Ferry or Plane? How to Get to Corfu & How to Move Around

In this post, you will learn all the ways available to get to Corfu, how to reach Corfu from abroad, from Athens, and from other Greek islands.

This post has affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Corfu, one of Greece’s Ionian islands, is a top destination if you enjoy beach time, but also history and authentic Greek charm.

However, before diving into its crystal-clear waters or wandering through the old town, you need to figure out how to get there—and how to get around once you arrive.

Here’s your complete guide on getting to Corfu by plane or ferry, including routes from Athens and other Greek islands, plus tips on local transportation.

How to Get to Corfu by Plane

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Corfu, especially during the busy summer months.

International Flights

Corfu International Airport (CFU) -Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport- welcomes direct flights from several European cities during the summer season (April to October).

Major airlines operate regular routes from the UK, Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and more. Low-cost carriers like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air also offer seasonal routes.

Domestic Flights

If you’re already in Greece, you can catch a quick domestic flight to Corfu from Athens. The flight from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Corfu takes about 1 hour. There are multiple daily flights.

Tip: Book early in the high season (June–August) as flights fill up quickly.

How to Get to Corfu by Ferry

Ferries from Mainland Greece

• Igoumenitsa to Corfu: This is the most common and quickest ferry route. The journey takes about 1.5–2 hours, with multiple departures daily. You can travel as a foot passenger or with a vehicle.
• Patras to Corfu: Less frequent and longer (around 6–7 hours), this route connects Corfu with western Greece and can be a convenient stop if you’re coming from the Peloponnese.

Ferry companies such as Kerkyra Seaways and Lefkada Palace operate these routes, and tickets can often be booked online in advance.

Learn how to get to Corfu from Italy

How to Get to Corfu from Athens

Athens isn’t directly connected to Corfu by ferry, so your two main options are a flight or a combination of bus and ferry.

Flight from Athens

As mentioned earlier, a direct flight from Athens to Corfu takes just about an hour. There are multiple daily flights operated by Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Olympic Air.

Bus + Ferry via Igoumenitsa

• Take a KTEL bus from Athens to Igoumenitsa (approx. 6–7 hours).
• Catch a ferry from Igoumenitsa to Corfu (1.5–2 hours).

This is a budget-friendly option, and the bus and ferry schedules are usually well coordinated.

To avoid that hustle and head straight into the boat, buy your ticket online through Ferryhopper. 
Check out ferry ticket fees and schedules here.

How to Get to Corfu from Other Greek Islands

Corfu is part of the Ionian Islands group, and connections to other islands vary depending on the season and island location.

From Paxos

• Paxos is just a short ferry ride away. Regular hydrofoils and ferries take about 1 hour.

From Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos

• While there are no direct ferries between Corfu and these islands, Lefkada Palace offers island-hopping services that connect Corfu with Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos during the summer.
• These routes may stop at other smaller islands and can take several hours, but they offer a scenic journey through the Ionian Sea.

From Cyclades, Crete, or the Dodecanese

• There are no direct ferries to Corfu from islands in the Aegean Sea. You’ll need to transit through the mainland (e.g., Athens or Patras) or fly back to Athens and then onward to Corfu.

How to Move Around Corfu

Once you’re on the island, getting around is relatively easy:

1. Car or Scooter Rental

• Ideal if you want to explore beaches and remote villages.
• Roads are mostly in good condition, and parking is available in most towns.
• Taxis are available but can be pricey.

>> Check out car rental fees for Corfu.

2. Public Buses (KTEL)

• Budget-friendly and reliable.
• Connects major towns and tourist areas like Corfu Town, Paleokastritsa, Kavos, and Sidari.

You can fly in for speed or sail across the Ionian for the views. No matter your favorite wat to travel, getting to Corfu is quite simple and part of the adventure. Travel to Corfu is made easy thanks to travel options and good internal transport.

Pin for Later!
How to Get to Corfu