Row of white beach umbrellas at Moraitika Beach Corfu Greece

Beautiful beaches with crystal clear water, charming old towns and villages and mouth watering local food – Corfu has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday! There’s a reason why tourists flock to this classic Greek Island getaway year after year. Find out all about this amazing Greek holiday spot in our Corfu destination guide.

Short on time? Here are our Corfu Greece top recommendations:

Highlights: explore Corfu Old Town and laze on Corfu’s beaches.

Activities: book your Corfu Greece Tours with Get Your Guide.

Accommodation: we use Booking.com to find the best hotels.

Car Hire: for great value car rental in Greece we recommend Localrent.com

Transport: FlixBus for intercity buses.

Flights: find cheapest flights with cashback on WayAway.

Airport Lounge Access: start your holiday the right way with Priority Pass.

Travel Medical Insurance: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is the ideal choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

What is Corfu Greece known for?

Corfu is known for its cosmopolitan Old Town with Venetian, English, French and Russian influences, as well as spectacular sandy beaches and beautiful landscapes. It is also known for its long and fascinating history, and unique monuments left behind by the colonial rulers. Corfu is a popular holiday destination and a rich historical site. Additionally, Corfu is known as the birthplace of Prince Phillip.

Why you should visit Corfu Greece

Outdoor dining at Pane e Souvlaki Corfu Old Town
Outdoor dining at Pane e Souvlaki Corfu Old Town

There’s plenty of reasons why Corfu is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. Firstly, there’s Corfu’s beautiful beaches. With a total of 57 beaches all around the island, you’ll be sure to find a beach that’s perfect for you. As the second largest Ionian island, Corfu is big enough to provide plenty of activities while being small enough to travel around fairly easily. Furthermore it is well connected both by ferry as well as by air, which makes it a convenient Greek holiday destination.

Apart from the beaches, Corfu’s rich and varied history is another great reason to include Corfu on your Greece bucket list. Over the centuries, Corfu has been under Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, French as well as British rule before eventually joining Greece. These influences have left its mark on the island, both in terms of historical sites such as the charming Corfu Old Town as well as its culture and its cuisine. Be sure to try the mouthwatering Corfiot dish was sofrito, which is a delicious garlicky dish with meat that is so tender that you can cut it with a spoon.

Corfu is a particularly popular holiday destination for Brits looking for a warm sunny holiday. The island caters well to tourists, with a great range of accommodation, restaurants and bars galore and an abundance of tourist infrastructure.

Corfu Destination Guide: Know before you go

Basic info about Corfu Greece

Queue at entrance to the Old Fortress Corfu Greece
Entrance to the Old Fortress Corfu Greece

  • City name in Greek – Κέρκυρα or Kérkyra in romanised letters
  • Language – Greek. The Heptanesian dialect is spoken in Corfu, which is very similar to Standard Modern Greek. English is becoming more widely spoken in the country. However not everyone you meet will be able to speak English.
  • Currency – euro (EUR). This has been the official currency of Greece since 2001. Currency exchanges can be found in most cities and ATMs are also available widely throughout the country.
  • Population – 102,000 (2011)
  • Area – 167 km2
  • Administrative region – Ionian Islands
  • Regional unit – Corfu
  • Emergency number – 112
  • Police number – 100, 171 (tourist police)

Utilities in Corfu Greece

Sailboat at Issos Beach Corfu Greece
Sailboat at Issos Beach Corfu Greece

  • Electricity – Greece uses Types C and F power plugs. The country operates on a 230v supply voltage at 50Hz. Power outages are common in Greece.
  • Water – the tap water in Corfu is safe to drink. However the water is hard, meaning it has a high mineral content. This affects the taste of the water, which is why some people prefer to drink bottled water when in Corfu.
  • Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets are the most common type of toilet in Greece, although Turkish style squat toilets can be found in some places. Don’t flush your toilet paper – use the bins provided. Public toilets are uncommon in Greece. Furthermore the public toilets that are around often have the toilet seat missing and have a charge for use. The charge is usually around 50 cents.
  • Telephone country code: +30

Where is Corfu Greece?

