Is Corfu safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Corfu is a very safe island with low crime. The realistic risks are road accidents on narrow, winding roads, scooter and quad crashes, and occasional theft from cars and beaches. Violent crime against visitors is rare.
The real risks
Driving and scooters
Roads are narrow, steep and winding, with tour buses on blind bends. Drive slowly, and avoid quads and scooters unless experienced; always wear a helmet.
Boats
Licence-free motorboats are easy to hire, but the wind can rise quickly in the afternoon; stay close to shore and check the forecast.
Theft from cars and beaches
Do not leave bags visible in parked cars or on the sand while swimming.
Nightlife resorts
Kavos can be rowdy in summer with heavy drinking; watch your drink and avoid fights.
Heat
July and August reach 31–32°C; carry water and avoid midday hikes.
Areas and times to take care
There are no no-go areas. The Old Town is safe at night, though busy lanes near the port can see occasional pickpocketing in high season. Kavos, the party resort in the south, gets loud and drunken in July and August.
Getting around safely
Licensed taxis are safe and the airport is only 3 km from the Old Town (about 10 minutes). Blue city buses and green KTEL buses are reliable but infrequent in the evening. If driving, allow time on mountain roads and do not drink and drive; Greek limits are strict.
Solo and women travellers
Corfu is comfortable for women travelling alone. Standard precautions apply: take care in nightlife resorts, use licensed taxis late at night and let someone know your plans if hiking the Corfu Trail.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is generally drinkable in Corfu Town but quality varies across the island; many visitors drink bottled water. Summer sun is strong. Corfu has more mosquitoes than the drier Aegean islands, so pack repellent. Hospitals and pharmacies are good in Corfu Town.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Corfu safe for tourists?
Yes, crime is low. The main risks are driving on narrow, winding roads, scooter and quad accidents, and theft from cars and beaches.
Is Kavos safe?
It is a party resort, busy and loud in summer. Watch your drink, stay with friends and use licensed taxis late at night.
Can you drink tap water in Corfu?
In Corfu Town it is usually fine, but quality varies around the island, so many visitors drink bottled water.