Paxos, Gaios: The Ultimate Guide for 2025

If you’re dreaming of a serene escape to a beautiful Greek island, Gaios on Paxos should be at the top of your list. Gaios is a bustling water-side town, with boats of all sizes from tiny fishing boats to massive flashy yachts.  It’s also one of the best Greek islands if you want to get away from it all and just relax.

Having spent years exploring Mediterranean islands, including countless car-free adventures, I’ve learned what makes an island truly special, and Paxos is one of those gems.

Gaios is a picturesque town that offers a mix of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty.  Imagine gliding across the turquoise waters on a boat, exploring hidden coves, and wandering through a maze of streets, all while enjoying the laid-back vibe that makes Paxos so unique.

In this travel guide, I’ll help you navigate the best of Gaios, from must-see spots and practical tips on getting around to where to eat and stay.

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Where is Gaios?

Gaios is the main town on the Ionian island of Paxos.  It’s located on the south eastern coast. 

Paxos itself is a gorgeous Greek island, only an hour by boat from Corfu.  It’s also easy to reach Paxos from the Greek mainland. 

Why Gaios is the best place to stay on Paxos

The island of Paxos has plenty to see and do.  There are crystal clear beaches, hikes and authentic restaurants to explore. 

I stayed in Gaios for ten days and was able to visit all that Paxos has to offer.  From Gaios you can reach all the key places on Paxos either by bus, boat or walking.

It’s an ideal base if you travel without a car, as there are great facilities and public transport, along with Gaios being a lovely place to stay in its own right.

The central hub of the town and harbour front is a lovely spot to stroll in the evenings. It has a buzzy atmosphere to it but without feeling too busy, like Santorini does for example.  

I loved my time on Paxos and staying in Gaios made it super convenient.

Things to do in Gaios, Paxos

I spent ten days in Gaios and could have spent many more.

There aren’t iconic sights on Paxos, like you might get in other parts of Greece, but the main attraction is the laid back atmosphere and gorgeous scenery.  This island is a place to slow down and savour the moment.

That being said, there are still lots of great things to do in Gaios. One of my favourite activities was wandering the maze of streets without a map.  It’s small enough that you’ll eventually come out again on to a place you recognise.

There are plenty of shops, restaurants and cats to keep you entertained as you wander.

Exploring historical sites in Gaios

Whilst the main attraction of Gaios and Paxos is the natural scenery, there are some historical and cultural places to visit.   Check these out:

• Agia Triadas Church (Church of the Holly Trinity) – a salmon pink building so cute it’s impossible not to want to take a closer look.
• Paxos Museum – located in another picturesque building, right on the waterfront on Gaios.  this museum showcases Paxos’ history through interesting exhibits.  It’s open in the mornings and then again in the evenings.
• Agios Nikolaos and Panagia islets – two verdant islands opposite Gaios harbour.  One is home to a 15^th century Venetian fortress and the other a monastery.  To visit you need to ask permission in advance from the local town council (due to the risk of forest fires).
• Statue of Georgios Anemogiannis – on the harbour, a tribute to a local hero who fought for Greece’s independence against the Ottoman Empire in the 1800s.

Day trip to Antipaxos

When in Gaios, do not miss out on a trip to Antipaxos.  The smaller, sister island to Paxos is stunning.  The beaches on Antipaxos are even more blue than on Paxos and life feels even more laid back. 

There are no shops and only one taxi on Antipaxos.  You can walk the length of the island in around an hour.

Getting to Antipaxos from Paxos is easy.  It costs €25 for a return ticket from Gaios Harbour on one of the tourist boats. 

It’s possible to stay on Antipaxos, which I did and highly recommend.  The island’s beaches are pure bliss.

Boat trip to see the Blue Caves on Paxos

One of the very best things to do in Gaios is to rent a boat for the day.  A licence is not required (but ID is).

Rental costs start from €75 for the day plus fuel, which adds around another €40 to the price.

