Travel Tips

Everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Corfu

Getting to Corfu

By Air

Corfu International Airport "Ioannis Kapodistrias" (CFU)

The airport is located 3km south of Corfu Town, making it easily accessible to most parts of the island.

  • Direct flights from major European cities during tourist season (April-October)
  • Year-round flights from Athens (1-hour flight)
  • Charter flights from UK, Germany, Scandinavia, and other European countries
  • Low-cost carriers including Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air

From the Airport:

  • Local bus Line 15 connects to Corfu Town (€1.50, 20 minutes)
  • Taxis available outside arrivals (approximately €10-15 to town center)
  • Car rental companies located at the airport
  • Many hotels offer airport transfer services

By Sea

Ferry Connections:

From Mainland Greece:

  • Igoumenitsa to Corfu: 90 minutes, multiple daily sailings
  • Most economical option if traveling with a car
  • Foot passengers and vehicles accepted
  • Ferry companies: Kerkyra Lines, Ventouris Ferries, Ionian Ferries

From Italy:

  • Overnight ferries from Brindisi, Bari, and Venice
  • Sailing times: 8-12 hours depending on route
  • Cabin accommodations available
  • Popular for travelers combining Greek and Italian holidays

Island Hopping:

  • Day trips to nearby Paxos and Antipaxos islands
  • Seasonal connections to other Ionian islands
  • Hydrofoil services available in summer

Local Transportation

Car Rental

Renting a car provides the most flexibility to explore the island at your own pace.

  • International driving license required for non-EU visitors
  • Drive on the RIGHT side of the road
  • Roads are generally good, though mountain roads can be narrow
  • Parking in Corfu Town can be challenging; use designated parking areas
  • Petrol stations widely available; some close on Sundays
  • Average rental cost: €30-50 per day depending on season and vehicle

Driving Tips

  • Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on open roads, 110 km/h on highways
  • Seat belts mandatory for all passengers
  • Blood alcohol limit: 0.05% (lower than some countries)
  • Be cautious on narrow mountain roads
  • Watch for mopeds and motorcycles

Public Buses

Corfu has a reliable and affordable public bus system.

Green Buses (City Buses):

  • Operate within Corfu Town and suburbs
  • Main terminus at San Rocco Square
  • Fares: €1.20-1.70 depending on route
  • Frequent service from early morning to evening

Blue Buses (Long Distance):

  • Connect Corfu Town with villages and resorts across the island
  • Main terminus near the New Port
  • Fares: €1.70-3.00 depending on distance
  • Less frequent service to remote areas
  • Timetables available at bus stations and online

Taxis

  • Readily available in Corfu Town and tourist areas
  • Metered service; ensure meter is running
  • Rates increase slightly at night and on holidays
  • Book in advance during peak season
  • Many drivers speak English
  • Typical fare: €10-15 within town, €20-40 to beaches

Scooters & Motorcycles

  • Popular way to explore the island
  • Rental available in most resorts
  • Helmet mandatory by law
  • License requirements depend on engine size
  • Be extra cautious on mountain roads

Bicycles

  • Available for rent in resort areas
  • Best for flat coastal areas
  • Some hotels provide bikes for guests
  • Not ideal for hilly terrain

Best Time to Visit

Corfu is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience. Here's a quick overview to help you choose the best time for your visit:

Month Avg Temp Sea Temp Rainfall Crowds Best For
January 10°C (50°F) 15°C (59°F) High Very Low Local culture, quiet retreat
February 11°C (52°F) 14°C (57°F) High Very Low Carnival celebrations
March 13°C (55°F) 15°C (59°F) Medium Low Spring flowers, hiking
April 16°C (61°F) 16°C (61°F) Medium Low-Medium Easter, wildflowers, sightseeing
May 21°C (70°F) 18°C (64°F) Low Medium Outdoor activities, fewer crowds
June 26°C (79°F) 22°C (72°F) Very Low High Beach, swimming, sunshine
July 29°C (84°F) 25°C (77°F) Very Low Very High Beach holidays, nightlife
August 29°C (84°F) 26°C (79°F) Very Low Very High Peak beach season, events
September 25°C (77°F) 24°C (75°F) Low Medium Best all-around month!
October 20°C (68°F) 22°C (72°F) Medium Low-Medium Hiking, exploring, harvest season
November 15°C (59°F) 19°C (66°F) High Very Low Off-season quiet, low prices
December 12°C (54°F) 16°C (61°F) High Very Low Local Christmas traditions

Recommended Travel Periods

  • Best Overall: September - Perfect weather, warm sea, fewer crowds
  • Best Value: May & October - Good weather, lower prices, less crowded
  • Best for Beach: June to August - Guaranteed sunshine and hot weather
  • Best for Culture: April (Easter) - Unique local celebrations
  • Best for Budget: November to March - Lowest prices, authentic experience

