Ionian Islands, Greece
Corfu has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Climate patterns vary throughout the year: Spring (April-May) brings pleasant temperatures (15-22°C), low precipitation, and blooming wildflowers. Summer (June-August) means hot temperatures (25-33°C), high humidity, and minimal rain. Autumn (September-October) cools to 18-25°C with increasing rainfall, but still offers warm, sunny days. Winter (November-March) has cooler temperatures (10-15°C) and frequent rain.
Corfu does not experience monsoons or hurricanes. Extreme heatwaves (over 35°C) may occur in July and August. Wildfires pose a risk during dry summer months; follow local warnings. Ideal timing for specific activities: Beach and Swimming in June-September. Hiking and Cycling in April, May, early June, September, and October. Sightseeing and Cultural Exploration in April, May, June, September, and October.
Greece, a Schengen Area member, has specific entry rules. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need no visa; a valid national ID or passport will do. Citizens of visa-exempt countries (e.g., USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand) need no visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism. Citizens of other countries must obtain a Schengen visa (Type C short-stay visa).
The application process for a Schengen visa calls for submitting an application, providing supporting documents, and attending an interview at a Greek embassy or consulate. Start this process well in advance. No general entry fees apply for tourists. Immigration procedures include passport control at Corfu International Airport (CFU) or Corfu Port.
Minimum 3 months beyond departure
Issued within the last 10 years
Flight/ferry tickets readily available
Bank statements, credit card statements
Hotel bookings or rental agreements
Specific size and requirements for visa applications
Mandatory for Schengen visa applicants
Minimum €30,000 for medical/repatriation
Generally, none for standard tourist activities
The official currency is the Euro (€, EUR). ATMs are widely available. Banks offer currency exchange services, but rates vary. Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Carry some cash for small purchases, local tavernas, and remote areas. Check current exchange rates before converting currency. Airport exchange rates are often unfavorable.
Budget traveler daily costs: €40-€70 (hostel/guesthouse, bakery, public buses). Mid-range traveler: €70-€150 (3-star hotel, mid-range tavernas, occasional taxi). Luxury traveler: €150+ (4-5 star hotels, fine dining, private transfers).
Hostel €20-€35, 3-star €60-€120, 5-star €200-€800+.
Street food €3.50-€6, local taverna €10-€20, fine dining €50+.
Blue Bus €1.20-€2.30, Green Bus €2.50-€4.00, Taxi Airport-Town €15-€25, Car rental €30-€100+.
Fortress €8-€10, Achilleion Palace €10-€12, Boat trip €30-€50.
Customary but not obligatory. 5-10% for restaurants, round up for taxis.
Prioritize health and safety. Stay informed on vaccinations, common health concerns, and emergency procedures.
No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry. Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Polio, Flu) are advised. Hepatitis A is recommended for most travelers, Hepatitis B for long-term stays, and Typhoid if visiting rural areas. Summer sun brings risks of sunburn and heatstroke; use High-SPF sunscreen, wear hats and Sunglasses, stay hydrated.
Corfu General Hospital is in Corfu Town. Private clinics and pharmacies are widely available. Dial 112 for European emergency services. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides EU citizens with state healthcare access. Tap water in Corfu Town is generally safe, but many locals and tourists prefer bottled water. Food hygiene standards are generally good.
European Emergency Number: 112 (for Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade). Police: 100. Ambulance: 166. Fire Brigade: 199. Coast Guard: 108. Local Police Station (Corfu Town): +30 26610 29193. Corfu General Hospital: +30 26610 88000.
In an emergency, dial 112. Clearly state your location and the nature of the emergency.
World Nomads, SafetyWing, Insubuy are providers. Check for adventure coverage.
EU citizens benefit from state healthcare access. Not for private care.
Adventure Medical Kits offer first aid supplies.
Pacsafe has anti-theft bags for security.
AirHelp assists with delayed/canceled flights.
Corfu presents choices for various budgets. Plan your expenses to match your travel style. Money-saving strategies assist in managing costs effectively.
Choosing local eateries and street food makes for significant savings. Gyros, souvlaki, and bakery items are affordable and delicious. Shopping at local markets for fresh produce also cuts food expenses.
Public transportation, specifically Green and Blue buses, presents a cost-effective method for getting around. Taxis are a more expensive choice, so plan taxi rides strategically.
A breakdown of daily costs for various travel styles assists in planning your budget. Remember that high season prices can significantly influence these estimates.
Greece, part of the Schengen Area, has specific entry rules. Understand these for a smooth journey. Always carry valid documentation.
Ensure your passport remains valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. It must also have been issued within the last 10 years. For non-EU citizens planning to drive, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally mandatory alongside your national driving license.
Carry your flight or ferry tickets and hotel bookings. Proof of sufficient funds is also important. No special permits are generally necessary for standard tourist activities. For detailed visa guidance, check out IVisa or VisaHQ.
Citizens from countries like the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Simple entry with valid passport.
Stays over 90 days will need a different visa type.
For nationalities that require a Schengen visa (Type C short-stay visa), the application includes forms, documents, and an interview at a Greek embassy or consulate.
Physical visa sticker inside your passport.
Start the process well in advance of travel.
Travel insurance is mandatory for Schengen visa applicants and highly advised for all travelers. The policy must cover medical expenses, emergency hospital treatment, and repatriation for a minimum of €30,000.
Carry print and digital copies of your policy.
A policy not meeting the minimum coverage may cause issues.
| Document | Validity/Details | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | 3 months beyond departure, issued within 10 years | Entry into Schengen Area |
| Travel Insurance | Min. €30,000 medical/repatriation coverage | Mandatory for Schengen visa, advised for all |
| Proof of Funds | Bank/credit card statements | Show financial support for your stay |
Corfu offers options for various budgets. Plan your expenses to match your travel style. Below find estimated costs for different components of your trip.
€3.50-€6.00
€2.00-€5.00
€10.00-€20.00
Prices per night, subject to season.
Hostel dorm: €20-€35. Basic studio/guesthouse: €35-€60. 3-star hotel: €60-€120. 4-star hotel: €100-€250. 5-star resort/villa: €200-€800+.
Book well in advance for high season (July-August) to find better rates and availability.
Prices are estimates and can vary.
€1.20-€1.70 (kiosk/machine), €1.70-€2.30 (on board)
€2.50-€4.00 (e.g., Corfu Town to Paleokastritsa)
€15.00-€25.00
Rental prices change with season. High season (July-August) sees higher rates and reduced availability.
Entry fees for major sites and common excursions.
€8-€10
€10-€12
€30-€50 (full day)
