Today we will tell you all you need to see and do in our Guide On What To Do In Corfu Cruise Port. Along with Mykonos, Corfu is one of Greece’s most stunning destinations, from exploring ancient landmarks to soaking up the Mediterranean sun on idyllic beaches! There’s something for everyone on this enchanting island. Let’s dive into our Guide To Corfu Port.
Guide, What To Do In Corfu Cruise Port
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock In Corfu Greece?
Corfu, also known as Kerkyra in Greek, is an island in the Ionian Sea off the northwest coast of Greece. It is the second-largest of the Ionian Islands, after Kefalonia, and is located west of mainland Greece.
The island covers an area of approximately 592 square kilometres (228 square miles) and has a population of around 100,000 people. Corfu is close to Albania and Italy’s coasts and is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.
Cruise ships visiting Corfu island usually dock at the New Corfu Cruise Port (Neo Limani) or the Old Corfu Cruise Port (Palaia Limani). These are both located in the town of Corfu.
The New Corfu Cruise Port is Corfu’s main port, located about 3 km from the town centre. It is a modern port with many facilities, such as duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is also the port where most of the large cruise ships dock.
The Old Port is located in the heart of Corfu Town. It’s smaller, more picturesque, and usually used by smaller ships and ferries. From the Old Port, passengers can easily walk to the town’s main attractions, such as the Old Fortress, the Liston, and Spianada Square.
Most cruise lines provide shuttle buses or taxis from the port to the town centre. However, most cruise lines may also offer organised tours or excursions.
Can You Walk Into Corfu From Corfu Cruise Port?
It is possible to walk into Corfu town from both the New Port and the Old Port, where most cruise ships dock.
From The New Port Cruise Terminal
It takes around 30-40 minutes to walk into Corfu town from Corfu Cruise Port. The distance is approximately 3 km, and the route is relatively easy, with pedestrian sidewalks most of the way. Alternatively, taxis are available at the port, or you can take a shuttle bus provided by the cruise line or a local tour operator.
Most cruise lines also offer free shuttle buses from the Corfu cruise port to the Old Town, as the cost is often included in the price of your cruise. Check with your cruise line for more information on shuttle schedules and pick-up/drop-off locations.
From The Old Port
The town centre is just a few minutes walk away. The port is located in the heart of the town, so most of the main attractions are within easy walking distance.
It’s important to note that during the summer months, the temperatures in Corfu can be pretty high. So, you should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water if you plan to walk from the port into the town.
Taxis are readily available at Corfu Cruise Port, and the ride to the Old Town takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is usually around 10-15 euros.
What To Do In And Around Corfu Cruise Port?
- Visit the Old Town
- Explore Achilleion Palace
- Relax on the Beaches
- Visit the Mon Repos Palace
- Take a Boat Trip
- Go Hiking
- Taste the Local Cuisine
- Visit the New Fortress
- Check out the Museums
- Visit the Corfu Aquarium
- Go Shopping
Visit The Old Town
Visit the Liston
Thee beautiful promenade that was built during the French occupation of Corfu. It is lined with cafes and restaurants offering stunning views of Spianada Square.
Explore the Old Fortress
This imposing fortress dates back to the 15th century and is one of the most recognisable landmarks of Corfu. Visitors can explore the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the town and the sea.
Visit the Church of Saint Spyridon
This is the most famous church in Corfu and is dedicated to the island’s patron saint. The church is located in the heart of the Old Town and is renowned for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
Wander The Narrow Streets
The Old Town of Corfu is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways. Each with its unique charm and history. Exploring these streets is an excellent way to soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful town.
Shop For Souvenirs
The Old Town of Corfu is home to many shops selling souvenirs. These include handmade ceramics, olive oil, and traditional Greek textiles.
Enjoy The Food
Corfu has a rich culinary tradition, and the Old Town is home to many excellent restaurants serving delicious Greek cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialities, such as pastitsada, sofrito, and bordello?
Explore Achilleion Palace
The Achilleion Palace is located about 10 km south of Corfu Town. There are several ways to get there from the cruise port. Taxis are readily available at the port, and the ride to Achilleion Palace takes around 20-25 minutes. The cost is usually approximately 25-30 euros each way.
This is a must-see attraction for visitors to the island. The palace was built in the late 19th century by Empress Elisabeth of Austria and is famous for its beautiful gardens, neoclassical architecture, and stunning sea views.