You can circumnavigate the island in two hours if you don’t stop, but you will want to pause and take in the gorgeous beaches of Paxos. 

One of the main places to set sail for are the Blue Caves on western Paxos.  This set of three caves has water so turquoise you might think it’s an illusion.  There’s a small terracotta coloured beach next the caves. 

On my trip to the Paxos Blue Caves we got the anchor stuck, which resulted in some mild panic from me.  Thankfully sense prevailed and we managed to get ourselves unhooked and were able to enjoy the rest of a day at some gorgeous stopping points. 

Don’t miss dropping anchor at Katsionisi bay, at the southern tip of Paxos.  The water is calm, a ludicrous blue, and there’s a picturesque church to swim up to.

I rented from the friendly people at Water Escape. There are other options signposted around Paxos.

Pro Tip: the west of Paxos is choppier than the east side.  Check the sea conditions with your rental agent first to see if it’s safe to go to the Blue Caves.

Hiking

Some of the best hiking trails in Paxos start from Gaios.  However, I found that they were not well marked at all. 

Get a good map and a compass if you plan to head out for a hike on Gaios.

Here’s my favourite hike from my trip:

Gaios to Tripitos Arch

The hike to Tripitos Arch from Gaios requires a sense of adventure and physical fitness, as there are some rocky sections and it’s not well sign posted.

The start is a track to the right of the Paxos supermarket (and before the bus station).  Walk up here and follow the path past houses and countryside until you reach Ozias village.

From here you follow the road and an occasional sign to Tripitos Arch. The hike will take you off-road and across the countryside again, before scrambling down a rocky path and reaching the arch.

The views of the arch as you approach are truly awe inspiring.  The turquoise and sapphire hues of the water deep below twinkle and shine in the sun’s rays.

You can return the way you came or it’s possible to continue the hike past the back of the arch and onward to Velianitika village.

The onward option is a very wild hiking route and requires you to scramble your way up the hill on the other side of the arch.  It’s not sign posted so you have to follow your instinct and the unclear stone pathways upwards.

The trails split off different ways at some points so you may have to double back.  It was also very overgrown in parts when I did it, ensuring my legs look like I’d taken a cheese grater to them when I finished the hike.

The route takes you to another treacherous viewpoint above Galazio beach then leads you to the village of Velianitika, where there’s a supermarket.  From here you can take a refreshing dip at Avlaki Beach before heading back to Gaios. Free maps are available in Gaios which show the route.

Best beaches near Gaios, Paxos

The beaches on Paxos are the main attraction and deservedly so.  You can reach many of them by hiking or taking the bus from Gaios.  These are my favourite beaches that are only a half an hour walk or less from Gaios.

• Giannas – Gaios town beach, perfect for a quick dip at the end of a hot day.
• Balos Beach – 25 minutes walk south of Gaios, no facilities, just the sea and you.
• Kamini – the first beach to the north of Gaios.  There are organised facilities and a lively atmosphere.
• Khaki Lagkada – a great beach restaurant, Aeolus, and chilled vibes at this cat-lovers paradise.

Capturing your journey on Instagram? Use my curated list of fun and creative captions for your Greece photos, to help you share your Gaios experience with the perfect words.

Facilities

Here’s a handy list of the facilities you’ll find in Gaios town.

• Tavernas and cafes
• Takeaways
• Bakeries
• Bars
• Ice cream shops
• ATM
• Butcher
• Supermarkets
• Souvenir shops
• Jewellery and clothes shops
• Boat hire
• Car and bike hire
• Gym
• Dive shop

Where to eat in Gaios

Il Capriccio Gelateria – ice cream and crepes

Indulge in the sweet delights of Il Capriccio Gelateria. Situated on the waterfront, this spot offers authentic, creamy gelato. Featuring a range of flavours that had me returning day after day.

Grab a cone, take a seat opposite the harbour, and watch the gentle waves and passing boats—this is what Greek island life is all about.

