Corfu may be an island, but getting around it requires a bit of planning. From winding mountain roads to charming coastal paths, the island offers several transport options to suit every budget and travel style. Whether you prefer the freedom of a rental car, the affordability of public buses, or the adventure of a scooter, this complete guide covers everything you need to know about navigating Corfu.
In This Guide
Getting Around Corfu - An Overview
Corfu stretches roughly 60 kilometres from north to south and 30 kilometres at its widest point. While these distances might seem manageable, the island's mountainous terrain and winding roads mean that a journey of 30 kilometres can easily take 45 minutes to an hour by car. The road network has improved significantly in recent years, but many secondary roads remain narrow and occasionally challenging for nervous drivers.
Corfu Town, located roughly in the middle of the east coast, serves as the transport hub. Both the Green Bus (intercity) and Blue Bus (urban) networks radiate outward from the town, and most taxi ranks are concentrated here. The airport is just two kilometres south of the town centre, making initial transfers straightforward.
Your choice of transport will largely depend on how you want to experience the island. If you plan to stick to one resort and the occasional organised excursion, buses and taxis may suffice. But if you dream of discovering hidden beaches, hilltop villages, and roadside tavernas that guidebooks rarely mention, a rental car transforms your Corfu holiday from good to unforgettable.
1 Car Rental - The Best Way to Explore
Renting a car is overwhelmingly the best way to explore Corfu. The island has a well-developed road network, and having your own vehicle means you can reach the most beautiful and remote spots that public transport simply cannot access. Imagine stumbling upon a tiny taverna in a mountain village, or finding a deserted beach down an unmarked dirt track - these are the moments that make a Corfu holiday truly special, and they are only possible with your own wheels.
Car rental prices in Corfu are reasonable by European standards. In high season (July and August), expect to pay between 25 and 50 euros per day for a small car such as a Fiat Panda or Hyundai i10. During the shoulder season (May, June, September, and October), prices drop to around 15 to 30 euros per day. Booking in advance online through reputable comparison sites typically secures better rates than walking into a rental office at the airport.
Most rental companies offer basic insurance included in the price, but this usually comes with an excess of 500 to 1,500 euros. Full coverage with zero excess costs around 10 to 15 euros extra per day and is well worth the peace of mind, especially given some of Corfu's narrow and occasionally potholed roads. Always check whether your credit card offers rental car insurance as an included benefit.
You will find rental offices at the airport, in Corfu Town, and in most major resorts. International chains like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar are present, but local companies such as Top Cars, Sunrise, and International Rent a Car often offer better prices and more personal service. A standard EU driving licence is accepted; non-EU visitors should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence.
Best for: Anyone wanting to explore the whole island at their own pace. Particularly recommended for families, couples on romantic getaways, and adventurous travellers.
2 Public Buses - Green Bus & Blue Bus
Corfu has two distinct bus networks, and understanding the difference between them is the first step to using public transport effectively on the island.
The Blue Bus (Astiko KTEL) operates urban and suburban routes in and around Corfu Town. These buses run frequently, roughly every 15 to 30 minutes during the day, and cover destinations within about 10 kilometres of the town centre. Routes include Kanoni, Achilleion Palace, Perama, Benitses, Gouvia, and Dassia. Fares are very cheap, typically between 1.00 and 1.50 euros. The Blue Bus station is located at San Rocco Square in Corfu Town.
The Green Bus (Yperartiko KTEL) handles longer intercity routes across the entire island. Green Buses connect Corfu Town with destinations such as Paleokastritsa, Sidari, Kassiopi, Kavos, Glyfada, Agios Gordios, and Roda. The Green Bus station is located on Ioannis Theotoki Avenue (commonly known as the New Port area) in Corfu Town. Fares range from about 2 to 5 euros depending on distance.
During peak summer (June to September), Green Bus services run several times daily to popular destinations. Paleokastritsa, for example, might have five or six departures per day. However, less popular routes may only have one or two buses daily, and services are significantly reduced outside the summer season. Always check the current timetable at the bus station or on the KTEL Corfu website before planning a journey.
Buses are generally comfortable, air-conditioned, and run on time. Buy tickets at the bus station, from the driver (exact change helps), or at some local kiosks. There is no tap-and-go card system - it is a simple cash-for-ticket operation.
Best for: Budget travellers, solo backpackers, and visitors staying in Corfu Town who want day trips to specific destinations without the cost of a rental car.
3 Taxis & Private Transfers
Corfu's taxis are silver-coloured cars with a TAXI sign on the roof. Metered fares start at around 3.50 euros, with a rate of approximately 1.00 to 1.20 euros per kilometre during the day. Between midnight and 5 AM, fares increase by about 60 percent. There are also fixed surcharges for airport pickups (around 3 euros) and port pickups.
To give you an idea of typical costs: the airport to Corfu Town centre runs about 10 to 15 euros, Corfu Town to Paleokastritsa is around 30 to 40 euros, and Corfu Town to Sidari in the north costs approximately 50 to 60 euros. These are indicative one-way fares and may vary slightly based on traffic and exact pickup/drop-off locations.
