1 Day in Corfu: The Perfect Guide to Make the Most of Your Visit

Last Updated on March 3, 2025 by Oliver

No, 1 day in Corfu isn’t ideal—this island has way too much to see—but if that’s all you’ve got, you can still have an amazing time. Whether you’re stopping by on a cruise ship or popping over for the day from Albania, there are plenty of good reasons to make a quick visit. So, might as well make the most of it, right?

You could wander through Corfu Old Town, check out some picturesque villages, or explore an old fortress (or two). There’s a lot you can squeeze into a day if you do it right. We spent a little longer than 24 hours here, which gave us a solid idea of what’s actually doable—and more importantly, how to do it without wasting time. (Corfu’s pretty big, so renting a car might be a good call.)

Alright, let’s get into it—here’s how to spend 1 day in Corfu and make it count.

How to Get Around in Corfu Greece

Getting around in Corfu is pretty straightforward, and it really comes down to two options. The choice depends on whether you want to explore more of the island or if you’re happy sticking to Corfu Town for the day.

Option 1: Rent a Car in Corfu

If you want to see more than just the Old Town, renting a car is the way to go. This lets you visit some of the most stunning beaches, have lunch at La Grotta, and visit places like The Achilleion Palace. Basically, if you’re looking to make the most of your day and see more of Corfu’s natural beauty, you’ll need a car.

One tip—rent your car from a location near Corfu Port! We made the mistake of booking from the airport, which meant we had to grab a taxi just to pick it up. Not ideal when you’ve only got a day!

Option 2: Skip the Car and Explore Corfu Town on Foot

You don’t have to rent a car in Corfu—spending the whole day in Corfu Town is totally worth it. The Old Town is absolutely beautiful, packed with historic sights, markets, and incredible local restaurants. You can easily fill your day walking around, checking out places like the Old Fortress, the New Venetian Fortress, Faliraki Beach, and Boschetto Gardens.

On top of that, there are markets everywhere, plus amazing little cafés and traditional tavernas where you can stop for a bite.

Getting to Corfu Town from Corfu Port is simple! It’s either a quick 10-minute taxi ride (make sure to bring cash in Euros!) or a 30-minute walk along the main road. If you’re arriving by cruise ship, there’s a good chance they’ll have a shuttle transfer to the Old Town ready for you.

Can You Drive Around Corfu in a Day?

Yes, you can, but I don’t think it’s necessary or worth it, especially since you’ll end up spending more time driving than actually enjoying yourself.

Most of the key spots are on the northern side of Corfu and around Corfu Town, so I’d stick to those areas. (If you’re only here for the day, definitely don’t bother driving down south.)

I’d recommend picking a few places you’re interested in, visiting those, and actually enjoying your time and exploring at your own pace, instead of trying to rush around the whole island.

My Personal 1 Day in Corfu Itinerary – The Ultimate Corfu Road Trip

If I had just one day in Corfu, this is exactly how I’d spend it—visiting the most beautiful spots while avoiding the worst of the crowds. So here is my personal 1-day itinerary for Corfu:

Early Morning: Catch the First Ferry & Grab a Rental Car

If you’re coming from Sarande, you’ll want to take the first ferry at 5 AM (yep, that’s what we did). If you’re arriving on a cruise ship, get off as soon as possible. Time is everything when you’ve only got a day. Once you get to Corfu Port, head straight to your rental car pickup—don’t waste time going elsewhere.

Morning: Porto Timoni Beach (Get There First!)

First stop: Porto Timoni Beach. This place is incredible—two turquoise bays, a little hiking trail, and some of the most stunning views you’ll see on the island. But here’s the thing: it gets ridiculously crowded. People end up packed on the beach like sardines, so getting there early is a must. If you arrive first thing, you’ll get to enjoy the beach before the chaos starts.

Late Morning: Early Lunch in Palaiokastritsa

After Porto Timoni, drive over to Palaiokastritsa, a beautiful coastal village known for its crystal-clear water and stunning cliffs. By now, you’ll probably be starving, so I’d stop at Petrino Garden—a no-fuss Greek taverna with delicious food. Fresh seafood, souvlaki, and a laid-back atmosphere. Perfect.

Early Afternoon: La Grotta – Cliff Diving & Cold Beers

Next up: La Grotta, one of Corfu’s most iconic bars. It’s built into the cliffs, and the vibe here is unbeatable. You can cliff dive, snorkel, or just chill out with a cold beer while enjoying the greek sun. Even if you’re not into jumping off cliffs, the views alone make this place worth the stop.

Mid-Afternoon: Tour Achilleion Palace

After La Grotta, head down to Achilleion Palace. This place is stunning—elegant architecture, gorgeous gardens, and some of the best views on the island. It’s not ancient, but it’s definitely one of Corfu’s most iconic landmarks. A great spot to take a breather and soak in a little history.

