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How to Get to Corfu

How to Get to Corfu

Corfu Ionian Islands, Greece Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Carriers

Corfu International Airport "Ioannis Kapodistrias" (CFU) is the main aerial gateway, 3 kilometers south of Corfu Town. National carriers like Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air connect Corfu to Athens year-round. Low-cost carriers (Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air, Volotea) offer seasonal direct flights from various European cities.

Flight Details

  • Main Airport: Corfu International Airport (CFU).
  • Low-cost options from European cities in season.
  • Direct flights mainly from European hubs.

Seasonal Availability & Transfers

High season (July-August) sees daily flights, with peak prices. Book flights months in advance. Shoulder season (May-June, Sept-Oct) has good availability and moderate prices. Low season (Nov-April) means limited direct flights, mainly via Athens. Airport facilities are basic. Public buses (Line 15) connect the airport to Corfu Town (San Rocco Square and Port).

Travel Planning

  • Flight availability changes with the season.
  • Public bus transfer costs €1.20-€1.70.
  • Taxi to Corfu Town costs €15-€25.

Find Cheap Flights

Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts, Skyscanner for comparisons.

Car Rental Search

Compare rates and book with DiscoverCars.com.

Ferry Information

Connects to mainland Greece (Igoumenitsa) and Italy.

Land Transportation

Bus Connections

  • Green Buses (KTEL Corfu) operate intercity.
  • Connections to mainland cities via Igoumenitsa.
  • Bus ticket usually includes ferry crossing to Corfu.
  • No train services on Corfu itself.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU citizens is mandatory.
  • Car ferries connect from Igoumenitsa (Greece) or Italy.
  • Main roads are good; rural roads can be narrow and winding.
  • Parking has a challenge in Corfu Town.

Sea Arrivals

Main Port Location

Corfu Port (Port of Kerkyra) is just north of Corfu Town, a central entry point.

Ferry Services

Frequent ferries from Igoumenitsa (Greece), seasonal from other Ionian islands, and international from Italy.

Albania Connection

Daily passenger-only ferries/hydrofoils link Corfu with Sarandë, Albania.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

Any exit fees or taxes generally appear included in your flight or ferry ticket price. You typically find no separate fees collected at departure. Security checks apply for flights.

Departure Timing

  • Flights (CFU): Arrive 2-3 hours before international departures.
  • Ferry (passenger): Arrive 30-60 minutes before scheduled departure.
  • Ferry (car): Arrive 1-2 hours in advance for vehicle boarding.

Airport & Port Facilities

Corfu International Airport (CFU) has limited facilities for departing travelers. The Corfu Port ferry terminal offers basic amenities.

Terminal Amenities

  • CFU Airport: A few small cafes, snack bars, duty-free shops.
  • Seating areas at CFU can get crowded during peak hours.
  • Corfu Port: Ticket offices, cafes, basic amenities.

Cruise Ship Departures

Corfu Port is a popular stop for Mediterranean cruises. Cruise ships use the new port (Neo Limani), which lies close to Corfu Town.

Cruise Traveler Tips

  • New Port serves cruise ship departures.
  • The port is conveniently located near Corfu Town.
  • Consider walking or a short taxi ride to the town center.

Immigration Procedures at Ports

For ferries from within the Schengen Area, immigration procedures are minimal. For arrivals from outside the Schengen Area (e.g., Sarandë, Albania), standard passport control applies.

Border Control Info

  • Schengen area arrivals have minimal checks.
  • Outside Schengen arrivals face standard passport control.
  • Customs procedures may apply for non-Schengen arrivals.

Departures Resources

  • Confirm airport/port opening hours.
  • Review luggage allowances with your carrier.
  • Check for any last-minute travel advisories.

Getting Around Corfu

Public Bus Network

Corfu relies on its bus networks for public transport. No metro or tram systems operate. Two main services: Blue Buses (Astiko KTEL Kerkyras) for Corfu Town and suburbs, and Green Buses (KTEL Kerkyras) for long-distance routes across the island.

Bus System Overview

  • Blue Buses: Operate within Corfu Town (main hub San Rocco Square).
  • Green Buses: Connect Corfu Town with major villages and beaches (terminal near New Port).
  • Tickets from kiosks (Blue) or terminal office (Green).

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient, though more expensive, alternative. Licensed taxis are silver-grey with a "TAXI" sign and a meter. Hailing is possible, but taxi stands or phone calls are common. Traditional ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are not widely available.

Taxi Travel Tips

  • Find taxis at stands (Spianada, San Rocco) or call them.
  • Confirm fare or meter use before starting a trip.
  • Rely on licensed taxis; ride-sharing apps are rare.

Car Rental

Valid national driving license and IDP (non-EU). Minimum age typically 21-23. Book in advance, especially for high season. Major and local companies available.

Scooter/Motorcycle

Popular for navigating small roads. Valid motorcycle license (A) for motorcycles. Check specific license requirements for scooters. Helmets are mandatory.

Walking & Cycling

Corfu Town's Old Town is pedestrian-friendly. The Corfu Trail offers long-distance hiking. Limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure; roads shared with vehicles.

Specialized Transport

Tour Buses & Excursions

Hop-on-hop-off open-top tour buses operate in Corfu Town. Many tour operators provide bus excursions to popular island sites like Paleokastritsa and Achilleion Palace.

Guided Tours

  • Hop-on-hop-off for major landmarks in Corfu Town.
  • Organized bus excursions cover island-wide attractions.
  • A structured way to visit multiple locations.

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

Boat trips are very popular. Tour boats depart from Corfu Town or coastal resorts for day trips to Paxos, Antipaxos, coastal caves, or secluded beaches. Small boats are available for rental, often without a license for low horsepower engines.

Sea Explorations

  • Day trips to nearby islands and coastal caves.
  • Explore secluded beaches only reachable by sea.
  • Private boat rental for independent coastal adventures.

Accessibility Services

Infrastructure Limitations

Accessibility infrastructure sees limited development, especially in the historic Old Town with its cobblestones and steps.

Improving Access

Newer hotels and some resorts are built with accessibility in mind, providing better facilities for mobility needs.

Specialized Transport

Private accessible transfers may be available upon request from specialized companies. Direct inquiry with venues helps.

Travel Insight

Corfu does not feature tuk-tuks, jeepneys, cable cars, or funiculars. Transportation options mainly remain road and sea based.