Step off at Corfu Cruise Port and into the sun-kissed embrace of Corfu Island (or Kerkyra in Greek). In this guide, I’ll show you how to plan your own DIY shore excursion at Corfu Cruise Port, so you can enjoy stunning beaches, Corfu’s UNESCO heritage listed Old Town and even a dash of royal intrigue!
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Corfu Cruise Port: Is a DIY Excursion Easy? 😎😎😎😎 Straightforward
Corfu Cruise Port is closer enough to both Corfu’s Old Town and top beaches nearby that a DIY excursion is 😎😎😎😎 Straightforward. Here’s more details:
- Effortless Old Town Access: The convenient #15 bus takes you straight from Corfu cruise port to the heart of Corfu’s enchanting Old Town.
- Walkable Old Town Charm: Once in the Old Town, many of its treasures are within walking distance. Explore the Esplanade, wander the Liston, and lose yourself in the maze of Venetian streets.
- Bus Network at Your Fingertips: Corfu’s bus system offers easy connections from the Old Town to beautiful beaches, historic fortresses, and even a palace!
- Nearby Beaches means you can squeeze in a quick beach stop before or after exploring the main attractions.
Corfu Cruise Port Essentials: What You Need to Know
Corfu Cruise Port address: Eth. Antistaseos 24, Kerkira 491 00, Greece – see this marked on my Corfu Cruise Port map below 🗺️📍👇
Corfu Cruise Port (locally known as Kerkyra) is located about 1 mile (~2km) west of Corfu Old Town. While it’s possible to walk to Old Town, the summer heat can make the journey less enjoyable. Let’s explore how to reach Corfu Old Town by local bus.
- Currency: Euros
- Language: Greek
- Official Corfu Port Website has the official port schedule for download. Use Google Translate for the webpage; the PDF port schedule is in English! Corfu Port also has a cool map that marks most of the island’s best attractions.
- Official Corfu Tourism Website is Visit Corfu; I liked the list of beaches around the island.
- Recommended Transport App: I used Google Maps while I was there; bus routes and times were accurate. Corfu City Bus also have detailed information on bus timetables & routes. Jump straight to my guide on catching buses to Old Town and beaches here.
- eSIM for roaming in Greece: For a great data connection without the huge roaming fees, use an eSim data pack from Airalo. I always recommend having a smartphone with a valid plan when you’re at port touring independently. Get US$3 off your first eSIM data pack from Airalo when you use ROXANN1666 when you sign up or apply it at checkout
Corfu Cruise Port Map
- On Desktop | Laptop? Use buttons on bottom left to zoom in/out. Click on the upper right hand corner to see a bigger version.
- On Tablet | Mobile? Pinch your screen to zoom in/out and use two fingers to move map around. If you have Google Maps installed on your tablet/mobile, my map will open in your Google Maps app if you click on the upper right hand corner.
- If map is not loading correctly, click here to see it directly from Google Maps.
Corfu Cruise Port to Corfu Old Town: Your Options
1. Public Bus
Getting from the cruise port to Corfu’s enchanting Old Town is a breeze! Cruise lines typically offer a shuttle service (paid or complimentary) but if yours doesn’t, then you can catch the public bus just outside the terminal to Old Town.
- Bus Stop: Look for bus #15 right outside the terminal – it’ll take you straight to the heart of the city in San Rocco Square. These stops are also marked in my Corfu Cruise Port map above 👆
- Timetable & Frequency: (Updated March 2025) Winter timetable in operation now but summer timetable is usually two services an hour! This link for timetables will update when the summer timetable is in operation. For traveling back to Port, the return timetable (PDF) is here.
- Tickets (2025 Prices): A single ticket costs €1.80 from the driver – cash only. This “onboard” fare includes a surcharge. If you purchase a ticket before boarding at San Rocco Square bus station for your return trip, it will be €1.20.
- If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore more of the island, grab a daily ticket for €5.50.
- Drop Off: Once you’re at San Rocco Square, the Old Town’s treasures are just a short stroll away. Plus, you can easily hop on other buses there to venture further afield.
2. Hop On Hop Off (HoHo) Bus
The Corfu Hop On Hop Off Bus starts its loop from Corfu Cruise Port, past Old Town and the Spianada Square, down to Mon Repo Palace and Corfu Kanoni, a harbour side area close to the airport and then returns to Corfu Cruise Port.
It’s not a short route but not that many stops in between, primarily because of the concentration of attractions in Corfu Old Town and buses can’t drive into many streets in Old Town.
My Take: The HoHo bus is definitely an easy way to get to Corfu Old Town but unless you want to visit Mon Repo Palace or sit on an open-top bus to enjoy the sunshine, then it’s going to be quite an expensive bus ride! Also, take into account whether you tolerate the humid summer heat well. If you don’t, then baking on an open-top bus isn’t going to be fun!