Late Afternoon: Exploring Corfu Old Town

Wrap up the day in Corfu Old Town, wandering through markets, picking up souvenirs, and grabbing a late coffee at one of the cafés tucked along the cobblestone streets. If you have time, check out the Old Fortress or just enjoy some people-watching in the town’s charming squares.

Evening: Back to Corfu Port

After a full day of beaches, cliff bars, palaces, and Old Town charm, it’s time to head back to Corfu Port and catch your ferry or reboard your cruise ship. If you did it right, you’ll be leaving exhausted, sun-kissed, and already planning your next trip back.

How to Spend one Day in Corfu – The Best Things to Do With 24 Hours in Corfu

Of course, you can always build your own itinerary—Corfu is yours to explore! But if you’re looking for inspiration, here are my top recommendations on things to do in Corfu in a day. Mix and match to create a plan that suits you!

1.Spend one Day in Corfu Town (No Car Required)

If you’re not renting a car, spending the day in Corfu Town is a great plan. Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the perfect place to start. Begin your visit at the Old Fortress, where you’ll get stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the town. From there, wander through the Liston Promenade, stop for a coffee, and explore the charming alleys of the Old Town. If you have time and you’re into museums and art, then I suggest you visit the Corfu Museum of Asian Art.

For breakfast or brunch, head to a little café called Favel No 17—absolutely my top recommendation for coffee and brunch! Later, visit the New Venetian Fortress and Saint Spyridon Church, both of which are well worth your time.

For lunch, my favorite spot is Pane e Souvlaki. It’s super popular, and they serve the best gyros on the island—highly recommended!

In the afternoon, check out the local markets, pick up some souvenirs, and maybe take a swim at Faliraki Beach before wrapping up the day at a cozy café. Everything is within walking distance, so you can enjoy the day at a relaxed pace.

2.Visit Porto Timoni Beach (The Most Popular & Most Beautiful Beach in Corfu)

If you’re looking for stunning views and crystal-clear waters, Porto Timoni Beach is a must. It’s one of Corfu’s most beautiful beaches, but it’s small, so it gets crowded fast. That’s why I’d recommend heading there early to beat the crowds and get a spot to enjoy the beach.

The hike down to the beach is a bit of a trek, but it’s worth it for the view when you get there. The water is perfect for swimming, and the surroundings are just gorgeous. You can spend a few hours here relaxing on the sandy beach and taking it all in before heading to your next adventure.

3.Explore Palaiokastritsa (Visit La Grotta)

One of my favorite little coastal towns in Corfu is Palaiokastritsa, and it’s just a short drive from Porto Timoni Beach, so I always combine the two in one trip.

The town itself is a maze of winding roads perched on the cliffs of this gorgeous island. There are tons of boutique hotels, local restaurants, and cozy taverns where you can try some amazing local dishes while soaking up stunning panoramic views.

A big highlight here is La Grotta Bar. Yes, it’s touristy—of course it is! We’re tourists, and when you’ve only got one day, you’ve gotta hit the cool spots. It’s a bar built right into the cliffs, with cliff diving, snorkeling, and a little pier leading into the water. They play music and sell overpriced beers and cocktails (classic), but honestly, it’s still worth stopping by for a drink or two!

4.Join an Olive Oil Tasting in Corfu

I absolutely loved joining an olive tasting in Corfu! Okay, maybe it’s not quite as good as wine tasting (obviously), but it’s still such a fun experience. For starters, the olive oil farms are stunning—usually these gorgeous little traditional buildings surrounded by endless olive trees. It kind of feels like visiting a vineyard.

There are a few great options to check out in Corfu. The Governor’s Olive Mill is the biggest and most popular on the island. It’s a beautiful estate where they’ll take you around the property, show you how olive oil is made, and let you taste different types of olive oil.

If you’re after something smaller and more traditional, Dr. Kavvadia’s Organic Farm is a great choice. It’s tiny but has this warm, family-style vibe that makes the whole experience so cozy.

Staying in Corfu town for the day? You can still do an olive tasting! The Governor’s Olive Mill has a shop in town called The Olive House where they also offer tastings.

💡Join an Olive Tour in Corfu. It’s so much fun and definitely a must do if you have the time.

5.Visit Pelekas, a Traditional Village

After enjoying the beach, I’d make my way to Pelekas, a quaint hilltop village full of charm. It’s the ideal place to soak up the local vibe and some Greek culture. I’d stroll through the narrow streets, take in the old stone houses, and pause for lunch at either Pink Panther Tavern for views of the beautiful island or at Jimmy’s for some delicious traditional food and local specialties. I highly recommend the moussaka and baked feta here!