The main taxi rank in Corfu Town is located at the Spianada (Esplanade) near the Liston. You can also find taxis at the airport, the port, and at major hotels. In smaller villages and beaches, you will usually need to call for a taxi rather than hailing one on the street. Ask your hotel or restaurant to call one for you - they will know the local numbers.
During peak season, particularly late at night, taxis can be in high demand and you may face a wait. Pre-booking is highly recommended for airport transfers and special occasions. Several private transfer companies operate on the island and can be booked online, often at fixed prices that compare favourably with metered taxi fares for longer journeys.
Ride-hailing apps like Uber do not operate in Corfu. However, the local "Welcome Pickups" and similar services offer pre-booked transfers with English-speaking drivers, fixed prices, and the ability to book online or through their app.
Best for: Airport transfers, evening outings when you want to enjoy a drink, and occasional day trips when a rental car is not practical.
4 Scooters & ATV Rental
Scooters and ATVs (quad bikes) are a popular way to get around Corfu, particularly among younger travellers and those visiting from countries where two-wheeled transport is common. They are cheaper than cars, easier to park, and undeniably fun on a sunny day with the wind in your hair.
A 50cc scooter, suitable for flat roads and short distances, costs around 15 to 20 euros per day. A 125cc scooter, powerful enough for Corfu's hills, runs about 20 to 30 euros per day. ATVs are slightly more expensive at 25 to 35 euros per day. Most rentals include a helmet (which is legally required and enforced) and basic insurance.
However, a word of serious caution: Corfu's roads can be treacherous for two-wheeled vehicles. Loose gravel on bends, potholes, oil slicks, narrow roads with no hard shoulder, and unpredictable local traffic all contribute to making scooter riding significantly more dangerous than driving a car. Every summer, Corfu's hospital treats dozens of tourists with scooter-related injuries ranging from road rash to broken bones.
If you do choose to rent a scooter or ATV, always wear a helmet, never ride after drinking alcohol, avoid riding at night, and be extremely careful on unfamiliar mountain roads. Ensure your travel insurance specifically covers motorcycle and ATV use, as many standard policies exclude them.
Best for: Experienced riders comfortable with challenging road conditions who want a budget-friendly and adventurous way to explore.
5 Boat Taxis & Water Transport
One of the most delightful ways to get around parts of Corfu is by water. Small boat taxis and water taxis operate from several locations along the coast, offering a scenic alternative to road transport and providing access to beaches and coves that are difficult or impossible to reach by land.
In the Paleokastritsa area, small boats run regular services between the main beach and hidden coves like Paradise Beach and other remote swimming spots. These typically cost 5 to 15 euros per person for a round trip. From Liapades, you can hire small motorboats (no licence required for boats under a certain horsepower) for around 40 to 80 euros per day, allowing you to explore the spectacular coastline at your own pace.
On the northeast coast, boat taxis connect Kassiopi with Kouloura and other small harbours, and from Corfu Town you can take boats to Vidos Island, the small island visible just offshore. Various companies also offer day trips to the nearby islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, as well as the Greek mainland coast.
For a truly memorable experience, consider hiring a traditional caique (wooden fishing boat) for a half-day or full-day excursion. These can be arranged through local captains in most harbour villages and typically include a skipper who knows the best swimming spots and hidden caves.
Best for: Accessing hidden beaches, scenic coastal travel, day trips to nearby islands, and anyone who loves being on the water.
6 Walking & Cycling
Corfu Town is wonderfully walkable. The historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is best explored on foot through its narrow Venetian alleyways, past elegant arcaded buildings, and along the dramatic seafront fortifications. Most of the town's attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance of each other, and the pedestrianised streets of the Liston area are a pleasure to stroll.
Outside the towns, walking takes on a different character. The Corfu Trail, a 220-kilometre long-distance path running the length of the island from south to north, passes through olive groves, mountain villages, coastal paths, and ancient woodlands. You do not need to walk the entire trail - many sections make excellent day walks. The stretch from Pelekas to Liapades, for example, offers stunning west coast views.
Cycling is possible but not widely practised by tourists due to Corfu's hilly terrain and the lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure. Mountain bikes can be rented in some resorts for around 8 to 15 euros per day. Electric bikes, which make the hills much more manageable, are becoming increasingly available at around 20 to 30 euros per day. The relatively flat areas around the Ropa Valley in central Corfu and the northern coastal roads offer the most pleasant cycling conditions.
Be aware that Corfu's roads generally do not have cycle lanes or wide shoulders, so cycling on main roads requires confidence and caution, particularly during the busy summer months when traffic increases significantly.
Best for: Exploring Corfu Town, hiking enthusiasts, fitness-minded travellers, and those who want to experience the island at a slower pace.
Essential Driving Tips for Corfu
Drive on the right: Greece drives on the right side of the road. If you are from a country that drives on the left (such as the UK), take extra care at junctions and roundabouts, particularly in the first few hours of driving.
