Corfu is more than just an island—it’s a gateway.

Surrounded by the deep blue Ionian and perched close to the Albanian coast, Corfu is perfectly positioned for day trips to other islands, beaches, and even countries. Whether you want to explore the legendary caves of Paxos, step into the streets of Sarandë in Albania, or spend the day snorkeling from a wooden sailboat, there’s a trip for every mood and budget.

You don’t need to stay overnight to feel like you’ve traveled far. With organized tours, ferries, and boat rentals available from Corfu Town, Lefkimmi, and several beach harbors, it’s never been easier to hop the sea and create a new kind of memory.

🛳 Ferry Day Trips – Fast, Easy, and Scenic

1. Albania – Day Trip to Sarandë & Butrint A short ferry ride from Corfu Town takes you to Sarandë, a coastal city in southern Albania. Many tours include a visit to the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Roman baths, Greek temples, and a stunning amphitheater.

● Time: Full-day (approx. 8–10 hours)

● Passport required

● Bookable via tour agencies or online

2. Paxos & Antipaxos Probably the most popular day cruise from Corfu. Paxos is charming and laid-back, with colorful harbors, while tiny Antipaxos boasts Caribbean-clear waters ideal for swimming.

● Time: Full-day (approx. 10 hours)

● Departs from Corfu Town or Lefkimmi

● Includes swim stops and sea caves

3. Mainland Greece – Parga Take a ferry or high-speed boat to the mainland town of Parga, a beautiful, amphitheater-style village with Venetian castles, great seafood, and clear beaches.

● Time: Full-day

● Great mix of nature, town wandering, and food

4. Diapontia Islands (Othonoi, Mathraki, Ereikoussa) The westernmost Greek islands, off Corfu’s northwestern tip. Remote and rarely visited, they offer empty beaches, traditional island life, and a sense of true escape.

● Time: Full-day

● Ferries from Sidari or Agios Stefanos (NW)

● Limited service—check schedules

⛵ Boat Tours & Cruises – Relaxed Exploration on the Water

1. Blue Caves & Antipaxos Swim Cruise A laid-back cruise that includes exploring the sea caves of Paxos, swimming off Antipaxos, and free time in Gaios (Paxos’ main town).

● Includes: Onboard commentary, optional lunch

● Departs: Corfu Town or Lefkimmi

2. Private Sailboat Charter Rent a sailboat (with or without skipper) for a custom day on the water. Stop where you want—hidden bays, snorkeling coves, and off-grid beaches.

● Ideal for: Couples, families, or small groups

● Customizable

● Prices vary depending on season and boat size

3. BBQ Boat Cruise (North or South Corfu) Popular for families and groups. Swim stops, grilled food onboard, music, and plenty of fun.

● Includes: BBQ lunch, drinks, snorkel gear

● Often departs from Paleokastritsa or Kavos

4. Sunset Cruise A romantic and scenic option, usually departing in the early evening and circling the coast while the sun dips below the Ionian.

● Includes: Wine or champagne, music, light snacks

● Great for photographers and couples

🏝 Isolated Beaches & Hidden Coves – Boat Rentals & DIY Trips

1. Rent a Motorboat on the East Coast From Nissaki, Kalami, or Agni, rent a small motorboat and explore the northeast coast at your own pace. No license needed for most options.

● Highlights: Hidden coves, waterside tavernas, secret beaches

● Pack: Sunscreen, water, snorkel gear

2. Corfu Town to Vido Island Just a few minutes by boat, Vido Island is a tiny, pine-covered retreat right across from Corfu Town. Swim, walk the trails, or have lunch at the little canteen.

● Time: Half-day

● Departs from: Corfu Town port

3. Discover Cape Drastis by Boat On the northwestern tip near Peroulades, this spot is hard to reach by land but magical by sea. Dramatic white cliffs and hidden swim spots.

● Access: Small tour boats or kayaks from Sidari

🗓 7-Day Day Trip Planner – Add Variety to Your Corfu Adventure

Here’s how to fit unforgettable escapes into your Corfu stay, mixing boat tours, ferry journeys, and independent exploring.

Day 1: Sarandë & Butrint (Albania)

● Morning ferry from Corfu Town

● Explore Sarandë’s promenade

● Guided tour of Butrint ruins

● Return in the evening with a new stamp in your passport

Day 2: Paxos & Antipaxos Cruise

● Full-day boat cruise

● Swim in sea caves and Antipaxos

● Lunch or coffee in Gaios

● Relaxed sail back in the afternoon

Day 3: East Coast Private Boat Day

● Rent a motorboat from Kalami or Nissaki

● Visit Agni, Kerasia, or Kouloura

● Dock at a taverna for lunch

● Sunset swim before returning

Day 4: Vido Island Escape

● Take a small boat from Corfu Town

● Morning swim and walk around Vido

● Light lunch at the canteen or picnic

● Afternoon free for Corfu Town shopping

Day 5: BBQ Cruise

● Join a group cruise from Paleokastritsa or Lefkimmi

● Swim, snorkel, eat, repeat

● Family-friendly or party-style, depending on the operator

Day 6: Sailboat Charter

● Private day on the sea with a skipper

● Design your own route—combine swimming, sunbathing, and quiet coves

● Optional onboard lunch or stop at a tavern

Day 7: Mainland Greece – Parga Visit

● Morning ferry to Parga

● Walk the old castle, shop in boutiques, eat seafood by the water

● Return for one last Corfu sunset

ℹ️ Need to Know

● Passports are required for Albania trips—double-check visa requirements if you’re not

an EU citizen.

● Tours & Boats are weather-dependent. Always confirm the night before, especially in

spring and autumn.

● Pack Smart: Bring sun protection, towels, and water shoes if exploring rocky beaches.

● Book Early in high season (July–August), especially for Paxos, Albania, and private

boat charters