Paxos is the smallest of the main Ionian islands — a green, olive-covered strip of land just south of Corfu, with turquoise coves on one side and dramatic white cliffs on the other. It has no airport, no high-rise hotels and no crowds of the kind found on larger Greek islands, which is exactly why travellers who discover it tend to come back year after year. This guide covers what you need to know to plan a stay: where to base yourself, what to see, and how to make the most of a few slow days on the island.

Gaios: the island's harbour village

Gaios is the main village and port of Paxos. Its pastel-coloured houses line a narrow natural channel, sheltered from the open sea by two small islets — Agios Nikolaos, with the ruins of a Venetian fortress, and Panagia, home to a small monastery. In summer the waterfront fills with yachts, and the square comes alive in the evening with tavernas, bakeries, cocktail bars and boutique shops.

Staying near Gaios gives you the best of both worlds: everything you need is within a short walk, yet the hillside above the harbour is quiet, green and full of views. It is also the most practical base for exploring, since water taxis and excursion boats leave from the harbour every day.

Loggos and Lakka

Two other villages are worth a visit during your stay. Loggos, on the east coast, is a tiny fishing village wrapped around a picturesque bay, with waterfront restaurants and several pebble beaches within walking distance. Lakka, in the north, sits on a wide, shallow horseshoe bay with remarkably clear water — ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Both are an easy drive or e-bike ride from Gaios.

Beaches and sea caves

Paxos is not an island of long sandy beaches; it is an island of small pebble coves and crystal-clear water. Some of the most beautiful spots can only be reached by sea, which is why renting a small boat for a day is one of the best things you can do here. The west coast is lined with towering limestone cliffs and sea caves, including the famous blue caves, where the light turns the water an electric shade of blue. Stop at the natural rock arch of Tripitos and the cliffs of Erimitis, one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset.

A day trip to Antipaxos

Just south of Paxos lies Antipaxos, a tiny, almost uninhabited island famous for its vineyards and beaches. Voutoumi and Vrika have soft white sand and water so clear it is often compared to the Caribbean. Boats run from Gaios throughout the summer, and the crossing takes only a short time, making it an easy and unforgettable day out.

Walking among the olive groves

Inland, Paxos is covered in centuries-old olive trees, crossed by old stone paths and dry-stone walls. Walking these trails between villages, abandoned olive presses and small chapels is one of the quietest pleasures of the island, especially in spring and autumn when the temperatures are mild.

When to visit

The season runs from May to October. June and September offer warm sea temperatures, long days and a calmer atmosphere, while July and August are the liveliest months, with the harbour at its busiest. Spring is lush and green and perfect for walking.

Where to stay

For a truly private experience, a villa above Gaios lets you enjoy the island at your own pace. Amfialos sits high above Gaios Bay, a short walk from the village, with a heated pool overlooking the harbour, wellness facilities and e-bikes for exploring. Explore the villa in our gallery, or check availability for your dates.