Corfu is a Greek island which is part of the Ionian Islands on the Ionian Sea in northwest Greece. It is also close to the border with Albania.

The closest major Greek city to Corfu is Igoumenitsa on mainland Greece. Also nearby is the Albanian port city of Saranda. Corfu is also well connected by sea to a number of cities in Italy. Corfu is 30 minutes by fast ferry from Saranda and 1 hour by ferry from Igoumenitsa.

Kerkyra Lines Ferry at Port of Corfu Greece
Kerkyra Lines Ferry at Port of Corfu

How to get to Corfu Greece

Corfu destination guide: Arriving by land

The island of Corfu is in northwest Greece, close to the border between Greece and Albania. Since it is an island, it is not possible to travel there only by land. However you may wish to travel overland to one of the connected ferry ports in either Greece, Albania or Italy.

Corfu Greece intercity land transport

The main transport options for travelling overland to Corfu Greece are:

  • Private vehicle
  • Private transport operator
  • Shuttle Bus
  • Bus
  • Bike
Corfu Blue Bus to Airport Corfu Greece
Corfu Blue Bus to Airport

Driving to Corfu from within Greece

It is possible to bring your own vehicle to Corfu on a ferry.

Intercity trains to Corfu Greece

There are no trains in or near Corfu Greece. However the closest train station is in Kalambaka Greece, which is over 4 hours away.

Intercity buses to Corfu Greece

A common way to get around Greece is by using intercity buses. On mainland Greece, intercity buses terminate at Igoumenitsa. From Igoumenitsa, you need to take a ferry to Corfu.

Corfu destination guide: Arriving by air

There is an international airport on Corfu called Corfu International Airport (Airport code CFU). It is 2km (1 mile) from Corfu Town.

Other nearby airports include:

  • Ioannina National Airport (Airport code IOA). This airport is 78km (48 miles) away.
  • Aktion National Airport (Airport code PVK). This airport is 106km (66 miles) away.
  • Kastoria National Airport (Airport code KSO). This airport is 148km (92 miles) away.

The national airline of Greece is Aegean Airlines S.A..

Corfu destination guide: Arriving by boat

Port of Corfu
Port of Corfu

The island of Corfu is on the Adriatic Sea. There are 2 ports on Corfu island – at Corfu Town as well as Lefkimmi. Ferries operate from Corfu to Igoumenitsa on mainland Greece as well as the Greek islands Mathraki, Ereikoussa & Othonoi. There are also ferries from Corfu to Saranda & Himare in Albania as well as Brindisi, Ancona, Bari & Venice in Italy. Some ferries can accommodate vehicles as well as foot passengers.

The closest city to Corfu island on mainland Greece is Igoumenitsa. Depending on the season, there are up to 13 ferries that make the crossing from Igoumenitsa to Corfu each day. The journey time is 1 hour and 10 minutes. A one way ticket costs around 10 euro for adults (as at 2024). 2 ferry companies provide ferries to Corfu from mainland Greece – Kerkyra Lines and Kerkyra Seaways.

Cruise Critic

Corfu destination guide: How to get around Corfu Greece

Walking in Corfu Greece

Eleftherias Street Pedestrian Zone Corfu Greece
Eleftherias Street Pedestrian Zone Corfu Greece

By far the easiest and cheapest way to get around the main towns in Corfu is to walk. Most of the main attractions in the city area are within easy walking distance.

Local buses in Corfu Greece

Corfu Green Bus at Agios Georgios Corfu Greece, ATM in backgroun
Corfu Green Bus at Agios Georgios Corfu Greece

Local buses are an affordable way to travel around Corfu Greece. There are two types of buses operating in Corfu:

  • Blue and white buses – these service the city area of Corfu, including the airport and the cruise ship terminal as well as Corfu Town. A one way ticket costs 1.20-1.60 euro for adults (prices as at 2024), depending on the destination. Alternatively a day pass costs 5 euro.
  • Green buses – these connect Corfu Town with other parts of the island. A one way ticket costs 1.60-8 euros for adults (prices as at 2024). Buses are modern, clean and comfortable. However depending on the destination services may not be that frequent. Also, you may have to transfer at Corfu Town to visit different parts of the island.
Inside Corfu Green Bus from Corfu Town to Moraitika Corfu Island Greece
Corfu Green Bus

Trams in Corfu Greece

Corfu does not have a tram system.

