Crete or Corfu: Which Greek Island to Choose?

Crete or Corfu: What Greek Island to Choose?

Choosing between Crete and Corfu (also known as Kerkyra) presents a challenge for holiday destinations. Crete, Greece’s largest island, features varied scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. Crete is ideal for travelers seeking a broader range of activities, including visiting historical monuments or trekking the Samaria Gorge.

Corfu, part of the Ionian Islands, is located in the Ionian Sea. Corfu offers impressive beaches, charming villages, and notable buildings for exploration, ideal for relaxation. The cuisine and architecture of Corfu feature a fusion of Greek and Italian elements.

Crete covers a surface area of 8.450 square kilometres (3.260 square miles), while Corfu covers 610.9 km2 (235.9 sq mi). The size of Crete is ten times that of the island of Corfu. Driving from the north to the south of the country takes roughly two hours. Crete and Corfu are two distinct Greek islands that have captured the hearts of many tourists worldwide. The two islands offer stunning beaches, charming landscapes, and a rich culture for everyone to explore.

Does Crete have better beaches than Corfu?

Crete and Corfu offer distinct beach experiences. The choice between Crete and Corfu depends on preferences for landscape, accessibility, and beach experience. Crete features some of Greece’s best beaches. Crete’s beaches have crystal clear waters and soft sand. Notable Crete beaches include Voulisma, Kedrodasos, and Mazida Ammos. Corfu’s beaches feature lush, green surroundings and have crystal clear water.

Popular Corfu beaches include Porto Timoni, Agios Georgios, and La Grotta. Crete tends to have more sandy beaches with a drier landscape. Corfu has a rockier coast but is more lush and green.

How to Get to Crete?

Listed below are the steps to get to Crete.

How to Get to Corfu?

To get to Corfu, there are two ways from the Greek mainland: by ferry or plane. There are flights to Corfu departing from several countries in Europe, as well as ferry links with three ports in Italy during the summer months and one port in Albania throughout the entire year.

Ferries offer a scenic journey to the island and are a wonderful option for visitors to bring their vehicle. The duration of the ferry ride fluctuates based on the point of departure. Most Corfu ferry routes are handled by regular boats that allow passengers to bring their vehicles. Small passenger vessels mainly serve the ferry routes to the port of Lefkimmi. The major town of Corfu is located 2 kilometres (1.24 miles) away, and the closest port is located 3 kilometres (1.86 miles) away from the airport.

Corfu Island

Are there Tours From Crete to Corfu?

No, there are no tours from Crete to Corfu. There are no available direct flights between Crete Airport and Corfu. Most routes have one or more stops. Corfu is accessible by ferry or plane from mainland Greece. There are other flights to Corfu from other European nations, as well as seasonal ferry connections with three Italian ports and a year-round ferry connection with one Albanian port.

Is it Possible to Go to Corfu and Crete?

Yes, it is possible to visit both Corfu and Crete in Greece. Corfu is in the Ionian Sea, and Crete is in the Aegean Sea. Travelers can reach Corfu and Crete via indirect ferries or flights through Athens. Corfu ferries from Igoumenitsa take 50 minutes to 1.5 hours, with tickets at 7 € ($7,64 , £5,98) – 10 € ($10,92 , £8,54) for passengers.

Crete is accessible by flights from the UK in between 4 to 5 hours. Both islands use the Euro and have a +2 hour time difference from the UK. Citizens of Canada and other nationalities can visit Corfu and Crete visa-free for up to 90 days under Schengen rules.

How to get around Crete?

Getting around Crete is easy with various transportation options. Crete car rental is the easiest way to get around Crete. Major Cretan cities and airports host numerous car rental agencies like Rental Center Crete and Justrentals. Rural roads in Crete may be narrow and winding, necessitating cautious driving. KTEL public buses connect major cities and villages at a low cost but with inconvenient schedule.

Crete Taxis provide convenient transport in urban areas, ideal for shorter trips; agreeing on fares before starting is advisable. Ferries connect Crete to other Greek islands and the mainland, with regular services from major ports like Heraklion and Chania to destinations such as Santorini and Athens.

Explore Crete with a Car rental from €49 per day

Why is Rental Center Crete the top Crete car rental?

Rental Center Crete is the top car rental company in Crete due to its long-standing reputation, transparent pricing, and premium service. Rental Center Crete was founded in 1975 and offers 50 years of expertise, ensuring reliability and customer trust. The pricing policy of Crete car rental includes no hidden fees, with the price at booking being the final cost.