Note that there’s TWO routes for the Corfu HoHo bus, with the second one running to Achilleion Palace. But on days when cruise ships visit, only the route to Mon Repo Palace and Corfu Kanoni runs.
Corfu Cruise Port to Top Beaches
Get ready for sun-kissed bliss – Corfu boasts a whopping 73 beaches! Let’s dive into a few of the best options for a relaxing beach day – Dassia Beach and Ipsos Beach are the easiest to get to from Corfu Cruise Port while Paleokastritsa Beach is the most well known. See all these marked in my Corfu Cruise Port map above 🗺️📌👆
1. Paleokastritsa Beach
Calling all beach aficionados! Paleokastritsa boasts some of Corfu’s most stunning scenery, with crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves begging to be explored. No wonder it’s consistently rated the island’s top beach!
While in Paleokastritsa, don’t miss the 13th-century Byzantine Monastery perched on a clifftop above the main beach. It offers breathtaking panoramic views!
How to Get from Corfu Cruise Port to Paleokastritsa Beach
(a) Local Coach Transfer
Directly from Corfu Cruise Port’s port gates, this local coach transfer will get you to Paleokastritsa Beach, with roughly two hours of free time. Journey time is around 30 minutes one-way from Corfu Cruise port to Paleokastritsa Beach.
The return transfer will stop at Corfu Old Town, so you can do some sightseeing before returning to Corfu Cruise Port. This is a good option if you do not want to navigate local bus services.
Keen to do a boat trip to see the blue caves around Paleokastritsa? Then rather than book just a coach transfer, book a tour that includes the boat ride as an option. While there’s no shortage of boat operators at Paleokastritsa, you may not want the hassle of running around trying to find one that has availability while you only have 2 hours of free time in Paleokastritsa!
(b) Intercity Bus
- Coach Service: Take the intercity Green Buses A9 service from their terminal located a 15-minute walk from San Rocco Square (where Bus #15 from the cruise port drops you). It’s an air-conditioned coach with free WiFi!
- 2025 Update: This A9 bus service now stops near Corfu cruise port but closer to the ferry terminal end – see the stop marked on my Corfu Cruise Port map. But since the bus runs infrequently now and there’s no way to tell how full the bus is when it left the bus terminal, you may run the risk of waiting here only to find out that the bus is full. It’s a motorcoach, so I’m not sure that the driver would even let you stand for the journey.
- Timetable: Buses used to run frequently at 30 minute intervals but for 2025 season, it’s no longer the case – check their website for timetables – look for Bus A9
- Journey Time: Journey takes about 45 minutes
- Tickets: one-way ticket is €2.50 cash only, purchased from the driver. There’s also a ticket counter at the bus terminal. During July – August, it gets very busy, so pre-book the ticket online, as once the coach is full, it’s full!
2. Dassia Beach
Located 12 km from Corfu Town, Dassia Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island – your perfect escape from the cruise port! This long stretch of sand and pebbles is super convenient to reach via public bus. You’ll find sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports galore, and plenty of lively tavernas and bars lining the shore for when you need a refreshment break.
Note that Dassia Beach can get a bit crowded especially during summer months. Parts of the beach is also considered private. The luxury resort Ikos Dassia is nearby and you’ll see lots of resort guests!
How to get there from Corfu Cruise Port: Catch Bus #15 from the cruise terminal as above. At San Rocco Square, catch Bus #7 to stop “Malibu” – the beach is just a few minutes’ walk away. There’s a supermarket at the bus stop, so you can stock up on drinks and snacks when you get there. Summer 2024 Bus timetable (PDF) here. The stops are marked on my map above, too 👆.
3. Ipsos Beach
Just slightly further away is Ipsos Beach, famous for its crystalline waters. But be warned! Some people find the beach a little too pebbly! So bring water shoes or flip flops if you have them. Again, parts of the beach is privately owned, so you’ll see sections of the beach fenced or roped off as private beach clubs.
How to get there from Corfu Cruise Port: Catch Bus #15 from the cruise terminal as above. At San Rocco Square, catch Bus #7 to stop “Phaeakon Town Hall” – the beach is literally across from the bus stop. Summer 2024 Bus timetable (PDF) here. See these stops marked on my map above 👆
Corfu Cruise Port: Unforgettable Things to See & Do Nearby
Corfu offers a captivating mix of beaches, history, and stunning scenery. While it’s tempting to spend your entire port day soaking up the sun, these unforgettable experiences might just lure you away from that sun lounger!
1. Immerse Yourself in Corfu Town’s Old World Charm
Step back in time as you wander the labyrinthine streets of Corfu’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This captivating blend of Venetian, French, and British influences creates a unique architectural tapestry.
