Paxos to Mainland Greece: Distance Guide

Discover the distance of Paxos from mainland Greece and plan your Ionian Islands getaway with ease. Explore travel options for a seamless journey.
how far is paxos from mainland greece

Paxos, a hidden treasure in the Ionian Islands of Greece, has no airport. You can only get there by ferry or private boat. This makes it a peaceful spot, unlike the crowded Greek islands.

Most people start their trip to Paxos by flying into Corfu Airport from May to late October1. From Corfu’s New Port, a ferry takes you to Gaios, the capital of Paxos. This ferry ride is about an hour long and costs around €24 per person2. Paxos is a special place because you can’t fly directly there.

When you arrive in Corfu, a taxi ride of 10-20 minutes will cost 15 euros (2018 prices)1. This will take you to the New Port where ferries like Despina, Christa, and Ilida 2 go to Paxos. You can also take ferries from Igoumenitsa, Parga, and Perdika, giving you more options for your trip.

Key Takeaways

  • Paxos does not have an airport, enhancing its secluded allure.
  • Flight time to Corfu from Athens is approximately 1 hour1.
  • Taxi fare from Corfu Airport to the New Port is 15 euros (2018 prices)1.
  • Three ferries – Despina, Christa, and Ilida 2 – operate between Corfu and Paxos1.
  • The ferry trip from Corfu to Paxos takes about an hour and costs around €242.

Introduction to Paxos and Its Charm

Paxos Island is a hidden gem, just 9 miles south of Corfu. It’s part of the Ionian Islands and is small, about 9 km by 3 km. Paxos holidays offer a peaceful break from busy Greek islands. The island’s beauty, friendly locals, and cultural experiences make it special.

Overview of Paxos Island

Paxos is small but full of beauty and history. Gaios, its main town, is lively yet keeps its traditional Greek feel. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches, like Erimitis Beach, which was created by a landslide in 20083. Most beaches have white pebbles, except for Mogonisi, the only sandy one4. Paxos and its neighbour Antipaxos are only reachable by sea and are under the Natura 2000 protection3.

The Unique Appeal of Paxos

Paxos is more than just a pretty place; it’s a cultural hotspot. This year, it hosts its 38th Paxos Festival, featuring music and art by Elvira Metallinou3. The festival mixes old and new music styles. Being far from Corfu, Paxos offers a peaceful place for relaxation and discovery. Visitors can explore local culture, try delicious food at tavernas, and stay in various accommodations from villas to apartments.

The Best Time to Visit Paxos

Paxos is famous for its Mediterranean beauty and attracts visitors all year round. Knowing the best time to visit can make your trip better.

Peak Season vs. Shoulder Season

June to August is peak season in Paxos, drawing many visitors. The island’s distance from Greece doesn’t stop people from enjoying the summer sun and beaches. Temperatures in July and August are around 25°C, sometimes reaching 31°C5. With 10-12 hours of sunlight daily, it’s perfect for those who love the sun5.

This time is lively, with full cafes and a vibrant atmosphere. But, expect crowds and higher prices for places to stay.

Paxos peak season travel. A.I Generated picture
AI Generated picture

May and September are quieter months, ideal for a peaceful visit. May brings warm skies with temperatures up to 24°C, and September averages 22°C5. It’s great for water sports and exploring the island without the crowds.

Weather Considerations

The weather in Paxos is key to a good holiday. July and August are best for beach lovers, with air and sea temperatures at 25°C5. These months are perfect for sunbathing and swimming, with highs of 31°C in August5.

Hotels in Paxos open from May 1st to September 30th, matching the tourist season5. This ensures you’ll find many amenities and services. Choosing the right time to visit, whether peak or shoulder season, makes your trip special and lets you enjoy Paxos fully.

Travel Options from Mainland Greece to Paxos

Paxos travel guide. A.I Generated picture
AI Generated picture

Getting to Paxos from mainland Greece offers several routes, each with its own benefits for different travellers. It’s important to think about entry points and transfer methods when planning your trip. You can fly, take a direct ferry, or sail to Paxos on your own.

Flying to Corfu and Ferry Transfers

Flying to Corfu is a top choice to reach Paxos. Corfu’s airport, named Kapodistrias (CFU), gets flights from many European cities from April to late October. Airlines like Aegean Air, Ryanair, EasyJet, and Volotea often fly from Athens to Corfu6. Once in Corfu, you can take a ferry or a sea taxi to Paxos. Ferries include traditional boats and hydrofoil speed dolphins. They run more often in summer to meet the tourist demand6.

Direct Ferries from Mainland Greece

For a direct route, consider taking a ferry from the mainland. Ports like Igoumenitsa, Parga, and Perdika connect to Paxos, offering a beautiful sea journey. Lefkimmi port has two ferry trips a day to Paxos, even in the off-season, with more in summer7. It’s closer to Paxos than Corfu, just a 45-minute trip, though an hour from Corfu Airport6.

