Corfu (Kerkyra) is the northernmost of the Ionian Islands and one of the most popular vacation destinations in Greece. Travelers flock here during the summer to enjoy the lovely beaches and great weather. Also, the islands boats a picturesque Old City with narrow streets and a romantic promenade area. The Venetian Castle is another important landmark where events take place year round.

If you need to get from Athens to Corfu, there are only two possibilities: a direct flight or taking the bus to Igoumenitsa and then the ferry to Corfu.

By plane

Corfu is served by an airport which receives both domestic flights and charter flights from other European countries.

The direct flights between Athens and Corfu are offered by Aegean Airlines. The journey takes 1 hour. The fares depend on how far in advance the ticket is booked. If you manage to book the ticket one month in advance, the price can be as low as €179 per person, RT (economy class).

By bus & ferry

Athens to Igoumenitsa by bus

There are four buses departing daily during the summer season (June to September) at 6:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 9 p.m. The journey takes 7 hours. The buses don’t run during the winter season (October to May). The buses depart from Athens KTEL Bus terminal A (100 Kifissou str.). Tickets cannot be bought online and the only way to get them is from the bus station. A one way ticket between Athens and Igoumenitsa costs about €30*. Return buses are also available daily.

Igoumenitsa to Corfu by ferry

During the summer season, the route is served by several ferry companies: Anek Lines, Ventouris Ferries, Minoan Lines and Agoudimos Lines. However, some of the ferries cannot be booked online, but can be booked on the ferry companies’ websites.

The journey takes between 1/2 h and 1 h 45 min, depending on the company and ferry.

>>read more about ferries from Corfu to Igoumenitsa

Note:
* prices change from season to season

Read more about:

>> Getting from Athens to Thessaloniki
>> Getting from Athens to Piraeus
>> Getting from Athens to Meteora
>> Getting from Athens to Santorini
>> Getting to Halkidiki
>> Getting from Athens to Istanbul
>> Getting from Thessaloniki to Meteora
>> Getting from Hydra to Santorini (and return)
>> Getting from Thessaloniki to Kavala

Photo credit: mafleen on Flickr

Note: the article was written in June 2009 and updated (ferry schedules) in March 2013.