Local trains in Corfu Greece

There are no trains on Corfu.

Metro trains (subway or underground) in Corfu Greece

Corfu does not have an underground train line.

Vehicle hire in Corfu Greece

Hiring a vehicle will allow you to explore more of what the island has to offer. A wide variety of vehicles can be rented in Greece. This includes:

  • Bicycles – There are a number of bike hire shops on the island such as The Corfu Giant Mountain Bike Shop.
  • Electric scooters
  • Motorcycles
  • Cars
  • SUVs
  • Boats

Drivers in Greece drive on the right side of the road.

Scooters Vehicle Hire Corfu Greece
Scooters and Vehicle Hire Corfu Greece

Taxis in Greece

Taxis are common in Greece. Fares are regulated and are usually metered. However outside of major cities taxis may not have meters. In this case the fare will be a fixed price. However in general your fare will include the following costs:

  • The pickup fee or minimum fee – this is charged as soon as you get into the vehicle. This is set at 3.60 euro (price as at 2024).
  • Price per kilometre. This is set at 1.10 euro (price at 2024). A higher charge may be levied at night.
  • Price per hour – this is a price that gets charged when the taxi is stuck in heavy traffic. This is 12 euro an hour (price as at 2024).

There may also be extra charges for heavy luggage and for larger groups.

Ensure the meter is turned on when you get into the vehicle.

It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers in Greece. At most, Greeks may round up the fare to the nearest dollar as a tip.

Taxi Stand Corfu Greece
Taxi Stand Corfu Greece

Ride-share services in Corfu Greece

Corfu does not have any ride-share services.

Corfu destination guide: Is Corfu worth visiting?

A charming Greek island, Corfu has something for everyone. With its idyllic beaches and turquoise waters, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. The island also boasts lively towns and rugged mountain landscapes, making it a great destination for those who love adventure. The pretty old town area is a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Corfu caters well to a variety of holidaymakers from families, couples and those looking for nightlife. It is also well connected to other parts of Europe, making it an easy option for those after a sunny beach holiday. Whilst it does attract the crowds, it is easy to find a quiet spot on the sand, particularly if you rent your own vehicle. For all of these reasons, Corfu is definitely worth visiting.

Corfu destination guide: How long to spend in Corfu Greece

The water's edge at Messonghi Beach Corfu Beach
The water’s edge at Messonghi Beach Corfu Beach

As a large island, Corfu has an abundance of beautiful areas to explore. Allow at least a few days to enjoy Corfu Old Town as well as the beach areas. We spent 5 days in Corfu and enjoyed slowing down and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Corfu destination guide: What to do in Corfu Greece

Corfu is a beautiful Greek island with many activities on offer. It has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.

Corfu destination guide: Free things to do in Corfu Greece

Shops at Corfu Old Town Greece
Shops at Corfu Old Town Greece

There are enough free activities in Corfu Greece to keep you entertained for a weekend or even a leisurely week:

For more details, see our Corfu travel guide on the 13 Best Free Things To Do in Corfu Greece.

Corfu destination guide: Paid activities in Corfu Greece

Old Fortress of Corfu Greece
Old Fortress of Corfu

A number of attractions in Corfu Greece charge an entry fee:

  • Angelokastro – entry fee is 3 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Aqualand Water Park – entry fee is 33 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Sidari Water Park – entry fee is 9 euro for adults and 7 euro for children (as at 2024). Entry is free for those staying at the Sidari Water Park Hotel.
  • Old Fortress Corfu – entry fee is 6 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Theotoky Estate – tour with wine and olive tasting is 30 euro (as at 2024).
  • Casa Parlante – entry fee is 10 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Corfu Aquarium – entry fee for adults is 9 euro online or 10 euro on the day (as at 2024).
  • Corfu Museum of Asian Art – entry fee is 6 euro for adults (as at 2024). There are also a number of free entry days throughout the year.
Museum of Asian Art of Corfu Greece
Museum of Asian Art of Corfu Greece

