A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corfu vs. Cork for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Corfu or Cork?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Cork, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Corfu

Corfu is a stunning, natural, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cork

Cork is a seaside, youthful, and energetic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Corfu and Cork: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Cork?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Corfu. Although Corfu and Cork are popular destinations, Corfu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Corfu is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cork attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Corfu is more touristy than Cork and is popular for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. It is also well known for Canal d'Amour. Cork is famous for its friendly personality, its thriving art scene and its local craft beer.

How is Corfu different from Cork?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cork and Corfu. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Corfu or Cork?

Cork is a great city for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cork can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historic sights and landmarks. Most notable is the Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone, but also make sure you check out St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, the Cork Public Museum, Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre, and St. Anne's Church.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Corfu or Cork? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Corfu is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Corfu have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

Cork has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find charming seaside cafes and award winning restaurants. Also make sure you check out the English Market, which is among the best in Ireland.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both Corfu and Cork.

The nightlife in Corfu has something for everybody. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Cork offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a university city, so you'll find plenty of students, bars, clubs, and cheap beer. Many pubs also have live music with everything from rock to Irish folk music.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Resorts?

Corfu is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Cork is not a resort destination.

Corfu is a world class resort vacation destination. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Cork is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cork is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Corfu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Cork is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Beaches?

Corfu is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Cork is not a beach destination.

Corfu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

Cork is not a beach destination.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Hiking?

Corfu is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Cork is not a hiking destination.

Around Corfu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Cork is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Cork?

If you're looking to go shopping, Corfu and Cork both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Corfu is well-known for its shopping. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cork. It offers a mix of high street shops and boutique vendors. Head to St. Patrick’s Street for some of the city's best shopping. Also check out Opera Lane and Oliver Plunkett Street.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Families?

Corfu is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Corfu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

Cork is a family-friendly island. For a bit of outside time, head to Fota Wildlife Park, Regional Park Ballincollig, or Inchydoney Beach. Kids will also enjoy exploring Cork City Gaol which is a heritage museum, or the Toy Soldier Factory. And of course, there's the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Couples?

Corfu is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Corfu is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

Cork makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Visiting Blarney Castle is a highlight, but you can also wander along the river or do the Ballycotton Cliff Walk. There are also several gardens to explore or small theaters where you can see a play.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu is notable for backpackers. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Corfu. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cork. There are plenty of hostels as well as a large student population and an active nightlife.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Students?

Cork is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Corfu is not popular with students.

Cork is a great city to visit as a student. It's a university town with many students and plenty to do. The city plays host to many international students.

Corfu is not popular with students.

Is Corfu or Cork Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Corfu is notable for its public transit. However, Cork is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Corfu can move around easily with public transportation. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cork. In town you'll find bus service but if you want to explore anywhere else in the county you really need your own vehicle.

Is Corfu or Cork a more walkable city?

Corfu is notable for its walkability. Also, Cork is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Corfu is very walkable. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

Cork is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is compact and easy enough to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Corfu Worth Visiting? and Is Cork Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cork or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Cork?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Corfu and Cork. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in Cork. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cork.

Families should spend more time in Corfu than Cork. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Corfu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Corfu than Cork. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Corfu that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Corfu than Cork if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Corfu.

One day in Corfu or Cork?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Corfu. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Cork, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this energetic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Corfu or Cork?

Corfu is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cork. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Corfu or Cork?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the natural destination of Corfu. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Cork is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cork. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Corfu or Cork?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the striking island of Corfu. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find food and shopping around the seaside destination of Cork. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Corfu and Cork, we can see that Corfu is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Corfu Expensive? and Is Cork Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Corfu or Cork?

Cork has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Corfu. When comparing the sizes of Corfu and Cork, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Corfu or Cork?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Corfu or Cork in the Summer?

Both Cork and Corfu during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cork for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Corfu is generally much warmer than Cork. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 25°C (76°F), and Cork fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Corfu. In the summer, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Cork. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 178 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in July than Cork. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Cork receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Cork in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Cork. Many travelers come to Corfu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cork in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Corfu is much warmer than Cork in the autumn. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Cork fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Cork during autumn. Corfu gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Corfu gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Corfu usually receives more rain than Cork. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Cork receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Corfu or Cork in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Cork. Many visitors come to Corfu in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Cork for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Corfu is much warmer than Cork. Typically, the winter temperatures in Corfu in January average around 10°C (49°F), and Cork averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Cork. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cork receives 60 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cork. Corfu receives a lot of rain in the winter. Corfu usually gets more rain in January than Cork. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Cork receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Cork in the Spring?

Both Cork and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Corfu for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cork because of the activities around the city.

In April, Corfu is generally much warmer than Cork. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 14°C (58°F), and Cork fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Cork during spring. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Cork receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Corfu usually receives more rain than Cork. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cork receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cork and Corfu