Narrow roads: Many roads outside the main highways are extremely narrow, sometimes barely wide enough for two cars to pass. On single-track roads, there is an unwritten rule that the vehicle going uphill has priority. Use your horn gently on blind bends to alert oncoming traffic.
Parking in Corfu Town: Finding parking in Corfu Town can be a real challenge, especially in summer. Use the paid public car parks near the New Port or the Spianada. Avoid parking in unmarked spots - you risk a fine or being towed.
Petrol stations: Fill up when you can. Stations outside Corfu Town may close on Sundays, public holidays, and after 8 PM on weekdays. The island is not large, but running out of fuel on a mountain road would be very inconvenient.
Watch for hazards: Stray cats and dogs, goats, fallen rocks, and potholes are all common hazards on Corfu's roads. Local drivers can be unpredictable - double parking, sudden stops, and creative overtaking are all part of the experience. Drive defensively and keep your speed moderate.
Speed limits: Generally 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on the brief stretch of dual carriageway near the airport. Speed cameras exist on the main road between Corfu Town and the airport.
Transport Cost Comparison
To help you budget for your Corfu holiday, here is a rough comparison of transport costs for a typical week-long stay covering moderate exploration of the island.
Rental car (7 days): 175 to 350 euros (including fuel and basic insurance). This gives you complete freedom to visit any beach, village, or restaurant on the island whenever you want. Fuel costs approximately 1.80 to 2.00 euros per litre, and a week of moderate driving will use about 30 to 40 euros of petrol.
Buses only (7 days): 20 to 40 euros total. The cheapest option, but you will be limited to destinations on bus routes and constrained by timetables. Evening activities will require taxis for the return journey since most bus services end by early evening.
Taxis only (7 days): 200 to 400 euros if you take two or three trips per day. Convenient but adds up quickly, especially for longer distances. Not practical for spontaneous exploration.
Scooter (7 days): 105 to 210 euros (including fuel). Cheaper than a car but with significantly higher risk. Not suitable for carrying beach equipment, shopping, or more than two people.
For most visitors, particularly those staying outside Corfu Town at properties like Ef Zin Villa in Skripero, a rental car represents the best balance of cost, convenience, and freedom. You will spend less time waiting for buses and more time actually enjoying the island's incredible beaches, villages, and landscapes.
Getting from the Airport to Your Accommodation
Corfu's Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU) is conveniently located just two kilometres south of Corfu Town centre. Depending on where you are staying, you have several options for the transfer from the airport to your accommodation.
A taxi from the airport to Corfu Town costs around 10 to 15 euros and takes about 10 minutes. For destinations further afield, such as Paleokastritsa, Kassiopi, or Sidari, expect to pay between 30 and 70 euros. Pre-booking a private transfer is recommended, especially during peak season when the taxi queue at the airport can be long.
The Blue Bus number 15 runs between the airport and Corfu Town's San Rocco Square approximately every 20 to 30 minutes during the day, and costs just 1.50 euros. From San Rocco Square, you can connect to Green Bus services for onward travel to most parts of the island.
If you have pre-booked a rental car, most companies will have a representative waiting for you at the airport arrivals hall. The main rental car offices are located just outside the airport perimeter, a short shuttle ride away. Having a car from the moment you arrive eliminates the hassle of coordinating transfers and allows you to start exploring immediately.
Your Corfu Adventure Starts at Ef Zin Villa
Nestled in the countryside village of Skripero, Ef Zin Villa is perfectly positioned for exploring every corner of Corfu. West coast beaches, mountain villages, and Corfu Town are all within easy reach by car.
View Villa & Book Your StayFrequently Asked Questions
While you can get by without a car using buses and taxis, renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore beyond Corfu Town and the main resorts. Many of the island's best beaches, villages, and viewpoints are difficult or impossible to reach by public transport. A car gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems at your own pace.
Car rental in Corfu typically costs between 25-50 euros per day for a small car in high season (July-August), and 15-30 euros per day in shoulder season (May-June, September-October). Prices include basic insurance. Booking in advance online usually gives better rates than walking into a rental office. Full insurance with zero excess costs around 10-15 euros extra per day.
The Green Bus (KTEL) network serving the island is generally reliable during summer season, running on published schedules. However, services are less frequent outside peak months and some remote areas only have one or two buses per day. The Blue Bus urban service in and around Corfu Town runs more frequently. Always check current timetables at the bus station or online, as schedules change seasonally.
Taxi fares in Corfu start at around 3.50 euros with a rate of approximately 1-1.20 euros per kilometre. A taxi from the airport to Corfu Town centre costs around 10-15 euros. From Corfu Town to Paleokastritsa expect to pay 30-40 euros, and to Sidari around 50-60 euros. Fares increase by about 60 percent between midnight and 5 AM. Always confirm the approximate fare before starting your journey.
Drive on the right side of the road. Many roads outside the main highways are narrow and winding with limited guardrails. Be cautious of scooters, stray animals, and locals who may drive unpredictably. Parking in Corfu Town is challenging so use the public car parks. Petrol stations close on Sundays and evenings outside Corfu Town. An international driving permit is recommended for non-EU licence holders.