Knowing the little things makes a big difference.
Corfu is welcoming and relaxed, but like any destination, it has its own rhythms, customs, and unspoken rules. Whether you’re navigating village life, ordering at a taverna, or figuring out how much to tip, this chapter gives you the inside edge—so you can travel respectfully, confidently, and with just the right amount of local charm.
From cultural etiquette to practical advice, here’s everything you wish someone told you before your trip to Corfu.
🤝 Social Etiquette – Respect, Kindness, and a Bit of Greek
1. Learn a Few Words Even basic Greek greetings go a long way. Try these:
● Kalimera – Good morning
● Kalispera – Good evening
● Efharistó – Thank you
● Yamas! – Cheers!
● Parakaló – Please / You’re welcome
2. Greet People When Entering Shops or Cafés It’s customary to say hello or good morning (Kalimera) when you walk into small, family-run places—even if you’re just browsing.
3. Be Courteous Behind the Wheel Island roads are narrow and winding. Locals often pull aside to let others pass—do the same and wave in thanks.
4. Dress Respectfully at Churches and Monasteries Cover shoulders and knees. Bring a scarf or light shawl in your bag just in case.
5. Don’t Rush Meals Eating in Corfu is about enjoying the moment. Don’t expect lightning-fast service—you’re not being ignored, you’re being given space to relax.
6. Respect Quiet Hours In villages and residential areas, mesimeri (the midday rest) is sacred—usually between 2pm and 5pm. Keep noise low during this time.
💡 Practical Tips – Make the Most of Your Trip
1. Tap Water Safe to drink in most places, especially in Corfu Town and larger villages. Bottled water is common at restaurants.
2. Power Outlets Greece uses the standard European plug (Type C and F, 230V). Bring an adapter if you’re coming from outside Europe.
3. Wi-Fi & SIM Cards Wi-Fi is widely available, but rural areas may have slower speeds. For extended stays, consider buying a local SIM with data.
4. Cash vs Card Cards are accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and shops, but always carry some cash—especially in remote villages or beach tavernas.
5. ATMs ATMs are common in towns and tourist areas, but may charge withdrawal fees. Use bank-branded ATMs when possible (like Alpha Bank or Eurobank).
6. Tipping Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated.
● Restaurants: round up or leave 5–10%
● Cafés: drop small coins in the tray
● Taxi drivers: rounding up is fine
● Hotel staff: €1–2 for housekeeping or porters
7. Driving
● Drive on the right side of the road.
● Roads can be narrow and winding—go slow and honk around blind corners.
● Parking is tricky in town—use lots or side streets when available.
● Be cautious of scooters and ATVs, especially in summer.
🚗 Transportation Tips – Getting Around Corfu
1. Buses
● Green buses run between towns and villages.
● Blue buses operate in and around Corfu Town.
● Timetables can change seasonally—double-check before planning a trip.
2. Taxis Taxis are available in towns and at the airport. Not all use meters, so agree on the price in advance if unsure.
3. Car & Scooter Rentals A rental car is the best way to explore the whole island. For scooters or ATVs, you’ll need a motorcycle license from most countries.
4. Boats Motorboats (no license needed) are a great way to see the coastline. Book in advance in summer, especially on the east coast.
5. Walking & Hiking Perfect in spring or autumn. Bring good shoes—Corfu’s hills and stone paths can be uneven.
🛍 Shopping & Souvenirs – What to Bring Home
1. Olive Oil – Locally produced and often pressed by hand. 2. Kumquat Products – A Corfu specialty: liqueur, sweets, and jams. 3. Handmade Ceramics – From traditional village studios. 4. Olive Wood Crafts – Bowls, spoons, and carvings from ancient groves. 5. Herbs & Spices – Mountain tea, oregano, thyme, and sage. 6. Soap – Especially from olive oil or local lavender. 7. Embroidery – Hand-stitched linens from villages like Sinarades and Lefkimmi.
Tip: Ask if products are locally made. Many gift shops also sell imported items, so don’t be afraid to ask where something comes from.
Cultural Mindset – How to Travel Like a Local
● Take your time. Corfu runs on a slower clock. Embrace it.
● Greet people. Even a smile or nod goes a long way.
● Eat late. Dinner often starts around 8 or 9pm. Don’t expect full restaurants at 6pm.
● Order a little of everything. Greek meals are meant to be shared. Get a few small
dishes for the table.
● Say yes to raki or kumquat liqueur. It’s often offered as a gift—it’s polite to at least sip.
🗓 Top 10 Quick Tips for First-Time Visitors
1. Book boat tours and rentals early in peak season
2. Avoid driving through Corfu Town at midday—park outside and walk in
3. Bring reef shoes for rocky beaches
4. Always carry cash for small purchases and tips
5. Don’t flush toilet paper—use the bin (standard practice in Greece)
6. Look for the “homemade” sign at bakeries and tavernas
7. Wear sun protection even on cloudy days—Ionian sun is strong
8. Buy olive oil in tins for easier transport
9. Be flexible—delays and detours often lead to better adventures
10. Stay curious—ask locals for their favorite places. They’ll often surprise you.
Corfu welcomes travelers with open arms—but those who take time to understand it, even a little, are rewarded with a deeper, richer experience. Respect the island, and it gives you something rare in return: the feeling of being not just a visitor, but part of something timeless.