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

Should you visit Corfu or Portofino?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Portofino, 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Portofino

Portofino is a glamorous, picturesque, and breathtaking seaside village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Corfu and Portofino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Corfu or Portofino?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Corfu than Portofino, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Corfu is better known for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Portofino is more popular for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Portofino is more touristy than Corfu and is popular for its picturesque harbor, high end shopping, strikingly blue waters, and popularity with superyachts. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. Also, Corfu is famous for Canal d'Amour.

How is Corfu different from Portofino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Corfu
Portofino

Portofino is adequate for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Portofino specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The village is mostly about soaking up the atmosphere, but you can also visit sights such as Sun Church of St. George and Cervara Abbey.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Corfu
Portofino

Corfu is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Portofino has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Located by the sea, you'll enjoy tons of great seafood here. Make sure you try the mussels, swordfish, and salt cod.

Is Corfu or Portofino Better for Nightlife?

Corfu
Portofino

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

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.

Portofino offers plenty to do in the evening. Most of the nightlife is found around Piazzetta (Oliveri Square) and Molo Umberto I. Happy hours (aperitivo) start around 5pm or 6pm and then as the evening continues, the party often moves to Paraggi Beach.

Is Corfu or Portofino Better for Resorts?

Corfu
Portofino

With a similar set of options, fantastic resorts can be found in both Corfu and Portofino.

Corfu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Portofino is a world class resort vacation destination. Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.


Is Corfu or Portofino Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu
Portofino

Corfu is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Portofino 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.

Portofino is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Corfu or Portofino Better for Beaches?

Corfu
Portofino

Corfu is an unbeatable place for the beache. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit 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.

Many people head to Portofino to enjoy the beach. Like much of the Italian coast, the beaches in the area are dramatic and beautiful. They're also rocky and pebbly and can get a bit crowded during the summer months.

Is Corfu or Portofino Better for its Old Town?

Corfu
Portofino

Portofino is a great seaside village for its old town. However, Corfu does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Portofino to see the historical old town. Despite evolving into a famous resort town, Portofino still holds on to its fishing village charm.

Corfu does not have a historic old town.


Is Corfu or Portofino Better for Hiking?

Corfu
Portofino

Corfu is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Portofino is not as famous, but is still a good seaside village to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Portofino. There are many beautiful hikes and treks along the coastline that pass by scenic landscapes and breathtaking views.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Portofino?

Corfu
Portofino

If you're looking to go shopping, Corfu and Portofino both offer plenty of very good 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 Portofino. The quaint cobblestone streets are lined with high end boutiques that target the opulent jet-setter crowd that frequents Portofino. Much of the shopping is around Martiri dell'Olivetta Square.

Is Corfu or Portofino Better for Families?

Corfu
Portofino

Corfu is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Corfu is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Portofino is not always a place people visit with their families. The town has a picturesque setting and some beautiful pebbly beaches. It's fun for kids to run around the town, explore by kayak, or play in the waters edge.


Is Corfu or Portofino Better for Couples?

Corfu
Portofino

Corfu and Portofino are both fantastic to visit as a couple.

Corfu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Portofino is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Set beautifully against the ocean's edge, this famous Italian town makes for a truly romantic holiday. Ogle the mega yachts in the harbor and then wander the charming streets while you soak in the atmosphere.

Is Corfu or Portofino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu
Portofino

Corfu is notable for backpackers. However, Portofino is a mediocre seaside village for backpackers and budget travelers.

Corfu is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Portofino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Known for it's high prices, the town isn't particularly popular with the backpacker crowd. It is possible to stay outside of town and head in for a day trip.

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

Corfu
Portofino

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

Public transit in Corfu can get you to some places 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Portofino. The closet train stations are Santa Margherita Ligure and Camogli. You can catch a bus from the Santa Margherita train station. There are also some ferry options.


Is Corfu or Portofino a more walkable city?

Corfu
Portofino

Portofino is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Corfu is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Portofino is a very easy seaside village to get around on foot. It's easy to walk around the village and then explore the countryside on one of the nearby trails.

Corfu is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Portofino or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Portofino?

In either Corfu or Portofino, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than Portofino because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Corfu, and 2-5 days is enough time in Portofino.

Families should spend more time in Corfu than Portofino. 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 Portofino. 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 Portofino 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.