Seasonal Details

Spring (April - May)

Weather: Mild temperatures 18-24°C (64-75°F), occasional rain

Pros:

  • Fewer tourists, lower accommodation prices
  • Wildflowers in bloom, lush green landscapes
  • Perfect for hiking and outdoor activities
  • Easter celebrations (dates vary, check calendar)
  • Comfortable weather for sightseeing

Cons:

  • Sea may be too cold for swimming (16-18°C)
  • Some tourist facilities may not be fully open
  • Occasional rainy days

Summer (June - August)

Weather: Hot and dry, 28-33°C (82-91°F), minimal rainfall

Pros:

  • Guaranteed sunshine and hot weather
  • Perfect beach weather, warm sea (25-26°C)
  • All facilities, restaurants, and attractions open
  • Vibrant nightlife and entertainment
  • Cultural festivals and events
  • Long daylight hours

Cons:

  • Peak season: crowded beaches and attractions
  • Highest accommodation prices
  • Very hot for extensive walking/hiking
  • Advance booking essential

Autumn (September - October)

Weather: Warm and pleasant, 22-27°C (72-81°F), occasional rain in October

Pros:

  • Ideal temperatures for all activities
  • Sea still warm enough for swimming (22-24°C)
  • Fewer crowds than summer, better prices
  • Harvest season with fresh local produce
  • Excellent for hiking and exploring
  • Beautiful autumn colors

Cons:

  • Some tourist facilities start closing in late October
  • Increased chance of rain toward end of season
  • Fewer organized tours and activities

Recommended: September is considered by many as the best month to visit Corfu!

Winter (November - March)

Weather: Mild and rainy, 10-15°C (50-59°F), wettest months December-February

Pros:

  • Very quiet, authentic local experience
  • Lowest accommodation prices
  • Mild compared to northern Europe
  • Good for cultural tourism and local events
  • Green, lush landscapes

Cons:

  • Many hotels and restaurants closed
  • Frequent rain and cloudy weather
  • Not suitable for beach holidays
  • Limited public transportation
  • Shorter daylight hours

Essential Travel Tips

Money & Currency

  • Currency: Euro (EUR, €)
  • ATMs: Widely available in towns and resorts; fees may apply for international cards
  • Credit Cards: Accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops; smaller tavernas may be cash-only
  • Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory; round up taxi fares
  • Exchange: Better rates usually at banks than hotels; airports have poorest rates

Language

  • Official Language: Greek
  • English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants
  • Useful Phrases: "Kalimera" (Good morning), "Efharisto" (Thank you), "Parakalo" (Please/You're welcome)
  • Signs in tourist areas usually have English translations
  • Learning a few Greek words is appreciated by locals

Safety & Health

  • Safety: Corfu is very safe; violent crime is rare
  • Petty Crime: Watch belongings in crowded areas; pickpocketing rare but possible
  • Health Care: EU citizens should bring European Health Insurance Card (EHIC); others need travel insurance
  • Pharmacies: Well-stocked and helpful; pharmacists can advise on minor ailments
  • Hospitals: Corfu General Hospital in town; private clinics available
  • Emergency Number: 112 (universal EU emergency number)
  • Sun Protection: Essential in summer; use high SPF sunscreen
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially in summer heat

Communication

  • Mobile Phones: EU roaming rules apply; check with your provider
  • SIM Cards: Local SIM cards available from providers (Cosmote, Vodafone, Wind)
  • WiFi: Free in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes
  • Internet Cafes: Available in Corfu Town

What to Pack

Summer (June-August):

  • Light, breathable clothing
  • Swimwear and beach towel
  • Sun hat and sunglasses
  • High SPF sunscreen
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light jacket for evening air conditioning

Spring/Autumn (April-May, September-October):

  • Light layers for varying temperatures
  • Light jacket or sweater for evenings
  • Swimwear (sea may be cooler)
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light rain jacket (especially May and October)

Useful Contacts

Cultural Etiquette

  • Dress Code: Modest dress required in churches and monasteries (cover shoulders and knees)
  • Greetings: Handshakes common; close friends may kiss on both cheeks
  • Meal Times: Lunch 1-3pm, dinner typically late (9-11pm)
  • Siesta: Many shops close 2-5pm; respect quiet hours
  • Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages
  • Bargaining: Not customary except at flea markets
  • Respect: Greeks are proud of their heritage; show respect for traditions and customs

Have More Questions?

Contact us for personalized travel advice and recommendations for your Corfu trip.

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