Corfu welcomes budget-conscious travelers with a variety of affordable hotels, budget hotels starting around $37 (€34) per night
Corfu welcomes budget-conscious travelers with a variety of affordable hotels that still deliver great experiences. This Ionian island offers excellent value - travelers report budget hotels starting around $37 (€34) per night. Even in off-season months, average hotel prices remain moderate (around €60 - 70 per night in winter). By choosing a modest hotel, you can save on lodging and use the rest of your budget to explore Corfu’s history and beaches. The island’s compact size means many hotels are well-located for sightseeing - for example, Corfu Town’s historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is easily explored on foot from budget accommodations. Overall, the savings from a cheap hotel come without sacrificing experience: you still get clean rooms, friendly service, and proximity to restaurants and attractions. This makes budget hotels a smart pick for travelers who want to stretch their euros and enjoy Corfu comfortably.
Why Choose Budget Hotels in Corfu?
Corfu has long been popular with travelers seeking affordable Greek island vacations. Its range of budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses means even a shoestring traveler can find a comfortable room for as little as €30 - €85 per night. These hotels often include basic comforts like free Wi‑Fi and breakfast, so you don’t miss out on the essentials. By booking a value property, you free up cash for activities: you can tour the Old Fortress of Corfu Town, lounge on sun-soaked beaches, or savor local dishes without splurging on an expensive hotel.
Compared to many European destinations, Corfu offers good value. A study of traveler budgets finds that budget travelers spend on average $67 (€59) per day - and that includes everything. If you subtract lodging (just €30 - €50 per night), your daily costs can remain surprisingly low. Staying in town-center budget hotels also cuts taxi fares: many attractions like Spianada Square or Liston Promenade in Corfu Town are within walking distance.
Strategically, budget hotels tend to be placed in well-connected locations. You’ll find many near the bus terminals or main roads, letting you hop on a Green Bus (KTEL) to beaches and villages all over the island. In short, choosing a budget hotel in Corfu means spending less on lodging and more on adventure.
Top 10 Best Cheap Hotels in Corfu, Greece
Here are some top picks for affordable, quality stays in Corfu. The hotels below are grouped by category (town center, beachfront, by area) and each offers modern amenities at value rates. All have positive reviews for cleanliness and service. Wherever possible, look for rates on [Booking.com] to snag the best deals and free cancellation options.
Best Overall Budget Hotels in Corfu Town
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Bella Venezia Hotel (Corfu Town) - A charming small hotel housed in a restored 19th-century mansion near Spianada Square. This family-run inn has a garden setting and classic décor. Guests praise its central location “just steps from Corfu Town’s central square”. Free Wi‑Fi and breakfast are included, making it a great budget pick in UNESCO-listed Corfu Old Town.
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Corfu Mare Hotel (Corfu Town) - An adults-only hotel surrounded by greenery, built in an “ideally-located suburb of Corfu Town”. It’s just 1.5 km from the old town center and about 3 km from the airport and ferry port. This pleasant 3-star property has bright rooms and a pool, and it’s noted for its easy access: “650m from the Port, 3km from the airport, 1.5km from the Town”. Rates here are very reasonable for its convenience.
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Hotel Bretagne (Kanoni, near airport) - Often cited as excellent value, this 2-star hotel is just a short ride from Corfu Town and next to the airport. Reviewers note it’s “very close to the airport and not far from the Old Town, offering excellent value for the price”. It has simple, clean rooms and basic amenities (free parking, breakfast buffet). This is a top choice for anyone needing an early flight or ferry, since you can reach the airport on foot or by a quick shuttle.
Best Budget Beach Hotels
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Odysseus Hotel (Paleokastritsa) - A 3-star hotel perched on a hill with panoramic sea views. Many rooms overlook the Ionian Sea or the garden, thanks to its hillside setting. There’s a pool and sun terrace with stunning bayside vistas. Public buses (Green Buses) stop nearby, making it easy to reach from Corfu Town. The on-site bar/restaurant lets you enjoy breakfast and drinks poolside with "beautiful panoramic sea views".
