Cannabis Laws in Corfu: What’s Legal, What’s Not & the Risks

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Is Weed Legal in Corfu?

Corfu, a stunning Greek island known for its beaches, nightlife, and culture, attracts thousands of tourists every year. But when it comes to cannabis, the law is clear: weed is illegal in Corfu, as it is throughout Greece. While medical cannabis is now regulated under strict conditions, recreational use remains a criminal offence—and authorities are not known for turning a blind eye.

Here's everything you need to know about cannabis laws in Corfu, especially if you're a visitor.

Is Cannabis Legal in Greece?

No, recreational cannabis is illegal in all parts of Greece, including Corfu. Greece classifies cannabis as a controlled substance under its drug legislation. While reforms have been made around medical use and industrial hemp, possession of cannabis—even for personal use—can still lead to arrest and legal consequences.

Recreational Use: Not Decriminalised

Greece does not officially decriminalise cannabis for recreational purposes, though possession of small amounts may lead to reduced penalties for first-time offenders.

  • If caught with a small quantity for personal use, you may be arrested, but courts often issue suspended sentences or cautions.

  • However, the cannabis will be confiscated, and you may still face court proceedings.

  • Repeat offences or possession near schools or public areas can result in harsher penalties.

Tourists should not assume that “small amount” means safe—it is still a criminal act, and enforcement is stricter than in many Western European countries.

Medical Cannabis in Greece

Medical cannabis was legalised in Greece in 2017, and further reforms in 2021 allowed for:

  • Domestic production and export of medical cannabis products

  • Pharmaceutical access to cannabis-based medicines under prescription

However:

  • Patients must have a valid prescription from a Greek doctor

  • Medical cannabis products are not widely available at regular pharmacies

  • Bringing your own medical cannabis into Greece is illegal, even with a prescription from another country

In Corfu, access to medical cannabis is extremely limited, and tourists have no legal route to obtain or use cannabis medically during their visit.

What About CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) products are legal in Greece, including Corfu, as long as they contain less than 0.2% THC.

  • You can find CBD oils, capsules, and creams in health stores or online

  • CBD is not considered a narcotic, but CBD flowers or buds can be mistaken for cannabis and may cause legal confusion

  • If you’re travelling with CBD, it’s best to bring clear labelling and certificates of analysis to avoid issues

Cannabis Cultivation and Trafficking

Growing cannabis at home—even for personal use—is illegal in Greece.

  • Cultivation without a licence is treated as intent to distribute, even if you're growing only a few plants

  • Penalties can range from heavy fines to imprisonment up to 8 years, or longer for large-scale operations

  • Trafficking or sale of cannabis is a serious criminal offence, with prison terms of 5 to 20 years

Penalties for Cannabis Offences in Corfu

1. Possession (small amount, first offence):

  • Arrested and charged

  • May receive a suspended sentence or court-ordered rehab

  • Still results in a criminal record

2. Possession (large amount or repeat offences):

  • Felony charges

  • Possible prison term of up to 5 years

3. Sale or Trafficking:

  • Very serious crime

  • Prison sentences from 5 to 20 years

  • Heavier penalties if involving minors, schools, or organised groups

4. Public Use or Disturbance:

  • Using cannabis in public (e.g. at beaches, clubs, or on the street) increases the chance of being caught and penalised

  • Could result in arrest and police record, even if quantity is small

Tourist Advice: Don’t Risk It

While some locals or visitors might discreetly use cannabis, this is not without risk, especially for tourists unfamiliar with local enforcement. Greek police do not have a reputation for being lenient, and claiming ignorance of the law will not protect you.

  • Do not bring cannabis into Greece—customs officials have zero tolerance

  • Avoid buying or accepting weed from locals or other tourists, even in party areas

  • Penalties can involve court appearances, fines, and even detention until trial

Future Outlook

While Greece has embraced medical cannabis cultivation and export—even approving large foreign investment in cannabis production—there are no plans to legalise recreational use. The government’s stance remains conservative, and public discussion of decriminalisation is limited.

For now, the law remains strict and is enforced.

In Summary:

  • Weed is illegal in Corfu, and possession, use, or sale can lead to criminal charges

  • Medical cannabis is legal, but only with a Greek prescription and limited access

  • CBD is legal if it contains less than 0.2% THC

  • Tourists face high legal risks if they use or possess cannabis on the island

Corfu may feel relaxed and carefree, but when it comes to cannabis, the laws are serious and the risks are real.