Autumn in Corfu is not really autumn.
That’s why September and October are sometimes called the “velvet season”.
And not to underrate the Corfu summer, these two months are absolutely some of the best times to be on the island, and here is why.
The velvet season gives you the possibility to explore places and enjoy activities which were either too hot, too busy or simply less accessible in July and August.
Weather in September and October
September is still very much summer in Corfu.
Daytime temperatures are usually around 27–28°C, while the sea remains very warm after a hot summer, at around 24–25°C.
October is traditionally cooler, with daytime temperatures around 23°C, but the sea is still very comfortable, at around 22°C.
In October, you can still have proper beach days, while the cooler air makes it much more comfortable for exploring, hiking, sightseeing and spending time outdoors.
No Crowds
The biggest difference is, of course, the number of people.
After 2021, Corfu became an increasingly popular tourist destination, with the number of flights increasing every year.
In 2026, Corfu International Airport served more than 100 international flights per day in August, while in October 2025, this number was no more than 30.
So, the beaches feel quieter, the roads are less busy, you don’t have to book everything in advance, parking becomes easier, and the Old Town feels much more relaxed.
You can visit popular places in Corfu Old Town like Liston and Spianada without having to plan your whole day around the crowds. Read our Corfu Old Town Walking Guide to learn more about its landmarks.
September in Corfu
Over the last few decades, September in Corfu has been getting noticeably warmer.
Long-term climate data shows a clear warming trend for the island.
In recent years, the first half of September can feel much more like August than the September we used to know.
And the same goes for tourism. There are still plenty of flights, almost everything is open, and the island is still very much alive!
September is probably the closest thing to a summer holiday without the full intensity of July and August.
October in Corfu
Traditionally cooler, October for the past 2–3 years has felt more like what we used to experience in late September in Corfu.
October is a great time to properly explore Corfu Old Town, with its Old and New Fortresses, traditional villages and historical sites such as Angelokastro, Gardiki and Kassiopi Castle.
It is still possible to have proper beach days, and the water is still very warm, around 22°C on average, although it can be a little warmer or cooler depending on the location and time of the month.
Typically, the weather in October becomes more changeable, with cooler evenings and a higher chance of rain.
Important note: the second half of October is considerably wetter than the first half on average.
Pack a warm jacket and a rain jacket for your trip to Corfu in October!
Velvet Season in Corfu
In September and October, Corfu becomes especially enjoyable for road trips, visiting villages, hiking, enjoying nature and exploring places that can be exhausting in the summer heat or overcrowded in the evenings.
And the island does not suddenly close down on 1 October.
Regular direct international flights continue throughout October.
In October, there are still direct flights connecting Corfu with major European cities such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Geneva, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Stockholm and Manchester.
Some routes continue into November as well.
