Best family hotels in Corfu, according to parents

Corfu has earned itself a reputation as a long-standing family favourite when it comes to Greek holidays. Surrounded by the deep blue Aegean sea and the brilliant turquoise Ionian, there is no shortage of long, sandy beaches for the beach lovers amongst us.

In fact, from adrenaline junkie to culture vulture to amateur historians, you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy in Corfu. And for kids there's an abundance of waterparks, hotels with kids' clubs and top attractions aimed at keeping them entertained.

With that in mind, how can you sort the real deals from the holidays from hell? The truth is you need honest reviews from real parents and that is where our trusty Mumsnetters come in. We’ve read their recommendations and cross-referenced them with industry experts to create a list of hotels, resorts and villas that meet every budget, age and need.

For more Greek holiday inspo, we've got guides to the best family hotels in Greece, Rhodes, Corfu , Santorini, Mykonos and Crete, as well as the best TUI BLUE hotels in Greece.

1. Best overall hotel: Agios Gordios Beach Resort

Agios Gordios Beach Resort, Agios Gordios village | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say 

"I second the recommendation of Agios Gordios with a toddler. We stayed there and also Kassiopi and Agios Georgios North and thought Agios Gordios was the most toddler friendly (everything close by if you stay near and sandy beach)." Recommended by Mumsnet user, wishIwasonholiday10

Our verdict

Agios Gordios Beach Resort is where imagination meets reality. Book a stay in a luxury, family-friendly 5* hotel for the lowest price on this list… It has to be seen to be believed!

Guest reviews praise the staff for their professionalism, adore the stylish décor and rave about the resort’s private beach that is seven yards from its doorstep. The only downside is that family room options are limited to the deluxe split-level apartment, however, your disappointment may be curbed by having a private pool. You’ll also find that the apartment has a kitchenette, perfect for preparing bottles or packing picnics for daytime excursions, and outdoor seating on the balcony made for admiring the view with a glass of wine.

Finally, the local area maintains the perfect balance between tranquillity and lively fun. Agios Gordios Beach Resort is tucked away without losing access to the nearby local restaurants and attractions.

Nearest airport: 9.3 miles

-Mumsnet user, jocktamsonsbairn

2. Best budget resort: Kassiopi Bay

Kassiopi Bay, Kassiopi harbour | Check availability 

Our verdict

Book a stay at Kassiopi Bay and you’ll get an excellent price without having to compromise. Situated on the northwest coast, the hotel is surrounded by a luscious, green garden and uninterrupted views of the vibrant, blue sea.

Water babies will love the outdoor swimming pool whilst sun-worshippers can make full use of the available loungers. If sand and sea are more your vibe, you are only 150 yards from Bataria beach, which has won a 2022 Traveller’s Choice Award. Hiring a car would be useful too if you wanted to access the nine top attractions that are 12 miles away.

Kassiopi Bay’s rooms are dated, but generously sized and clean. For families, it is recommended you book either the superior family room or the two-bedroom apartment with a sea view. These all have a private kitchen, pool and balcony as standard. For an extra charge, you can hire a BBQ to make the most of the outdoor space.

Nearest airport: 13 miles

3. Best for a quiet getaway with access to a kids' club: Bella Mare Hotel

Near Kassiopi | Check availability

What Mumsnetters say

"We really enjoyed Bella Mare in Corfu with DC age 9 and 7 - small hotel on a lovely beach, not a huge resort at all but has a kids club for primary age so the kids get to meet others. Bookable through Simpson. Kassiopi town was within easy reach by taxi or hire car. Kassiopi area generally is a nice base." minipie

Our verdict

With just 31 rooms and suites, Bella Mare Hotel is a petite retreat with a beachfront setting overlooking Avlaki Bay in the northeast of Corfu. It's a laid-back spot with a pool and a bar that's open for daytime snacks and light bites. There isn't a huge array of on-site facilities given the size of the property but guests can hire watersports equipment like kayaks and SUPs, and visiting spa therapists are available for treatments.

There's a small kids' club for children aged 5 to 11 but note that it only operates in the peak summer months of July and August.

This hotel is a great option for families looking for a quieter getaway than a traditional all-inclusive resort but with access to a kids' club that's within easy reach of traditional tavernas. Book with Simpson Travel to add flights and transfers.

4. Best budget apartments: Chrysanthy Apartments

Chrysanthy Apartments, Sidari | Check availability 

Our verdict

For a reasonable price, Chrysanthy Apartments is an oasis of calm in the centre of Sidari, a charming and very popular tourist resort. The outdoor swimming pool is perfect for a refreshing dip, whilst the colourful garden shields you from the busy town beyond the walls.

The complex gives families a choice of two-bedroom or three-bedroom apartments. Each is air-conditioned and contains a private kitchen, bathroom, balcony and patio. Though the rooms are a little dated compared to Agios Gordios Beach Resort, they are still clean and spacious. For young families, you’ll need to know that cots are free upon request, but there is a €10 charge for an extra bed.

