If you’re staying in Sarandë, Albania, a day trip to Corfu, Greece is the easiest international side trip you can take. The two are just a short ferry ride apart, and in summer there are multiple daily crossings between the ports. If you really want to explore Corfu properly, you’ll need more than one day — it’s bigger and more layered than you think.
I wouldn’t recommend the reverse — traveling from Corfu to see Sarandë for a day. Sarandë is honestly my least favorite part of Albania; If you want to explore the Albanian Riviera, there are far better spots to focus your time.
Getting from Sarandë to Corfu (Ferry + Border Control)
Several operators run ferries from Sarandë to Corfu Town, with round-trip tickets ~€25. The journey takes between 30 minutes (hydrofoil) and up to 2 hours (standard ferry). The faster boats cost more but are worth it if you’re short on time.
Because this is an international border crossing into the EU (Albania → Greece), you’ll go through passport control on arrival. In high season, especially when cruise ships are in port, immigration can take time — so plan accordingly.
On the Albanian side, exit checks happen either before boarding or when you return, depending on the ferry company and season.
Once in Corfu, you’re not limited to a simple day trip. From here, you can continue south to other Greek islands or even north to Italy.
Taxis from the Port
As soon as you step off the Corfu dock, taxis are waiting. Expect to pay ~€15 to reach Corfu Old Town — even though it’s only about a mile away. We took a taxi in and walked back, which I recommend if the weather’s nice. Why not.
A Little History About Corfu
Corfu has layered history, which makes it special, and unlike others. Founded by the Corinthians (Corinth was a roman city in Greece) in the 8th century BC, the island became strategically important due to its position in the Ionian Sea.
Then, the Venetians ruled Corfu for over four centuries (Venetians are from Venice BTW). Their influence is what makes Corfu Old Town — narrow alleyways, pastel buildings, fortified walls, and Italian-feeling piazzas. Later, the French and British also controlled the island before it officially became part of Greece in 1864.
That mix of influences gives Corfu a slightly different energy than other Greek islands, which is cool.
What to Do on a Day Trip to Corfu
1. Explore Corfu Old Town
If you only have one day in Corfu, start here.
Corfu Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and easily the most atmospheric part of the island. It’s a maze of cobblestone lanes, cafés, small boutiques, and open squares. Yes, it’s touristy — especially during cruise ship hours — but it’s also where you feel Corfu’s character most clearly.
Don’t miss:
- Spianada Square – One of the largest squares in Europe.
- The Liston Promenade – Elegant arcades lined with cafés.
- Old Fortress – Explore this historic Venetian fortress overlooking the harbor, a short walk from the square.
- Church of Saint Spyridon – Dedicated to Corfu’s patron saint.
For shopping, skip the most obvious souvenir shops and wander into side streets for better ceramics, leather goods, and kumquat liquor! Something Corfu is famous for.
2. Visit a Beach (If You Have Time)
Trying to see Corfu’s best beaches on a day trip is ambitious — so pick one area and commit to it.
If you’re short on time, stay near Corfu Old Town. That’s what I did.
- Faliraki Bathing Beach – Not technically a beach. It’s stone platforms and restaurant steps near the Old Fortress where everyone sunbathes and jumps straight into the sea. Super close to Old Town and such a vibe. If you want a quick swim without losing half your day, this is the move.
- Kerkira Beach – A tiny rocky cove tucked below the cliffs of Old Town. Not sandy, not big — but genuinely beautiful.
If you want better, you’ll need to head west.
- Paleokastritsa Beach – Crystal-clear water, steep cliffs, and easily some of the best scenery on the island. Worth it — but realistically a half-day commitment.
- Glyfada Beach – Golden sand, shallow water, and classic Mediterranean energy. Easier and more relaxed than Paleokastritsa.
- Agios Spiridon Beach – Quieter, with calm, shallow water. Good if you want something low-key.
Where to Eat in Corfu Old Town
Arthaus Café Wine Bar – I ate here and really loved the vibe and menu. It’s right in Old Town. Covered in paintings and focused heavily on Greek wines. A good stop for an afternoon drink, and it was not crowded at all.
Worth Seeing (If You Stay Longer)
If you decide to extend beyond a day trip from Albania to Greece, here’s what I’ve found from my research.
- Achilleion Palace – Built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, filled with statues and gardens.
- Angelokastro (Byzantine Castle) – Panoramic views over the coast.
- Old Peritheia – A restored mountain village.
- Porto Timoni Beach – Twin beaches connected by a scenic hiking trail.
- Barbati Beach – Pebbled shore and turquoise water.
Where to Stay (If You Decide to Stay Longer)
If you end up staying overnight in Corfu, where you base yourself makes a big difference. The island is larger than it looks on a map.
Paleokastritsa (West Coast, North of Town) – ~40 minutes from Corfu Town. Dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves, and some of the island’s most famous scenery. It’s quieter in the evenings and ideal if you’re prioritizing beaches like Paleokastritsa and Porto Timoni, or visiting the hilltop Angelokastro fortress. Best if you have a car or don’t mind buses.
Agios Gordios (West Coast, South of Town) – ~30 minutes from Corfu Town. Known for long sandy beaches and sunset views framed by rock formations. More laid-back than Old Town, with tavernas right on the sand. Good balance of scenery and simplicity.
Dassia / Gouvia (East Coast, North of Town) – ~20 minutes from Corfu Town. Easier access to the capital, flatter beaches, and plenty of restaurants and mid-range hotels. Gouvia has a marina and slightly livelier feel; Dassia is quieter. Good option if you want beach time without feeling remote.
Scenic & Historic Spots (Better If You Stay Longer)
These are incredible — but realistically not ideal for a rushed Sarandë to Corfu day trip.
- Achilleion Palace & Gardens – Built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Dramatic statues, manicured gardens, and big mythological energy.
- Angelokastro (Castello Bizantino di Angelokastro) – A Byzantine hilltop fortress with panoramic coastal views. You’ll want a car and a few hours.
- Paleokastritsa Monastery (Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary) – A peaceful monastery perched above turquoise coves. Pair it with Paleokastritsa Beach if you’re exploring the west coast.
- Old Peritheia – A restored mountain village – rural Corfu.
Final Thought
A day trip to Corfu from Sarandë was so fun, it was a short taste of Greek island culture, Venetian history, Mediterranean water, and big island energy just across the water. Just don’t expect to do Corfu in a day. If you really want to explore beaches, hidden coves, and inland villages, you’ll want at least a couple of days.