Question 1

What is the "Cruise Passenger Shore Excursion Touts" scam in Corfu Town?

Accepted Answer

At the Corfu cruise terminal, unofficial operators and taxi drivers intercept passengers before they reach official tour desks, offering excursions to Paleokastritsa, Achillion Palace, and the Old Town at below-market prices. Vehicles are unregistered and guides unlicensed. Book excursions through the cruise line or operators registered with the Greek National Tourism Organisation. Only board vehicles at the official tour bus area. Ask to see the operator GNTO licence.

Question 2

What is the "Motorbike Damage Fraud" scam in Corfu Town?

Accepted Answer

Motorbike rental operators in and near Corfu Town claim pre-existing damage as new on return, demanding cash payments of 100-400 EUR. Operators sometimes retain passports as leverage. Photograph every surface of the bike before riding and send timestamped photos to yourself immediately. Never leave your passport as a deposit. Pay by card.

Question 3

What is the "Fake Tour Guide in the Old Town" scam in Corfu Town?

Accepted Answer

Unlicensed guides approach tourists at the Old Town gates and near the Liston promenade offering walking tours of the UNESCO site at prices that escalate through the visit and include a commission-generating shopping stop. Book licensed guides through official tour operators or the Corfu Municipal Tourist Office. Licensed guides carry an official Ministry of Culture badge.

Question 4

What is the "Timeshare Approach on the Seafront" scam in Corfu Town?

Accepted Answer

Promoters near the Corfu Town seafront and outside tourist hotels offer free gifts and excursions in exchange for attending resort presentations that turn out to be timeshare sales pitches. Decline all offers requiring attending a presentation. EU law gives you the right to leave at any time. The 14-day cooling-off period applies if you signed anything.

Tour & Activity Scams in Corfu Town

Cruise Passenger Shore Excursion Touts

Motorbike Damage Fraud

Fake Tour Guide in the Old Town

Timeshare Approach on the Seafront

Experienced a scam here?