Can you do this cruise port on your own?
Corfu
DIY Score
Doable with planning
Know the Green Bus times for Paleokastritsa before you get off the ship.
Tender or Docked?
Usually docked at the New Port, about 2 km from the UNESCO Old Town. A 20-30 minute walk or a short taxi puts you at the edge of the historic center.
How to Get Into Town
Walk to Corfu Old Town: 20-30 min, free. Taxis to the Old Fortress are €5-8. The Green Bus to Paleokastritsa costs €3-4 and takes 45-50 minutes.
Main Attractions
Corfu Old Town is a UNESCO-listed Venetian labyrinth that fills 2-3 hours with ease. Paleokastritsa is the island's most photographed coastal village, with clear water and sea caves, and worth the bus trip if your schedule allows.
How Much Time You Need
7-8 hours works for the Old Town plus Paleokastritsa. Shorter calls should focus on the Old Town, which needs no advance logistics.
Keep in Mind
The Green Bus to Paleokastritsa runs only 7 times a day. If you miss your return bus, a taxi costs €40 and may not be immediately available.
Safety & Comfort
Corfu is safe and welcoming. Normal tourist awareness is sufficient; the island is used to independent cruise visitors.
Tips from Cruisers
"Third time in Corfu and I finally did Paleokastritsa. Should have done it years earlier. The whole northwest coast from the bus wi…" — by Elena
Third time in Corfu and I finally did Paleokastritsa. Should have done it years earlier. The whole northwest coast from the bus window is beautiful even before you arrive.
We walked to the Old Town along the waterfront, which took about 25 minutes but was a nice start to the morning. Did the fortress, which had great views, then wandered the lanes for an hour. Sat at the Liston for a coffee. Perfect morning with no planning required.
My wife and I stayed entirely in Corfu Town. Did the fortress in the morning and wandered the lanes after. Found a tiny place for lunch up one of the back streets, completely off the main path. One of the better cruise days we've had, and we didn't rush once.
Took the Green Bus to Paleokastritsa. It was not difficult but I was the only passenger who seemed to know which stop to get off at. The bus driver pointed it out. Beach was gorgeous. The boat to the caves was operating and worth the €15.
We nearly missed the return bus from Paleokastritsa. We'd done the beach, had lunch, done the monastery, and I kept saying "one more swim" to the kids. The last afternoon bus is not a guideline, it's the deadline. Get on it.