Where to Stay in Paxos , Gaios, Lakka, Loggos & Antipaxos

If you're wondering where to stay in Paxos, the answer mainly depends on how you wish to spend your holidays: near the hustle and bustle of Gaios, in the tranquillity of Lakka at the northern tip of the island, or in the more romantic Loggos. Paxos is the smallest of the seven major Ionian Islands, with an area of approximately 25 square kilometres and a permanent population of around 2,300 residents. It doesn't have an airport; access is by ferry or speedboat from Corfu (approximately 1-1.5 hours) or by ferry from Igoumenitsa and Parga in summer.

The island does not feature large hotel complexes; accommodation mainly consists of small hotels, apartments, and villas, often family-run businesses. This means that the choice of area plays a more significant role than elsewhere, as distances between settlements are covered by car in 15-30 minutes on mountain roads that are narrow in places. In this guide, we analyse the four main accommodation areas — Gaios, Lakka, Loggos, and Antipaxos — and suggest over a dozen handpicked accommodations.

Geography, Access and History of Paxos

Paxos is located south of Corfu, in the Ionian Sea, approximately 12 nautical miles away. The island is elongated, about 10 kilometres long and 4 kilometres wide, largely covered by olive groves, totalling 200,000 trees — olives were the island's primary source of income for centuries. The capital and main port is Gaios, built in a natural, sheltered bay opposite the islet of Agios Nikolaos, which acts as a natural breakwater.

Access to the island is exclusively by sea. Speedboats depart daily from Corfu (city) with a journey time of around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, while during the summer season, there are also routes from Parga and Igoumenitsa lasting 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on weather conditions. There is no airport on the island, so the nearest airport is Corfu, with connections via boat. Road links within the island are via a central road connecting Gaios, Loggos, and Lakka, with the Gaios-Lakka journey taking approximately 25 minutes.

Historically, Paxos passed through Venetian, French, Russian, and British occupation, generally following the fate of the other Ionian Islands, until their unification with Greece in 1864. The Venetian influence is evident in the architecture of Gaios, with neoclassical buildings around the square and narrow cobbled streets. Island attractions include the caves on the west coast, accessible only by boat, the Venetian fortress of Agios Nikolaos at the entrance to Gaios harbour, and of course, Antipaxos, a small island to the south with two of the most photographed beaches in the Ionian, Voutoumi and Vrika, with Caribbean-like waters.

In summer, Paxos welcomes many visitors with private boats, as Gaios bay is considered one of the safest natural anchorages in the Ionian. This gives the island a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere in the evenings, without having lost its provincial, tranquil character. There are no organised sandy beaches with natural sand; most coasts are pebbly or rocky, which makes the waters exceptionally clean and transparent.

Gaios — the capital and port

Gaios is the natural choice for those who want to stay at the centre of the action: restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, and the main port where speedboats from Corfu arrive. It is ideal for couples and families who want to walk around in the evening and have immediate access to day trips to Antipaxos, which depart directly from the waterfront. The area around Gaios, with villages such as Magazia and Ypsos, also offers quiet accommodation options a few minutes' drive away.

Accommodation in Gaios

1. Paxoi Resort - Adult-Only
A modern apartment complex in Gaios, exclusively for adults, with a swimming pool and sea view. Suitable for couples seeking peace and comfort without being far from the port.

• Average cost: 120-180€ per night

2. Paco's Resort Holiday Flats
Family apartments a few minutes from the centre of Gaios, with a garden and olive grove views. A good choice for families with children who want space and quiet at an affordable price.

• Average cost: 80-120€ per night

3. Paxos Rock Apartments
One of Gaios' most popular accommodations, built on a rock with panoramic views of the bay and Agios Nikolaos. Suitable for couples and small groups who want impressive views and immediate access to the centre.

• Average cost: 130-190€ per night

4. Paxos Villas
A collection of independent villas in Kaki Lagkada, near Gaios, each with a private pool. Suitable for families or groups of friends who desire privacy and space.

• Average cost: 200-320€ per night

5. Villa Paxos
An apartment-style villa in the Paxos Centre area, within walking distance of Gaios harbour. Suitable for couples who want a combination of privacy and proximity to the centre.

• Average cost: 140-210€ per night

6. Paxos' Villa - Pool & AC
An independent villa with a private pool on the Loutsa-Lakka road, near Gaios. Ideal for families or couples who want a quiet environment with easy car access.

• Average cost: 180-260€ per night

7. Villa Adamantia Paxos
A villa near the beach, in the Gaios area, with a more traditional character. Suitable for groups or families who prefer self-contained accommodation.

