Things To Do in Kassiopi

Kassiopi is a main port for boat trips around the island, so when it comes to cruises you’ve a number of options. Most visitors make the short ride to Kalamaki, a nearby sandy beach. Or you can take an evening trip to Corfu Town and explore the capital’s nightlife. And there are trips along the east coast, too, stopping at famous beauty spots like the Blue Caves, where you can see dolphins.

Though not a dusk-’til-dawn party town, Kassiopi is as lively by night as it is by day. You can pick your pace – either indulge in some retsina and Greek dancing in one of the tavernas near the square, or visit one of the late-night cocktail bars by the harbour. Some of the places down here host regular quiz nights, while others show the sport on big-screen TVs.

Kassiopi comes with a wide choice of international restaurants, including Mexican, Italian and Chinese. But for hearty, home-cooked comfort food, you can’t beat one of the traditional Greek tavernas near the square. Dishes to look out for include stifado – a stew made with beef and shallots, and bourtheto – scorpion fish served in a spicy sauce.

The village throws its own summer fiesta, a day-long affair that involves plenty of music, food and dancing. You can start off by watching the marching bands parade through the streets, then later on traditional Corfiot folk and Greek bouzouki bands play to enthusiastic crowds. There are stalls selling local beer and wine, while lamb roasts on the spit.

There’s a diving school near the harbour, where you can book lessons and trips. First-time divers can explore the house reef near Pipitos Beach, one of Kassiopi’s smaller bays. Then, once you’ve got your confidence up, you can go further afield and try night or cave dives. The waters are clear and you can expect to see colourful reef fish, as well as barracuda, morays and octopus.

You’ve got 2 big supermarkets here – one in the harbour, the other on the main road into the village. You’ll also find bakeries and shops selling essentials like English newspapers. And souvenir-wise, you won’t do badly, either. The local gift shops specialise in handmade lace, ceramics and jewellery, although you’ll find a bigger choice in Corfu Town.

This traditional taverna is considered a cut above the others thanks to its cliff-top location, which makes for some of the best views on the island. The classically trained chef, meanwhile, cut his teeth at an award-winning German restaurant. You can start with dishes like feta wrapped in filo pastry with honey and poppy seeds, then go on to mains like sea bass fillet served in a lemon sauce.