Rental Center Crete’s insurance policy contains comprehensive insurance with “NO EXCESS” coverage, theft protection, and unlimited kilometers which results peace of mind for renters. Rental Center Crete’s fleet consists of modern, well-maintained vehicles ranging from economy to luxury options.

Exceptional service includes 24/7 roadside assistance, fast pick-up/drop-off, free additional drivers, and hotel or airport delivery. Crete car rental Customers consistently choose Rental Center Crete for vehicle quality, transparent pricing, and outstanding service, as reviews confirm.

Recent reviews from 2024 and early 2025 confirm that the company continues to maintain these high standards, with customers specifically mentioning the absence of hidden costs, quality of vehicles, and exceptional service as reasons they choose Rental Center Crete over other options.

How to get around Corfu?

Getting around Corfu is easy with public buses, car rentals, scooters, taxis, and bicycles. Blue Buses operate within Corfu Town, while Green Buses connect to other parts of the island. Rental cars, scooters, and ATVs provide flexibility, and taxis are available at key locations. Uber also operates on the island. The Green Bus Terminal is in Corfu Town, a 15-minute walk from the city center. Bus #15 connects the airport to San Rocco Square and the port.

Public bus fares range from 1,20 € ($1,29, £1,02) to 4,80 € ($5,17, £4,08), with a 5,00 € ($5,39, £4,25) day pass for Blue Buses. Car rentals in Corfu start at 4,66 € ($5, £3,96) per day, scooters at 16,00 € ($17,25, £13,60), and ATVs at 38,00 € ($40,95, £32,30). Bicycle rentals cost around 10,00 € ($10,79, £8,50) daily, though Corfu’s hilly terrain can be challenging. Booking taxis or rentals in advance is recommended during peak seasons.

Buses require checking current timetables at the bus terminal. Public transportation is best accessed from Corfu Town. Renting a vehicle provides flexibility for remote areas. Uber is also a transportation option in Corfu.

What can you Do in Crete?

Crete presents 24 activities that span ancient sites like the Palace of Knossos and Roman ruins, coastal attractions such as Balos Lagoon and Falasarna Beach, outdoor pursuits including hikes in Samaria Gorge and Zakros, and local experiences from Greek cuisine to lively nightlife.

There are numerous things to do in Crete, whether someone is an explorer, a history buff, a culinary lover, or seeking leisure in gorgeous natural surroundings. Crete is the perfect destination for everyone.

What are the Top Best Places in Crete?

Listed below are the top best places in Crete:

Chania Old Town

What can you Do in Corfu?

Find below a list with the things to do in Corfu.

Achilleion Palace Corfu

What is Corfu Known for?

Corfu, a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, is renowned for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. The island boasts a variety of breathtaking beaches, from the sandy shores of Glyfada to the picturesque coves of Paleokastritsa and Sidari.

Corfu’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of Venetian architecture, with charming narrow streets, elegant squares, and historical landmarks such as the Old and New Fortresses. Corfu’s lush landscape, covered in olive groves and cypress trees, sets it apart from many other Greek islands. The island’s history is marked by Venetian, French, and British influences, which are reflected in its unique cuisine, music, and traditions.

Corfu Old Town

One of the most famous cultural events is Corfu’s extravagant Easter celebrations, featuring the unique “pot-throwing” tradition. Corfu gained literary fame through Gerald Durrell’s My Family and Other Animals, which captures Corfu’s natural beauty and charm.

What are Best Places to visit in Corfu?

The Best Places to visit in Corfu are listed below.

Palaiokastritsa Beach Corfu

How Big is Crete Compared to Corfu?

Crete is significantly larger than Corfu in both area and population. Crete covers approximately 8.450 km² (3.260 mi²), making it nearly 13 times bigger than Corfu. which has an area of about 592 km² (229 mi²).

Crete is also much longer at 260 km (161 miles) compared to Corfu’s 64 km (40 miles). The width of Crete reaches 60 km (37 miles) at its widest point, while Corfu is only around 32 km (20 miles) wide.

Crete has a much larger population than Corfu. Crete has 624.408 residents, while Corfu has about 99,847 as of 2021. Crete’s population density is 75.9 people per km², whereas Corfu’s is much higher at approximately 165 inhabitants per km².

