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.

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

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?
What is the distance from Corfu to Paxos?
Are there direct ferries from mainland Greece to Paxos?
What are the main accommodation options on Paxos?
When is the best time to visit Paxos?
What is the weather like in Paxos?
How do I get to Paxos from Corfu?
Are there regular ferries from Corfu to Paxos?
Can you sail independently to Paxos?
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Source Links
- 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/
- A COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE MAGICAL ISLAND OF PAXOS GREECE – https://www.greecetravelsecrets.com/paxos-greece/
- 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/
- 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
- When Is The Best Time To Visit Paxos? | Paxos Travel Guide – https://paxostravelguide.com/when-is-the-best-time-to-visit-paxos/
- How to get to Paxos? | Vive Corfu | Greece – https://www.vivecorfu.com/how-to-get-to-paxos
- Getting To Paxos – https://www.audiotourista.com/getting-to-paxos/
- Paxos – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paxos
- Paxos Island Greece: 9 Things to Do – Unfolding Greece – https://unfoldinggreece.com/things-to-do-in-paxos-island/
- Corfu – Paxi – https://www.directferries.com/corfu_paxi_ferry.htm
- Ferries Greece | Ferry Reservations to Paxos – https://ferries-greece.com/destination/greece/ionian-islands/paxos/
- Paxos: how to get, beaches, accommodations, things to do | PassioneGrecia – https://www.passionegrecia.com/en/greek-islands/ionian-islands/paxos
- Is Paxos Worth Visiting in 2024? 7 Things To Do & Reasons Why It Is! • My Elated Odyssey – https://myelatedodyssey.com/is-paxos-worth-visiting/
- Greece: A Complete Guide To Visiting The Island Of Paxos – https://www.dontdreamjusttravel.com/paxos-greece/
- 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
- 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/