Sailing to Paxos Independently

Sailing to Paxos on your own is an exciting option. The island’s stunning coastline and coves make it perfect for sailors. But, be aware that mooring spots can be hard to find in July and August. Gaios, the main port for big boats, is near the capital and can be noisy7. It’s wise to plan ahead and book mooring spots early.

Route Duration Frequency
Corfu to Paxos (Ferry) 1-2 hours Frequent (Summer)
Lefkimmi to Paxos (Ferry) 45 minutes Twice Daily
Sea Taxi (Corfu to Paxos) 30-60 minutes On-demand

How Far is Paxos from Mainland Greece?

Paxos is a gem in the Ionian Islands Greece, known for its stunning views and friendly vibe. Many ask, “How far is Paxos from mainland Greece?” and what are the travel options?

Distance from Corfu to Paxos

Paxos is just 15 km south of Corfu, making it easy to reach for those exploring the Ionian Islands Greece8. The best way to get there is via Corfu, which has an airport and ferry links. Ferries run all year, taking about an hour to reach Paxos from Corfu8.

Distances to Other Ionian Islands

Paxos is well-placed between Corfu and Lefkada on Greece’s western coast9. You can also visit Kefalonia and Zakynthos by ferry or private boat. This makes it easy to see multiple islands in one trip.

Travel Time and Cost Estimates

From Igoumenitsa, Paxos is a short ferry ride away, lasting about an hour and a half8. This makes planning your trip to Paxos simple. Ferry prices change with the season and ferry type. Standard ferries offer a scenic route, while hydrofoils are faster.

Route Distance (km) Travel Time Cost (approx.)
Corfu to Paxos 15 1 hour

€20-40
Igoumenitsa to Paxos 30 1.5 hours

€25-50

Ferries from Corfu to Paxos

Traveling from Corfu to Paxos by ferry is a great way to see the Greek islands. There are six sailings a day and forty-three a week, giving passengers many choices10. Three main operators—Joy Cruises, Kerkyra Lines, and Lefkada Palace—offer reliable services10. The trip takes about an hour and seven minutes, with the fastest being fifty-five minutes10.

The ferry crosses the 33.9 miles from Corfu to Paxos comfortably. Ticket prices range from $70 to $232, fitting different budgets10. The cheapest ticket is $18, perfect for budget travelers10. All ferries are for pedestrians only, making the trip relaxing10.

You can book tickets online or at the New Port in Corfu town. There are various ferry types, like conventional, hydrofoils, and speedboats, for different preferences when travelling the Greek islands transport route.

The trip to Paxos’s main port in Gaios is both efficient and scenic. For those who prefer outdoor seating, the ferry decks offer beautiful views. Domino Lines has vessels like the Despina and Christa, providing outdoor and air-conditioned areas for all passengers11.

Accommodation Options on Paxos

Paxos has many places to stay, fitting all kinds of visitors. You can choose from Gaios, Loggos, and Lakka for a stay you’ll remember. Whether you want modern comforts or a real Greek experience, Paxos has it all.

Staying in Gaios

Gaios is the heart of Paxos, full of life and options for where to stay12. You can pick from traditional homes, beachfront villas, or boutique hotels. It’s perfect for those who love to be near great food and cultural spots13. The village offers a mix of convenience and stunning views by the water.

Other Popular Areas to Stay

Loggos and Lakka are also great places to stay on Paxos. Loggos has lovely seafront apartments and stone cottages. Lakka is known for its luxury villas and boutique hotels12. These areas show the peaceful and beautiful side of Paxos, offering a quiet and peaceful holiday.

Unique Accommodation Experiences

If you want something special or a real Greek experience, Paxos has it. You can stay in old stone cottages or even sleep on a boat on the water for a unique holiday14. The island is small and not too crowded, keeping its true charm alive12.

Conclusion

Paxos is a peaceful gem in the Ionian Sea, perfect for escaping the busy world. It may be small, with just 19 square kilometres and about 2300 people, but it’s full of charm15. The island’s beauty and culture mix Venetian, French, and British styles, making it a true Greek island experience16.

Getting to Paxos might take a bit more effort since it doesn’t have an airport. You’ll need to take a ferry or a flying boat. But, the beauty and peace that await are well worth it15. It’s close to Corfu and Parga on the mainland, making it easy to get to15. You can choose from catamaran services from Brindisi, which takes about six hours, for a fun yet comfy trip15.

Both experienced and new travellers will love Paxos. The island has three charming villages—Gaios, Lakka, and Loggos—each with its own unique vibe and places to stay15. Paxos is also protected from too much tourism, keeping it peaceful and natural.

