CORFU

Halal-friendly holidays

Flights from the UK to Corfu Airport Ioannis Kapodistrias (CFU) are frequent all year round. Budget flights are also available. If you are travelling around Greece, domestic flights can also be taken from cities around the country to Corfu. From Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport, it is fairly easy to travel to Corfu Town which is only 3.5km away, and takes around 7 minutes in the car/taxi. Public transport is also available.

The ideal time to visit Corfu is during the months of April, May, September and October as there are less crowds and good weather. July and August are the most popular months with a sunny climate, but prices for flights and hotels are high during these times and it is more crowded. During the winter months, there are higher chances of rainfall.

Unlike the rest of Greece, Corfu doesn’t have much connection with the Ottoman past. That being said it is still so rich in history with influences from around the world including Roman, Byzantine, French and English and being part of Greece, it is one of the oldest civilizations known to the world.

The Old Town itself, which is more than 2500 years old, is under UNESCO protection. Although Corfu has no mosques, it is a perfect opportunity to be in nature and enjoy the stunningly beautiful views of the greenery and mountains. As Corfu is located in the Ionian sea opposite Albania, it would be a great opportunity to get the ferry across and combine your stay with a visit to a Muslim country and experience the mosques and halal food. While in Corfu, meet your prayer requirements by packing a travel mat and travel wudhu bottle and use the earth as your mosque.

Achilleion
The Achilleion palace was built in 1890 for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria after the death of her only son by a murder-suicide pact. Built as a refuge for Elizabeth at her favourite vacation spot, Corfu, it was named after Achilles from ancient Greek mythology, due to the empress's admiration for Greek history and culture. Set in a truly mystical setting, the beautiful palace offers whitewashed architecture and greenery all around.

Museum of Asian Art of Corfu
Although there is no Muslim history in Corfu, history-lovers will be excited to know that the only museum dedicated to Asian art is on the island of Corfu. With the aim of protecting cultural heritage in Asia, the museum displays art from all over the continent including countries such as China, Japan, India, Pakistan, Tibet, Siam and Northeast Asia.

Mount Pantokrator
Mount Pantokrator, the highest mountain on the island, provides a beautiful view of the whole of Corfu when you reach the summit on a clear day. Many also state that on a very clear day, you can see Italy across the sea. As a mountain pass, it is an excellent setting for a road trip. At the top of the mountain, there is a cafe and a monastery.

Aqualand Corfu Water Park
For your dose of family fun, visit one of Europe's biggest water parks, the Aqualand Corfu Water Park. Surrounded by greenery and action packed with over 51 slides, pools and a restaurant inside, Aqualand Corfu is the perfect day trip for your family day out on your halal holiday.

Angelokastro
Angelokastro, "Angel's Castle", is perched on a hilltop, the highest peak of Corfu's coastline, and offers the best view of the entire island. During the Ottoman siege of Greece, the castle played a major role in protecting and sheltering the population of Corfu from invaders. The Angelokastro is well persevered and the Byzantine architecture amongst the natural greenery and beauty surrounding it is a refreshing sight to see.

Although you won't find many halal restaurants waiting for you in Corfu, there are plenty of other delicious halal options available. The close proximity to the Ionian Sea means that seafood is an affordable luxury that is readily available anywhere in Corfu - fresh fish, whether baked, fried or grilled, from the sea straight to the plate is highly recommended. Vegetarian options are also available.

The Greek diet is simple but vibrant: salads, soups and desserts are worth trying to get a feel for the culture by eating in the authentic restaurants and cafes. What’s unique about Corfu is the abundance of olive trees, with the small region being home to over 2 million of them. The olive is mentioned by name in the Holy Quran, and they are highly regarded in Islam - if you get the opportunity give the Greek ones a try. They are known to be high in quality and olive oil is a great gift for family and friends. Revive a sunnah whilst doing your bit by supporting the local businesses.

There is a large choice of properties in Corfu available on Halalbooking, each holding a charm of its own. Choose from the range of properties available from idyllic villas to luxurious hotels. Some properties offer halal food in the property or nearby, which is an important amenity considering there may be some difficulty finding halal food in Corfu. Make your stay complete with Muslim-friendly amenities in Corfu like alcohol-free rooms and enjoy your halal holiday to the fullest with options of private and mixed pools and spa and wellness facilities. Halalbooking makes booking easy with halal filters to choose your ideal property and options like ‘Free Cancellation’ and ‘Book Now, Pay Later’ - just keep an eye out on our website!