How to get to Corfu

The picturesque island of Corfu (Kerkyra), washed by the waters of the Ionian Sea, is a true gem taken pride in by sunny Greece. This resort, with its rich Venetian heritage and emerald nature, attracts travelers wishing to combine a relaxed beach holiday with cultural discoveries. You can get here in various ways: by a direct flight from Europe or by using a ferry crossing from the mainland part of the country.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the island is to fly into the international Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport. The air hub is located just a few kilometers from the capital, ensuring easy and quick access to the main resort areas immediately upon arrival.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider a flight to nearby airports on the mainland, for example, in the cities of Ioannina or Preveza. From there, the journey will continue via ground transport to the port, where a ferry to Corfu will be waiting for you.

On the island of Corfu itself, railway connection is completely absent, so it is impossible to get here exclusively by train. The railway network in this mountainous region of the country is poorly developed, and there are no stations even in the nearest major cities, such as Ioannina.

For tourists who prefer trains, it is recommended to travel to major junction stations in the central part of the country, and then transfer to an intercity bus heading to the Ionian Sea coast. The final stage of such a route will always be a ferry crossing.

Bus service is a popular and budget-friendly option to reach the port of Igoumenitsa, from where ferries depart for the island. From the city of Preveza, the road to the coast will take about 3 hours, covering a distance of around 110 km.

The route from the city of Ioannina is also very much in demand among tourists: buses travel 149 km along a scenic highway in approximately 2–2.5 hours, delivering passengers directly to the ferry terminal. This is significantly faster and more convenient than complex transfers, making the journey to Corfu comfortable and untiring.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the views on the way to the crossing. The drive from the city of Ioannina to the port will take about 2.5 hours (distance ~118 km), making this route one of the most time-efficient. From Preveza, the journey of 125 km will take just under 3 hours.

For tourists departing from the more distant Kastoria, the road will stretch for approximately 4 hours (about 266 km). In any case, the final point of the road trip will be the ferry at the port of Igoumenitsa, which will transport you and your vehicle to Corfu.

To ensure your holiday on the island of Corfu is as comfortable and carefree as possible, we have prepared a list of important recommendations considering local features.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The climate here is mild Mediterranean: in summer, wear light clothes made of natural fabrics and a head covering. A light wrap may be useful for evening walks by the sea, and comfortable flat shoes are essential for excursions through the cobbled streets of the old town.
2. Transport. To explore secluded beaches, it is best to rent a car. Additionally, "Green" buses (KTEL) operate on the island for intercity trips, and "Blue" ones for moving around the capital and nearest suburbs.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, but it is better to carry cash for paying bus fares or making purchases in small souvenir stalls.
4. Health. The sun on the island is active, so be sure to use cream with high SPF. Pharmacies are easy to find by the green cross ("Farmakeio"), where you can buy everything you need.
5. Language. Locals speak Greek, but in tourist zones, the staff speaks excellent English. Learn a couple of words, for example, "Kalimera" (good morning), to show respect for the culture.
6. Dress Code in Sacred Sites. When visiting the numerous monasteries and churches, modesty should be observed: shoulders and knees must be covered.
7. Tap Water. Drinking water from the tap is not recommended as it may have a distinctive taste. It is better to buy bottled water in supermarkets.
8. Local Delicacy. Be sure to try kumquat sweets and preserves — this miniature citrus is a gastronomic symbol of the island.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Greek hospitality.