Nestled in the Ionian Sea, Paxos Island is a small paradise that remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism. This little gem is often overshadowed by its larger and more popular neighbors, but its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages make it a destination that is well worth a visit.
If you’re seeking a tranquil paradise in Greece, Paxos Island is the perfect destination for you. Tucked away in the Ionian Sea, Paxos Island offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning beaches, charming villages, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a beach lover, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, Paxos Island has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the beauty of Paxos Island, from its top attractions to its hidden gems, and provide you with all the information you need to plan a memorable trip.
Paxos Island is a small island located off the west coast of Greece. It is part of the Ionian Islands group and is situated just south of Corfu. The island is approximately 10 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide, with a total area of 19 square kilometers.
The island’s population is around 2,500 people, and the main language spoken is Greek. The island’s economy is based on tourism, fishing, and olive oil production.
Paxos Island has a rich history, dating back to ancient times when it was an important trading post. It has been ruled by various powers throughout the centuries, including the Venetians, the French, and the British. Today, the island is part of Greece and is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
Paxos Island is accessible only by sea, which adds to its charm and tranquility. The easiest way to get to Paxos is by taking a ferry from Igoumenitsa if you are travelling by a car, or hydrofoil from Corfu Island, which has an airport and is easily accessible from other parts of Greece and Europe. There are also direct flights to Corfu from various European cities.
Once you arrive at Corfu Island, you can take:
a) Ilida hydrofoil (Joytours) from the port of Corfu town to Paxos Island. The journey takes about an hour by hydrofoil, and the tickets can be purchased at the port or online in advance.
b) Despina speed boat (Kamelia lines) from the port of lefkimi to Paxos island. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Kamelia lines operates a bus service from Corfu airport to Lefkimi port. The journey takes about 50 minutes.
Another option is to take a private sea taxi to Paxos Island. Many travelers choose this option as it allows them to explore the surrounding islands and beaches at their own pace. A private sea taxi is good for up to 8 people and it costs around 450 euros per way.
The best time to visit Paxos Island is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is calm and ideal for swimming and water sports. The peak season is from July to August, when the island is bustling with tourists, and the prices are at their highest.
If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful vacation, you can visit Paxos in May, June, or September, when the crowds are thinner, and the prices are lower. The weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy all the activities that the island has to offer.
It’s important to note that Paxos Island is a popular holiday destination, and it’s advisable to book your accommodation and transportation in advance, especially during the peak season.
When it comes to accommodations, Paxos offers a range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious villas to budget-friendly apartments, visitors can find the perfect place to stay on the island.
One of the most popular options for accommodations in Paxos is villa rentals. The island is home to a range of luxurious villas that offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. These villas often come with private pools, outdoor dining areas, and other amenities that make them the perfect choice for families or groups of friends.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, Paxos also offers a range of apartments and studios for rent. These accommodations are often located in the island’s charming villages and offer a more authentic experience of island life. Visitors can choose from a range of sizes and styles, from cozy studios to spacious apartments with balconies and sea views.
For those who prefer a more traditional experience, Paxos also offers a range of guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. These accommodations are often run by local families and offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy home-cooked meals and learn more about the island’s culture and heritage from their hosts.
Overall, Paxos offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious villa, a budget-friendly apartment, or a traditional guesthouse, Paxos has something for everyone.
Gaios is the beating heart of Paxos Island, where visitors can experience the island’s culture, history, and daily life. The town is located on the eastern coast of the island, overlooking a beautiful natural harbor.
One of the main attractions of Gaios is its lively waterfront, where visitors can stroll along the promenade and watch the fishing boats come and go. The harbor is also a popular spot for yachts and sailboats, and there are several cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the views.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Gaios is the small island of Agios Nikolaos, which is located in the middle of the harbor. The island is home to a charming church, as well as several cafes and bars that are popular with visitors.
Another must-see attraction in Gaios is the Venetian castle, which is located on a hill overlooking the town. The castle was built in the 15th century to protect the town from pirates and invaders, and today it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Gaios is also home to several museums and art galleries, where visitors can learn more about the island’s history and culture. One of the most popular museums is the Paxos Museum, which is located in the town center and houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the island’s history.
