Travel tips · Corfu · Greece
Corfu travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: StefanosKozanis, Public domain
Quick answer
Corfu was never ruled by the Ottomans; instead it was Venetian for about four centuries, then French and British, before joining Greece in 1864. That history shows in its architecture, Catholic churches, cricket, ginger beer and spiced dishes. The island has a strong musical tradition of philharmonic bands, and Orthodox Easter in Corfu Town is one of the most famous in Greece.
Key facts
- Language
- Greek
- Currency
- EUR
- Plugs
- Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is generally considered safe in Corfu Town, but quality varies by…
- Emergency
- 112 (European emergency number)
Things to know
- Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches and monasteries.
- Say 'Kalimera' (good morning) or 'Kalispera' (good evening) when entering shops and tavernas.
- Don't wear swimwear away from the beach, in town or in shops.
- Ask before photographing people in villages and during religious processions.
- Keep noise down in villages during the afternoon rest period.
- Corfu Town's old lanes, the Spianada, Kanoni, Mon Repos park and most beaches are free.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but modest: round up the bill or leave 5–10% for good service in restaurants, and round up taxi fares.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Kalimera | Good morning |
| Efharisto | Thank you |
| Parakalo | Please / you're welcome |
| To logariasmo, parakalo | The bill, please |
| Yamas | Cheers |
What to wear
Light summer clothes, sun hat and sandals in summer; a cover-up for churches and monasteries; layers and a rain jacket from November to March.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is generally considered safe in Corfu Town, but quality varies by area and many people drink bottled water.
- Emergency number
- 112 (European emergency number)
- Phone and internet
- Mobile coverage is good across most of the island; near the north-east coast, phones may connect to Albanian networks, so check roaming settings.
- Time zone
- Europe/Athens
Corfu is relaxed for visitors. The main risks are summer heat, sunburn, steep and winding roads (especially on scooters and quad bikes) and pickpocketing in crowded old-town lanes at peak times. Some west-coast beaches have strong waves on windy days.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Greece's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Corfu?
Tipping is appreciated but modest: round up the bill or leave 5–10% for good service in restaurants, and round up taxi fares.
+Can you drink the tap water in Corfu?
Tap water is generally considered safe in Corfu Town, but quality varies by area and many people drink bottled water.
+What plugs are used in Corfu?
Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Corfu?
Greek.