Photo ↑ by @aspiotis_m
The amazing island of Corfu is a stunner to visit. Renting a car is by far one of the best options if you want to see as much as possible, but not always necessary. Local buses are quite useful as well, especially if you are only interested in the main attractions.
Driving around in Corfu is safe. Like everyone else, the GPS could be sketchy and take you some dead end tracks, but that is just part of the game. Overall, driving around the island should not pose too many issues if you use common sense.
Renting a car will give you the option to explore things at your own pace. Besides, you do not depend on bus timetables, not to mention being able to visit places where buses simply do not go. If you like staying in quiet places, rather than the busiest hotels on the island, chances are you will need a car.
What To Expect When Driving In Corfu
In Corfu, as well as in the whole of Greece, cars are driven on the right side of the road. If you come from countries with different standards, such as the United Kingdom, keep in mind that everything is different, so you will need to pay special attention.
While it may take a bit of extra care, locals are used to tourists. Pay special attention when you need to make a turn, only to make sure you are going on the right lane. Other than that, like everywhere else in Greece, expect motorcycle drivers overtaking and undertaking all around you.
Most roads in Corfu are in good condition, but not pristine. Overall, you should face no issues, yet very remote areas might be a bit dodgy if you use your GPS. Simply use common sense. Zoom out on your GPS, find a better route yourself. The island is small, so you cannot really get lost.
How To Choose A Car In Corfu
There are more rental car companies in Corfu. You can usually book in advance and have someone wait for you at the airport with your car. You can also book later, such as the next day, after you settle in. There are both local and international companies offering cars for hire in Corfu.
Prices are quite similar. Local companies are likely to give you a better customer service experience. At the same time, prices could be a bit lower. It depends, but then again, you are less likely to notice a massive difference.
A small local company depends on your service more than a big international one, hence the customer service. You are about to have an authentic Greek experience as well. On the other hand, big companies tend to have cars in better condition due to their budgets.
Unless you have a massive family, it might be a good idea to get a small car. Some roads in Corfu are quite narrow, whether in small villages or the old town. Plus, a small car is easy to park too, yet it may have some challenges on hills.
Keep in mind that different companies have different rules. Normally, if you have a valid driver’s license, you should have no issues. Some companies may require you to have the license for at least a year, but such cases are rare. Also, some companies may require you to be over 21 years old. Again, rare cases.
Speed Limits And Traffic
Speed limits vary. Generally, speaking, you can do 50KPH in urban areas. That is about 30MPH. Open roads allow you to go 60KPH to 80KPH. Based on road conditions and surroundings, speed limits may vary, so always pay attention upfront. Keep an eye on signs as you drive around.
Parking can be difficult in tourist season, especially around town. If you have accommodation in the old town, you may have to go round and round until you find a space. Remember where you parked the car. Eventually, take a picture of the street name.
Avoid parking on yellow road markings, but also pay attention to signs. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, parking is defined by lines on the road. In Greece, you will have to look out for forbidden parking signs.
Traffic can be difficult in small villages or the old town. It is more problematic in the summertime, during the peak season. Weekends can often be difficult too, especially if the weather is good.
Most fuel pumps accept credit cards. During daytime, many such services have attendants who can fill up for you. Some stations are shut on Sundays.
Cost Of Renting A Car In Corfu
Make sure you actually need a car in Corfu. If you only stick to major attractions, the old town and popular beach destinations, you can probably do it by bus too. If you choose to rent a car, expect to pay just over Є100 at the beginning or end of season, as well as three times more during peak season.
You have all kinds of extras, such as a GPS, a seat for babies or perhaps a collision damage waiver. Theft protection and roadside assistance are normally included. You should go through all the terms and conditions, but in Corfu, chances are you will not need anything.
Of course, a large or fancy car will cost you more.
Your Driver’s License
There is no such thing as an international driver’s license, but there is a permit you may need. Drivers from countries in the European Union, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Norway, Switzerland and a few others will not really require this international license.
But then, if you come from countries that are not included in the Vienna Convention for road traffic, you will need to obtain such a license. Double check upfront and if you do need one, apply as early as you can. The international driving permit (IDP) may take a few weeks. You can get it online.
The minimum driving age in Greece is 18. Some companies also have a maximum limit, usually set around 70. Most companies in Corfu do not have such a rule.
There are more manual cars in Greece than automatic cars. While most rental companies have automatic cars as well, they usually go first, so availability might be limited.
While big companies may require a credit card in your name, small local companies do not. This is another great benefit. You can either book online with a payment or only make a down payment and pay the rest when you get to Corfu. Local companies accept cash as well.
Tips Before Renting A Car In Corfu
Here are a few general ideas that might help you explore Corfu with no issues at all.
- Inspect the car before taking it. Take a walk around it, look for scratches and check the interior as well.
- It might be a good idea to purchase a full insurance. It is super cheap and will give you peace of mind, as you will not have to pay for any potential damage later.
- Authorities will not check you online if you are stopped. Keep the ID, rental documents and driver’s license with you. For some countries, the driver’s license is also considered an ID.
- Airport pickups are available too. Pay attention to dropping places too. Most people choose the old town or airport for convenience.
- Double check with the rental company if you want to take the car on other islands or mainland.
- Ferry bookings should be done well in advance. If you could plan it with months in advance, do so.
- Most companies will not allow you to take the car over the borders.
Best Company To Rent A Car In Corfu
A simple search for rent a car in Corfu over your favourite search engine will give you quite a few results, usually over 20 of them. Keep in mind that the first results are usually sponsored. It should say so. This means those companies pay to be at the top. They are not always the best.
Scroll down and look at their ratings and numbers of reviews. Most local companies have more than 4.8 stars out of five and hundreds of reviews. International names have between three and four out of five stars. Again, local companies tend to give you a better service, as well as better value for money.
Book online or simply make a call if you are not sure about something in particular.
While it is highly recommended to do your own research and search like advised above, here are a few local companies worth some consideration.
Keep in mind that the list is slightly longer than this. These companies have been around for years or even decades, offering a good service. It does not mean that newer companies cannot offer a similar service, so once again, do your search upfront.
Bottom line, if something is illegal in your country, it is probably illegal in Greece as well. Use common sense. It is illegal to use your phone while you drive, drive without the seatbelt on or do it while intoxicated.
Other than that, pay attention to stray animals, enjoy the views and stop wherever you feel like it. Every part of Corfu is perfectly safe to explore and enjoy.