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Oasis Hotel (Perama, near Kanoni) - A peaceful, mid-sized hotel known for its friendly service. Set in lush gardens with a beach cove a short walk away, it offers a private beach area, pool, and an outdoor terrace restaurant. Guests highlight the “incredible views” from the dining area and praise the kitchen’s fresh Greek and international cuisine. The staff are often described as “fantastic,” and family-style hospitality is a hallmark. Amenities include free Wi‑Fi and parking.
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San Antonio Corfu Resort (Gouvia/Kalami) - An adults-only resort on a hillside above Kalami Bay. It’s technically 4-star, but off-season rates can be quite affordable. The property has two restaurants, a pool, and direct bus stops to the airport and town. You can choose all-inclusive packages or just room+breakfast to keep costs down. Reviewers often mention the “incredible views” of the bay and olive groves. Free Wi‑Fi, a 24-hour reception, and even airport shuttle make this a well-equipped choice. (It has two onsite restaurants serving international dishes, and the pool area is lovely for sunset views.)
Best Budget Hotels by Area
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Corfu Town:
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Sunset Hotel (Corfu Town) - A small 2-star hotel with a friendly vibe. It’s “strategically located” near the heart of Corfu Town, offering easy access to the port, airport bus, and historic center. Rooms are simple but modern and many offer sea or city views. Amenities include a rooftop terrace and a cozy bar.
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Arion Hotel (Corfu Town) - Recently renovated, Arion lies about 1.2 km from the old town center. It’s close to Mon Repos Beach and just 1.4 km from the airport. The hotel includes free breakfast, Wi‑Fi and a 24h reception. Its location is ideal for short stays or early flights: guests note it’s “very convenient… 100m walk to a beautiful beach” and friendly staff.
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Paleokastritsa Area:
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Mediterranean Blue (Kavos) - A simple, family-run hotel tucked amid olive groves near Kavos on the south end of Corfu. (Despite the name, it’s in Kavos, not Paleokastritsa.) It has a laid-back atmosphere with nightly barbecues and Greek music events. Rooms are basic but the rates are low; plus it’s on a quiet road with a few local shops, and a short walk to the beach.
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Sidari:
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Stemma Hotel (Sidari) - A 3-star aparthotel near Sidari’s main beach. It offers an outdoor pool, garden and snack bar. Some rooms have kitchenettes and balconies overlooking the pool. The hotel is very close to the Ionian Sea - about a 5-minute walk to the water. Important for travelers: there’s a KTEL bus stop right nearby, linking you to Corfu Town and the attractions on the north coast. The waterfront promenade and the famous Canal d’Amour rock formation are both under 1 km away.
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Alkion Hotel (Sidari) - A budget-friendly 2-star hotel just 5 minutes on foot from Sidari Beach. It has a bar-restaurant, garden terrace and free parking. Rooms come with air-conditioning and small refrigerators. Notable perks: breakfast is included, and the hotel provides a playground, making it appealing for families. Several reviews mention that “staff were very friendly and helpful” and that it felt “clean and comfortable”. Sidari’s main street (with shops and tavernas) and the Canal d’Amour are within walking distance.
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Benitses:
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Hotel Benitses Arches (Benitses) - A friendly, family-run hotel right in the village of Benitses. It’s just a few yards from Benitses Beach and the local tavernas. Rooms are simple, all air-conditioned with private balconies. Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout. Guests appreciate the quiet, homey feel, and family hosts who speak English. A plus: it offers free umbrellas and beach equipment for guests. One recent traveler noted, “Location is amazing – only a few minutes walk to Benitses main strip, beach and bus stop”. This hotel captures the traditional village atmosphere without the resort crowds, and often has the best nightly rates in the area.
