions, and explore at our own pace, making our trip truly memorable.
Conclusion
We all admired the beauty of Corfu Island, a stunning resort famed for its olive groves, finest beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Acharavi Beach, with its serene atmosphere and family-friendly vibe, was the highlight of our trip, but the entire island left us in awe. Corfu is a perfect blend of modern and medieval culture, offering a mix of historical landmarks, natural wonders, and culinary delights that cater to every traveler’s taste. Our foodie journey, from savoring Fish Bianco and Sofrito to sampling Koum Kouat liqueur and local wines, was a feast for the senses, while the cultural experiences in Corfu Old Town added depth to our adventure.
Overall, I can confidently say that car hire Corfu made our stay more convenient and enjoyable. With Royal Car Rental, we had nothing to worry about—we roamed freely across the beautiful and mesmerizing Corfu Island, creating memories that will last a lifetime. This was by far our best trip to any destination, a brief yet intriguing tour that showcased the traditions, values, and endless beauty of Corfu’s historical and natural sites. If you’re planning a trip to Corfu, I highly recommend renting a car from Royal Car Rental to experience the island to its fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Corfu offers a mix of traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, street food, local wines, and stunning settings like Acharavi Beach.
Acharavi Beach features golden sand, clear waters, and a family-friendly vibe with nearby cafes and cultural attractions.
Try Fish Bianco, Sofrito, Greek Souvlaki, koulouri, loukoumades, and pastitsada at spots like Avli Restaurant and Tsipouradiko Ektos Shediou.
Visit Tsipouradiko Ektos Shediou, Avli Restaurant, Salto, and street food stalls in Acharavi for a variety of Corfiot dishes.
Koum Kouat is a unique citrus fruit grown in Corfu, available as liqueur or sweets at local wineries and shops.
Taste Kakotrygis (white), Petrokoritho (red), and local liquors like ouzo and tsipouro at wineries in the Ropa Valley.
The Ropa Valley estate offers wine sampling, fresh bread, olives, and olive oil, with a scenic drive through lush landscapes.
Swim, sunbathe, play volleyball, visit Hydropolis Water Park, or explore the Old Village of Acharavi for cultural insights.
Corfu Old Town offers Venetian-style streets, trendy boutiques, souvenir shops, and relaxing spas, perfect for cultural immersion.
Explore historical sites, dine at tavernas, visit the Old Fortress, and shop for local crafts in Corfu Old Town.
Royal Car Rental offers affordable, reliable cars with airport pick-up, ensuring freedom to explore Corfu at your own pace.
Book online via their website before arriving in Corfu for a seamless, stress-free travel experience.
Royal Car Rental provides a variety of vehicles, like the Nissan Evalia, suitable for groups and long drives.
Pack light with comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, a water bottle, and an appetite for Corfu’s culinary delights.
Visit Royal Car Rental’s blog or their contact page for more insights.