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Corfu Arrival & Departure

Corfu Arrival & Departure

Greece

Air Travel to Corfu

Corfu International Airport

Corfu International Airport "Ioannis Kapodistrias" (CFU) serves as the main airport for the island. It sits approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) south of Corfu Town.

Airport Services

  • ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.
  • Car rental desks are on-site for convenient pick-up.
  • Duty-free shops and cafes are available for travelers.

Airlines and Routes

Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air provide year-round connections to Athens (ATH). During the peak tourist season (May to October), numerous airlines operate direct flights from major European cities.

Major Carriers & Routes

  • Ryanair, EasyJet, British Airways, Lufthansa, Wizz Air, Transavia, TUI.
  • Connections from global hubs typically occur via Athens or major European cities.
  • Flight frequency decreases significantly in shoulder season. Prices are highest in July and August.

Taxi Transfers

Taxis are available directly outside the airport terminal. The approximate cost to Corfu Town ranges from €10-€15. Journey time is 10-15 minutes.

Public Bus Transfers

Blue Bus Line 15 connects the airport to Corfu Town center (San Rocco Square) and the New Port. The fare is approximately €1.20-€1.70. Journey takes 10-20 minutes.

Flight Timing

For international flights, arrive at Corfu Airport 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1-2 hours before departure is usually sufficient.

Land Travel Connections

Train & Bus

  • There are no direct train services to Corfu itself.
  • KTEL buses from Athens and Thessaloniki go to Igoumenitsa.
  • Many KTEL bus tickets for Corfu include the ferry crossing in the price.
  • The journey from Athens to Igoumenitsa takes approximately 6-7 hours.

Self-Driving

  • Drivers reach Igoumenitsa via a generally good highway network.
  • Non-EU citizens need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Many roads in villages and mountainous areas are narrow, winding, and steep.
  • Drive carefully on island roads.

Sea Travel Overview

Corfu Port

The main port for ferries and cruise ships is the New Port, located just north of Corfu Town center.

Ferry Routes

Frequent ferry services run daily from Igoumenitsa (mainland Greece). Seasonal connections are available from Italian ports like Venice, Ancona, Bari, and Brindisi.

Albania & Cruises

Daily hydrofoil and ferry services connect Corfu to Sarandë, Albania. Corfu Port is a popular stop for cruise ships. The port's proximity to the Old Town makes it convenient.

Navigating Corfu Town

Blue Buses Town & Suburbs

These buses serve Corfu Town and its immediate suburbs. Destinations include Kanoni, Achilleion Palace, Benitses, Gouvia, and Perama. The main hub for Blue Buses is San Rocco Square (Platia Sarokou) in the town center.

Ticketing & Operation

  • Purchase tickets from kiosks at major bus stops before boarding.
  • Single fares typically range from €1.20-€1.70.
  • Buses operate from early morning until late evening, with reduced frequency on weekends.

Green Buses Island-Wide

These buses connect Corfu Town to all other villages and beaches across the entire island. Routes extend to popular destinations like Paleokastritsa, Sidari, Kassiopi, and Kavos. The main Green Bus station is located near the New Port.

Ticketing & Frequency

  • Buy tickets at the main bus station before boarding, or from the driver at intermediate stops.
  • Fares vary based on the distance of your journey.
  • Frequencies vary significantly by route and season. Check the latest schedules.

Taxis in Corfu

Taxis offer a direct way to travel, especially for shorter distances or when carrying luggage. Licensed taxis are typically silver (some black) and marked with a "TAXI" sign on the roof.

Fares & Payment

  • Fares are metered and legally regulated. A minimum fare typically applies (€3-€4).
  • Short rides within Corfu Town usually cost €5-€10. Cash is the preferred payment method.
  • For longer journeys, agreeing on a price with the driver before starting the trip is good.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber does not operate in Corfu. Beat (formerly Taxibeat), a popular ride-hailing app in mainland Greece, is not widely available or consistently reliable on Corfu. Traditional taxis remain the main option for on-demand rides.

Safety Guidance

  • Always use licensed taxis. Confirm the fare or ensure the meter is used.
  • If you suspect an issue, note the taxi's license plate number.
  • Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.

Important Rental Information

  • Car rental minimum age typically 21-25. Valid driving license needed for at least 1 year.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are available. Helmets are mandatory by law for both drivers and passengers.
  • Car rental prices are highly seasonal, ranging from €30-€70+ per day.
  • Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas.

Exploring on Foot & More

Walking in Old Town

Corfu Old Town is largely pedestrianized or has restricted vehicle access, making it excellent for walking and exploring its famous "kantounia" (narrow alleys).

Pedestrian Areas & Tours

  • Spianada Square and the Liston promenade are good for leisurely strolls.
  • Many guided walking tours focus on the Old Town's history, architecture, and culinary scene.
  • Self-guided walks are simple with a good map or a navigation app.

Cycling on Corfu

Dedicated cycling lanes are limited in Corfu. Cyclists often share the road with vehicles. Caution is advisable, especially on busy or narrow roads.

Cycling Tips & Safety

  • Wearing a Helmet and bright clothing increases visibility.
  • Caution on busy or narrow roads.
  • Consider quieter routes or designated trails for a safer experience.

Hop-on-Hop-off Buses

Several operators offer hop-on-hop-off bus tours covering major sights within and around Corfu Town. This is a convenient way to see highlights.

Boat Taxis & Excursions

Available from Corfu Town's Old Port or New Port, boat taxis transport you to nearby beaches, secluded coves, or nearby islands. These offer a scenic way to experience Corfu's coastline.

Accessibility Services

Public transportation in Corfu generally has limited accessibility. Travelers with mobility challenges are advised to pre-arrange specialized transport services or taxis.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

There are no specific exit fees or taxes levied on travelers departing Greece by air or sea. These costs are typically included in the price of your ticket.

Departure Planning

  • For international flights, arrive at Corfu Airport 2-3 hours before departure.
  • For domestic flights, 1-2 hours before departure is usually enough.
  • For ferry departures, arrive at the port 30-60 minutes before scheduled time.

Airport/Station Facilities

Corfu Airport offers standard facilities for departing travelers. The New Port also has basic facilities for ferry passengers.

Available Services

  • Check-in counters and security screening.
  • Duty-free shops for last-minute souvenirs.
  • Cafes for refreshments before departure.

Travel Tips for Getting There & Away

Flight Deals

For flight deals, check resources like Dollar Flight Club for discounted fares or compare prices on Skyscanner.

Car Rentals

For car rental bookings, explore options on comparison sites like DiscoverCars.com to find suitable vehicles for your trip.

Smooth Transitions

Arriving and departing from Corfu Town can be a straightforward part of your travel. Planning your transport options beforehand makes for a stress-free journey.