Start your exploration in the heart of the Old Town, the Spianada Square (Esplanade). This vast, elegant square is one of the largest in Europe, bordered by leafy arcades and bustling cafes. During the British era, it served as a cricket pitch – a quirky tradition that continues to this day!
From the Esplanade, stroll along the graceful Liston. This Parisian-style arcade, built during the French occupation, is lined with chic cafes and shops. Sip a coffee and soak in the timeless atmosphere, imagining a bygone era of elegant promenades. While exploring, try pastitsada, the iconic Corfu dish with tender meat in a rich tomato sauce served over thick pasta.
As you venture further, lose yourself in the Old Town’s maze of narrow streets. Admire the Venetian-era buildings with their pastel hues and wrought-iron balconies, discovering hidden gems like tiny churches and charming courtyards.
How to get there: Catch Bus #15 from Corfu cruise port to San Rocco Square. From there, The Esplanade is an easy 10 minute walk away.
DIY Walking Tour Tip: Use Discover Greece’s free audio tour for a self-paced walk around Corfu’s Old Town.
2. Storm the Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio)
The Old Fortress of Corfu, also known as Palaio Frourio, stands on a rocky peninsula jutting out into the sea and offers stunning views of the surrounding Ionian Sea.
The first fortifications on the site date back to the Byzantine period, with a castle built in the 11st century. The Venetians took control of Corfu in the 14th century and expanded the fortress, adding the Clock Tower.
The views from the top of the fortress is absolutely epic – the terracotta rooftops of Corfu Town, the sparkling sea, and even Albania in the distance!
Definitely worth exploring the tunnels and the little church, which looks like it’s straight out of Ancient Greece. Tickets are €3 – worth it for the views alone, let alone the history!
How to get there: Keep walking from the Esplanade!
3. Explore the New Fortress (Neo Frourio)
Get ready to explore! The New Fortress is a maze of stone tunnels, secret passageways, and towering lookout points. It was built by the Venetians (those guys were big on fortresses!) and then the British added their own touches. Imagine yourself as a soldier, keeping watch from the ramparts!
The views of Corfu Town, the Old Fortress, and the sea are absolutely breathtaking. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the hidden tunnel that leads down to the water – total Indiana Jones vibes! Tickets are €6. This is on the way to the Corfu cruise port, so you may want to make this the last attraction you visit! The closest bus stop for #15 back to the port is at stop “Ika“.
4. Wander through Mon Repos Park: A Royal Retreat
Mon Repos Park isn’t just a beautiful garden! This former summer palace, built by a British governor in the 1800s, became a royal residence and even saw the birth of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Stroll through shaded pathways, uncover hidden archaeological gems, and imagine the footsteps of royalty. It’s the perfect place to unwind from the city and discover a different side of Corfu.
How to get there: From San Rocco Square, catch Bus #2A to stop “Mon Repos“. The entrance is next to the bus stop. Buses operate every 30 minutes during summer. Entrance to the Museum is €2 but you can walk around the estate for free. The bus stops are marked on my Corfu Cruise Port map above 👆.
5. Journey to the Achilleion Palace: A Masterpiece Inspired by Myth
Escape to the enchanting Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria (also known as Sisi). This hilltop retreat, inspired by the mythical hero Achilles, boasts breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. Wander through opulent rooms filled with stunning artwork and step into the lush gardens adorned with statues of Greek gods.
Even on a short day trip from your cruise, the Achilleion Palace is worth the journey. Its blend of neoclassical architecture, whimsical gardens, and captivating history offers a unique glimpse into Corfu’s past. Plus, those views will take your breath away! Not sure? Check out the virtual tour first!
How to get there: Achilleion Palace is 10km south west of Corfu Old Town. Catch bus #10 from Psychiatriou Square, 1 minute walk from San Rocco Square. Bus stops at the entrance to Achilleion Palace. See these stops on my Corfu Cruise Port map.
March 2025 update: Currently only the outdoor areas (ie. the gardens) are open to the public. I will update it here when it re-opens. Gardens are open daily 8am to 4pm.
More Greek Island Adventures Await
Featured Photo by Ollie Craig
I hope this guide inspires you to make the most of your Corfu cruise stop! Whether you choose to soak up the sun, immerse yourself in history, or simply wander the charming streets, Corfu is sure to leave a lasting impression. If you found this post helpful, please share it or leave a comment – your feedback motivates me to create more great content!
If we choose the day trip bus fare, where do we purchase the tickets? Thanks
Hi Amanda, you can purchase the €5 bus day ticket from the bus driver (cash) – this is for Corfu City buses only. (Green buses operating to other parts of Corfu island works differently). I’ve seen ticket machines which take both cash and card at Saroko Square but if you’re grabbing the first bus journey of the day from Corfu cruise port, that doesn’t help!
How do I get from the old town to the new forteress and how much time do I need to plan for my visit?
