Travelling from Igoumenitsa to Corfu: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

The journey from Igoumenitsa to Corfu is one of Greece's most popular ferry routes, connecting the mainland port with the stunning Ionian island. This short sea crossing spans just 41.4 km (25.7 miles) but opens the door to a world of azure waters, Venetian architecture, and vibrant island culture. With multiple daily sailings and a journey time of around 1h 26m on average, the ferry represents the most convenient and scenic way to reach Corfu. 

This guide covers everything you need to know about travelling between these two destinations, from ferry schedules and operators to port information and the best Corfu attractions to explore upon arrival.

How to get from Igoumenitsa to Corfu: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Igoumenitsa to Corfu, the ferry is undoubtedly the primary and most practical option. The short sea crossing takes just over an hour, making it quick and convenient.

The ferry route from Igoumenitsa to Corfu is well-established and frequently served, with approximately 18 daily sailings. This high frequency means you'll have plenty of flexibility when planning your journey. The crossing covers 22.4 nautical miles (41.4 km) and typically takes around 1h 26m, though the fastest services operated by Kerkyra Lines can complete the journey in just 1h 10m.

Ferry travel offers several advantages over other transportation methods. You'll enjoy spectacular views of the Ionian Sea, the opportunity to move around freely during your journey, and the convenience of arriving directly into Corfu's port, which is walking distance from the Old Town. Many travellers also appreciate the relaxed atmosphere aboard, where you can enjoy refreshments while watching the coastline slip by.

Ferries on this route operate year-round, making it a reliable travel option regardless of when you're visiting Greece. With prices starting from around £52 for the fastest services, it's also a reasonably priced way to reach this beautiful island destination.

Taking the ferry from Igoumenitsa to Corfu

You can take a ferry from Igoumenitsa to Corfu. Ferries sail in around 1h 26m with about 18 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 1h 10m and is provided by Kerkyra Lines. Ferry prices can range with the average price for the fastest operator being around £52 depending on season and booking time. Departures start as early as 02:30, with the last departure from Igoumenitsa to Corfu at 22:30.

Kerkyra Lines operates the fastest service on this route, making them an excellent choice for travellers who want to maximise their time on the island. Their modern vessels are equipped with comfortable seating areas, snack bars, and outdoor deck space where you can enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views of the approaching island.

The frequency of sailings—121 weekly and approximately 548 monthly—means you'll rarely have to wait long for the next departure. This is particularly valuable if you're making a last-minute trip or need flexibility in your travel plans.

Most ferries on this route offer amenities including cafés or snack bars, comfortable indoor seating, outdoor deck areas, and toilet facilities. Some of the larger vessels may also have duty-free shops, full-service restaurants, and lounge areas.

While the crossing is relatively short, we recommend arriving at the port at least 45 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding procedures. During peak summer season (July-August), arriving even earlier can be beneficial as queues may form.

Foot passengers can typically board up to 15 minutes before departure, while those travelling with vehicles should arrive earlier to allow time for loading. The crossing is generally smooth, but if you're prone to seasickness, the short duration means any discomfort will be minimal.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Igoumenitsa)

Igoumenitsa port is a major transportation hub on Greece's western coast, serving as a gateway to the Ionian Islands and Italy. The port is located close to the town centre, making it easily accessible if you're staying locally.

If you're arriving from elsewhere in Greece, the port is well-connected by bus services from major cities including Athens (approximately 5-6 hours) and Thessaloniki (approximately 4 hours). The KTEL bus station is conveniently located next to the port, making transfers straightforward.

For those arriving by car, there's ample parking available near the port area. Taxis are readily available in town and can drop you directly at the terminal building.

The port facilities include waiting areas, cafés, ticket offices, ATMs, and toilet facilities. There are also several restaurants and shops within walking distance if you need to pass time before your departure.

The ferry terminal is well-organised with clear signage directing passengers to the correct boarding areas. Ticket offices are available if you need to purchase tickets on the day, though we recommend booking in advance during busy periods.