In short, Paxos offers a mix of stunning views, history, and modern comforts. It’s ideal for those who love beautiful coastlines, a mild climate, or the local culture. Paxos guarantees a memorable trip filled with calm and magic.

FAQ

How far is Paxos from mainland Greece?

Paxos is in the Ionian Islands and can be reached by ferry. The closest mainland port is Igoumenitsa, about 10-15 nautical miles away. This makes the ferry ride short.

What is the distance from Corfu to Paxos?

Paxos is about 14 nautical miles from Corfu. Ferries take around an hour to get there from Corfu.

Are there direct ferries from mainland Greece to Paxos?

Yes, direct ferries go from mainland Greece to Paxos. Ports like Igoumenitsa, Parga, and Perdika offer these ferry connections.

What are the main accommodation options on Paxos?

Paxos has many places to stay, like traditional village homes and seaside villas. Popular spots include Gaios, Loggos, and Lakka.

When is the best time to visit Paxos?

The best time to visit Paxos depends on what you like. June to August is peak season for lively holidays. May and September are better for nice weather with fewer tourists.

What is the weather like in Paxos?

Paxos enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures up to 30°C. Winters are mild and wet.

How do I get to Paxos from Corfu?

Fly into Corfu Airport, then take a 10-20 minute taxi to the New Port. From there, catch a ferry to Gaios in Paxos. Kamelia Lines runs regular services.

Are there regular ferries from Corfu to Paxos?

Yes, there are regular ferries to Paxos. Kamelia Lines offers dependable services with different boats like Despina and Ilida 2.

Can you sail independently to Paxos?

Yes, you can sail to Paxos on your own. But finding a spot to moor can be tough, especially in July and August.

What are the transport options from mainland Greece to Paxos?

You can fly from Athens to Corfu, or take a ferry directly from ports like Igoumenitsa to Paxos.

What makes Paxos unique compared to other Greek islands?

Paxos is peaceful, with clear waters and no airport. It’s less crowded than other islands. It has real Greek charm with its villages and green landscapes.

What should I budget for travel to Paxos?

Plan for flights to Corfu, ferry costs, and where you’ll stay. Ferry prices change with the season and service type. Hydrofoils are usually pricier than regular ferries.

Source Links

  1. Paxos – How To Get There – This Is How We Did It On Our Own | Paxos Travel Guide – https://paxostravelguide.com/paxos-how-to-get-there/
  2. A COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE MAGICAL ISLAND OF PAXOS GREECE – https://www.greecetravelsecrets.com/paxos-greece/
  3. Paxos: 3 Reasons to Visit the Green Islet of the Ionian Sea – Greece Is – https://www.greece-is.com/paxos-3-reasons-visit-green-islet-ionian-sea/
  4. Tailor Made Holidays to Greece, Cyprus, Azores & more | Sunvil.co.uk – https://www.sunvil.co.uk/blog/combine-corfu-paxos-and-sivota-and-enjoy-twice-the-holiday
  5. When Is The Best Time To Visit Paxos? | Paxos Travel Guide – https://paxostravelguide.com/when-is-the-best-time-to-visit-paxos/
  6. How to get to Paxos? | Vive Corfu | Greece – https://www.vivecorfu.com/how-to-get-to-paxos
  7. Getting To Paxos – https://www.audiotourista.com/getting-to-paxos/
  8. Paxos – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paxos
  9. Paxos Island Greece: 9 Things to Do – Unfolding Greece – https://unfoldinggreece.com/things-to-do-in-paxos-island/
  10. Corfu – Paxi – https://www.directferries.com/corfu_paxi_ferry.htm
  11. Ferries Greece | Ferry Reservations to Paxos  – https://ferries-greece.com/destination/greece/ionian-islands/paxos/
  12. Paxos: how to get, beaches, accommodations, things to do | PassioneGrecia – https://www.passionegrecia.com/en/greek-islands/ionian-islands/paxos
  13. Is Paxos Worth Visiting in 2024? 7 Things To Do & Reasons Why It Is! • My Elated Odyssey – https://myelatedodyssey.com/is-paxos-worth-visiting/
  14. Greece: A Complete Guide To Visiting The Island Of Paxos – https://www.dontdreamjusttravel.com/paxos-greece/
  15. The non-famous island’ (Ionic Greece, Paxos, Antipaxos) : GREECE – http://www.tripscoop.net/travel/europe/greece/review_the-non-famous-island-(ionic-greece,-paxos,-antipaxos)_greece_861.ashx
  16. Ionian Islands Greece- Island Hopping, Itineraries & Beaches – The Acropolis Of Athens – https://acropolis-greece.com/home/things-to-do-in-athens/ionian-islands-greece-island-hopping/

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