Corfu Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU) Flights & Flight Status

Situated among the picturesque landscapes of Corfu island, arriving at the small yet efficient seaside Corfu International Airport (CFU) – also known as Ioannis Kapodistrias – evokes the feeling of a classic Greek vacation before even stepping off the plane. As such it’s one of my favorite airports to fly into and one of my least favorite to depart from – I always wish I could stay in Corfu just one more day.

Travellers eager to explore the stunning Ionian Sea views and the island’s olive groves will find this well-designed airport to be a smooth entrance. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to relive fond memories, Corfu International Airport always feels like an inviting portal to enchanting experiences waiting just beyond the terminal doors.

Getting to Corfu Town

Located just over a mile south of Corfu Town, this international airport offers easy access to the island’s top attractions. After landing, travellers will find several easy transportation options available. Taxis and car rentals are conveniently located outside the terminal, providing flexible travel throughout Corfu.

I personally find the Corfu Airport Bus (line 15) to be a reliable and smooth ride when heading to the Corfu Cruise Port or the main intercity bus station – just be sure to check the updated timetable in advance.

Conversely, when arriving at Corfu International Airport, it is recommended that travellers come at least 2 to 3 hours before their scheduled departure time to ensure a stress-free experience during the peak season. This allows ample time to navigate through check-in, security and any other pre-flight procedures without feeling rushed. By planning ahead and giving yourself extra time, you can enjoy a smoother boarding process and start your journey off on the right foot.

Corfu International Airport design

The relatively small size of CFU helps provide an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. I love that the architectural elements incorporate traditional Greek styling with modern conveniences, providing a fairly pleasing environment, at least as far as airports go. My favorite attribute is the natural sunlight streaming through large windows, offering travellers glimpses of the surrounding azure sea and island greenery.

The terminal’s open layout ensures easy navigation, while subtle decorative accents like local artwork and Mediterranean touches, create a serene ambience that echoes the relaxed pace of the island itself.

Corfu International Airport size and functionality

Corfu International Airport might be small, but it’s good at handling the influx of tourists that flock to the island, particularly during the peak summer months. Thanks to being small but efficient, travellers can move swiftly around the airport – clear signage also helps direct travellers, making it easy to get to the right gate on time.

The airport is designed to ensure a seamless experience for travellers, thanks to its efficient baggage claim and seamless security checks (although it can get a bit backed up during peak season, so plan accordingly). While the airport may not boast extensive dining and shopping options, it compensates with convenience and efficiency, allowing visitors to spend more time enjoying the beauty of Corfu rather than navigating extensive terminal corridors.

Tips for navigating CFU

Navigating Corfu International Airport is a pretty intuitive experience, at least when keeping a few handy tips in mind. First, I recommend checking your flight status online before arriving at the airport to avoid any unwanted last-minute surprises. Since amenities inside are limited, consider grabbing a snack or beverage before you arrive, especially for early morning flights.

In my experience, despite being a small airport, navigating the security process at Corfu International Airport can be a bit hectic and it often gets backlogged during peak season in the summer, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time, especially if you’re travelling as a group or with lots of baggage – 2.5 hours should be plenty of time for international flights.

Expedite the process by being mindful of liquid restrictions and packing any liquids, gels, or aerosols in containers of maximum 3.4 ounces and placing them in a clear, plastic bag that can be sealed again. Laptops and larger electronic devices will need to be removed from your baggage and screened separately, so pack them in an easily accessible part of your carry-on.

Tips for duty-free shopping at CFU

Leave a little extra room in your carry-on bags for the duty-free shops at Corfu International Airport. Although Corfu International Airport may not offer the extensive range of shopping options found in larger airports, it still provides travellers with a selection of stores to explore. The duty-free shop is a key highlight, featuring a variety of products that include local delicacies.

I always do a little research ahead of time by preparing a list of items I’m interested in purchasing, such as local Greek delicacies, spirits, fragrances or souvenirs. I usually find that this airport has a particularly good selection of Greek spirits and olive oils, so plan accordingly.

If you’re flying internationally, double-check your duty-free allowances, as restrictions vary based on your final destination. And keep your receipts handy, as you might need to present them upon arrival at your destination.

Dining options at CFU

Corfu Airport doesn’t have a ton of dining venues, but it offers several options to keep you satiated during your travels while highlighting local flavors. You can enjoy a taste of Greece through quick bites and cafés that serve traditional Greek pastries, such as spanakopita (spinach pie) and tiropita (cheese pie), which make for delightful snacks before a flight.

Coffee lovers can indulge in a freshly brewed Greek coffee or a refreshing iced frappe, offering an authentic local experience. For a more substantial meal, several cafés and snack bars provide sandwiches, salads and light Mediterranean fare, allowing you to sample local ingredients. Not surprisingly, the restaurant So Very Greek has a good array of local Greek food.

Additionally, Corfu Airport offers a balance of local dishes and typical travel snacks, but note that due to the airport’s small size, options are a bit limited. Still, its options are better than your typical small European airport. But whether you’re craving a quick bite or a more relaxed Greek meal before your departure, CFU provides a convenient taste of Greece for hungry travellers.

Corfu International Airport lounges

For those seeking a touch of sophistication before jetting off, the Goldair Handling Lounge at CFU is your humble pre-flight oasis. Situated on Level 1 of the Extra Schengen Area, the lounge has an elegant ambiance and amenities. It offers a mellower retreat compared to the common terminal, with a sleek dining area and big comfortable lounge chairs.

Visitors are treated to a feast of flavors, featuring an array of hot and cold dishes, filling snacks and desserts that pay homage to Greek cuisine. Complementing the culinary delights is a curated selection of beverages, including premium drinks and choice Greek wines.

Thankfully, CFU offers Wi-Fi for travellers looking to stay connected while at the airport – the complimentary Wi-Fi service allows passengers to easily access the internet, browse social media or check emails conveniently before a flight (although I’ve found it to be slow at times).

To connect, you’ll want to select the airport’s network from your device’s Wi-Fi settings and follow the instructions that appear on your screen. While the service is generally reliable, it’s always a good idea to have backup options, such as data roaming or mobile hotspots, in case of any connectivity issues.

Peak periods at CFU

Corfu International Airport experiences a considerable influx of passengers, particularly during the peak summer tourist season.

The months of July and August are typically the busiest, as travellers flock to Corfu to enjoy its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. During this time, the airport can get quite crowded, impacting the speed and efficiency of services like check-in and security. Therefore, it is advisable to arrive at the airport well in advance to avoid any last-minute rushes during these peak months.

Of course, the busiest times at Corfu International Airport coincide with peak tourist season, primarily during the summer months of July and August, but weekends can also see an uptick in crowds as vacationers come and go in throngs. Also keep in mind that early morning and late afternoon flights tend to be the most popular, meaning these times can see elevated levels of passenger flow.