The highlight is Kaiser’s Throne, just outside the village. It’s a viewpoint and observatory with 160-degree views over the island.

6.The Achilleion Palace

The Achilleion Palace is a must-visit when you’re in Corfu. Built in the 19th century by the Empress of Austria, Elisabeth of Bavaria (known as Sisi), the palace was designed as a retreat. Its name comes from the Greek hero Achilles, and the palace is filled with statues and artwork depicting scenes from Greek mythology.

The palace itself is a mix of history and stunning gardens, but the real highlight is the panoramic views over Corfu and the Ionian Sea. It’s a great spot to take a break, enjoy the scenery, and learn a bit about Corfu’s history.

💡Make sure to buy tickets in advance; they tend to sell out, especially during peak season.

7.Join a Guided Shore Excursion

If you’re arriving on a cruise ship and want to make the most of your limited time in Corfu, a guided shore excursion is a great option. These tours are usually well-planned, covering the island’s top attractions in just a few hours.

You’ll get to visit highlights like the Old Town, Achilleion Palace, Pelekas Village, and maybe even a beach stop at Agni Bay, all while learning about Corfu’s history and culture from a local guide. It’s a great way to see a lot without the stress of figuring out logistics, and you can always ask your guide for local tips if you want to explore more after the tour.

💡 Make sure to book a shore excursion in advance to secure your ticket.

How to Spend One Day in Corfu From a Cruise Ship

If you’re visiting Corfu on a cruise ship, you’ve got limited time but plenty to see! Here’s how to make the most of your day:

Option 1: Spend the Day in Corfu Town

From the Corfu Port, it’s a short taxi ride or transfer to Corfu Town. Wander the Old Town, explore the New Fortress, stroll through Boschetto Gardens, and grab a coffee or snack at a local café. You don’t need a car to enjoy the charm of Corfu Town, and it’s easy to fill your day with exploring its streets and markets.

Option 2: Rent a Car and Explore the Island

For those wanting to see more, renting a car is a great option. Pick up a rental at the port, then head to Porto Timoni Beach early to avoid the crowds. Next, explore Palaiokastritsa, grab lunch, and visit La Grotta for cliff diving. Don’t miss the Achilleion Palace with its beautiful gardens and stunning views. With a car, you can easily see the highlights of the island in one day.

Option 3: Join a Guided Shore Excursion

If you’d prefer a hassle-free day, consider a guided shore excursion. These tours usually cover Corfu Town, Achilleion Palace, and Porto Timoni Beach, with a local guide sharing insights into the island’s history and culture. It’s a simple way to see the best of Corfu without worrying about transportation.

How to Do a Day Trip to Corfu From Saranda

Taking a ferry from Saranda to Corfu is super easy! There are ferries running all day from Sarande to Corfu (and even from Ksamil to Corfu). It’s such a fun day trip or even a multi-day adventure, and a great way to switch things up during your Albania vacation.

You’ve got a few ferry options to choose from—there’s an express ferry that only takes about 30 minutes, or a car ferry that takes around 90 minutes.

We’ve put together a full guide that has everything you need to know about hopping on the ferry from Sarande to Corfu.

FAQs About 1 Day in Corfu Island

Is one day enough in Corfu?

While Corfu is a large island with lots to explore, you can easily see some of the best spots in one day. Just focus on the highlights like Corfu Town, Porto Timoni Beach, and Achilleion Palace, and you’ll get a pretty good idea of what Corfu is about. If you’re short on time, you may need to skip a few attractions, but a day here is definitely worth it!

Can you walk into Corfu from a Cruise Ship?

Yes, absolutely! The Corfu Port is pretty close to Corfu Town, so it’s an easy walk, taking about 15-20 minutes. If you don’t feel like walking, you can always grab a taxi or a quick transfer. Just make sure to have Euros on you, as many taxis on the island don’t accept card payments.

Which side of Corfu is best?

The north side of Corfu is perfect for a day trip. Most of the popular beaches and charming traditional towns are up there. Around Corfu Town, you can explore olive farms and museums, which are definitely worth a visit. The south is beautiful and less touristy, aside from a few resorts, but it’s not ideal for just a day trip.

Final Thoughts on 1 Day in Corfu

Corfu is an excellent choice for a day trip. It’s one of the less touristy Greek islands, which makes it a refreshing alternative to places like Mykonos and Santorini. While those islands are undoubtedly popular, they can feel overcrowded and are often extremely expensive. Corfu offers a more laid-back and affordable experience.

The island is easy to access by car, and its charming Old Town is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Whether you’re stopping in Corfu as part of a Mediterranean cruise or taking a quick trip from nearby Albania, it’s definitely worth spending a day here. And who knows? You might just be tempted to extend your stay! This guide will help you plan the perfect day in Corfu and maybe even convince you to stick around a little longer.

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