The local currency in Corfu is the euro (EUR), which uses the currency sign €.
Corfu is a part of Greece, a country which has used the euro as its only and official currency since 2001, 20 years after it joined the European Union (EU)
Where is Corfu?
Corfu is located in the Ionian Sea - off the north-western coast of Greece and the south-western coast of Albania.
Corfu is famous for its stunning beaches, lush greenery, Venetian architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Its Greek name is 'Kerkyra'.
What Currency did Corfu previously use?
Before 2001, Corfu (like the rest of Greece) used the drachma, which used the currency symbol ₯. This was in circulation between 1832 and 2002 AD and is no longer accepted for payments.
It was the modern version of an older currency by the same name, which dated back to the mid 6th century BC. The modern version's banknotes featured Greek mythology figures, including:
- Poseidon (God of the sea)
- Athena (Goddess of war)
- Zeus (God of Thunder)
- Heracles (later known as Hercules in Roman mythology - A man with superhuman strength)
What denominations does the euro have?
The various coins and banknote denominations of the euro are:
- €5
- €10
- €20
- €50
- €100
- €200
- €500
And its euro coin denominations are (from lowest to highest):
- 1 cent (c)
- 2c
- 5c
- 10c
- 20c
- 50c
- €1
- €2
Currency exchange services in Corfu
If you're arriving from a non-EU country and need to exchange some of your local currency for euro banknotes, it's easy to do so.
However, we strongly advise that you don't do so at the airport, as you're more likely to be hit with excessive fees.
There are numerous Currency Exchange branches around the island which will help you whilst charging much lower fees.
Types of payment methods used in Corfu
Cash, credit and debit cards, and mobile payments are widely accepted in Corfu.
The more popular tourist destinations are more likely to only accept card and mobile payments. The more remote, off the beaten track shops and markets are more flexible. They will often happily accept cash.
You can make contactless payments with your credit and debit cards in Greece. The maximum limit per contactless transaction is €50.
We'd recommend you bring cash and credit or debit cards (or mobiles) on your trip. This way, you're covered regardless of the situation.
What is the ATM situation like in Corfu?
ATMs are generally safe to use for cash withdrawals in Corfu.
However, be aware that some of them may not be working. So, when you find one that does, take out relatively larger amounts of cash than you immediately need.
Also, even though your national bank or travel card company may not charge fees for withdrawing money, ATMs in Corfu are likely to do so. Expect to pay somewhere between €2.50 - €5.00 per withdrawal.
Piraeus ATM machines tend to have relatively low withdrawal fees in Corfu, whereas Euronet ATM fees tend to be higher.
Is Corfu expensive?
No, by European standards Corfu is not expensive.
When we say by European standards, we're comparing it to places like Norway, Denmark and Switzerland, some of the most expensive destinations in Europe.
They're all incredible, lovely places to visit. But your money won't go as far in these places as it will in Corfu.
Read on to see a basic breakdown of common costs in Corfu.
Accommodation
- Budget option: €300 - €500 / £255 - £425 per week
- Mid-range option: €500 - €800 / £425 - £680 per week
- Luxury option: €800+ / £680+ per week
Food and dining
Transportation (local buses, taxis, rental cars)
- Local transportation: €10 - €30 / £8 - £25 per person per week
- Rental car (per day): €20 - €50 / £17 - £42
Activities/entertainment
- Excursions, tours, and activities: €20 - €50 / £17 - £42 per person per activity
- Entrance fees to attractions: €5 - €15 / £4 - £13 per person per attraction
Flights (round trip from major European cities)
- Budget option: €100 - €300 / £85 - £255 per person
- Mid-range option: €300 - €600 / £255 - £510 per person
- Luxury option: €600+ / £510+ per person
Miscellaneous costs
- Shopping, souvenirs, and miscellaneous expenses: €30 - €50 / £25 - £42
Does Corfu have a tipping culture?
Tipping isn't common among locals but tourists are encouraged to do it. And in some places, they are expected to leave a tip of between 10% - 15%.
It is also common to 'round up' for taxi drivers or hotel porters.
Also, try to make sure you tip in cash (another reason to carry cash) so it goes directly to the person helping you.
Does Corfu have a haggling culture?
In Corfu, you can't haggle in most stores or local markets, no matter how small or remote. If you try, the locals will not likely appreciate it. It is similar to most of Europe in this respect.
Before you go to Corfu, we should warn you... you're probably spending too much in foreign currency for exchange rates and foreign transaction fees when you spend abroad.
As well as hidden fees that you are not told about!
Sign up to Currensea today to change that.
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