Corfu
The island of Corfu, best known of the seven Ionian islands that lie off the northwest coast of Greece, differs markedly from the other popular Greek islands because not only is it green and lush, but also very developed with tourist resorts and hotels. Summertime is busy, as there are charter flights arriving daily from European cities, ferries disgorging travellers from Italy, and cruise ships docking.
There is plenty to draw visitors to this magical island, also known as Kerkyra. Modern Corfu Town is upbeat and cosmopolitan, offering an exciting conglomeration of Greek, Italian, French and British influences. The old town was laid out by the Venetians in the 14th century and features narrow alleys lined with multi-storied, pastel-coloured buildings with red tiled roofs, creating a scene reminiscent of Italy. The hub of activity in the town centre is the Liston, an arcaded row of touristy cafes and restaurants, copied from the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.
Most tourists stay in one of the popular beach resorts such as Sidari and Roda in the north, or the party capital, Kavos, on the southern tip of the island. Quieter resorts include Gouvia and San Stefanos. Those wishing to escape from the melee can head for the interior to enjoy some spectacular scenery and greenery. Corfu has 43 different kinds of orchids growing wild in the countryside, and there are countless olive groves. There are dozens unspoilt coves with beaches washed by the sparkling, warm Ionian Sea. It is still possible to search out a secluded bay even in the busy season when the package holiday resorts are awash with tourists.
Climate for Corfu
Corfu’s climate features hot, dry summers and mild winters. Temperatures in the peak summer months range from 90F (32C) during the day to 64F (18C) at night. Rainfall is unlikely, but heavy showers can be expected between September and April. The sea temperature is perfect for swimming between July and October.
Spring is also a good best time to visit as the weather is warm and the landscape is coming alive with wild flowers and new greenery. Some rainfall can be expected, but the brief showers are usually welcome and refreshing. Autumn is another fine time to visit, as days are still balmy and the sea remains fairly warm. Winters are mild and are a good time to visit for those who want to explore Corfu Town without the crowds, or explore mountain villages and the network of paths and trails that run alongside the island’s coast. Winter temperatures range between 41F and 57F (5C and 14C) and there are still plenty of sunny days.
Health Notes when travelling to Greece
There are no specific health risks but everyone 12 years of age and older should get fully vaccinated for COVID-19 before visiting Greece. Most health problems come from too much sun and too much food or alcohol, though there’s also the risk of encountering sea urchins, jellyfish and mosquitoes. Medical facilities in major cities are excellent but some of the smaller islands are a long way from a decent hospital. Larger towns and resorts have English-speaking private doctors and the highly professional local pharmacies can usually deal with any minor complaint. Travellers should take along any necessary prescription medication. Food and water are safe, but those visiting for short periods should consider sticking to bottled water. After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance.
Safety Notes when travelling to Greece
Though Greece is a safe destination, peak tourist season usually sees a spike in petty theft cases, especially in crowded areas. Visitors should conceal valuables or store them in hotel safes and watch out for pickpockets. Violent crime is rare but there have been incidents on some islands; visitors travelling alone should not accept lifts from strangers.
Customs in Greece
Though more traditional than the British in some ways, most Greeks are friendly and welcoming enough to seem intrusive to reserved British tourists. Greeks are also the heaviest smokers in Europe and will often ignore the smoking ban in public places. Swimwear is expected on the beach but tourists should dress properly in bars and restaurants.
Duty Free in Greece
Travellers visiting from inside the EU can bring in 800 cigarettes, or 200 cigars, or 400 cigarillos, or 1kg of tobacco, 10 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume over 22 percent, 20 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume under 22 percent, 90 litres of wine and 110 litres of beer.
Visitors arriving from outside the EU and are over the age of 17 will not pay duty for 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 100 cigarillos, or 250g of tobacco, 1 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume over 22 percent, 2 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume under 22 percent, 4 litres of wine and 16 litres of beer.
Doing Business in Greece
Greeks prefer to dress formally in dark-coloured suits for men and stylish outfits for women. Punctuality is important to them though meetings may not start immediately. Visitors should offer a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when greeting Greek men and women for the first time, and print business cards in both Greek and English. There is no ritual surrounding the exchange of business cards.
As Greeks like getting to know their colleagues before conducting any serious business, it’s unlikely a deal will take shape at the first meeting. The local culture follows a hierarchical structure and visitors should show respect in the same way. Gift giving is common in social settings but not necessarily in business.
Communication in Greece
The international access code for Greece is +30 and the outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Free WiFi is available at cafes, hotels, restaurants and similar establishments throughout Greece; purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option to paying high international roaming costs.
Tipping in Greece
A service charge is automatically added to most restaurant bills and an additional tip is not expected, though it’s always welcome. Rounding up the bill is sufficient for drinks at cafes; taxis, porters and cloakroom attendants will expect a tip.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries.
Non-EEA travellers to Greece must hold visible means of financial support to cover their stay in the country. It is also recommended that non-EEA members hold return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Passengers not holding onward tickets may be asked for proof of sufficient funds for their return or onward journey. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid three months beyond the period of intended stay. No visa is required for a touristic stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Greece. No visa is required for a touristic stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British passports endorsed ‘British Citizen’, ‘British Subject’ (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and ‘British Overseas Territories Citizen’ issued by Gibraltar, only need to be valid for period of intended stay in Greece. All other endorsements require at least three months validity beyond the period of intended stay in Greece.
A visa is not required for passports endorsed ‘British Citizen’, ‘British Subject’ (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and ‘British Overseas Territories Citizen’ issued by Gibraltar. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days in a 180 day period for holders of passports with any other endorsement.
Holders of identity cards issued by Gibraltar authorities, and endorsed ‘Validated for EU travel purposes under the authority of the United Kingdom’, do not require a visa to visit Greece.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Greece. No visa is required for a touristic stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid on arrival in Greece. No visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Greece. No visa is required for a touristic stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay, and a valid Schengen visa, to enter Greece.
Getting around Corfu is fairly simple. Its inexpensive and highly efficient bus service, KTEL Green Buses, services most destinations on the island and connections between Kerkyra and Ag, Benitses, Kavos, Sidari, Stefanos and Ipsos on a daily basis. Also, taxis are easy to hail or book in advance. Stands are located in Corfu Town. Visitors will find plenty of car-hire agencies dotted throughout the island. Boat trips link many of the Greek islands and there are numerous charter flights landing in Cofu during summer months.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
