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

Should you visit Corfu or Sestri Levante?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corfu or Sestri Levante, 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a quaint, relaxing, and quiet seaside town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food and beaches.

Corfu and Sestri Levante: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Corfu or Sestri Levante?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Corfu. Although Corfu and Sestri Levante are both popular with visitors, Corfu has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Corfu is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Sestri Levante is known for its small town charm. Corfu is more touristy than Sestri Levante and is known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape. It is also home to Canal d'Amour. Sestri Levante is popular for its two bays and coastal setting.

How is Corfu different from Sestri Levante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its local cuisine and 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sestri Levante makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.


Is Corfu or Sestri Levante Better for Nightlife?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is great for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Corfu for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Corfu or Sestri Levante Better for Resorts?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its resorts.

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.

Sestri Levante has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

Is Corfu or Sestri Levante Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Corfu or Sestri Levante Better for Beaches?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is renowned for the beach. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its beaches.

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.

Sestri Levante offers a nice beach destination. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Is Corfu or Sestri Levante Better for Hiking?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is renowned for hiking. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Corfu or Sestri Levante?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is great for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Corfu. 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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Corfu or Sestri Levante Better for Families?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-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.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

Is Corfu or Sestri Levante Better for Couples?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is renowned for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

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.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.

Is Corfu or Sestri Levante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.


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

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Corfu is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its public transit.

The public transit in Corfu can get you to most 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.

Sestri Levante has a few public transit options. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

Is Corfu or Sestri Levante a more walkable city?

Corfu
Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is a very easy seaside town to get around on foot. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

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 Sestri Levante Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sestri Levante or Corfu?

How long in Corfu or Sestri Levante?

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

Families should spend more time in Corfu than Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante? Ideal Length of Stay
    Corfu 5-7 
    Sestri Levante 1-3

One day in Corfu or Sestri Levante?

In Corfu, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Even though Sestri Levante is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This seaside town 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 Sestri Levante?

Corfu is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corfu. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Sestri Levante is a fun place to experience. Sestri Levante is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Corfu or Sestri Levante?

In Corfu, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Sestri Levante is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, and The Best Historical Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante is €143. 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 Sestri Levante in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Corfu 49
    Sestri Levante 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Corfu 98
    Sestri Levante 150
Compare Hotels in Corfu and Sestri Levante

Looking for a hotel in Corfu or Sestri Levante? 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 Sestri Levante


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 Sestri Levante Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Corfu 55
    Sestri Levante 56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Corfu

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

  • Private Highlights Tour with Transfer: $326
  • From Private Group Transfer to Barbati Beach: $292
  • Private Transfer from Parga to Preveza Aktion Airport (PVK): $267
  • Private Transfer from Ksamil to Syvota: $257
  • Corfu Airport (CFU): Private Transfer to Corfu Island hotels: $242
  • Private Transfer from Syvota to Preveza: $212
  • Private Transfer from Syvota to Parga: $166
  • Private Shore Excursion Visit in Corfu with Transfer Included: $144
  • Transfer Preveza/Lefkas Airport to/from Parga Area: $138
  • Private Transfer from Sivota to Igoumenitsa Port: $138
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Kanoni, up to 16 customers: $136
  • Corfu International Airport (CFU): One-way Hotel Transfer: $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Corfu or Sestri Levante?

Prices for flights to both Sestri Levante 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
    Sestri Levante 34

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Corfu 15
    Sestri Levante 25

Tours and Activities in Corfu

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

  • 1 hour Tour in Corfu Town with Dark Stories: $33
  • 2023 Top-Rated Private Custom Corfu Tour: $326
  • 2024 Top Rated Private Custom Corfu Tour: $166
  • 4-hours Small Group Tour - Palaiokastritsa & Corfu Town: $133
  • 8-day/7-night Corfu cruise: $737
  • A Cultural tour in the Historical centrer of Corfu Old Town: $217
  • ATV Quad Guided Tour & food tasting/lunch @The Pink Palace Corfu: $76
  • Acheron River Springs, Necromanteion and Souli Jeep tour: $243
  • Achilleion Palace, Kanoni & Corfu Old Town Private Tour: $379
  • Achillion Palace and Corfu town, Half day private tour: $166
  • Albania Cruise from Corfu : $49
  • All Day Cruise - Paxos and Antipaxos Islands with Blue Caves: $64

Tours and Activities in Sestri Levante

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

  • Punta Manara Hiking Tour: $510

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Corfu 8.57
    Sestri Levante 7.86

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 Sestri Levante, we can see that Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Corfu or Sestri Levante?

Corfu has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Sestri Levante. When comparing the sizes of Corfu and Sestri Levante, 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.