Other paid activities in Corfu Greece include:

  • Wine Tours
  • Boat tours
  • Fishing charters and tours
  • Sailing
  • Watersports

Events in Corfu Greece

Corfu hosts a number of events throughout the year, including:

  • Corfu Carnival – celebrated in late February or early March, this is a vibrant festival that includes costumes, parades and floats. There are several rituals that occur during the Carnival period. One of them is “Petegolia,” a street theatre tradition where women go onto their balconies to gossip in the Corfiot dialect. Another ritual is the Holy Marriage, which is observed in some of the smaller villages in Corfu. During this event, two men act out the part of bride and groom in a mock wedding. There is also someone who acts as a demon trying to spoil the wedding. The Dance of the Priests is an event in the village of Episkepsi where the men of the village dance to the singing of the priest of the village
  • Orthodox Easter (Pascha) – Easter is an important celebration in Greece, and Corfu holds perhaps the most famous Easter celebrations in the country. Some of Corfu’s Easter traditions are unique to the island and thousands of people descend on Corfu each year to take part in the festivities. Easter in Corfu kicks off on Palm Sunday with the Procession of Saint Spyridon. This is a vibrant event involving all of Corfu’s bands which has been a feature of the Easter celebrations since 1630. Throughout the Easter celebrations there are processions, music, lighting of candles and other events. The most famous Easter event in Corfu occurs on Easter Saturday and is called the Smashing of the Botides. During this event, huge clay pitchers of water are thrown from balconies to be smashed on the street.

Weather in Corfu Greece

Water equipment hire Issos Beach Corfu Beach, paddle boats and jetskis
Water equipment hire Issos Beach Corfu Beach

Corfu enjoys a warm temperate climate. Its climate is classified as Mediterranean and has mild rainy winters, with average temperature range between 5°C and 14°C in the coldest month of January. Summers last from June to September and are hot and sunny, with the average temperature range between 20°C and 31°C in the hottest month of August. The month with the most rainfall is December with 12.5 days of rain on average and conversely the driest month is July with an average of 2.0 rainy days.

Best time to visit Corfu Greece

The best time to visit Corfu is between May and September, when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. The peak tourist season is between July and August, so expect higher prices and the summer crowds at that time. We visited Corfu in early June and it was already very busy with accommodation hard to find. For pleasant beach weather, lower prices and less crowds, the months of May and September are ideal. However if you want to take part in one of the most famous celebrations in Greece, we recommend visiting Corfu during Orthodox Easter to witness Corfu’s vibrant and unique Easter celebrations.

Internet and mobile phones in Greece

Since June 15th, 2017, Roam Like at Home (RLAT) rules came into force for European Union countries. Due to these rules, people with European Union mobile numbers are no longer charged temporary mobile roaming fees if they travel within the European Union. Consequently if you have a European Union mobile number, you can use that number anywhere within the European Union and you will be charged for calls, texts and data in the same rates as if you were in your home country. There are limits to this in order to prevent abuse of these rules.

There are three major internet and phone companies in Greece – Wind, Cosmote as well as Vodafone.

5G has been in Greece since December 2020. 2G is expected to be switched off in Greece in December 2025 and 3G was switched off in 2023.

Greece is ranked 34th fastest in the world for mobile internet speeds and 102nd fastest for fixed broadband. For Fixed Broadband the average download speed is 50mbps and upload is 9mbps (as at April 2024).

Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in a numbers of places throughout Greece. These include phone stores, from street vendors as well as at airports.

How much to budget for Corfu Greece?

Is Corfu expensive?

Corfu is a popular European beach destination that offers relatively inexpensive travel options. It is cheaper than many other Greek islands like Mykonos. However, it is more expensive than many places in mainland Greece and nearby Albania. To visit Corfu on a budget, you can avoid peak tourist season, stay in budget-friendly accommodation, take public transport or walk to get around and stick to cheap or free activities such as going to the beach. By doing so, you can enjoy the beauty of Corfu without breaking the bank.

