If you’ve ever dreamed of swapping a sunny Greek island for a bustling UK capital, you’re not alone. The jump from Corfu’s turquoise waters to London’s iconic skyline can feel like a big leap, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know the options. Below we break down the fastest routes, cheapest tricks, and a few practical pointers to keep your trip smooth.
Direct flights are the simplest choice. During the summer season, airlines like easyJet, Wizz Air and British Airways run regular services from Corfu International Airport (CFU) to London Gatwick, Stansted or Luton. A one‑hour‑forty‑minute flight can cost anywhere from £50 to £150 if you book a few weeks ahead. Keep an eye on flash sales – they pop up most often on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Connecting flights become useful out of season. You can fly from Corfu to Athens (about an hour) and then catch a low‑cost carrier to London. This two‑leg route sometimes ends up cheaper, especially if you snag a budget fare from Athens to London Stansted.
If you love a little adventure, try the ferry‑plus‑flight combo. Take a ferry from Corfu to a mainland port like Igoumenitsa or Patras, drive or take a bus to Athens, and hop on a flight to London. The ferry ride is scenic (about 2‑3 hours) and can break up the journey if you want a mini‑stay on the Greek mainland.
For the truly budget‑focused, there are occasional charter flights that run from Corfu to smaller UK airports like Manchester or Birmingham. From there, a quick train or domestic flight can get you to London. It takes longer but can save a lot if you’re flexible.
1. Book early and be flexible with dates. Prices jump dramatically around Greek holidays (Easter, August) and UK bank holidays. If you can shift your travel by a day or two, you’ll often see a better fare.
2. Use price‑alert tools. Websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights let you set alerts for the Corfu‑London route. When a dip happens, you’ll get an email and can grab the deal instantly.
3. Check airport transport. Corfu’s airport is close to the town centre, but you’ll need a bus or taxi to reach the ferry ports. In London, Gatwick and Stansted have fast train links (Gatwick Express, Stansted Express) that drop you in central London in under an hour.
4. Mind the luggage rules. Low‑cost airlines often charge extra for checked bags. If you can travel with a carry‑on, you’ll avoid surprise fees and speed through security.
5. Travel documents. Greece is part of the Schengen area, while the UK has its own entry rules. If you’re an EU citizen, a passport is enough. Non‑EU travelers should double‑check visa requirements for both countries.
6. Stay connected. Download offline maps of London’s Tube system before you land. Free Wi‑Fi is common in cafés, but having a backup map saves time when you’re rushing from the airport.
7. Consider travel insurance. A cheap policy can cover flight delays, lost luggage, or medical needs. It’s a small price for peace of mind, especially on a longer trip.
Whether you’re chasing a quick weekend escape or planning a longer European adventure, the Corfu to London link is more reachable than you might think. With a handful of flights, a possible ferry ride, and a few smart booking tricks, you’ll be strolling through London’s streets in no time. Safe travels!