  • How many days in Corfu or Portofino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Corfu 5-7 
    Portofino 2-5

One day in Corfu or Portofino?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Corfu. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Portofino is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This seaside village 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 Portofino?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the natural destination of Corfu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portofino. 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 Portofino?

You'll find nightlife and food around the natural island of Corfu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Portofino is a fun place to experience. Portofino is a small town with plenty to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Corfu or Portofino?

Corfu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Corfu, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Portofino is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Portofino or Corfu?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Corfu is €113, while the average daily cost in Portofino is €326. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Corfu and Portofino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Corfu 49
    Portofino 190
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Corfu 98
    Portofino 380
Compare Hotels in Corfu and Portofino

Looking for a hotel in Corfu or Portofino? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Corfu


Hotels in Portofino


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Corfu Hotel Prices and Portofino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Corfu 55
    Portofino 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Corfu

Also for Corfu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bus Transfer to/from Corfu Airport: $1.63
  • Private Transfer from Corfu Neo Limani Port to Corfu Airport(CFU): $20
  • Transfer service in Corfu : $22
  • Corfu Private Transfer from/to Airport & Port: $25
  • Private Transfer Aqualand Corfu Water Park: $26
  • Shared Departure Transfer -Corfu Airport to Hotel: $27
  • Shared Transfer: Hotel to Corfu Airport: $29
  • Corfu Airport to Hotel Shared Arrival Transfer: $30
  • Private Airport Transfer with Minivan or Sedan: $33
  • Private Transfer : Corfu Airport to Old Corfu Town: $33
  • Corfu Island to Corfu Airport (CFU) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private transfer: Corfu Airport (CFU) to Corfu: $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portofino

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portofino:

  • Private Transfer - Portofino Cruise Port to Florence Airport(FLR): $160
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Florence hotels: $160
  • Portofino hotels to Genoa Airport (GOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Genoa Airport(GOA): $50
  • Private Transfer from Portofino Cruise Port to Genoa city hotels: $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Corfu or Portofino?

Prices for flights to both Portofino and Corfu change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Corfu 31
    Portofino 118

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Corfu

For Corfu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Traditional Albanian Lakror Cooking Class in Ksamil: $41
  • Traditional Dinner with a Magnificent View: $97
  • Greek Cooking Class & Olive Oil Tasting: $98
  • Corfood bites - Cooking classes by Christos: $99
  • Private Corfu Food Tour Taste Corfu Culinary Treasures with Guide: $193

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portofino

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portofino.

  • Portofino Boat and Walking Tour with Pesto Cooking & Lunch: $249

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Corfu 15
    Portofino 27

Tours and Activities in Corfu

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Corfu.

  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $5.43
  • Corfu Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Corfu City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.06
  • Corfu Aquarium Ticket with Tour Included: $8.84
  • Skip the Line: Casa Parlante Historical Museum Tour Ticket in Corfu: $13
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $24
  • City Sightseeing Corfu Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $24
  • Royalty Winery tour with tasting at Theotoky Estate in Corfu: $25
  • Corfu Town: Dark Myths and Legends Tour: $26
  • Corfu Town: Dark Myths and Legends Tour: $27
  • Corfu Town: Historic Assassinations Walking Tour: $27
  • Ghost Stories and Legends Tour: $27

Tours and Activities in Portofino

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Portofino are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Snorkeling Tour in Paraggi Bay, Portofino: $42
  • Easy Kayak Tour to Portofino with Optional Snorkeling: $53
  • Paddle Boarding Experience in Portofino: $54
  • Portofino Kayak Tour: $54
  • Portofino Private Walking Tour: $271
  • Portofino Stand Up Paddleboard Experience: $53
  • Portofino and San Fruttuoso Boat Experience: $87
  • Portofino and Santa Margherita Private Tour of Ligurian Gems: $247
  • Coasteering Tour: $75
  • Private Tour of Genoa and Portofino from Genoa: $724
  • Scenic Private Hiking Tour from Portofino to S. Fruttuoso: $243
  • Snorkel Tour in Paraggi Bay: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Corfu 8.57
    Portofino 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Corfu

Also in Corfu, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Corfu Wine Tasting Shore Excursion: $456
  • Private Shore Excursion: Corfu's Highlights & Wine Tasting: $467


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Corfu and Portofino, we can see that Portofino 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 Portofino would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portofino 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 Portofino Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Corfu or Portofino?

Corfu has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Portofino. When comparing the sizes of Corfu and Portofino, 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.