Corfu destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Corfu Greece

Smiling couple in water at Moraitika Beach Corfu Beach
Fun in the sun at Moraitika Beach Corfu Beach

As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:

  • Low-budget daily spend – 100 euro per day for a couple will get you budget accommodation, self catering and bakery meals, walking or catching local transport to get around the city and free or cheap activities.
  • Mid-range daily spend – 300 euro per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, walking or catching local transport to get around the city, dining at reasonably priced cafes and restaurants and some paid activities.
  • Luxury spend – 1000 euro per day for a couple will get you a premium experience, staying at high end hotels, travelling by private transport, doing a range paid activities and eating at high end restaurants.

Corfu destination guide: Accommodation in Corfu Greece

There is a good range of accommodation to suit most budgets in Corfu Greece. Airbnb operates in Greece.

Where to stay in Corfu Greece

Corfu is a large island with a number of lovely areas to explore. The choice of where to stay comes down to whether you prefer being in the town area or close to the beach. If beaches are more your style, there are plenty of different options which cater to various preferences.

Corfu Town is great for those that want to be close to amenities and historical sites. Corfu airport as well as the main ferry terminal are within easy reach of Corfu Town, making it easy to get to. It’s also well connected to other parts of Corfu by public transport, making it a convenient option for exploring the island.

Agios Georgios is a beautiful village in the north of Corfu. It is a peaceful area with beautiful beaches and a relaxed vibe. It is perfect for families and those after a quiet spot to enjoy nature and a slower pace of life.

Sidari is a popular beach resort in the north of Corfu. It has picturesque sandy beaches surrounded by turquoise water and dramatic rock formations. Sidari has a lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. It generally attracts budget travellers and a younger demographic.

Benitses is a small beach town offering bars and restaurants and a lively atmosphere. It is located on the eastern side of Corfu, less than 30 minutes drive south of Corfu Town. Its proximity to Corfu Town makes it a popular option for those wanting a beach vacation whilst still having easy access to the amenities of Corfu Town.

Messonghi has a long sandy beach and a number of excellent luxury hotels. It is located on the eastern side of Corfu, halfway between Corfu’s two ports.

Best places to stay in Corfu Town

We recommend the following accommodation in Corfu Town:

  • Best hotel in Corfu Town – The Consulate is in a prime location opposite the historic old fort and close to restaurants as well as the waterfront. The property is spacious, modern, clean and nicely decorated. Additionally, the management team provides top-level service, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.
  • Best furnished apartments in Corfu Town – Nostalgia Corfu Town Apartments offers spotlessly clean apartments in a convenient location close to the airport and the bus terminal. The apartments are well-equipped include plenty of thoughtful little touches to make you feel right at home. Additionally, the host is very friendly and accommodating.
Best beach accommodation in Corfu

We recommend the following accommodation near the beach in Corfu:

  • Best campsite in Corfu – Camping Village Dionysus is a lovely campsite north of Corfu Town. It has a pool onsite and is also within walking distance of the beach. The facilities are clean with good toilet and shower facilities. You can camp under the shade of 400-year-old olive trees or stay in one of their bungalows. There are also a few restaurants nearby and a bar onsite.
  • Best hostel in Corfu – Angelica’s Backpacker’s Hostel is a peaceful family-run hostel with warm and welcoming hosts. The hostel is near a small beach in a relaxing area near Sidari. The rooms are clean and spacious and has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
  • Best budget hotel in Corfu – Sunlight Hotel is in an amazing location close to Benitses Beach. The owner is very friendly and knowledgeable about the area, providing great recommendations for things to do and see. The property has amazing sea views and also has views of the mountains. The rooms are neat and clean with everything you need for a comfortable stay. They also provide umbrellas and sunbeds free for guests to use.
  • Best boutique hotel in Corfu – Eleals Boutique Hotel is a fantastic hotel with 1st class hospitality, delicious food and a stunning location. Located 15 minutes drive from Corfu Town, it is close enough to enjoy the city but far enough from the crowds to relax.
  • Best luxury hotel in Corfu – Nido is a luxury 5-star hotel with its own private beach. The main pool area is really nice and some rooms also have their own private pool. The staff go out of their way to ensure you have an enjoyable experience and the food is amazing. It is the perfect place for an adults only getaway. This hotel is located on the east coast of Corfu, halfway between Benitses and Messonghi.