Hi Sonia, if you’re in Old Town, the easiest way to get to the new Fortress is to walk. Since buses don’t drive through the Old Town, only on the main roads around Old Town, there’s not other easy transport options. I would budget for an hour to an hour and a half for the visit. But you can also do a much quicker visit if all you’d like are some great photos looking out from the new Fortress. Enjoy your trip!
We are four adults and in Corfu, we would like to do some snorkeling and see the sea caves. I see that you can get a sea caves tour for $10 from Paleokastritsa Beach. And yet, other tour operators want to charge much more. What am I missing? And, how good is the snorkeling at that beach? I’m guessing there are better places? I suppose we can just sign up for this tour: https://www.getyourguide.com/corfu-town-l2544/corfu-paleokastritsa-beach-and-old-town-bus-shore-excursion-t753194/?partner_id=43MMU94&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=CorfuDIY , but if so, we only have two hours in Paleokastritsa and perhaps not enough time to go to sea caves and snorkel on our own?
Hi Spencer,
Regarding a $10 sea caves tour, I’m not familiar with a specific tour at that price point. Boat trips to the beautiful sea caves are readily available from Paleokastritsa’s main beach areas, and prices can vary depending on the length of the trip and what’s included. Most tours I’ve seen at Paleokastritsa is around €15 to €20 per person for a 45-minute boat tour.
As for the conditions at Paleokastritsa for snorkelling, the area is well-known for its incredibly clear, emerald, and turquoise waters. The coastline here features numerous coves and a rocky seabed, which generally provides interesting underwater exploration with visibility often being very good. You can typically expect to see various small fish and other marine life among the rocks. I’ll let you decide whether you consider this good snorkelling. Paleokastritsa is considered one of the best “launch off points” for snorkelling trips on Corfu Island.
If you’re aiming to do a full day snorkelling and swimming at Paleokastritsa, the best option is to do a DIY trip (via the GreenBus) or book it through your cruise line if there’s one on offer. When I was trying to find a tour for myself, most tours do a 4-5 hour return trip from Corfu cruise port. With the drive taking at 45 minutes each way (and most tours doing multiple stops besides Paleokastritsa “to give you your money’s worth”), it’s hard to find a tour which will give you more time than two hours in Paleokastritsa.
Hello Please can you advise of any gulet cruise companies located/operatr from Corfu port that offer 1 week cruises around the local islands. There are a few UK holiday companies that offer these but think there must be more available direct. I would be grateful of any information. Thank you.
Hi Susan, thanks for your question. Sorry! I have never taken one of those cruises. My personal policy is not to recommend any specific cruise companies or cruises that I haven’t been on. (I only go on ocean and occasionally river cruises, with the mainstream cruise lines. I have dietary requirements so I only go with a certain list of cruise companies which have accommodated me in the past.)
This is super helpful info. Thank you so much for sharing! Is it possible to use a credit card to pay for bus fare, or is cash required?
Thank you Becca! Great to hear that this is helpful to you! You’ll need cash to pay the bus fare onboard, if you intend to catch the bus from Corfu cruise port. The only place where I know you can pay bus fares by card is at the San Rocco Bus Station, where you can purchase paper tickets before boarding. There’s no facility onboard buses in Corfu to pay by card.
Corfu rolled out a new “stored value plastic card” to pay for bus fares for locals. So if you keep hearing “beeps” on the bus, it’s locals tapping these prepaid bus cards, not contactless credit or debit cards. So as part of the roll-out, there’s new vending machines installed for locals to recharge their cards. These vending machines also sells paper tickets and takes credit cards. You may see these in Old Town at bus stops but again, not much help if you need to buy a ticket from the port to Old Town.
Hi how to get to Porto Timoni from the port or old town? Thank you
Hi Kris, thanks for your comment. I’m not sure that there’s an easy way to get to Porto Timoni other than to cab it or rent a car for the day. I haven’t been there so I don’t want to imply I know more than I know! Hope you’ll find a way to get there and enjoy your trip!
WOW! THANK YOU! MAKES THIS PORT VERY ENJOYABLE!
Hi Mary, thanks very much for your kind words! I really appreciate it 😊. Hope the rest of your cruise was equally as enjoyable!
Can you recommend places to eat in Corfu ?
Hi Mory, thanks for your question! I have only ever had lunch in Corfu as I arrived on a cruise ship. (And it was lunch on the run to maximise my sightseeing time). My best tip for Corfu is to search for “Taverna” or “Soulavki” or “Gyros” on Google Maps and you’ll find small family-run authentic Greek home-style restaurants or takeaways where locals will eat in. This strategy certainly works in Old Town Corfu, if that’s where you’ll be spending the bulk of your time ashore. I’m less sure about the rest of the island though. Hope you’ll have a wonderful time in Corfu!