Libretto Bar – breakfast and drinks

Start your day the right way at Libretto Bar, a gem in Gaios known for its healthy(ish) breakfast bowls that are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.

Pair your meal with a fresh juice, smoothie or a coffee and you’re set for a day of adventure.

O Giros Ton Paxon – budget friendly

If you’re in need of a budget meal, O Giros Ton Paxon is a must. Located right in the heart of Gaios’ central square, this takeaway spot is perfect when you’re short on time but still want something filling and flavoursome.

The meat and veggie giros are a generous size and rich in taste. At just 5 euros, it’s not just a meal, it’s a steal. Grab one, find a bench and enjoy your meal while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Gaios.

Taka Taka – mid-range restaurant

For a relaxed dining experience without breaking the bank, Taka Taka offers just the right balance. Set in a gorgeous stone garden, this restaurant has a calm ambience that’s hard to resist.

The waiting staff are warm and welcoming, making you feel instantly at ease. The ambience is perfect for a romantic evening or a leisurely lunch with friends. 

The cute cats wandering about like they own the place made it even more special for me.

Dolos Taverna or Thymari Restaurant – exquisite food

To truly treat yourself, venture outside of Gaios to Dolos Taverna or Thymari Restaurant.

Both offer something special—a dining experience that’s rooted in local tradition and unique village settings.

Each restaurant features outdoor seating in a beautiful courtyard, where time seems to slow down. The food is locally sourced, lovingly prepared, and served with plenty of Greek hospitality.

The unhurried service made me feel like I could really relax, take my time, and savour each bite.

Getting to Gaios

Reaching Gaios is straightforward, with a few travel options to suit your style and schedule.

From Corfu: ferry or hydrofoil

The most popular route to Gaios is from Corfu. Ferries and hydrofoils depart regularly from Corfu Town and Lefkimmi.

The hydrofoil gets you there in around an hour.  For more details, check out my guide to getting to Paxos.

Car Ferry from Igoumenitsa

If you’re coming from mainland Greece, the car ferry from Igoumenitsa is a convenient option. The trip takes from 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of the Ionian Sea.

Private Boat

For a more personalised and flexible journey, consider hiring a private boat from Corfu or the mainland. While it’s the priciest option, it offers convenience, particularly if there’s a group of you.

Getting around Paxos

Exploring Paxos is easy with or without a car.  Here’s how to navigate this beautiful island.

Public Transport: Bus

Paxos has a small but efficient bus service that connects the main villages, including Gaios, Lakka, and Loggos.

The schedule is limited but as long as you plan ahead it’s a really useful way to see the island.  The bus driver will stop in many places if you ask.

Tickets can be bought from a local lady who waits at the bus stop, or she collects fares on the bus.  Remember to take cash, no cards accepted.  A single ticket cost €3.

Bike hire

Several rental shops in Gaios offer bikes at reasonable rates, allowing you to explore the island’s winding roads and hidden trails at your leisure.

Rent a boat

One of the most popular ways to get around Paxos is by renting a boat. This option gives you the flexibility to explore secluded beaches and hidden coves at your own pace.

I rented from Water Escape in Gaios, with prices starting around €80 per day, depending on the size and type of boat. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the island’s stunning coastline.

Walking

Paxos is good for hikers, with numerous trails that crisscross the island. Walking is an opportunity to discover hidden gems that you might miss otherwise.

For example, it was during a hike that I stumbled upon the incredible Dalos restaurant. Walking allows you to truly immerse yourself in the island’s atmosphere.

Car or scooter Hire

For maximum convenience, you can hire a car or scooter.  Rental agencies in Gaios offer a range of vehicles, giving you the freedom to explore Paxos on your own schedule.

Festivals and cultural events in Gaios

Gaios comes alive with various festivals and cultural events throughout the year.

Paxos music festival

Every summer, Paxos hosts a music festival that draws performers from all over Greece and beyond.  The event features a mix of classical and contemporary music, with concerts held in picturesque venues.