Finally, no visit to Gaios would be complete without trying some of the island’s delicious cuisine. The town is home to several restaurants and tavernas that specialize in fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes, as well as several cafes and bakeries that offer tasty snacks and desserts.
Lakka is a small village located on the northern coast of Paxos Island, known for its charming harbor and tranquil atmosphere. The village is surrounded by dense vegetation and olive groves, and offers stunning views of the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.
One of the main attractions of Lakka is its picturesque harbor, which is lined with colorful fishing boats and sailboats. The harbor is also home to several cafes and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the views.
Another must-see attraction in Lakka is the lighthouse, which is located on the northern tip of the village. The lighthouse was built in the 19th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the sea.
Lakka is also home to several beaches, which are among the most beautiful on the island. One of the most popular beaches is Harami Beach, which is located just outside the village and offers crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
Finally, no visit to Lakka would be complete without exploring the surrounding countryside. The village is surrounded by dense vegetation and olive groves, and there are several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the sea and the countryside.
Loggos is a charming village located on the eastern coast of Paxos Island, known for its picturesque harbor and traditional Greek architecture. The village is surrounded by olive groves and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
One of the main attractions of Loggos is its harbor, which is lined with colorful fishing boats and sailboats. The harbor is also home to several cafes and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the views.
Another must-see attraction in Loggos is the traditional Greek architecture, which is visible throughout the village. Many of the buildings are made of stone and feature colorful shutters and balconies, giving the village a quaint and authentic feel.
Loggos is also home to several beaches, which are among the most beautiful on the island. One of the most popular beaches is Levrechio Beach, which is located just outside the village and offers crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
In addition to its natural beauty, Loggos is also known for its lively cultural scene. The village is home to several festivals and events throughout the year, including a music festival in the summer and a carnival in the winter.
Finally, no visit to Loggos would be complete without trying some of the village’s delicious cuisine. Loggos is known for its fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes, as well as its homemade desserts and pastries.
One of the most exciting things to do in Paxos is to explore the island’s numerous caves and beaches. The island is home to several hidden coves and secluded beaches that can only be reached by boat or on foot.
One of the most popular beaches to visit is Vrika Beach, which is located on the island of Antipaxos, just a short boat ride from Paxos. The beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters and its soft white sand, making it the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Another popular beach to visit is the picturesque Monodendri Beach, located on the east coast of the island. This small, secluded cove is surrounded by olive groves and offers calm waters that are perfect for swimming and paddling. Visitors can also rent kayaks or enjoy a drink at the beachside bar.
One more popular beach to visit is Glyfada Beach, which is located on the western coast of Paxos. The beach is known for its dramatic cliffs and its turquoise waters, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Paxos is also home to several impressive caves, including the Blue Caves, which are located on the northern coast of the island. The caves are famous for their stunning blue waters and their unique rock formations, making them a must-see attraction for any visitor to the island.
Finally, no visit to Paxos would be complete without taking a boat tour around the island. Boat tours offer visitors the chance to see some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and hidden coves, as well as its stunning coastline and rock formations.
One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Paxos is to explore the island’s countryside on foot. The island is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
One of the most popular hiking trails to explore is the Paxos Trail, which is a 15-kilometer trail that takes visitors through some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes. The trail passes through olive groves, pine forests, and scenic coastal areas, and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding islands.
Another popular trail to explore is the Erimitis Trail, which takes visitors through the island’s northern coast and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The trail is also home to several hidden coves and secluded beaches, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or a swim.
Paxos is also home to several traditional villages that are worth exploring on foot. The village of Magazia, for example, offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside, as well as traditional Greek architecture and charming cafes and restaurants.
Finally, no visit to Paxos would be complete without exploring the island’s olive groves, which are some of the oldest in Greece. Visitors can take a guided tour of the groves, learn about the history of olive oil production on the island, and even sample some of the local olive oil.
