A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Corfu vs. Lake Garda for Food, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Corfu or Lake Garda?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Lake Garda, 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 breathtaking, striking, and relaxing island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a energetic, scenic, and playful lake. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Corfu and Lake Garda: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Corfu or Lake Garda?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Corfu than Lake Garda, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Corfu is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Lake Garda is more popular for its museums. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. Also, Corfu is famous for Canal d'Amour. Lake Garda is well known for its beautiful setting, charming towns, and fun amusement parks.

How is Corfu different from Lake Garda?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake Garda 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 Lake Garda?

Lake Garda is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

Lake Garda offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people come for the natural beauty, there are also great castles that you can explore. Castello Scaligeri, Grotte di Catullo, and Castello Scaligero.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Corfu is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Corfu is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

Dining out in Lake Garda is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many great local restaurants in the area. Most make use of local ingredients such as olive oil, lemons, wine, and fish. Pasta and risotto are both popular throughout the area as well.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Corfu and Lake Garda.

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.

Lake Garda offers plenty to do in the evening. You'll find clubs and bars in various towns that make for a great nightlife scene. You'll even find beach parties and fireworks shows during the most popular times of the year.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda Better for Resorts?

Corfu is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Lake Garda is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Corfu is a great choice. 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.

Lake Garda is not a resort destination.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lake Garda is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Corfu. 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.

Lake Garda is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda Better for Beaches?

Corfu is terrific for the beache. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Corfu. 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.

Lake Garda is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Despite there being no ocean, there are many great swimming beaches in the area. Many have sand and great places to relax. There's also plenty of watersports to choose from.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda Better for Hiking?

Corfu is terrific for its hiking trails. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Corfu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lake Garda. There are many great walking and hiking trails in the area that take you through the natural beauty, connect the charming towns, and offer spectacular viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Lake Garda?

Corfu is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Lake Garda to go shopping. Many villages around the lake are great for shopping. You'll find clothing stores, jewelry shops, and souvenir vendors with something for everyone.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda Better for Families?

Corfu and Lake Garda are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

Corfu is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. 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.

Lake Garda is an extremely popular island to visit for families. The nearby amusement parks, including Gardaland, make this a popular destination for families. The area also has many places to swim, trails to explore, and castles to experience. Kids and adults alike will love this amazing kid-friendly area.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda Better for Couples?

Corfu is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Corfu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Lake Garda frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You'll find a lot of families in the area because of the amusement parks, but that doesn't mean that this isn't a romantic and beautiful spot for couples. There are many charming towns to explore and scenic viewpoints to check out. There are also excellent romantic restaurants that you should try.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Lake Garda is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around the lake that are affordable and fun. The area also see enough backpackers to keep the atmosphere fun and social.

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

Corfu and Lake Garda both offer very good public transit to get you around.

The public transit in Corfu can get you around easily. 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.

Lake Garda offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are ferries, buses, and trains in the area.

Is Corfu or Lake Garda a more walkable city?

Corfu and Lake Garda are very good when it comes to walkability.

Corfu is a very walkable island. 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.

Lake Garda is a very walkable destination. There are walking trails that connect the villages around the lake and this how many people choose to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Lake Garda or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Lake Garda?

It's fun to spend time in either Corfu or Lake Garda. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Corfu due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lake Garda.

Families should spend more time in Corfu than Lake Garda. 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 Lake Garda. 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 Lake Garda 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 Lake Garda?

With shopping and nightlife around the striking island of Corfu, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Lake Garda, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this playful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This lake offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Corfu or Lake Garda?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Corfu, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake Garda. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Lake Garda?

Corfu, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lake Garda is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lake Garda. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Corfu or Lake Garda?

Corfu is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the playful destination of Lake Garda. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Corfu and Lake Garda, we can see that Lake Garda is more expensive. And not only is Corfu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Corfu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Corfu and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Lake Garda would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lake Garda than you might in Corfu.

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

When is the best time to visit Corfu or Lake Garda?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Corfu or Lake Garda in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Corfu and Lake Garda. Many visitors come to Corfu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lake Garda for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Corfu is around the same temperature as Lake Garda in the summer. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lake Garda this time of the year. In Corfu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during summer. Corfu gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Corfu usually receives less rain than Lake Garda. Corfu gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Corfu or Lake Garda in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Corfu as well as Lake Garda. Most visitors come to Corfu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Lake Garda because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Corfu is a little warmer than Lake Garda. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Corfu in October average around 18°C (65°F), and Lake Garda averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Lake Garda. Corfu gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 137 hours of full sun.

Corfu receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Corfu usually gets more rain in October than Lake Garda. Corfu gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Corfu or Lake Garda in the Winter?

Both Lake Garda and Corfu are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Corfu because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lake Garda this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lake Garda in the winter. In January, Corfu is generally much warmer than Lake Garda. Daily temperatures in Corfu average around 10°C (49°F), and Lake Garda fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Corfu usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during winter. Corfu gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Corfu. In January, Corfu usually receives more rain than Lake Garda. Corfu gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Corfu or Lake Garda in the Spring?

Both Lake Garda and Corfu during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Corfu this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lake Garda for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Corfu is a little warmer than Lake Garda in the spring. The daily temperature in Corfu averages around 14°C (58°F) in April, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Corfu often gets more sunshine than Lake Garda. Corfu gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 169 hours of full sun.

Corfu usually gets less rain in April than Lake Garda. Corfu gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lake Garda and Corfu