When you’re ready to take on the crowds, you’re in the best location to take advantage of Sidari beach and the local town. If you’re looking for parenting points, Sidari Water Park is only a two minute walk away too! Travelling outside of the town does require hiring a car so make sure to include that in your budget.

Nearest airport: 21.7 miles

5. Best self-catering apartment: Villa Chrysoula

Villa Chrysoula, Kalami Beach | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say 

“We stayed at Villa Chrysoula which was up the hills above Kalami bay. Lovely villa but if we went again we would stay nearer the beach as the steep climb was a bit much. You can drive and park next to the beach if you get there early enough. You can get water taxis in the evening to different bays to try out different restaurants. Toula's in Agni bay was our favourite.” AngelsWithSilverWings

Our verdict

Villa Chrysoula is a Greecian dream located atop a small hill on the eastern coast of Corfu. It has picturesque views looking out across the bright blue Ionian sea, flourishing gardens and native olive trees.

This villa is a home away from home, just with better weather and unlimited access to a private pool. It provides you with the usual and useful amenities such as a dishwasher, washing machine, air-conditioning, mosquito nets, children’s highchairs and baby safety gates. Villa Chrysoula has three bedrooms housing up to six people, however, if you need to fit in more, cots and extra beds are available upon request for free.

From here, take a walk down to the infamous Kalami Beach and enjoy the slow-paced village with its small selection of shops, bars and restaurants. From the bottom of the hill, you’ll find the only catch to Villa Chrysoula - the walk back up. So, if you don’t fancy a trek every time you want to go out for the day it is most definitely worth taking advantage of the free, private parking by hiring a car.

Nearest airport: 10 miles

6. Best beach resort: Kontokali Bay Resort and Spa

Kontokali Bay Resort and Spa, Kontokali peninsula | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say 

“I've been to both-had a lovely time but preferred Corfu. It's smaller and old town is beautiful. We stayed at the Kontokali Beach Hotel which was lovely. I would advise hiring a car.” Wallabygone

Our verdict

Kontokali Bay Resort and Spa is situated at the tip of a peninsula that stretches out into the clear, blue Ionian sea. The private beach on your doorstep invites you to soak up the Greecian sun whilst sipping a cocktail from the bar and watching your children play in the surf. If this sounds like bliss, book a stay in one of Kontokali’s spacious family rooms designed to keep you cool, calm and collected after a day playing in the sand.

As if that is not enough, your kids can keep busy splashing in the salt-water pool, climbing the indoor and outdoor play equipment and socialising at the onsite kids club whilst you sneak away to the spa for a well-deserved, child-free break.

In the evening, you won’t be struggling to find things to do either as there are four restaurants to enjoy followed by some family-friendly fun watching the resort’s evening entertainment. Don’t forget to take advantage of their babysitting services!

Nearest airport: 4.2 miles

7. Best child-friendly amenities: Roda Beach Resort

Roda Beach Resort, Roda village | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say 

“Roda on Corfu would be a nice choice, we went there with our children a couple of years ago…” SooticaTheWitchesCat

Our verdict

A stay at Roda Beach Resort guarantees that you’ll never hear the phrase ‘I’m bored!’ on your holiday. With the convenience of an all-inclusive resort, your children can jump into six swimming pools, race down the waterslide, build sandcastles on the beach, socialise at the two playgrounds, join the kid’s club, practise their swing at mini golf and sing along with the evening's entertainment. Tiring them out has never been so easy! This leaves you free to try your hand at watersports, lounge by the pool in peace, sip cocktails and squeeze in a date night or two, all whilst your children are living their best lives.

After filling up with delicious food at their onsite restaurant, you can achieve the best night’s sleep in one of their generously sized family rooms or self-catered bungalows. Guests do note that the rooms could do with updating, but it's a small price to pay for all the fun on offer!

Nearest airport: 15 miles

8. Best child-friendly entertainment: Corcyra Beach Hotel

Corcyra Beach Hotel, Gouvia village | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say 

“We stayed in hotel louis corcyra beach last year. The grounds were beautiful, food was lovely and hotel staff were nice. Only downside was that our room was quite small. But you can upgrade to bungalows.” LexieLulu

Our verdict

Corcyra Beach Hotel is found on the east coast of Corfu and flaunts breathtaking views of serene, sandy beaches stretching into the striking blue of the Ionian sea. Located near the small fishing village of Gouvia and less than five miles from Corfu Town, you can balance your need for peace and tranquillity with family-friendly fun!

Not that you’ll want to stray too far, as the hotel is primed for entertaining families of all ages. Take a dip in their lagoon-style swimming pool and cool off under the waterfall feature, or make the most of the private beach and bag yourself a palapas for shade. If you have any budding golfers take a swing at mini-golf or let the kids free on the children’s playground.