Visitors can explore the grand rooms and halls of the palace filled with historical artefacts and artworks. Plus, admire the statue of Achilles located in the gardens, and learn about the palace’s rich history through exhibitions and guided tours.
The gardens surrounding the palace are also a must-see attraction, offering panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink at the cafe on the grounds of the palace while taking in the beauty of the surroundings. Overall, visiting Achilleion Palace is an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Corfu.
Relax on the Beaches
Corfu is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here are some popular beaches to visit on the island.
- Glyfada Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island and is known for its golden sand and turquoise waters. Many water sports activities are available, and the beach is lined with restaurants and bars.
- Sidari Beach is located in the island’s northern part and is known for its stunning rock formations and clear waters. It’s an excellent place for swimming and snorkelling.
- Agios Gordios Beach is a long, sandy beach located on the island’s western coast. Cliffs surround it and have clear blue waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
- Paleokastritsa Beach is a beautiful area on the west coast of the island and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. Cliffs surround the beach and are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Myrtiotissa Beach is a secluded, nudist-friendly beach on the island’s western coast. It’s an excellent place for those seeking a peaceful and quiet relaxing spot.
- Issos Beach is a long, sandy beach located on the island’s south coast. It’s known for its dunes and is an excellent place for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Visit the Mon Repos Palace
The Mon Repos Palace is about 3 kilometres south of Corfu town and about 2 kilometres east of the cruise port. Taxis are readily available at the cruise port, and you can take a taxi directly to Mon Repos Palace. The ride should take about 10 minutes, and the cost will depend on the taxi meter and any additional fees.
You can explore the grounds once you arrive at Mon Repos Palace. The palace and its surrounding gardens are a testament to the beauty and grandeur of neoclassical architecture and offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history. Visit the museum, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and scenery.
Visitors can start their exploration by visiting the museum on the palace’s ground floor, which showcases artefacts from the ancient city of Palaiopolis. The exhibits offer a fascinating insight into the culture and history of the area.
Afterwards, visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the scenic views of the sea and surrounding countryside. The gardens are also home to many species of plants and trees, including exotic species worldwide.
For those who love nature, a nature trail winds through the forested area surrounding the palace. The court also hosts outdoor concerts and cultural events in the gardens during the summer. Thus providing a unique opportunity to enjoy live music and performances in a stunning outdoor setting.
Take a Boat Trip From Corfu Cruise Port
Corfu is a beautiful island with many stunning coastlines to explore, and taking a boat tour is an excellent way to do just that. There are several options for boat trips in Corfu, depending on your preferences and interests. Here are some boat trip options:
Island-Hopping, take a boat tour to the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos, known for their crystal-clear waters, sea caves, and stunning beaches.
Another popular boat trip takes you to the Blue Lagoon. A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and a beautiful sandy beach. It is located on the west coast of Corfu and is accessible only by boat.
Take a boat trip along the coastline of Corfu; this offers beautiful views of the island and its stunning beaches. The boat trip can also take you to Corfu Old Town, where you can explore the narrow streets and alleys and discover the island’s rich history and culture.
Go Hiking
Corfu is a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts, offering a variety of beautiful landscapes to explore. The island has an extensive network of well-marked trails that cater to hikers of all levels. Here are some of the best hiking destinations in Corfu:
Mount Pantokrator is the highest peak on the island, and hiking to the summit offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. The trek to the top of the mountain can take 3-5 hours, depending on your chosen route.
The Corfu Trail is a 220 km long-distance hiking trail that stretches from the north to the south of the island. You can hike a shorter section of the course, which offers beautiful views of the countryside, forests, and coastline.
Paleokastritsa is a picturesque area on the west coast of Corfu, known for its stunning beaches and scenic landscape. The site has several trails that you can take, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
The Achilleion Palace is located in the village of Gastouri and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenic landscapes. You can take several trails in this area, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Erimitis Bay is a secluded and pristine bay located on the northern tip of Corfu. You can take several trails to reach this beautiful spot, which offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding cliffs.
Bring enough water and sunscreen, and wear appropriate hiking shoes for your trek. You can join a guided hiking tour or explore independently, but follow the marked trails and respect the environment.
Taste the Local Cuisine
Corfu’s cuisine is a delicious blend of Greek and Italian influences, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. The island’s traditional tavernas allow visitors to experience Corfu’s cuisine’s unique flavours and aromas. Many tavernas are family-owned and offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere where visitors can relax and enjoy a leisurely meal.
