Corfu in October: weather and travel tips

Joanne Owen

written by
Joanne Owen

updated 31.01.2024

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

Not sure what to expect of the weather in Corfu in October? Read on to find out average air and sea temperatures, what to expect in terms of costs and crowds, and what to wear. In addition, we share inspired Greece itinerary suggestions that’ll help you make the most of your trip.

Is October a good time to visit Corfu?

Boasting beautiful beaches, lush mountains, fine food and lively nightlife, Corfu captivates travellers around the year.

The first Greek island to attract mass tourism, Corfu remains a tourist hotspot through the peak summer season. As a result, it can feel on the crowded side. 

So, if you’re not keen on jostling for space in bars, restaurants, beaches and cultural attractions, October is a good time to visit Corfu. 

In addition, while you should expect some rain (more on that below), the weather in Corfu in October remains warm, as does the sea. But with fewer crowds, you’ll have more space to yourself on even the most popular beaches.

Add to that the possibility of bagging yourself the best accommodation as a better price and October might just be one of the best months to visit Corfu.

Considering visiting Corfu in October? Talk to our local Greek travel experts

Kerkyra, capital of Corfu island, Greece © Shutterstock

Kerkyra, Corfu, Greece © Shutterstock

Air and sea temperatures in Corfu in October

The weather in Corfu in October sees average highs of 23ºC, and average lows around 18ºC. The average sea temperature is 22ºC.

You can also look forward to 11 hours of daylight each day, and in the region of 6 hours of sun. Be aware, it can become overcast quickly, though.

Ready for you dream trip? Browse our inspirational Greece itineraries to start planning your perfect itinerary.

Average rainfall in October

Corfu’s mountain ranges mean it sees more rain than other Greek islands. October sees an average of 120mm of rain across 11 rainy days, with more rain falling as the month progresses.

For more details on the weather in Greece around the year, read up on when to go to Greece

What about the crowd and cost?

Though Corfu is a year-round destination, with October being shoulder season, you can expect smaller crowds, and lower costs when it comes to accommodation and flights.

Having said that, places like Corfu Town remain busy. This means October is a great time to blend the lively buzz of bars and restaurants with quieter, secluded out-of-town experiences.

Set on taking an autumn break? For further inspo, discover more of the best places to visit in October.

Beautiful beach and boat in Paleokastritsa, Corfu island, Greece

The weather in Corfu in October is still warm enough for the beach © Shutterstock

Unforgettable, fully customisable Greece itineraries

In the market for an unforgettable October break? Take inspiration from our Greece itineraries — here we highlight just a few of them.

  • Coast of Crete — a stunning self-drive experience (10 days): if you’re longing for awe-inspiring scenery, ancient culture, and a sense of freedom, this self-drive trip along Crete’s coast has your name all over it. 
  • Milos — an exclusive island idyll (9 days): for an alternate Greek Island experience, why not get to know the Aegean’s most exotic island while staying in a private luxury villa by the sea?
  • Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens and the magic of Zagori, and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.

All these suggestions can be customised to your exact needs, with a Greece local travel expert on hand to offer insider tips, and take the hassle out of planning and booking.

greece-athens-shutterstock_1226210740

Rough Guides' customisable Greece itineraries can take you from ancient Athens to idyllic island © Shutterstock

Tips for travelling to Corfu in October

What to wear in Corfu in October?

Though the daytime temperatures are warm enough for summer wear — shorts, sun dresses, and swimwear for the beach — you’ll want to bring warmer clothes for the chillier evenings.

Think cardigans, pullovers, long trousers and wraps. It’s also worth bringing a brolly and a light waterproof jacket.

Is AC necessary in Corfu in October?

Given that the evening temperatures drop off, you don’t actually need AC in Corfu in October. It’s perfectly possible to get a good night’s sleep without it.

This may come as welcome news to travellers who are keen to get off the beaten track and stay in less touristy accommodation, where AC isn’t de rigueur.

Consider renting a car 

The good news: with a large local population, Corfu’s public transport system doesn’t shut-down during the out-of-season months. The less-good news: October sees the bus service reduced.

So, if you’re hoping to get around quickly and conveniently — and want to follow lesser-travelled roads — you might want to hire a car.

Loggas beach on the northwest side of the island, close to Cape Drastis © Shutterstock

Loggas beach, Crete © studio/Shutterstock

What to do in Corfu in October

Aside from exploring elegant Corfu Town, and blissing out on beaches (don’t miss Longás — one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece), visiting Corfu in October offers opportunities to uncover authentic island culture. It’s also a good time to explore the great outdoors. 

Experience Óhi Day 

Held on 28th October, this national holiday presents parades, folk dancing and speeches to commemorate prime minister Metaxas’ one-word reply to Mussolini’s 1940 ultimatum. Namely, Ohi! (“No!”).

Walk the Corfu Trail

Intro adventure? Being cooler, October is a top time to tackle the Corfu Trail. At 200km, this walking route covers the entire island from Cape Asprókavos in the south to Áyios Spyrídhon beach in the far north. 

Traversing a rich variety of terrain – from beaches to high peaks – experienced walkers can cover the whole route in around ten days. 

Scale Mount Pandokrátor

Mount Pandokrátor — Corfu’s highest mountain, no less — offers a mix of adventure and history.

Capped by 17th-century Pandokrátoras monastery, from the south you can reach it via the village of Strinýlas. Being a popular base for walkers, the village is served by buses from Corfu Town. 

Inspired by these ideas? Discover more reasons to visit Greece in winter.

Portokalopita, orange pie Corfu, Greek dessert © AS Food studio/Shutterstock

Corfu is famed for its cuisine, such as portokalopita orange pie © AS Food studio/Shutterstock

Planning your October trip to Corfu

Love the sound of Corfu? Get yourself The Mini Rough Guide to Corfu. For more island inspiration, read, up on the best Greek Islands to start planning your trip.  

Alternatively, if the idea of planning leaves you cold, browse our customisable Greece itineraries.

Joanne Owen

written by
Joanne Owen

updated 31.01.2024

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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