• Average cost: 150-220€ per night

8. Paxos Center
A small, well-maintained apartment in the heart of Gaios, highly rated by guests. Suitable for couples who want to stay literally in the centre, without a car.

• Average cost: 90-140€ per night

Lakka — the northern bay with the most tranquil atmosphere

Lakka is located at the northern tip of the island, built around an almost enclosed, circular bay that transforms it into a naturally safe harbour for sailing boats. It is calmer than Gaios, with less traffic, a few tavernas on the waterfront, and easy access to some of the island's best beaches, such as Harami and Orkos. It suits those seeking relaxing holidays away from the evening hustle, but with essential comforts.

Accommodation in Lakka

9. Stamatis Studio with Seaview - Lakka Paxos
Studio with sea view, a few minutes' walk from Lakka's waterfront. Ideal for couples who want affordable but comfortable accommodation with a view.

• Average cost: 85-120€ per night

10. Margarita Apartments Paxos - Studio Kam
Studio in a quiet location near Lakka, with a simple but well-kept layout. Suitable for couples or solo travellers who want an economical option.

• Average cost: 70-100€ per night

Loggos — the island's most photogenic village

Between Gaios and Lakka, Loggos is a small, picturesque fishing village built amphitheatrically around a narrow bay, with colourful houses and a few but good tavernas by the water. It doesn't have a beach within the settlement, but it makes an excellent base for those who want a romantic atmosphere and quiet evenings, with both Gaios and Lakka 10-15 minutes away by car.

Accommodation in Loggos

11. Pangolas Apartments Paxos
Apartments with sea views, built on a hillside above Loggos bay. Suitable for couples and small families who want a peaceful stay with sunset views.

• Average cost: 110-160€ per night

12. Arthur House
Traditional villa in Loggos, near the coast, with a garden and spacious outdoor areas. Suitable for families or groups of friends who want a self-contained home.

• Average cost: 160-240€ per night

Antipaxos — a day trip, not a base for accommodation

Antipaxos is a small island south of Paxos, with a permanent population of only a few dozen residents and no organised hotel infrastructure. Most visitors arrive on day trips from Gaios or Lakka, with small boats departing in the morning and returning in the afternoon. Voutoumi and Vrika beaches are considered among the most impressive in the Ionian, with turquoise waters and white pebbles. If you plan to visit, the best strategy is to stay in Gaios or Lakka and make the trip to Antipaxos as a day excursion, as there is no reliable overnight accommodation option on the islet.

When to visit Paxos

The best period is from mid-May to mid-October, with July and August being peak season when accommodation prices are higher and early booking is essential due to the limited number of properties. June and September offer better value for money and fewer crowds, while the sea remains warm until late September. If you're planning your trip in conjunction with other Ionian islands, it's worth checking out our guide on where to stay in Lefkada, as well as our suggestions for Corfu with children, as most routes to Paxos depart from there.

For those planning a wider tour of the Ionian, our guide on where to stay in Kefalonia is also useful, as is the corresponding guide for accommodation in Zakynthos, two islands often combined with Paxos on multi-destination trips in summer.

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early: the number of accommodations in Paxos is limited, and they sell out quickly in July-August.
• If you don't have a car, prefer Gaios or Lakka, where everything is within walking distance.
• Renting a car or quad bike is recommended if you're staying in Loggos or want to explore beaches on the west side.
• Speedboats from Corfu fill up in summer; book tickets along with your accommodation.
• Most tavernas and shops operate from May to October; outside of peak season, options are very limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best area to stay in Paxos?

It depends on your profile: Gaios suits those who want activity, restaurants, and easy access to the port, Lakka is for those seeking tranquillity and nearby beaches, while Loggos is ideal for a romantic, more secluded stay.

Do I need a car in Paxos?

If you're staying in Gaios or Lakka and don't plan to explore many beaches, you can manage without a car. For greater freedom of movement, a small car or quad bike significantly helps.

How do I get to Paxos?

The only access is by sea, mainly by speedboat from Corfu (approximately 1-1.5 hours) and, in summer, by ferry from Igoumenitsa or Parga. There is no airport on the island.

Can I stay in Antipaxos?

There is no organised hotel infrastructure in Antipaxos. Visiting is best done as a day trip from Gaios or Lakka.

When should I book accommodation for Paxos?

Due to the limited number of accommodations, booking at least 2-3 months in advance is recommended for stays in July and August.

Which are the best beaches near the accommodation spots?

Near Gaios, Mogkonisi and Kalamaki beaches stand out; near Lakka, Harami and Orkos; while from Loggos, access to beaches in both directions is easy.