Arrival Port (Corfu)

Corfu's main port is located on the eastern side of the island, conveniently situated just a 15-minute walk from Corfu Old Town. This prime location means you can start exploring almost immediately upon arrival.

The port has two main areas: the New Port, where most ferries from Igoumenitsa arrive, and the Old Port, which is closer to the town centre. Both are within walking distance of each other.

Upon disembarking, you'll find several transportation options available. Local buses connect the port with various destinations around the island, with the main bus station located about 10 minutes' walk from the New Port. Taxis are available directly outside the terminal building, and car rental agencies have desks either at the port or in the nearby town.

If you're heading to Corfu Town, you can easily walk there in about 15-20 minutes from the New Port, following the coastal road which offers beautiful views of the Old Fortress.

Port facilities include tourist information points, cafés, shops, ATMs, and luggage storage services. There are also several restaurants and bars in the immediate vicinity if you want to refresh yourself before continuing your journey.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Igoumenitsa to Corfu is entirely feasible and can be a wonderful way to experience the island's highlights if you're short on time. With the earliest ferry departing at 02:30 and the latest return sailing at 22:30, you have the flexibility to create a day trip that suits your preferences.

For an ideal day trip, we recommend catching a morning ferry from Igoumenitsa, which would get you to Corfu by mid-morning. This gives you approximately 8-10 hours to explore the island before taking an evening ferry back to the mainland.

A suggested itinerary might include:

Morning: Explore Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its Venetian fortresses, narrow winding streets, and elegant buildings. Visit the Old Fortress and enjoy the panoramic views across the island and sea.

Lunch: Enjoy a meal at one of the traditional tavernas in the Liston area or the Old Town.

Afternoon: Visit the Palace of St. Michael and St. George and its gardens, or take a local bus to the nearby beach of Mon Repos for a quick swim.

Late afternoon: Shop for local products like kumquat liqueur or olive oil, and enjoy a coffee in Spianada Square, the largest square in the Balkans.

Evening: Have an early dinner before catching your return ferry to Igoumenitsa.

With 18 daily sailings, you'll have flexibility with your return time, though we recommend checking the specific schedule for your travel date and booking return tickets in advance during the busy summer months.

If you want to see more of the island, including some of the beautiful beaches on the west coast or northern villages, a day trip might feel rushed. In this case, we'd recommend staying at least one night on Corfu to fully appreciate what the island has to offer.

Things to Do in Corfu

Corfu offers a wealth of attractions that blend natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. Here are the top five must-see places when visiting the island:

Corfu Old Town

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Corfu's Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, Venetian buildings, and elegant squares. The Liston, with its arcaded terrace inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, is perfect for people-watching over a coffee. Spianada Square, the largest in the Balkans, hosts cricket matches—a legacy of British rule. Open all year, though most atmospheric in the morning or early evening when the light illuminates the honey-coloured buildings.

Old Fortress

This Byzantine fortress was enhanced by the Venetians and offers spectacular views across the town and sea. Inside, you'll find a small Byzantine museum and a church. The walk to the lighthouse at the top provides excellent photo opportunities. Open daily from 8:00 to 19:00 in summer (shorter hours in winter).

Achilleion Palace

Built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi) and later owned by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany, this neoclassical palace in Gastouri village is surrounded by gardens adorned with statues of Greek mythological figures. The interiors feature impressive frescoes and personal items of the empress. Open daily from 8:00 to 19:00 in summer, with reduced hours in winter.

Paleokastritsa

Often described as the most beautiful spot on Corfu, this area on the west coast features six coves with crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by olive and cypress trees. Visit the 13th-century monastery perched on the headland for breathtaking views. The monastery is open daily from 8:00 to 13:00 and 15:00 to 18:00.

Canal d'Amour

Located near Sidari on the northern coast, these unique sandstone formations create channels and coves with turquoise waters. According to legend, couples who swim through the canal will stay together forever. Best visited in the morning before it gets crowded, this natural attraction is accessible year-round, though swimming is most pleasant from May to October.