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Best Areas to Stay for Budget Travelers in Corfu
Choosing the right area can stretch your budget further. Here are four areas popular with budget travelers:
Corfu Town - Best for First-Time Visitors
Corfu Town (Kerkyra) is UNESCO-listed for its historic architecture. Staying here puts you right in the action: you’re steps from old Venetian forts, the elegant Spianada square and the waterfront Liston promenade. Major attractions (like the Palace of St. Michael & St. George, Old Fortress or art museum) are often within walking distance. This means you save on taxis or buses. Corfu Town has dozens of budget hotel options - many run €50 - €70/night in low season and €80 - €100 in summer. The city has a large public bus network (blue/green buses) and the main bus terminals here connect to beaches and resorts across the island. In short, Corfu Town combines culture and convenience at modest cost.
Dassia - Best Overall Value
Dassia is a resort village just 10 km north of Corfu Town. It offers good value because prices (both lodging and dining) tend to be a bit lower than in the capital. The long, pebble beach is popular and well-organized, with mountain views across the strait to Albania. Staying in Dassia gives you easy access to Corfu Town and north-coast beaches via frequent public buses (e.g. Route 7 from the Saroko bus hub). You can often find mid-range and economy hotels/guesthouses here that are 10–15% cheaper than similar ones in the Old Town. Plus Dassia has plenty of supermarkets and tavernas, so self-catering apartments (another budget option) are common. In short, Dassia is a central base: it’s beachy and quiet but only a 15-minute drive (or bus ride) from town, letting you save on accommodation without missing out.
Sidari - Best for Families and Budget-Conscious Travelers
Sidari, on the northwest coast, is known for its family-friendly vibe. The village surrounds a scenic cove and the famous Canal d’Amour, where curious rock formations meet the turquoise sea. Hotels here are generally inexpensive (many start around €40-€60 per night in off-season), and many cater to families and groups. Sidari has a variety of restaurants and small water parks, which can be fun for kids. Public buses connect Sidari to Corfu Town and other northern beaches (Green Bus routes A2, etc.). If you’re traveling with family or on a tight budget, Sidari can be a smart choice: it has cheap tavernas and hotels (often with pool), and enough local attractions to stay entertained without costly day-trips.
Benitses - Original Tourist Hub with Budget Options
Benitses is a traditional fishing village about 12 km south of Corfu Town. It has a long history of tourism and retains a quaint charm. Many budget travelers like Benitses because it offers a range of inexpensive accommodations (like Benitses Arches above) and seaside tavernas in a compact area. The beaches here are small but cozy. Benitses is well-connected by the blue bus (Route 6) or by boat from Corfu Town, so you can easily day-trip to Glyfada or Aqualand waterpark. For strolling and dining, the village center is small enough to cover on foot. In sum, Benitses delivers a classic Greek-village feel at a bargain price, perfect for a relaxed budget stay.
How to Find the Best Cheap Hotel Deals in Corfu
When and how you book can make a big difference in price. Here are some tips:
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Best time to book for lowest rates: Book early. Data show that Corfu hotel prices are lowest about 2-3 months before travel. In fact, Kayak’s analysis recommends booking at least 71 days (10 weeks) ahead for the best prices. This often unlocks early-bird discounts and more room choices.
Also, timing your trip is key. The absolute cheapest months to visit Corfu are winter (December-March) and late autumn. For example, February has some of the lowest hotel rates of the year. If you want mild weather plus low costs, the “shoulder seasons” of April–May and September-October are ideal. In May and September the weather is warm (around 20-27°C) but not crowded, and prices can be 30-50% lower than peak summer. October is often the quietest and cheapest month. By contrast, expect peak rates and crowds in July-August (when temperatures hit 30°C and families flock to the island).
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Money-saving booking tips:
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Compare across platforms: Don’t rely on one site. Check Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and even the hotel’s own website.
