The climate of Corfu
The island of
Corfu, sitting in the Ionian Sea off
Greece's northwest coast, holds a Mediterranean climate that is classified as Csa under the Köppen climate classification. The climatic conditions encompass hot summers and mild winters, a characteristic trait of areas falling under the Mediterranean climate zone. As the year progresses, the island experiences variations in temperature, humidity, daylight, and rainfall.
Throughout the year, temperatures on the island vary from 5.1°C (41.2°F) to 31.3°C (88.3°F). The peak warmth is seen in
July and
August with an average of 31.3°C (88.3°F), while
January and
February are the coolest months with temperatures averaging 5.1°C (41.2°F). The humidity levels fluctuate between 60% in July to 77.5% in
November. Rainfall varies significantly, the heaviest precipitation seen in November and
December, with an average of 187mm (7.36") and 186mm (7.32") respectively. The driest period stretches from
June to August, with the least rainfall seen in July, hitting a low of 9mm (0.35").
Daylight hours vary from 9.4 hours in December to 14.9 in June. Interestingly, the sun shines the most in July, with 11.8 sunshine hours recorded, compared to December, which sees a minimum of 3.6 hours. Sea temperatures during the year fluctuate from a comfortable 15.2°C (59.4°F) in February to a warm 25.7°C (78.3°F) in August.
The best time to visit Corfu
For travelers who enjoy a warm and inviting climate, the months of
May to
August are the best to visit
Corfu. Average temperatures range around a pleasant 23.8°C (74.8°F) to 31.3°C (88.3°F) during this time. Humidity levels drop to a comfortable percentile, hovering around 63.4% to 69.5% on average. The sun shines bright and long, with daylight extending from 14.4 to 14.9 hours, providing ample time to explore the island's natural beauty and historic landmarks.
During these months, very little rainfall is observed, with mean precipitation as low as 9mm (0.35") in
July, ensuring outdoor activities remain uninterrupted. The sea temperature also rises during this period, ranging from 19.1°C (66.4°F) in May to a delightful warm 25.7°C (78.3°F)—perfect conditions for swimming and partaking in water-based activities.
The worst time to visit Corfu
Travelers with an aversion to heavier rainfall and cooler climes would do well to avoid
Corfu during the months of
November and
December. Precipitation peaks during these months, with an average rainfall of 187mm (7.36") and 186mm (7.32") respectively. These months also see an increase in humidity, peaking at around 77.5% in November.
These months also have the shortest daylight hours—10 hours in November and 9.4 in December—leading to shorter days and longer nights. Despite the shorter daylight hours, these months see a marked decrease in sunshine, hitting a minimum of 4.5 and 3.6 hours respectively. The sea temperatures drop as well to 19.4°C (66.9°F) in November and 17°C (62.6°F) in December, making water activities a little less comfortable compared to other months.
Spring weather in Corfu
Springs in
Corfu, encompassing
March through
May, are marked by a gradual warming trend. Temperatures during these months climb from 16°C (60.8°F) in March to a pleasing 23.8°C (74.8°F) by May. Humidity starts to drop, sliding down from 74.3% in March to 69.5% in May.
Daylight hours also lengthen during spring, increasing from 12 hours in March to 14.4 hours in May, providing a welcome extension of outdoor activities. Sea temperatures in spring see a steady climb, beginning at 15.3°C (59.5°F) in March and warming up to 19.1°C (66.4°F) by May.
Summer weather in Corfu
Summers in
Corfu, stretching from
June to
August, are hot and relatively dry. This period sees temperature highs, peaking at 31.3°C (88.3°F) in
July and August. Humidity is at its lowest during these months, dropping to 60% in July.
Despite the heat, rainfall is at its minimum, averaging just 14mm (0.55") in June and slipping further to a low of 9mm (0.35") in July. Daylight is at its maximum, hitting 14.9 hours in June before slightly receding to 13.7 hours by August.
Autumn weather in Corfu
Autumn in
Corfu, represented by
September through
November, is a time of cooler weather and increasing rainfall. Temperatures during these months see a sustained decline, dropping from 27.6°C (81.7°F) in September to 18.7°C (65.7°F) by November.
