Thinking of booking a trip to Ipsos on Corfu? Here’s what to expect from this lively beach resort.
Where is it?
Ipsos is on Corfu’s east coast, located north of Corfu Town and Dassia.
What’s the vibe like?
Ipsos is a beach destination which peaked in the 80s and 90s when it was something of a party resort and very popular with package tourists. The past few decades saw it become a bit run down, but there are shoots of renewal emerging, with some stylish cafes and bars starting to pop up along the seafront. Lots of the small family-run hotels have had a boho glow up. I think it’s one of the best places on the island for value.
Unfortunately, it’s not one of the better places on the island for beaches. Ipsos has a long and narrow pebble beach with the main road and ‘strip’ running directly alongside, surrounded by hilly green scenery. If you’re more of a pool person, or like to explore by car anyway, then Ipsos is a good option for a base – it has easy access to Kassiopi and the north coast, and to Corfu Town.
Ipsos is larger and more cohesive-feeling than neighbouring Dassia. The nightlife is younger and more bar-oriented than in many other resorts. You’ll find Corfu’s only Irish bar here – Dirty Nellies. But, if you’re coming for the nightlife, you’ll want to visit in the peak summer months (July/August) when it attracts groups of young Europeans for their summer break. Outside the summer peak, it’s not much busier than the surrounding resorts. Drinks and sun lounger prices here are on the cheaper side.
Trying to choose between Ipsos and Kavos? Kavos is predominantly Brits, Ipsos is mostly Europeans (especially Italians and Slovenians). Kavos has a much better beach, but the scenery around Ipsos is nicer and there’s lots to explore. Ipsos is much closer to Corfu Town and is better placed for exploring by bus. Boat trips on both are great. Outside the busy summer months, they’re both on a par with resorts like Sidari and Roda (maybe with slightly more late bars).
There are some pleasant shady restaurants at the northern end of the beach, and if you don’t mind the uphill walk then Off-Town Cafe Bar has fab cocktails and views over the beach.
What’s the beach like?
The main beach at Ipsos is east-facing. It’s 1.5 km long but it is narrow and the main road runs right alongside it. It’s not the best if you’re the kind of person who likes to spend all day lazing on the beach, but it’s perfectly fine for the occasional swim or fun on the inflatables.
The beach consists of small pebbles but the seabed is mostly sandy once you’re in. The sea is shallow and calm, and the waters are Blue Flag-rated.
Things to Do in Ipsos
There are plenty of activities and entertainment on offer in Ipsos.
Watersports are available, including an inflatables course, jet-skis, donuts, and motorboat rental.
There are several travel agencies which can help you organise bus and boat trips around the island and beyond, as well as scooter and ATV rental.
The most popular all-day boat trips are to Albania, Parga and the Blue Lagoon, and Paxos and Antipaxos. I can recommend them all (such beautiful places) but they do involve long days of travel.
Some boat trips leave from a small harbour at the south end of Ipsos – they will take you north around the coast or south to Corfu Town. Others involve a bus transfer to Corfu Town (this includes the pirate party boats).
The energetic can hike in the hills surrounding Ipsos, including up Pantokrator, the highest peak on Corfu.
Along the main strip, you’ll find numerous tourist shops and restaurants including mini-markets, bakeries, and bars with evening entertainment. It’s not crazy as far as strips go – mostly all-day cafe/bars, and a few places with more of a cocktail or late vibe like Montecristo. I would say it actually has a really nice blend of businesses that feel modern and Greek but will be appreciated by international tourists looking for somewhere a bit lively. For me, it actually feels less package holiday-oriented and old-fashioned than somewhere like Sidari.
For nicer pebble beaches, it’s easy to hop on a bus north to Barbati and beyond during the day.
And, in the evening, you’re close enough to Corfu Town to hop on a bus there for dinner and drinks.
Travel and accessibility
From the airport:
Ipsos is a 25-minute drive from Corfu Airport and around 35 minutes on the bus from Corfu Town. It’s located on the main road north from Corfu Town.
A private transfer from the airport is around €35. Hoppa is available for shared transfers.
Public transport:
Ipsos is served by Corfu’s Blue Bus system (route 7) which serves Corfu Town and the surrounding areas. The main bus station in Corfu Town is San Rocco Square.
Buses tend to run every half an hour until 11pm, less frequently on Sundays and public holidays.
Tickets are around €1.70 one way but are more expensive if you purchase from the driver rather than from a shop or kiosk. You can buy a day ticket for €5.50 if you plan on making multiple journeys.
There are several bus stops in Ipsos.
For more information check out How to Get Around Corfu By Bus
Accessibility:
Ipsos is long and flat. The main road and sidewalk runs alongside the whole length of Ipsos beach. It’s a wide road with plenty of parking and several bus stops.
There may be a few steps involved to get down to sea level. The beach has Seatrac for wheelchair access.
Prices
Ipsos is budget beach resort – there’s a wide range of traditional and low-cost accommodation.
Prices for a sun-lounger vary from free for customers or €8-10 for 2 with free drinks included.
Food and drinks prices are generally below average for Corfu.
Where to stay
The road runs alongside the beach at Ipsos so there are no true beachfront hotels. The main part of Ipsos is long and flat and the surrounding blocks tend to have generous gardens. The northern end is livelier. Some of the streets at the sides of the resort and further back may be uphill (same for anywhere labelled Pyrgos). The main road that runs through Ipsos is prone to a lot of scooter and motorbike noise, especially in the summer – something to consider if looking at accommodation near the road.
Most of the accommodation in Ipsos will be small family-run hotels with pools. Top picks include:
Travelling solo? Tune Inn Guesthouse is laid-back guesthouse/hostel hybrid for over-24s; staff can help you organise bike rental and activities.
Read more:
Where to Stay on Corfu: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide
Corfu – A Quick Island Overview
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