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Flexible dates: If you can shift your stay by a few days, you might score nightly rates that are 20–30% lower.
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Free cancellation: Look for rooms that allow free cancellation. They may be slightly higher, but give you flexibility to rebook if a lower rate appears later.
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Breakfast-included deals: Sometimes paying a bit more per night to include breakfast (or dinner) can save money overall, since grocery and meal costs add up.
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Loyalty programs: If you have hotel loyalty or booking site memberships, check for member-only rates or points redemption (e.g. Booking.com Genius level).
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Budget-friendly accommodation types: Beyond standard hotels, consider alternative lodgings:
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Budget hotels/guesthouses: Often priced €37-€85 per night. These offer a private room and usually include basics like Wi-Fi and breakfast.
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Hostels: For solo travelers or young couples, hostels (with dorms or private rooms) can be extremely cheap. Even private rooms can start at about €12-€25 per night. Dorm beds are often €5-€15.
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Apartments/Villas: If you stay a week or longer, a self-catering apartment may save money (buy groceries, cook your own meals). On sites like Airbnb or local agencies, 2-bedroom apartments can average around €50-€80 per night outside summer.
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Guesthouses & B&Bs: Family-run pensions in villages (like Benitses Arches above) offer local charm at low rates (sometimes only €30-50 per night), often including breakfast.
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By mixing and matching (for example, hostel one night, budget hotel the next), you can tailor costs to your itinerary.
What to Expect from Budget Hotels in Corfu
Staying cheap doesn’t mean giving up on comfort. Here’s what most budget properties include:
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Basic amenities: Nearly all budget hotels and guesthouses offer free Wi‑Fi in rooms and lobbies. Air conditioning is standard (essential for warm nights). Most rooms have a private bathroom. Many will also include a simple hot-and-cold breakfast (buffet or set menu) if you choose a breakfast rate. On-site parking is often free as well.
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Extras: Many low-cost hotels in Corfu still have nice extras. It’s common to find an outdoor pool or at least a small plunge pool and sun terrace. A few even have on-site bars or cafes (San Antonio has two restaurants). Don’t expect luxury spa facilities, but a clean pool and garden can make your stay pleasant.
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Location perks: Budget hotels in town centers or beach villages often maximize location over room size. Expect most to be within a 5-15 minute walk of shops, tavernas and beaches. For example, Benitses Arches is “only a few yards from the beach, restaurants and bars” in Benitses village. In Corfu Town you’ll often be close to a bus stop or even within walking distance of major sights.
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Friendly service: Many budget places are family-run, and owners often go out of their way to help guests. You can ask for restaurant recommendations or local tips, which are usually freely given.
As with anywhere, standards can vary. To ensure a good experience, read recent guest reviews on Booking.com or TripAdvisor. Aim for properties rated 7/10 or higher for cleanliness and service. In general, well-reviewed budget hotels in Corfu maintain quite high standards (you’re unlikely to get a “dive” even at €30/night if it’s been well-rated).
Location and Transportation Access
Getting around Corfu is easy - even from budget hotels. The island’s Green Bus network (KTEL Corfu) is the main lifeline. Green buses connect Corfu Town with every part of the island, from Paleokastritsa and Glyfada in the north to Benitses and Lefkimmi in the south. In town itself, the blue City Buses cover local routes and cost only €1.10-€1.80 per trip (you pay a few cents more if you buy on board). You can also buy a day pass for €5 that lets you ride any blue bus all day.
Most budget hotels are near bus stops. For example, many Corfu Town hotels are a short walk to Saroko Square (the main bus hub). Sidari and Paleokastritsa have stops at the village centers, and even small villages like Benitses are on a blue bus line. Taxis are available, but they are relatively expensive by local standards, so most budget travelers stick to buses (and sometimes share a cab or use the “Corfu Transfer” apps).
