Ionian
Paxos
Tiny, olive-draped, and impossibly pretty — best explored by boat.
Getting around
Scooter friendly
Cost
€€€
In peak season
Moderate
Best months
May, Jun, Sep, Oct
From Athens
Ferry only
In pictures
Paxos
Paxos is tiny — about ten kilometres long — and for most visitors the only way to properly experience it is by boat. Rent a small motorboat for a day and you can explore the dramatic sea caves at Ipapantis on the west coast, swim off the limestone cliffs, and make the short crossing to Antipaxos for Voutoumi beach, which has water of an almost Caribbean clarity and is consistently listed among the finest in the Ionians. The three main villages each have their own character: Gaios, the largest, has a pleasant Venetian fort on a small island in the harbour; Lakka, in the north, is quieter and surrounded by olive groves; Longos, tucked into a small bay, is tiny and perfect. Accommodation is very limited and books up months in advance in summer. Come expecting to slow down completely, and the island will reward you.
How it scores
- Beaches
- Nightlife
- Food
- Culture
- Nature
- Family
- Accessibility
- Value for money
The catch
Tiny island — can feel very limiting after a few days. Accommodation is limited and expensive.
Hidden gem
Hire a small motorboat and find the Tripitos arch — natural rock formation on the wild east coast.
Where it sits
Ionian, Greece
Paxos — frequently asked
- When is the best time to visit Paxos? +
- The best months to visit Paxos are May to October. It's busy but manageable in peak season, so even peak season is workable.
- How do you get to Paxos from Athens? +
- Paxos has no airport — you'll need to take a ferry from Piraeus or Rafina. Some travellers fly to a nearby island and ferry across.
- Is Paxos good for couples? +
- Paxos is one of the most romantic Greek islands — sunsets, candlelit tavernas, sea-view rooms.
- Is Paxos good for families with kids? +
- Paxos is a great choice for families — calm swims, walkable towns, and short transfers.
- Is Paxos expensive? +
- Paxos is mid-range on price — value-for-money is on the weaker side, so set expectations.
- Do you need a car on Paxos? +
- A scooter or ATV is the easiest way to get around Paxos. Buses cover the main routes but a scooter unlocks the quiet beaches.
- What's the catch with Paxos? +
- Tiny island — can feel very limiting after a few days. Accommodation is limited and expensive.