Do I Need To Take Cash To Corfu? My Advice From Experience
Wondering “Do I Need to take cash to Corfu?”
Well, Cash is still king in Corfu 👑!
While you can get by with a card, having some euros in your pocket will make your trip much smoother.
My family and I visit Corfu several times a year, and we always take both cash and card to cover all situations.
Some restaurants, taxis, and small shops still prefer cash, while larger establishments accept cards.
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about spending money in Corfu—where and when to use cash, where cards are accepted, and the best ways to prepare for a hassle-free trip.
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Should I take cash or card to Corfu?
Both are handy, but cash is used a lot more frequently in Corfu.
I’ll be honest—I rarely take out cash when I travel, but Greece, and especially Corfu, is the one place I always do.
You’ll often get better deals when paying with cash, particularly if you’re booking a trip using a local provider!
Plus, if you’re staying somewhere more remote or less touristy, many places simply don’t accept cards.
Also a heads up, If you’re planning to use the bus, I’ve never seen anyone pay by card.
So it’s best to have cash on hand to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.
It’s also handy if you are visiting less known attractions like Corfu Donkey Rescue where they are so grateful for donations!
Can you use contactless in Corfu?
Yes, you can use contactless in Corfu, but there’s a catch—you’ll need to enter your PIN for anything over €50.
Most larger restaurants, supermarkets, and touristy spots accept contactless payments, so tapping your card or phone works just fine for smaller purchases.
However, in smaller shops, family-run tavernas, and local markets, cash is often preferred or even required.
It’s always worth having some euros on you, just in case. Also, if you’re planning to rely on contactless, double-check with your bank about any international fees to avoid unexpected charges.
Can I use my UK debit card in Greece?
Yes, you can absolutely use your UK debit card in Greece. But it’s worth checking with your bank before you go.
Some banks charge foreign transaction fees or ATM withdrawal fees, which can quickly add up!
I’m with Lloyds and they charge a small fee each time so when I’m in Greece I use Revolut, Wise or Chase.
What money do I need for Corfu?
Corfu uses the euro (€) and it’s worth having some on hand for your trip!
There are plenty of ATMS across the Island but AVOID Euronet if you can, they aren’t great for exchange rates 🙅♀️!
I always get mine in advance but if I need more, go to a local bank.
FAQs
Money can be a pretty stressful part of your trip- especially if you are in the Corfu Cash v Card dilemma !
To help you get to grips with using it in Corfu, here are some of the most commonly asked questions visitors have:
You really don’t have to tip in Corfu—there’s no pressure or expectation like in some other countries.
That said, if the service is great or someone goes out of their way to help you, leaving a small tip is always appreciated.
I usually round up the bill or leave a couple of euros in restaurants if we’ve had a lovely experience. It’s totally up to you, and no one will bat an eyelid if you don’t!
For my own trips—usually a one-week, room-only stay—I tend to budget around €300 for spending money. That covers meals, a few bus trips, the odd beachside drink, and the occasional souvenir or treat along the way.
But It totally depends on your plans. You can grab a delicious gyros for as little as €3, or go all out with a wine and dine experience that’ll cost quite a bit more. Your budget will really depend on things like whether your accommodation includes meals, if you’ve got any experiences or tours booked, and how you’re getting around (don’t forget transfers!).
Corfu can be as cheap or as expensive as you make it. If you’re happy with casual dining (sorry there is no Mcdonalds), local tavernas, and using public transport, it’s a really affordable place to visit. You can eat well for under €10, especially if you love gyros and fresh local food.
In my experience, most places in Greece—especially in Corfu—definitely prefer cash, even though they’ll usually accept card.
It’s not unusual to see signs saying “cash only,” especially in smaller shops, local tavernas, or more rural areas. Even where cards are accepted, paying with cash often feels more straightforward and sometimes even gets you a better deal
Final Thoughts on using Cash in Corfu
So, do you need to take cash to Corfu? Technically, no—you could probably get by with just your card. But it may be a challenge 🤦♀️
I never usually cash on me usually but Greece is the one place I do!
I always recommend taking some cash with you. It just makes life easier, especially when you’re hopping on a bus, grabbing a bite from a beachside taverna, or exploring the quieter, less touristy spots.
Having a bit of both gives you the freedom to enjoy Corfu without worrying about payment options.
It’s one of the few places I always make sure to carry euros—and I’ve never regretted it!