Heraklion, Crete’s largest city, has 144,422 residents, representing 23% of the island’s population. Other major cities include Chania (88,525), Rethymno (34,300), and Ierapetra (23,707). Approximately 42% of Crete’s population lives in urban areas, and 45% in rural areas.

Corfu’s population is more centralized, with about one-third living in Corfu city. Other major municipalities include Lefkími and Thinali. Corfu has 98 smaller municipalities with populations ranging from under 100 to about 2,000 residents.

What are the Advantages of Crete Over Corfu?

The advantages of Crete Over Corfu are listed below.

What are the Advantages of Corfu Over Crete?

The advantages of Corfu Over Crete are listed below.

Sidari Beach Corfu

Can you Get to Corfu if you are in Crete?

Yes, you can travel from Crete to Corfu. The fastest way to travel from Crete to Corfu is by plane, taking approximately 2.5-3 hours, including transfers. Direct flights, such as those from Aegean Airlines, operate on certain days, while most flights connect through Athens. Prices range from 70 € ($75,99 , £59,89) to 350 € ($379,95 , £299,45).

Alternative travel options include ferry and bus combinations, taking 16-24 hours. The most economical route involves a ferry from Heraklion to Piraeus, a bus to Igoumenitsa, and a final ferry to Corfu, costing 60 € ($64,92 , £51,48) – 160 € ($173,12 , £137,28).

Is Crete cheaper than Corfu?

Crete is 9% more expensive than Corfu, with an average monthly cost of living of 1,064.75 € ($1,150, £900.65) compared to Corfu’s 978.84 € ($1,056, £831.66). Housing costs vary, as rent in Corfu is higher, but property prices per square meter are more expensive in Crete. Food costs are about 15% higher in Crete, and transportation expenses are more than double. The median after-tax salary in Crete (926.29 €) ($997, £787.43) is 18% higher than in Corfu (785.31 €) ($845, £666.51), helping to offset the increased living costs. Corfu scores slightly higher in quality of life (60/100 vs. 56/100).

How Is Corfu in May?

Corfu in May features mild weather, with daytime highs at 24 ℃ (75,2 ℉). The island enjoys mostly sunny days with minimal rainfall, and the sea temperature is around 19 ℃ (66,2 ℉), making May ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Does Corfu have Markets?

Yes, Corfu has several markets offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade goods. The Corfu Town Market near the New Fortress is a lively spot for seafood, fruits, vegetables, and local honey. Laiki (farmers’) markets take place in different areas, selling seasonal produce and traditional Greek products.

Tourist and handicraft markets in Liston, Campiello, and coastal resorts offer souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and Kumquat liqueur. A small Sunday flea market near Corfu Town features antiques, books, and vintage items.

Is Corfu expensive to visit?

Corfu’s visiting costs are moderate compared to other Greek islands. Budget accommodations cost 30 € ($32.65, £25.65) – 60 € ($65.30, £51.30) per night, and mid-range hotels cost 70 € ($76.20, £59.85) – 150 € ($161.30, £128.20). Casual meals cost 10 € ($10.89, £8.55) – 20 € ($21.78, £17.10), and fine dining costs 30 € ($32.67, £25.65)+. Public transport costs 1.10 € ($1.20, £0.94) – 3.50 € ($3.82, £2.99), and taxis have fixed fares. Beaches and attractions are free, while museum entries and tours cost 5 € ($5.45, £4.28) – 30 € ($32.67, £25.65).

Is Corfu a Greek Island?

Corfu is a Greek island. Corfu, also known as “Kérkyra”, is a populous Greek island in the Ionian Sea, near the Greek mainland. Corfu’s history includes ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, French, and British.

Corfu’s historical importance and strategic location shaped its cultural heritage and architecture. The Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, illustrates Venetian architecture.

Corfu’s natural beauty includes lush landscapes, beaches, and a Mediterranean climate, attracting tourists. Corfu is known for its local culture, cuisine, and friendly people.

Should you visit Crete over Corfu?

Yes, you should visit Crete over Corfu if you want a larger, more diverse island with rich ancient history, extensive hiking opportunities, and authentic Greek village experiences.

Crete features diverse landscapes, suitable for extended stays and activities. Crete’s archaeological sites, including Knossos, Festos, offer historical experiences, and its tavernas and culture create an authentic atmosphere. Crete is the ideal choice for travelers of any type.

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