How much is accommodation in Corfu Greece?

Studio Apartment Airbnb Corfu Greece
Studio Apartment Airbnb Corfu Greece

Corfu is a popular summer destination and consequently prices will vary depending on the season.

For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:

  • Budget accommodation – 23-25 euro for a dorm
  • Mid-range accommodation – 40-130 euro for a private room
  • Luxury accommodation – 130-450 euro a night for a luxury hotel
  • Rental property – 60-600 euro a night for a fully furnished 3-4 bedroom home

Corfu destination guide: Food in Corfu Greece

Being on the water, seafood is very popular in Corfu.

How much does food cost in Corfu Greece?

Pork Souvlaki from Pane e Souvlaki Corfu Greece
Pork Souvlaki from Pane e Souvlaki Corfu Greece

Our price guide for your food budget in Corfu Greece is as follows (prices as at 2022):

  • Restaurant meal – 10-40 euro for a main dish
  • Bakery food (bread/pastry/cakes) – 1-2.50 euro
  • Glass of wine – 3-10 euro
  • Coffee – 2-4 euro

Couvert charge for restaurants in Greece

Greek outdoor dining at Bougainvillea restaurant Platia Dimarchiou Park Corfu Old Town Greece
Platia Dimarchiou Park Corfu Greece

Most restaurants will charge a couvert charge if you are dining in. This cover charge is usually around 1-3 euro, but may be higher in touristy areas. It is a fixed per person charge and covers things like table linen, tableware as well as bread.

Service charge for restaurants in Greece

Some restaurants also charge a service charge. This service charge is generally around 5-15%. The service charge is instead of a tip. If you see a service charge listed on the bill, there is no need to leave an additional tip.

Regional dishes in Corfu Greece

Pastitsada from Enjoy Fast Food Corfu Greece, Greek food, meat and pasta
Pastitsada from Enjoy Fast Food Corfu Greece

  • Pastitsada (Pazztisada) – traditionally served on special occasions, this is a hearty red wine stew with rooster or beef that is served with pasta.
  • Sofrito – a popular Corfu dish. Sofrito is both the dish and also the cooking style – to “slowly fry”. Originally a Venetian dish, but a Corfiot variation. Corfiot Sofrito slow fries beef with plenty of garlic. Kakavilia is a type of garlic from Corfu with small bulbs and red/purple skin.
  • Fish Bianco – fish in white wine on top of potatoes that have first been fried in garlic and olive oil.
  • Veal Fricando
  • Zorka (vegetarian pies)
  • Fish Bourdeto – fish soup invented by fisherman as a way to use up unsold fish.
  • Pork Dolcegarbo – slow cooked pork slowly with onions, rosemary white wine and spices, with rice, polenta or potatoes.
  • Beef liver alla Veneziana – this is a Corfu version of a Venetian fried liver dish. The Corfiot version uses olive oil as well as butter.
  • Sikomaida – Corfiot Dessert.
Sofrito from Enjoy Fast Food Corfu Greece
Sofrito from Enjoy Fast Food Corfu Greece

Other traditional Greek dishes found in Corfu

  • Moussaka
  • Mussels Saganaki
  • Rabbit Stifado
  • Cheese Saganaki
  • Souvlaki & Gyros
Gyros from Ranis Dreamfood at Moraitika Beach Corfu Greece
Nothing better than gyros at the beach!

Cheap Eats in Corfu Greece

  • Souvlaki and gyros are our go to cheap eats option in Greece. Expect to pay around 5-6 euro per serving (prices as at 2022).