Seafood lovers will enjoy the fresh seafood dishes at seaside tavernas, such as grilled octopus and shrimp saganaki. One of the most popular dishes in Corfu is sofrito, a flavorful beef dish served with mashed potatoes. Another local speciality is pastitsada, a hearty meat stew made with beef or rooster, tomatoes, and a blend of spices.
In addition to these traditional dishes, visitors can also try a variety of appetisers, including tzatziki, fried cheese saganaki, and dolmades, stuffed grape leaves. Visitors can also sample local wines like the dry white Robola or the sweet red Mandilaria.
Visit the New Fortress
You can take a taxi or a local bus to get from the cruise port to the New Fortress in Corfu. Taxis are readily available outside the cruise port, and the ride to the New Fortress takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
The New Fortress, or Fortezza Nuova, is one of the most impressive landmarks in Corfu, with a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the fortress walls and ramparts, which offer stunning views of the city and the sea.
Inside the fortress, you can visit the Museum of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Art, housed in the British barracks. This also has an extensive collection of religious icons, frescoes, and other works of art.
Another highlight of the fortress is the network of underground cisterns used to collect rainwater. You can explore the cisterns and learn about their history. The Venetian well, with its unique spiral staircase, is also worth a visit.
Check out the Museums
Corfu has several museums that glimpse the island’s rich history and culture. If this is your thing, check out some of our suggestions.
- Archaeological Museum of Corfu offers has a rich collection of artefacts from ancient Corfu, including pottery, sculptures, and jewellery.
- Museum of Asian Art has an impressive collection of Asian art, including Chinese and Japanese ceramics, sculptures, and paintings.
- The Museum of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Art, at the British barracks within the New Fortress. It has a collection of religious icons, frescoes, and other works of art from the Byzantine and Post-Byzantine periods.
- Banknote Museum, This unique museum displays a collection of Greek and foreign banknotes and coins, along with information about the history of money.
- Casa Parlante, in a 19th-century mansion and offers a glimpse into the life of a wealthy Corfiot family during the 19th century.
- The Solomos Museum, dedicated to the life and works of the Greek poet Dionysios Solomos, who wrote the Greek national anthem.
- The Serbian Museum, dedicated to the Serbian soldiers who fought in Corfu during World War I and has a collection of military artefacts, photographs, and documents.
Visit the Corfu Aquarium
Corfu Aquarium is a popular tourist attraction in Palaiokastritsa, on the Greek island of Corfu. It opened in 1991 and covers an area of approximately 1,000 square metres.
The aquarium houses over 70 different species of marine life, including sharks, octopuses, eels, and sea turtles. Visitors can explore 25 other tanks and exhibits showcasing various ecosystems. These include the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean.
The aquarium also offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors of all ages, including school groups and families. Other nearby attractions include beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and historical landmarks, such as the 13th-century monastery of Palaiokastritsa.
Go Shopping
Corfu is an excellent destination for shopping, with a wide variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether looking for designer clothing or local handicrafts, you will find something you love.
One popular shopping destination is Corfu Old Town, where you can wander the historic streets and browse shops selling souvenirs, jewellery, clothing, and more. Another must-visit location is Liston, a pedestrian street in the heart of Corfu Town, with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques selling various goods.
Theotoki Street is another excellent option, with numerous shops offering clothing, shoes, and accessories from well-known brands.
However, if you’re looking for a modern shopping experience, head to New Port Plaza, a shopping centre near the port of Corfu featuring stores selling everything from electronics to home goods.
Finally, don’t miss out on visiting San Rocco Square, a bustling square in the centre of Corfu Town, where you can find many shops selling handmade jewellery, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs.
What Is The Weather In Corfu?
Corfu has an Eastern Mediterranean climate in Europe, with mild winters and hot summers. The weather in Corfu varies throughout the year, but generally, the best time to visit is between May and October. This is when the temperatures are warm, and the skies are clear. Here’s a breakdown of the weather in Corfu by season:
Spring (March-May): In the spring, the weather in Corfu is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). There can be occasional rainfall, but the skies are generally sunny and clear.
Summer (June – August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Corfu. The weather is hot and sunny. Temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F) in July and August, and the skies are usually clear with very little rainfall.
Fall (September – November): The temperatures start to cool down in the fall, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Although the skies are mostly clear, there is less rainfall than in the spring.
Winter (December – February): The winter in Corfu is mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). There can also be occasional rainfall, but the skies are generally sunny and clear.
Overall, the weather in Corfu is pleasant throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the temperatures are warm, and the skies are clear.
