| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 17, 2020 |
| Document and Entity Information [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 17, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 000-23423 |
| Entity Registrant Name | C & F FINANCIAL CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | VA |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 54-1680165 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3600 La Grange Parkway |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Toano |
| Entity Address, State or Province | VA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 23168 |
| City Area Code | 804 |
| Local Phone Number | 843-2360 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $1.00 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | CFFI |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000913341 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