Corfu Greece culture

Greece national holidays

  • New Year’s Day – 1 January
  • Epiphany – 6 January
  • Clean Monday – 1st day of lent for Orthodox Christians, typically March or April
  • Independence Day – 25 March
  • Orthodox Good Friday – typically in April or May.
  • Orthodox Easter Monday – the Monday after Easter Day, typically in April or May.
  • Labour Day – 1 May
  • The Ochi Day (Mera tu Ochi) – 28 October
  • Christmas Day – 25 December
  • St Stephen’s Day – 26 December

National symbols of Greece

Messonghi Beach Corfu Greece
Messonghi Beach Corfu Greece
  • Greece flag – a sky blue and white flag with nine equal alternating stripes of five blue and four white. In the upper hoist-side corner there is a blue square bearing a white cross.
  • Greece coat of arms – a white cross on the blue shield surrounded by two laurel branches.
  • National flower – laurel
  • National bird – little owl
  • Greece national animal – dolphin

Greece pastimes

  • National dish – moussaka
  • Popular drinks – ouzo, Ellinikos Kaffés (Greek coffee), frappe, Greek wine
  • National sport – football (soccer)
  • Religion – 90% Greek Orthodox, 3% Other Christians, 2% Islam (as at 2017)

Famous people from Corfu Greece

  • Famous people born in Corfu Greece – Prince Philip, singer Sakis Rouvas, actress Electra Nikolouzou, actress Sofia Aliberti, actress Rena Vlahopoulou, actress and politician Antzela Gerekou
  • Sports stars from Corfu Greece – pole vaulter Sakis Rouvas, Olympic sailor Spyros Bonas, basketball player Linos Chrysikopoulos, Olympic long jumper Dimitrios Delifotis, rower Spyridon Kalentzis, footballer Nikos Kritikos, Olympic shooter Nikolaos Levidis, Olympic gymnast Louisa Pouli, basketball player Gaios Skordilis

Is Corfu Greece Safe?

Greece travel guide: Safety in Greece

Beach loungers at Moraitika Beach Corfu Greece, straw umbrellas, sandy beach, mountains in background
Beach loungers at Moraitika Beach Corfu Greece

We travelled through Greece for two weeks and found the country to be extremely safe. Greece ranks 60th safest country on the Global Peace Index (as at 2024). As with any country, there are good areas and bad areas. Watch out for pickpockets particularly at crowded tourist attractions. Make sure no-one is watching whenever you are entering pin codes and never lose sight of your credit card when making a purchase.

Greece travel guide: General safety tips for Greece

Other general safety considerations for travel in Greece:

  • Drinking water – the tap water in Greece is safe to drink in most major cities in mainland Greece. However tap water quality varies throughout Greece, particularly on the islands. If in doubt, ask at your accommodation.
  • Mosquitoes – the tiger mosquito has been found in Greece. This type of mosquito spreads diseases such as Zika, dengue and chikunguya. After being eradicated in 1974, malaria returned to Greece in 2011. It is generally limited to May to October and only in some agricultural areas.
  • Altitude sickness – Greece has areas of high altitude. This comes with the risk of altitude sickness. If you are planning to visit any high altitude areas in Greece, be sure to allow sufficient time to acclimatise. If you experience any signs of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite or shortness of breath, get help immediately.
  • Road safety – Road accidents are a significant risk on Greece. Road conditions are an issue, particularly in rural areas as well as in inclement weather conditions.
  • Water safety – If you visit any of the islands, coastal areas or lakes, take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect.
  • Earthquakes – Greece experiences earthquake activity. If you experience an earthquake, stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls and anything that could fall. If you are inside get under a table, desk or solid furniture and hang onto it. Cover your head and torso to protect from falling objects. If you are outside, stay outside and go to an open area away from buildings.
  • Sun safety – Exposure to the sun can have adverse short-term and long-term effects on the skin, eyes and immune system. Sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important to ensure you don’t get burnt.

As with any destination, take all of your normal safety precautions.

Greece Blogs

You can find our Greece travel blogs below.

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Row of white beach umbrellas at Moraitika Beach Corfu Greece

Corfu Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Beautiful beaches with crystal clear water, charming old towns and villages and mouth watering local food – Corfu has all ...

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