If your hotel is a bit isolated, consider renting a scooter or ATV from town (roughly €20-30/day) or a car (€30-50/day in low season). But note: driving in Corfu is a luxury, and parking can be tricky in crowded spots. Many guests find that the combination of walking + Green Bus covers almost everywhere affordably. The buses are comfortable (air-conditioned) and run often, especially to major beaches and towns.
By staying in a well-connected area (like Corfu Town, Gouvia, or Dassia), you can rely on transit. Even budget hotels near rural spots usually have a bus stop within a few minutes’ walk. Overall, transport from budget hotels to attractions is straightforward: most medieval sites in town and beaches around the island are just a bus ride or short walk away.
Best Time to Visit Corfu for Budget Travelers
Corfu’s tourist season peaks in summer, but budget travelers can save a lot by choosing shoulder or off-seasons:
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Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): This is often the sweet spot for budget trips. April and May see warm days (20-25°C), blossoming landscapes, and much lower hotel prices (often half off peak rates). For example, January is about 68% cheaper than August, and May still has 50-60% reductions. September and October are similar: the sea remains warm, and hotels often run discounts. Booking.com and travel blogs note that May and September are both “cheaper and quieter” than summer, with pleasant weather (often mid-20s°C). You’ll skip the big crowds but still enjoy beach time and open attractions.
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Summer (June-August): If you must travel in summer, plan and budget accordingly. This is Corfu’s busiest, hottest time. Daily highs are above 30°C, and beaches are crowded. Hotel prices can be 2-3 times higher than in shoulder months. For example, Kayak data shows August rates averaging over $400/night, compared to under $60 in February. To save, book at least 4-5 months in advance. Many hotels still offer early-booking discounts in January/February for July/Aug stay. If you stay in summer, expect to pay top dollar for rooms, and consider self-catering some meals to offset the cost.
In summary, April–May and September-October bring the best balance of weather and value. If your schedule allows, you’ll pay far less for rooms (50% or more in many cases) and avoid the lines at major sites. The lull months of January-March see even cheaper lodging, but many businesses close in winter, so spring and fall are usually ideal for savvy budget travel.
Budget Travel Tips for Corfu
Here are practical ways to stretch your money while having fun:
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Transportation Savings: Use the public bus network (Green and blue buses). Single bus rides cost only €1.10-€1.80 (depending on distance), far cheaper than taxis. Plan bus routes at the Corfu Bus Station or via the Green Buses website. Buy tickets from kiosks or drivers (don’t pay extra). If you’ll ride multiple times a day, buy a day pass (€5) for unlimited city bus travel. For medium distances (e.g. Corfu Town to Paleokastritsa), buses run every hour or two and cost €2-3. You can also rent a bike (around €10-15/day) for local exploring if your hotel is close to town or a beach. For airport transfers, consider sharing a taxi with other travelers from your hotel or use the cheaper KTEL bus route 15 to Corfu Town (just €1.80).
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Dining on a Budget: Food in Corfu can be very affordable if you choose wisely. Plan roughly €20-€30 per person per day for meals (which is cheaper than the average €53/day). Eating at local tavernas outside the main tourist streets is key: a hearty lunch or dinner of Greek specialties (moussaka, grilled fish, gyros, salads) can cost only €8-€12. In Corfu Town, expect €9-15 for a full dinner in a midrange taverna. Breakfast at a hotel or café (coffee and pastry) is about €3-5. To cut costs further, shop at local markets or supermarkets: loaf of bread €1, cheese €6/kg, local wine €3 per liter. Many rental apartments or hotels have mini-fridges/kitchenettes, so even one self-cooked meal per day can save money. Don’t skip the fresh fruit, olives, and local street food (like bougatsa for €2.50).
