More about Corfu
Why Cruise to Corfu?
This picturesque island boasts an interesting history, idyllic beaches and top-notch dining
If you're docked between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., many attractions and restaurants will be closed for siesta
Corfu offers up the best the Greek Isles have to offer, particularly for beachgoers
Corfu Cruise Port Facilities?
The cruise terminal has a duty-free shop, car rental outlets and a welcome desk at which you can pick up a map and get local orientation tips. New Port is a working dock area.
Good to Know?
Don't expect crossings to be respected, and look out for cars zooming suddenly out of side roads. If you dare to drive, beware reckless passing and center-of-the-road hogs.
If you're visiting a church or monastery, respect dress codes. Women should take along a scarf to cover their arms or head and avoid short skirts; men should ditch wearing shorts unless planning a day at the beach.
Siesta time runs between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. (known locally as mikro ypno).
Getting Around?
By Shuttle: Most ships offer free (or reasonably priced) shuttle transfers to the Old Fortress area of Corfu Town, which is about two miles away.
By Taxi: A taxi stand sits outside the terminal building, but most drivers want to sell island tours. Negotiate the rate in advance. Establish that the fare is per cab, not per person, and pal up with other passengers for the best deals, particularly if you're planning a day at the beach.
Only use cabs with meters and a rate card clearly displayed, and check that the meter is on before you start. The fare shouldn't come to more than 10 euros per cab because Corfu Town is a short distance away.
By Bus: At the terminal, head left outside; the blue bus will say port. The fare to Corfu Town is about 1.50 euros one way. The green buses at New Port take you to sites around the island. Once you're in Corfu Town, the blue-coach suburban routes operate from San Rocco Square. Keep in mind that bus timings are erratic, and service can stop early in the evening. If in doubt, shuttle or cab it.
By Car: If your ship's in for a long time and you're feeling adventurous, you could rent a car. You'll find desks at the airport, and one long-established company,Sunrise, is located at Ethnikis Andístasis 6, by New Port.
Online bookings must be made at least 36 hours ahead of your visit to Corfu, and you must be older than 21 with a valid driver's licence of at least one year's standing.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The euro is national currency in Greece. For the latest exchange rates, visit www.oanda.com or www.xe.com.
ATMs are easy to find (there are dozens in Corfu Town). You'll find them mainly in banks, but they also are located on streets and in some hotels and restaurants. Some of the outlying villages also have banks with machines, but if you're heading further afield, stock up on cash before you go. Many bars and restaurants still don't accept card payments.
Language?
A legacy of British rule means many Corfiots speak at least a smattering of English, particularly in the shops and restaurants of the tourist-rich old town. You'll find an English section in most restaurant menus but may have difficulty finding a specific address, as street signs are rare, and those that exist are in Greek. If in doubt, ask a shopkeeper.
A friendly demeanor goes a long way, but it's also worth taking a phrasebook or language app along help. Emergency numbers worth knowing: 100 for police, 199 for fire and 166 for ambulance.
Good morning/Good day: Kalimera /Kalispera
My name is: Me lene
Thank you: efharisto
Do you speak English?: Milate Anglika?
How much is this?: Posa kostizi afto?
Where's the bathroom?: pu ine i tualetta?
Where You're Docked?
Your ship will dock at the Neo Limani (New Port), which also accommodates ferries operating between Corfu and Italy, Greece and Albania.