Paxos is known for its delicious cuisine, which is based on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional Greek recipes. Visitors to the island can sample a range of delicious dishes and drinks, from fresh seafood to homemade desserts.
One of the most popular dishes on the island is the local specialty, sofrito. Sofrito is a dish made with thinly-sliced beef, cooked in a garlic and vinegar sauce, and served with mashed potatoes. Other popular dishes on the island include grilled octopus, fried calamari, and stuffed vine leaves.
Paxos is also known for its homemade desserts and pastries, which are made with locally-sourced ingredients and traditional recipes. Visitors can sample a range of delicious treats, from baklava to loukoumades (Greek donuts).
Finally, no visit to Paxos would be complete without trying some of the local wines and liqueurs. The island is home to several wineries and distilleries, where visitors can sample a range of delicious wines and liqueurs made with local ingredients, including the island’s famous kumquat liqueur.
Paxos may be a small island, but it offers a range of shopping opportunities for visitors who want to take home a piece of the island’s culture and heritage.
One of the most popular shopping destinations on the island is the Paxos Art Gallery, which showcases the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can browse a range of handcrafted items, including jewelry, ceramics, paintings, and sculptures, and meet the artists who create them.
Paxos is also known for its olive oil, which is produced using traditional methods and is considered some of the best in the world. Visitors can sample and purchase high-quality olive oil from local producers, as well as other traditional products like honey and wine.
For those looking for souvenirs and gifts to take home, Paxos has a range of shops and boutiques selling clothing, accessories, and handmade crafts. Visitors can find unique items that reflect the island’s culture and heritage, including traditional clothing and textiles, handmade ceramics, and locally sourced herbs and spices.
While Paxos is known for its stunning beaches and clear blue waters, the island also offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors who want to explore the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.
One of the most popular outdoor activities on the island is hiking. Paxos has a range of hiking trails that wind through the island’s countryside, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the island’s rugged coastline, ancient olive groves, and hidden coves, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty up close.
Another popular outdoor activity on Paxos is sea kayaking. Kayaking is a great way to explore the island’s coastline and discover hidden coves and beaches that are inaccessible by land. Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the island’s rugged coastline on their own, or take a guided tour to learn more about the island’s natural history and wildlife.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Paxos offers a range of boat tours that explore the island’s coastline and surrounding islands. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride to nearby Antipaxos or explore the island’s hidden coves and beaches from the water.
Finally, Paxos is also a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. The island’s clear blue waters are home to a wide range of marine life, including colorful fish, octopuses, and sea turtles. Visitors can explore the island’s underwater world with a guided dive or snorkeling tour, or rent equipment and explore on their own.
Paxos is a small island with a rich history and culture that is still evident today. The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has been ruled by various civilizations throughout history, including the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Venetians.
One of the most significant historical sites on the island is the Venetian Fortress, which was built in the 15th century to protect the island from pirate attacks. The fortress offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside and is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the island’s history.
Paxos is also known for its rich cultural traditions, which are still celebrated today. One of the most important cultural events on the island is the celebration of the Feast of the Virgin Mary, which takes place on August 15th every year. The celebration includes a religious procession through the streets of the island’s villages, as well as feasting and dancing.
Another important cultural tradition on the island is the production of olive oil, which has been a vital part of the island’s economy for centuries. Visitors can learn about the history of olive oil production on the island, as well as sample some of the local olive oil at one of the island’s many olive groves.
Finally, Paxos is known for its vibrant music scene, which includes traditional Greek music as well as more contemporary styles. The island is home to several music festivals throughout the year, including the Paxos Music Festival, which takes place every summer and features a range of local and international musicians.
As your time on Paxos Island comes to an end, it can be bittersweet to say goodbye to this beautiful destination. While the memories and experiences you’ve had on the island will stay with you forever, it can be hard to leave the stunning scenery and friendly locals behind.
It’s important to embrace the remaining moments and make the most of your last days on the island. This could mean exploring a new part of the island you haven’t seen yet, or revisiting your favorite spots to soak up the ambiance and scenery one last time.