Looking for a break? Drop them at the kids club, where the child-friendly fun never ends. Before bedtime, enjoy the extensive entertainment programme including a mini-disco where you can watch your children show off their best moves.

If this sounds just right, there are plenty of family rooms available here and all are tastefully decorated and promise either a private terrace or balcony. There is an extra charge for a sea view! If you’re looking for a little more space consider upgrading to a bungalow, great for avoiding navigating the lift or stairs with a pram.

Nearest airport: 8.7 miles

9. Best luxury hotel: Ikos Dassia

Ikos Dassia, Dassia Bay | Check availability

What Mumsnet users say 

“Sani or the Ikos resorts which they now have in Halkidiki and Corfu with a 4th due to open on Kos in May 2019. Ikos Olivia is rated number one all inclusive hotel in the world on trip advisor with Ikos Oceana being 3rd.” amyacq84

Our verdict

Luxurious, elegant and sophisticated, Ikos Dassia has an eye-watering price tag that guarantees your family 5* treatment.

Families aren’t short-changed on options for rooms, there are a variety available including suites with private gardens. All are beautifully decorated, soundproofed, spacious and air-conditioned, setting the foundations for an excellent night’s sleep.

Although Ikos Dassia looks a little too sleek to be child-friendly, this hotel has put a lot of thought and consideration into its services. For example, a professional childcare company runs the onsite Hero Kids Club, creche service, multilingual mini club and teenage club providing parental peace of mind whilst you make the most of the spa or cocktails made by award-winning mixologists. If you’re looking to spend the day together you can travel the 450 yards to Dassia bay or make the most of the hotel’s 7 swimming pools, children’s playground or open-air cinema. It doesn’t stop there either, as the hotel has 6 restaurants serving a variety of cuisine, most of which have food prepared by a Michelin Star Chef. Ikos Dassia is sure to meet your every expectation.

Nearest airport: 6 miles

Which part of Corfu is best for families?

You’ll find the greatest density of family-friendly hotels and resorts on the north of the island, particularly focused around the coast. In this area you’ll find Kassiopi Bay, Chrysanthy Apartments, Nissaki Bay and Kontokali Bay Resort and Spa.

How to get affordable flights from the UK to Corfu?

To achieve the best results, you should use a flight comparison website such as Skyscanner, Expedia or Travel Supermarket. They do all the hard work of finding the best deals available!

Booking in advance is advisable if you want the cheapest options as leaving it to the last minute doesn’t always mean a smaller price point. Package holidays that include flights are perfect for stress-free booking.

Do you need to hire a car in Corfu?

It isn’t necessary but can be recommended depending on the area. For example, Corfu Town has an excellent transport system, however many of the villages or smaller towns may require you to have access to a car.

Most hotels do offer an airport shuttle and staff will be able to help you organise taxis, but for travelling further afield daily you may want the convenience of your own vehicle.

If you do choose to purchase a hire car, ensure you consult the UK Government website and The AA for up-to-date advice on driving in Corfu.

Is Corfu safe for families?

Yes, it is safe for families. Corfu, like all holiday destinations, has some issues around theft and tourist scams, but as long as you use your common sense and follow the UK Government’s advice you should have a risk-free holiday.

Is Corfu a child-friendly destination?

Yes, Corfu is child-friendly. Most resorts or hotels welcome children of all ages and offer plenty of activities and attractions for children.

Things to do for kids in Corfu

• Enjoy the numerous sandy beaches

• Sidari Water Park

• Scenic Horse Treks

• Glass Bottomed Boat Tours

• The Achilleion Palace 

• Old and New Fortress (Corfu Town)

• Corfu Donkey Rescue

• Corfu Aquarium

• Ipsos Aqua Arena

• Aqualand Corfu Water Park

• Boat trips and cruises 

• Casa Parlante (Interactive History)

This is just a small selection, Tripadvisor provides more detail on companies and ways to book.

When’s the best time to visit Corfu?

The best time to visit Corfu is in its off-season from April to May and September to November. This is when temperatures and crowds are lower. Avoid winter as it becomes too cold to swim.

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations by real parents

We begin every article by consulting the Mumsnet forums. With over 10 million users per month, there is a wealth of recommendations by real parents who are experienced in travelling to Corfu with their families.

Expert guidance and traveller reviews

After we’ve collated our list, we then ask the experts. We research using trusted websites like Trip Advisor, Expedia and Booking.com to see what they recommend. We take into account other reviews, awards and opinions as well to gain a well-rounded perspective so we can ensure our guide is honest. We don’t want you to encounter any nasty surprises!

Celebrated hotels

Once we’ve finished our investigation, we then cross-reference everything to create a list of the best family-friend hotels, resorts and villas in Corfu.

Why should you trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.