Corfu, Greece

Explore the Enchantment of Corfu, Greece

Corfu, a lush island in the Ionian Sea, is a treasure trove of history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Visiting Corfu on a cruise is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the beauty of this Greek paradise. Fun fact: Corfu is famous for its charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which offers a blend of Venetian, French, and British architectural styles!

Activities and Attractions in Corfu, Greece

Once your cruise docks in Corfu, there’s a plethora of activities waiting to delight you:

• Explore the Old Fortress: Head to the iconic Old Fortress, perched on a hill and providing breathtaking views of the island. Wander through this historic site, which dates back to the 16th century, and admire its unique architecture.
• Stroll through Corfu Town: Discover the picturesque streets of Corfu Town, filled with vibrant shops, charming cafes, and local markets. Don’t miss the Liston Promenade, where you can enjoy a coffee while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
• Visit Achilleion Palace: Take a short drive to see the stunning Achilleion Palace, built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Explore lush gardens and admire the beautiful artworks depicting Greek mythology.
• Relax on the Beaches: Spend some time unwinding on one of Corfu's beautiful beaches such as Paleokastritsa or Glyfada, known for their crystal-clear waters and stunning backdrops perfect for sunbathing or swimming.
• Enjoy Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Greek dishes at local tavernas. Be sure to try sofrito, pastitsada, and the island's famous olives, all paired with fresh local wine.

Nearby Harbours to Enhance Your Itinerary

As you sail to Corfu, you may also visit these nearby harbours:

• Kotor, Montenegro: This stunning coastal town is surrounded by dramatic mountains and historic architecture. Explore its UNESCO-listed old town and hike to the fortress for breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: One of the most beautiful cities in the world, known for its well-preserved medieval walls. Explore the Old Town, stroll along Stradun, and enjoy panoramic views from the city walls.
• Venice, Italy: Renowned for its canals and historic landmarks, Venice is a city like no other. Visit iconic sites such as St. Mark’s Basilica, the Grand Canal, and enjoy a gondola ride through its enchanting waterways.
• Naples, Italy: A vibrant city known for its rich history, delicious pizza, and proximity to historic sites such as Pompeii and the stunning Amalfi Coast. Explore the bustling streets and immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Piraeus (Athens), Greece: As the main port of Athens, Piraeus offers easy access to the ancient wonders of Athens, including the Acropolis and Parthenon. Spend a day wandering the historic streets filled with shops and cafes.

Regions to Explore While Visiting Corfu, Greece

Your cruise journey will connect you to exciting regions:

• Mediterranean Sea: A beautiful region rich in history and culture, the Mediterranean features stunning coastline and beloved destinations such as Italy, Spain, and Greece, each offering unique experiences for all types of travelers.
• Africa: With diverse cultures and landscapes, Africa includes amazing destinations like Morocco, South Africa, and Egypt, perfect for exploring ancient civilizations and tasting rich cuisines.
• Caribbean: Known for its lush islands and stunning beaches, the Caribbean offers an array of destinations like the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Barbados, ideal for relaxation and adventure.
• South America: This vast continent is home to stunning nature, vibrant cities, and rich traditions. Explore countries like Brazil and Argentina, where you can discover amazing landscapes and local culture.
• British Isles: Featuring stunning historic sites and beautiful natural scenery, the British Isles include destinations like England, Scotland, and Ireland, each with its unique charm and history.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Corfu, Greece

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17, Princess Cruises operates 4 ships, including Sun Princess and Enchanted Princess, visiting Corfu regularly. Departures typically occur from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Athens. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere and diverse onboard entertainment, Princess Cruises offer a variety of dining experiences to suit every taste.
• Cunard: Operating a fleet of 4, Cunard offers 2 ships, Queen Victoria and Queen Anne, with itineraries that include Corfu. Most cruises depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona. Cunard is renowned for its elegance, offering luxurious experiences, exquisite dining, and a superb level of service throughout the journey.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC Cruises operates 5 ships, including MSC Opera and MSC Fantasia, that visit Corfu. Departures most often occur from Bari or Venice. MSC is known for its family-friendly offerings, vibrant onboard activities, and diverse dining options catered to everyone.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 12, Holland America operates 2 ships, Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam, visiting Corfu, departing mainly from Athens or Barcelona. Holland America is recognized for its premium cruise experience, offering enriching shore excursions and fine dining experiences.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7, P&O Cruises has 4 ships including Azura and Aurora visiting Corfu. These cruises often depart from Valletta or Southampton. P&O provides a traditional cruising experience, ideal for families and couples alike, with plenty of onboard activities and relaxation options.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Operating 11 ships, Viking has 7 vessels offering itineraries to Corfu, including Viking Sea and Viking Star. Departures most commonly occur from Athens or Venice. Viking is famed for its cultural enrichment programs and destination-focused itineraries that provide immersive local experiences.
• Seabourn: Offering a fleet of 6, Seabourn operates 2 ships, Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest, that visit Corfu, primarily departing from Athens or Fusina (Venice). Seabourn specializes in luxurious experiences with a high level of personalized service and all-inclusive excursions.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With a fleet size of 6, Regent operates 5 ships featuring itineraries to Corfu, including Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Splendor. Departures most often occur from Istanbul or Venice. Regent Seven Seas Cruises stand out for their all-inclusive luxury experience, offering exceptional dining and immersive shore excursions.

Visiting Corfu, Greece Throughout the Year

What about the seasonal weather? Here’s what to expect during your visit:

• Summer (June, July, August): Expect warm temperatures from 21°C to 33°C, making it an ideal time for beach activities and outdoor exploration. This is peak tourist season, so plan accordingly for crowded attractions.
• Autumn (September, October, November): With milder temperatures ranging from 16°C to 28°C, autumn provides beautiful fall colors and less crowded attractions, creating a pleasant time to explore the island.
• Winter (December, January, February): Winter offers cooler temperatures of around 9°C to 17°C. Though it's off-peak season, Corfu remains charming, and this period is great for experiencing local life without the usual crowds.
• Spring (March, April, May): Spring brings mild temperatures from 12°C to 25°C. As the pre-cursing period unfolds, flora blossoms, and outdoor activities amid stunning landscapes become increasingly enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions about Corfu, Greece

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

Cruises to Corfu typically range from $1,300 to $4,000 for a one-week itinerary, while luxury options can exceed $7,000, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation chosen.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining usually costs between $15 and $50 for casual meals, while specialty dining options may reach $80 or more per person.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Corfu offers incredible dining options, from local tavernas serving traditional Greek dishes to upscale restaurants featuring Mediterranean cuisine. Shopping in Corfu Town includes local markets and artisanal shops for unique souvenirs.

What are transportation options?

Transportation in Corfu includes local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Corfu Town is easily walkable, and many attractions are within close proximity of the harbour.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency used is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to have some cash for smaller shops and local vendors.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Corfu is generally safe for tourists. However, practicing standard travel precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and drinking plenty of water, is wise while exploring.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The official language is Greek, but many locals speak English in tourist areas. Knowing basic Greek phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with the locals.

Ready to explore the enchanting beauty of Corfu? Book your unforgettable cruise holiday through CruiseAway and dive into the rich culture, history, and breathtaking scenery that this stunning Greek island has to offer!