Rainfall during these months is seen to increase dramatically, with the most significant jump observed in November, reaching an average of 187mm (7.36")—a stark contrast to the 14mm (0.55") of rainfall observed in September. Humidity also begins to ascend in autumn, with November marking the peak humidity month at 77.5%.
Winter weather in Corfu
Winter in
Corfu, spanning
December through
February, portrays cooler temperatures and less daylight. Average temperatures during these months range from 13.9°C (57°F) to 15.3°C (59.5°F). High humidity characterizes these winter months, spanning from 75.4% to 77.2%.
Rainfall is comparatively high during the winter months, fluctuating from 125mm (4.92") in February to a high of 186mm (7.32") in December. Daylight is restricted to between 9.7 hours in
January to 10.7 hours in February. However, sunshine is limited, with winter months averaging between 3.6 hours in December to 4.2 hours in February.
Weather in January
In
Corfu, the weather transitions from the chill of winter to the mild conditions of spring. This change is marked by a noticeable increase in temperature from 13.9°C (57°F) to 14.2°C (57.6°F). Outdoor activities become more conducive as the sun begins to shine brighter, and the chill in the air fades.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Driven by the Mediterranean climate,
February marks a rhythmic upswing in overall weather conditions in
Corfu. Daily temperatures on an average range from 5.7°C (42.3°F) to 14.2°C (57.6°F). As the city transitions into this mild climatic phase, it creates a comforting patchwork of spring blooms against crisp, clear skies.
Weather in February »Weather in March
The month of
March in
Corfu captures the elegant balance between the last whispers of winter and the first beckoning of spring. A small increase in average temperatures from 14.2°C (57.6°F) to 16°C (60.8°F) lends a warmer contrast to the receding winter chills.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
In
April, the city of
Corfu offers participatory weather, with nature slowly unfurling its colours and the Mediterranean warmth beginning to take hold. The average temperature displays a significant jump from 16°C (60.8°F) to 19°C (66.2°F).
Weather in April »Weather in May
The month of
May elevates the glistening allure of
Corfu with the mercury continuing its steady climb, reaching an average of 23.8°C (74.8°F). The climate conditions permit a spectrum of activities to be enjoyed under the sun's inviting warmth.
Weather in May »Weather in June
In
Corfu,
June signifies the onset of a vibrant summer season. The city's landscapes thrive under the toasty sun, with temperatures averaging around a toasty 28°C (82.4°F). June transforms the city into a sun-soaked paradise, allowing locals and tourists to indulge in various outdoor and water activities.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
July brings the apex of summer in
Corfu with sun-filled days and warm nights. The city's average temperature reaches its highest at 30.9°C (87.6°F), manifesting a true Mediterranean summer. The abundance of sunlight provides ideal conditions for sunbathing and water sports along the glistening coastline.
Weather in July » Weather in August
August continues the summer extravaganza in
Corfu, with nature basking in the sun's glory. The hot summer temperatures persist, hitting an average of 31.3°C (88.3°F), the peak for the year. The city’s vibrancy finds resonance in its landscape, from the vibrant beaches to the animated markets.
Weather in August » Weather in September
The arrival of
September in
Corfu witnesses a gradual cooling trend, with the temperatures falling from 31.3°C (88.3°F) to 27.6°C (81.7°F). Despite this, the city still holds onto the summer's vibrancy, complemented by the warmth of early autumn.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
As
October unfolds in
Corfu, the city embraces autumn in its full grandeur. The city sees a considerable dip in the monthly average temperatures, dropping to 23.2°C (73.8°F). The tangible appearance of fall combined with the receding summer warmth offers an ideal climate for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
Weather in October »Weather in November
November in
Corfu is characterized by the continued journey into late-autumn, with a significant drop in temperature from 23.2°C (73.8°F) to 18.7°C (65.7°F). However, the receding warmth offers a unique appeal, blending with the cool sea breezes for a soothing climate.
Weather in November » Weather in December
By
December, the weather in
Corfu has transformed into authentic winter, with average temperatures decreasing further from 18.7°C (65.7°F) to 15.3°C (59.5°F). Despite the chill, the city stays vibrant, fostering a sense of harmony and tranquillity through its landscapes and culture.
Weather in December »