Festival of the Holy Virgin

The Festival of the Holy Virgin is one of the most significant religious celebrations in Gaios. It’s celebrated on 15^th August. 

The day is filled with processions, services, and feasting, bringing locals and visitors together.

Where to stay in Gaios

The very centre of Gaios can be noisy due to the number of restaurants and shops.  However, you only have to go a few streets back to find peace and quiet and great views.  Here are three top accommodation options in Gaios:

Theano Cottage

A real find in Gaios, Theano Cottage has a pool and a private garden and is located only a short walk from the centre of Gaios. Tastefully decorated, with air con and in a quiet setting this two bedroom cottage is an ideal place to stay.

Rated 9.5 out of 10 on booking.com, Theano Cottage is popular so book it well in advance.

Paxoi Resort

The Paxoi Resort in Gaios is the epitome of luxury, offering a blend of modern comfort and traditional charm. It has stunning views, a serene atmosphere, and top-notch amenities, including a pristine pool and elegant self-catering rooms designed for ultimate relaxation.

This is an adults only accommodation with a near perfect 9.2 out of 10 rating on booking.com. The Paxoi Resort is a great place to stay if you’re looking for an indulgent escape.

Villa Paxos

An exceptional choice for staying in the centre of Gaios. Villa Paxos has self-catering apartments, finished to a stylish high standard. The beautiful rooms are so close to the sea you can almost taste it. Book an option with sea views from the balcony to really make the most of your stay in Gaios.

FAQ: Gaios, Paxos

Is Paxos better than Corfu?

Paxos and Corfu each have their unique charms, so it depends on what you’re looking for. However, I would say Paxos is better than Corfu. It’s smaller, quieter, and more laid-back, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape with beautiful beaches and Greek villages like Gaios.

Corfu, on the other hand, offers more in terms of activities, nightlife, and historical sites, catering to a broader range of interests.

Is Paxos an expensive island?

Paxos is considered a bit pricier than other Greek islands, mainly due to its exclusive and unspoiled nature.

However, I found that accommodation, dining, and activities were comparable to other Greek islands. 

From affordable local restaurants to self-catering accommodation, you can enjoy Paxos without breaking the bank.

What is Paxos famous for?

Paxos is renowned for its stunningly clear turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and picturesque villages. Gaios, the island’s capital, is a highlight with its harbourfront setting and Venetian architecture.

The island is also famous for its olive groves, which produce some of the finest olive oil in Greece.

Is Paxos a party island?

Paxos is not a party island. While you’ll find a few lively bars and tavernas, particularly in Gaios, the island is more about relaxation than fiesta. It’s the perfect spot for those who prefer tranquil evenings by the water or intimate meals rather than all-night partying. If you’re after vibrant nightlife, you might want to head to Corfu instead.

Do you need a car on Paxos?

Having a car on Paxos can be convenient, but it’s not necessary.  I stayed on Paxos for ten days without a car and loved it.  The island is small, and you can get around it by walking or taking the bus. 

What’s the best way to see the Blue Caves from Gaios?

The best way to see the Blue Caves is by hiring a boat or taking a day tour.  You can easily arrange either option from Gaios. Several operators provide boat trips that include a visit to these stunning natural formations, where the sunlight creates brilliant blue reflections in the water.

Can I visit Antipaxos from Gaios in a day?

Yes, you can easily visit Antipaxos from Gaios in a day. Regular boat trips run between the two islands, making it a popular day trip. Once on Antipaxos, you can enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the Ionian Sea, like Voutoumi and Vrika, and still be back in Gaios by evening.

Wrap up

Gaios is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

Start planning your trip to Gaios by booking your transport from Corfu or mainland Greece to Paxos. With regular ferry services and easy connections, your perfect island getaway is just a short journey away. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover this gem of an island.

If you’re considering a trip to Antipaxos, get up-to-date information on the best ways to get to Antipaxos from Paxos, including ferry details and travel tips.