Corfu's Neighbourhoods

Corfu Town is divided into several distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character:

Campiello: The oldest part of Corfu Town, characterised by narrow alleys, small squares, and buildings that almost touch across the lanes. This is where you'll find authentic local life alongside historic churches and small museums.

Liston and Spianada: The elegant heart of the town, with arcaded buildings housing cafés and restaurants overlooking the vast Spianada Square. This area has a distinctly cosmopolitan feel.

New Fortress Area: Slightly more modern but still charming, with wider streets, good shopping options, and a more local atmosphere away from the main tourist trails.

Beyond Corfu Town, the island is roughly divided into north, central, and southern regions, each offering different experiences:

North: More developed for tourism with lively resorts like Sidari, Kassiopi, and Acharavi, alongside dramatic coastal scenery.

Central: Home to Paleokastritsa and traditional mountain villages like Lakones, offering a blend of beautiful beaches and authentic Greek culture.

South: Generally quieter with family-friendly beaches, the Korission lagoon nature reserve, and traditional villages where time seems to have stood still.

Weather in Corfu

Corfu enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, sunny summers. The island is notably greener than many other Greek islands due to its higher rainfall, which creates lush landscapes of olive groves and cypress trees.

Summer (June to September) brings temperatures consistently between 25-35°C, with July and August being the hottest months. These peak summer months see very little rainfall and offer sea temperatures of around 25°C, perfect for swimming. Humidity can be high, particularly in August.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (October to November) are ideal times to visit if you prefer milder temperatures. During these seasons, you can expect daytime temperatures of 18-25°C, ideal for exploring the island's natural and cultural attractions. There's a higher chance of occasional rainfall, particularly in late autumn, but this rarely lasts long.

Winter (December to March) is mild with temperatures rarely dropping below 5°C, but this is the rainy season. January and February typically see the most rainfall, which contributes to the island's lush vegetation. While many tourist facilities close during winter, the Old Town remains lively with local life.

Regarding ferry operations, the route between Igoumenitsa and Corfu is generally reliable year-round due to the sheltered nature of the crossing within the Ionian Sea. However, in cases of unusually strong winds or storms, particularly during winter months, there can occasionally be delays or cancellations. These are relatively rare, and the crossing is considered one of the more dependable ferry routes in Greece.

Cost of Visiting Corfu

Corfu offers options for every budget, though prices can vary significantly depending on the season and location on the island.

Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly hostels and rooms to let (from £25 per night) to luxury resorts (£150+ per night). The best value is typically found in family-run guesthouses, which might cost around £40-60 per night for a double room with breakfast.

Dining costs are reasonable by European standards. A meal at a traditional taverna will cost approximately £12-18 per person, including a glass of local wine. Street food options like souvlaki or gyros are available for around £3-5. For those self-catering, local supermarkets offer good value, and the central market in Corfu Town sells fresh produce at competitive prices.

Transportation costs include local buses (around £1.50-2.50 per journey depending on distance), taxis (with a minimum fare of about £3.50), and car rental (from approximately £25 per day in low season to £40+ in high season).

For budget travellers, a daily allowance of £50-70 should cover basic accommodation, meals at inexpensive restaurants, and some local transportation. Mid-range travellers might budget £100-150 per day for better accommodation, dining at mid-range restaurants, and activities. Luxury travellers can expect to spend £200+ daily.

Money-saving tips include visiting in shoulder season (May-June or September-October), eating where the locals eat (away from main tourist areas), using public transportation, and taking advantage of free attractions like public beaches and hiking trails.

Best Time to Visit Corfu

The ideal time to visit Corfu depends on your priorities, whether you're seeking beach weather, cultural experiences, or the best value for money.

Peak season (July-August) offers guaranteed hot weather with temperatures consistently above 30°C and sea temperatures perfect for swimming. This is the busiest time, with all attractions, restaurants, and nightlife venues operating at full capacity. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, but you'll encounter higher prices and need to book accommodation well in advance. The island's popular beaches can become crowded, particularly in the afternoon.

Shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) offer what many consider the perfect balance. Temperatures remain warm (20-28°C), the sea is still comfortable for swimming, and the island's landscapes are either in spring bloom or displaying beautiful autumn colours. There are fewer crowds, prices are more moderate, and you'll have a more relaxed experience at major attractions. Many consider late September to be ideal, with warm seas and fewer visitors.

Off-peak season (November-April) shows a different side of Corfu. While many tourist facilities close, particularly in smaller resorts, Corfu Town remains lively with local life. Winter brings mild temperatures (10-15°C) and more rainfall, creating lush green landscapes. This period offers the lowest prices and an authentic experience of island life. The Carnival celebrations in February/March are particularly worth experiencing.

For different travel preferences:

Families with school-age children will find July-August most convenient despite the crowds.

Couples seeking romance might prefer June or September when the weather is beautiful but the atmosphere more relaxed.

Cultural travellers will appreciate April-May or October when temperatures are ideal for exploring historical sites and local traditions.

Budget travellers will find the best value from November through April, excluding the Christmas/New Year period.

Notable events include Easter celebrations (date varies), which are particularly spectacular in Corfu with unique local traditions; the Varkarola Festival in August, commemorating a miracle with music and fireworks; and the Saint Spyridon celebrations (December 12th and August 11th) honouring the island's patron saint.

Accommodation Options in Corfu

Finding the perfect place to stay in Corfu is easy with options to suit every traveller and budget. The island offers a diverse range of accommodations across its beautiful towns and coastal areas.

For budget-conscious travellers, Corfu Town and surrounding areas offer affordable guesthouses and small hotels starting from around £30-40 per night. Solo adventurers will appreciate the social atmosphere of hostels in Corfu Town, while couples might enjoy the charming boutique hotels scattered throughout the Old Town, typically ranging from £60-120 per night.

Families travelling to Corfu have excellent options with family-friendly resorts along the east coast beaches, offering amenities like pools, kids clubs, and spacious rooms. Alternatively, holiday rentals provide more space and kitchen facilities, perfect for longer stays.

For those embracing nature, Corfu has several well-maintained campsites, particularly on the western coast, with basic facilities starting from around £15 per night. We recommend booking accommodation well in advance during the peak summer season (June-August) when the island becomes particularly popular.

Getting Around Corfu

Navigating Corfu is straightforward with several convenient transportation options. The island has a reliable public bus network operated by the KTEL Corfu company, connecting major towns, villages, and beaches. Buses are affordable, with most journeys costing between £1.50-3, though schedules may be limited in the off-season.

Taxis are readily available throughout Corfu, especially in tourist areas and Corfu Town. While more expensive than buses, they offer convenience for shorter journeys. For maximum flexibility, we recommend hiring a car, with prices starting from around £25 per day, allowing you to explore hidden beaches and mountain villages at your own pace.

Cycling is popular in flatter coastal areas, with rental shops in most tourist spots offering daily rates from about £10. For those staying in Corfu Town, many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site on foot.

Water taxis also operate between certain beaches and coastal villages during summer months, offering a scenic alternative to road travel.

Your Perfect Greek Island Getaway

The Igoumenitsa to Corfu ferry route offers an ideal way to begin your Greek island adventure. With 18 daily sailings and a journey time of just 1 hour and 10 minutes with Kerkyra Lines, this crossing combines convenience with stunning Ionian Sea views. Priced from around £52, the ferry provides excellent value compared to other travel options.

Whether you're seeking a weekend escape or a longer Greek island exploration, the frequent connections between mainland Greece and Corfu make planning your trip effortless. The ferry operators maintain high service standards year-round, with 121 weekly crossings ensuring flexibility for your travel plans.

Ready to experience the crystal-clear waters, historic sites, and authentic Greek hospitality of Corfu? Book your ferry crossing now to secure the best fares and preferred sailing times. With early morning departures from 02:30 and evening sailings until 22:30, your perfect Greek island adventure is just a short sea journey away.