Paxos Ferries

The port of Paxos plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 3 ferry routes operated by 3 ferry companies, Paxos serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Paxos, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Lefkimmi - Paxos connecting Paxos with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Kerkyra Lines, Lefkada Palace, Kamelia Lines run regular services from Paxos, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Paxos offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Paxos is accessible exclusively by sea, with regular ferry services operating from Corfu and the mainland port of Igoumenitsa. From Corfu, hydrofoils and sea taxis make the journey in approximately one hour, while the trip from Igoumenitsa takes about 90 minutes. Visitors typically fly into Corfu International Airport first, which offers connections to many European cities, especially during summer months. Upon arrival at the main port of Gaios, taxis and rental vehicles are available for island transportation. If bringing your own vehicle, secure a spot on the car ferry in advance, particularly during peak season.

Nestled in the Ionian Sea, Paxos is Greece's smallest island trio, offering a serene escape from the more tourist-heavy Greek destinations. This verdant haven is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, olive grove-covered hillsides, and charming fishing villages that remain delightfully authentic. As you approach by ferry, the island reveals its striking coastline of white limestone cliffs and hidden caves, promising a tranquil retreat where time seems to slow down.

The ideal time to visit Paxos is during the late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) when temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from 22-28°C, and the island maintains a peaceful atmosphere. July and August bring Mediterranean heat and represent the peak tourist season, with all facilities operating at full capacity and ferry services running most frequently. Winter months (November-March) see many establishments close and reduced ferry schedules, though the island offers a uniquely authentic experience for those seeking solitude. The annual Paxos Festival in July and August features cultural performances that add vibrant energy to summer evenings.

Paxos serves as an excellent starting point for exploring neighboring islands in the Ionian Sea. Antipaxos, just a 15-minute boat ride south, beckons with its renowned beaches of Voutoumi and Vrika, where powdery white sand meets Caribbean-blue waters. Regular day trips operate to Corfu (1 hour by ferry), allowing visitors to explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town and impressive Venetian fortresses. The mainland coastal city of Parga is accessible in about 1 hour, offering a picturesque setting with its colorful houses cascading down to the sea. For the adventurous, the island-hopping route south to Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos presents a spectacular way to experience the diverse Ionian archipelago.

Paxos invites visitors to embrace its laid-back island rhythm through a variety of authentic experiences. Explore the three main villages: Gaios, with its picturesque harbor lined with Venetian buildings; Lakka, nestled in a perfectly sheltered bay; and Loggos, perhaps the most charming with its traditional tavernas perched at the water's edge. The island's eastern coastline offers secluded pebble beaches like Kipiadi and Marmari, while boat trips to the western coast reveal spectacular sea caves and the famous Blue Caves. Sample local culinary treasures including freshly-pressed olive oil from centuries-old trees, just-caught fish served in waterfront tavernas, and the distinctive local wine varieties. Don't miss a leisurely walk along the ancient paths that crisscross the island, passing through olive groves that have sustained generations of islanders.

According to Greek mythology, Paxos was created when Poseidon struck Corfu with his trident to create a peaceful retreat where he could spend time with his beloved Amphitrite. The island contains over 300,000 olive trees, many of which are over 400 years old, giving Paxos a ratio of more than 30 trees per resident. Despite its small size (just 10km long and 4km wide), Paxos has over 30 working lighthouses and navigational beacons, a testament to its rich maritime heritage. The island's name may derive from the ancient Greek word 'pax' meaning slate, referring to the flat stones once extracted from its quarries and exported throughout the region.