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Activities and Attractions: Corfu offers plenty of free or low-cost activities. Beaches are free to enjoy - just bring your own towel or rent an umbrella for a few euros. You can spend days swimming in Paleokastritsa, Glyfada or Dasia without spending a cent. Walking tours of Corfu Town’s alleyways, old fortresses and public squares (Spianada, Liston) are free. For sightseeing, budget about €10-€15 per day for paid entries and tours. Many attractions have low entry fees (e.g. Old Fortress €6, Achilleion Palace €10). If you skip guided tours and instead use audio guides or local maps, costs stay minimal. Car rental or paid excursions (like boat trips) can range €50-€100 per day, so stick to public transportation and DIY adventures for true budget travel. A “frugal” daily budget (lodging + food + transport + a bit of sightseeing) can be as low as €67-€154 per day, depending on your choices.
Transportation from Budget Hotels to Top Attractions
One great feature of Corfu is that many attractions are accessible by foot or bus from budget-friendly areas:
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From Corfu Town Hotels: If you’re staying in or near the Old Town, several sights are literally walkable. The Old Venetian Fortress and Liston Square are right there. For beaches near town, Mon Repos (Palaiokastritsa beach) is only a 15-minute stroll south. For sights outside town: take the Blue Bus No. 2a from Saroko Square at Liston - this scenic route goes to Kanoni (home of Mouse Island and Pontikonisi). A one-way fare is €1.80. To reach Achilleion Palace (south of town, in Gastouri), catch Green Bus 10 from the New Port area (near the old post office) - the ride costs about €1.80-€2. Both attractions can be done on a day trip: just hop on the next bus back to town in the afternoon.
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Beach Access from Budget Hotels: Many resort areas have local buses. For example, the long-distance Green Bus from Corfu Town’s New Port (KTEL station) goes to Paleokastritsa (via the village of Mantouki) every couple of hours. This ride costs only around €2–€3 and takes 40-45 minutes. Glyfada Beach (a sandy bay popular with surfers) is just 14 km south of Corfu Town - it’s about a 15-minute drive or 20 minutes by bus (Route 11 from KTEL station, €1.80). Dassia Beach is on Blue Bus Route 7 from Saroko Square. Basically, if your hotel is anywhere near a bus stop, Corfu’s attractions and beaches are within easy reach. Always ask your hotel reception for the nearest bus stop and schedule - staff are usually very helpful with directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for a cheap hotel in Corfu?
Expect about €30-€85 per night for a basic hotel room, depending on season. On top of that, plan roughly €20-€34 per person per day for meals (in budget eateries and cafes). Adding local transport (€5-€10 per day) and a small entertainment budget (€10-€15), a total daily budget of €67-€154 per person is reasonable. Of course, staying during off-peak months or in hostels can lower that further.
Are cheap hotels in Corfu safe and clean?
Yes. Most budget hotels on Corfu maintain good cleanliness and safety standards. Many are family-owned or small chains with reputations to keep. To ensure peace of mind, read recent guest reviews on sites like Booking.com. Look for properties with ratings above 7.5 or reviews highlighting “clean rooms” and “friendly staff.” It’s rare to find hygiene issues in budget Greek hotels if they have good reviews. Stick to recommended listings (like those above) and you should have a smooth stay.
What’s included in budget hotel rates?
Basic amenities usually include air conditioning, a private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi. Most budget rates come with a simple breakfast (often buffet style). You’ll almost always get fresh linen and towels changed regularly. Many places also offer free parking if you drive (or free transfer if you bike). Pools are common in resort hotels (not guaranteed but many 3-star options have one). Unlike luxury resorts, you probably won’t get things like minibars or spa access, but things like free Wi-Fi and breakfast are standard in cheap hotels. In summary, don’t expect extras like gym or room service, but you will have all the essentials covered.
For the latest deals and availability, browse Corfu hotel listings on Booking.com. It’s free to compare rates and reserve rooms (often with no cancellation fee). Whether you want a cozy guesthouse in Benitses or an affordable city hotel in Corfu Town, booking.com’s search can help you lock in the lowest price. Start planning your trip now and enjoy the beautiful island of Corfu without breaking the bank!
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